The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Tent Camping near Ogden, IA

412 Reviews

Tent campsites near Ogden, Iowa include several established campgrounds suitable for primitive camping experiences. Ashton Wildwood Park offers secluded tent sites tucked into wooded areas, while Kuehn Conservation Area provides quiet riverside camping along the Raccoon River. Colfax Quarry Springs Park, located within driving distance, features tent-specific sites in a former quarry setting.

Most tent campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities with varying levels of development. Ashton Wildwood Park offers spacious sites for $7 per night with pit toilets in the campground area and access to flush toilets and hot showers at the nearby observatory building. Kuehn Conservation Area features primitive sites with limited facilities but includes hiking trails, fishing access, and paddling opportunities. Many locations have fire rings and picnic tables, though campers should verify fire regulations before visiting. Sites are typically set on natural surfaces with minimal development.

Tent camping in this region provides opportunities for nature immersion with several parks featuring hiking trails and wildlife viewing. Ashton Wildwood Park includes a small observatory that opens on Saturday evenings for stargazing, plus an orienteering course and multiple hiking trails. Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers excellent fishing access, particularly for largemouth bass and bluegill, with tent sites positioned near the water. The campgrounds generally remain uncrowded, allowing for peaceful experiences. According to one visitor, "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents," while another noted that Ashton Wildwood Park features "sites tucked into the woods and very spacious."

Map showing campgrounds near Ogden, IowaExplore the Map

Best Tent Sites Near Ogden, Iowa (11)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Ogden Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Tent Camping Photos near Ogden, IA

5 Photos of 11 Ogden Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Ogden, IA

412 Reviews of 11 Ogden Campgrounds

  • L
    Nov. 5, 2021

    Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground

    Beautiful and tranquil

    Dolliver State Park was our maiden voyage in our travel trailer and it was obvious we were pitiful newbies! The park's beauty and tranquility did get disturbed a couple times when our dogs got loose (newbs!). The park staff were friendly and very helpful as were our fellow campers. The sites are mostly level with picnic tables and fire rings. Sites range from shady to sunny and the reservation website depicts the sites with a small photo and details about the amount of slope and shade. Cell service was good but no WiFi without a hotspot for us. We had fun, learned a lot and plan to camp here again!

  • Sara S.
    Jul. 25, 2016

    Ledges State Park Campground

    great walk-in site

    We went to this state park with family and had a great time. We chose to do a walk-in tent site because my brother in law recommended it. The site was great! It had tons of trees, dirt area to set up tent, and nice grass surrounding it. The fireplace and picnic table we unexpected with a walk-in site, but a good surprise :) We camped mid-October and were pleased to see the modern bathrooms still open too! Loved the canyon drive and it’s fabulous views :) We heard about an awesome bicycling trail that connects this park with another and are already planning a trip to go back and do a bike trip! Excellent experience.

  • Willy W.
    Oct. 22, 2019

    Colfax Quarry Springs Park

    Great Place

    This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing.

    There is a half mile portage with a campsite on the river which you must call to reserve. The other campsites are $10.00 registration. They have porta potties around. Two places to launch kayaks. Most campsites have fire rings, picnic tables and trash bins. Some have grills. They also have firewood for sale or you can find enough wood around still. I didn’t see any water hookups so bring a filter or water. There is a Kum & Go up the road to get missing supplies.

    The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it’s minimal. The quiet hours are at 10:30pm and they have a gate which is closed at sunset when the park closes for non campers.

    Lots of hiking trails and wildlife. The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish. No swimming is allowed and only electric motors, no gas.

    Check out their Facebook page for more updates and if you see me out there say hi!

  • Wendy P.
    Jul. 19, 2018

    Ledges State Park Campground

    Beautiful hikes. Prepare for coons.

    One of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites. The hike in spots are great if you like privacy and being in the middle of the woods - but you don’t want to be THAT far from your car.

    Beware of the raccoons. They’re plentiful and crazy smart here. We had one open our cooler, steal an egg from the cartoon - without disturbing anything else. Honestly, I was impressed! But some of our friends had them rip through their tents to get at food - not as impressive.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 24, 2023

    Lenon Mill Park

    Good Campsite but expensive compared to other similar sites

    I’ve maked this down to 3 stars purely on the basis of the fee - it’s a $20 flat fee whether in an RV with a hookup, or a tent with no hookup, and for that, you get a restroom and a spigot with drinking water, but no shower. Apart from that, the location is quiet and peaceful. Lots of space in the tent area, with some shade and soft grass. Close to town, with restaurants and a grocery store.

