Top Free Dispersed Camping near Onawa, IA

Camping near Onawa, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Hitchcock County Nature Center. One camper mentioned, "Camping here also gives you access to the playground and nature trails into some beautiful countryside."
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Lewis and Clark State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "Great sites right on the water. Easy back in for my rig. Hot showers were a plus :)"
• Playgrounds: Families can have fun at the playgrounds available in several campgrounds. One reviewer noted, "A short drive from Omaha, two rivers offers generally clean TV and tent camping sites across multiple campgrounds."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Hitchcock County Nature Center stated, "Even the pit toilets were spotless and didn’t smell."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Arrowhead Park Campground, offer plenty of space between sites. One camper mentioned, "There were plenty of pit toilets around and they were very clean."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground hosts. A visitor at Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area said, "The host was so kind and