  • A
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Jester County Park

    Solid campground

    Stayed at this campground for 3 nights while visiting Des Moines.  We stayed in Loop 1- site 138 because we wanted electrical.  The electrical box has 2 standard household plugs which is nice.  This loop was mostly RVs due to the electrical hook ups.  There aren't really trees between the sites, but it is in a wooded area which is nice and there is some space between the sites so you don't feel like you are right on top of the other people.  Generally, people were pretty quiet, especially once it got dark.  Each site as a gravel drive and then open gravel area with a picnic table and fire pit with grill grate.  Plenty of room for camp chairs and other furniture you may want to set up.  There is a grassy area all around the gravel with plenty of room for multiple tents.  2 bath/shower houses within a short walk from the site- they were both clean and solid to use.  There are some short trails within the park which are generally well marked, but just 1 trail is longer than about 1/2 a mile.  Didn't check it out, but there is also a large lake.  Lots of picnic areas throughout the park.  There's also a volleyball court and free lending library near one of the bathhouses.  Overall, I'd recommend this campground as long as you don't mind seeing your neighbors.  Quick drive into Des Moines too.

  • C
    Oct. 23, 2019

    Nations Bridge Park

    Great spot

    This was a great spot for our overnight stay while traveling I-80. Its about 6 easy miles off the interstate, and well marked. The lower camp zone looks like it floods easily and was pretty muddy, so we opted for a nice level spot in the upper section. 50 amp plug in, fire rings, picnic tables, great park for our 3 year old. Our review would be 5 stars, but all the restrooms were locked for the season, and the only signage was on the doors of the facilities. No signage about the closures at the self registration. We probably should have checked the restrooms prior to setting up. Still, a very nice place and we would definitely visit again.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 21, 2021

    Lenon Mill Park

    River View!

    We settled into one electrical site and one tent site for our adventure. The tent section offers fairly large sites, and views of the river. Our electrical site was decent size and the"backyard" was right up to the river bank. We anticipated some rain so we set up a screen tent for shelter right along the river to enjoy the view while we waited out the rain. Electricity at these sites appears to be brand new. The dirt work that was done to accomplish this had not yet been smoothed out, so making sure your area is lit to avoid tripping and ankle sprains is essential. As it turns out we camped on the same weekend of a large group's annual camp out at this location. 2nd weekend in April every year. Several families with RVs, and while they were great neighbors, we came to understand the site we were in is usually a part of their group. There are no reservations at this campground, so setting up early is the only way to assure you have the site you want. The facility has running water by mid April, no shower, but a single flushing toilet and sink, no soap. The campground does not have a trash can or dumpster on site at all, so you must pack everything out. Really good stay

  • RN P.
    Oct. 21, 2023

    Swan Lake State Park Campground

    Perfect

    Tented camped in late October, the weekend before closing.  I was only tent camper in the electric only sites.  If there was a tent only location, I didn't see it.  Those in campers that need water and electricity are regulated to gravel 'parking lot' sites.

    Beautiful park with playgrounds, swim beach, fisbee golf, paved trail, many fishing bars, and more.  

    Electric only sites are small and spaced out well.  Most have level drive perfect for sm camper or suv camping. Grass has slope, but I think you can find a good enough place for tent, I did.  Bathroom clean enough, I didn't use showers. I enjoyed the privacy of lake-front site J.

Guide to Ogden

Tent camping near Ogden, Iowa offers a variety of scenic spots where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from well-maintained parks to more rustic settings, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers should check out local activities

  • At Kuehn Conservation Area, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and paddling along the Raccoon River, making it a perfect spot for outdoor adventures.
  • Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides excellent fishing opportunities right on the water, ideal for those looking to cast a line during their stay.
  • For a unique experience, Ashton Wildwood Park features a small observatory nearby, perfect for stargazing after a day of camping.

Tent camping amenities to enjoy

  • Whispering Oaks RV Park offers essential amenities like electric hookups and picnic tables, making it a convenient choice for tent campers.
  • At Twin Anchors Campground, guests can find drinking water and sanitary dump facilities, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.
  • Bessman-Kemp Park provides electric hookups and trash disposal, catering to those who appreciate a few modern conveniences while enjoying nature.

Features that enhance the camping experience

  • Colfax Quarry Springs Park is well-reviewed for its clean facilities, including picnic tables and fire pits at each site, perfect for evening gatherings.
  • Ashton Wildwood Park is known for its spacious, wooded sites that provide a sense of seclusion and tranquility, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
  • Kuehn Conservation Area features reservable sites and allows pets, making it a great choice for families looking to bring their furry friends along.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Ogden, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Ogden, IA is Trailside Campground with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Ogden, IA?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Ogden, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring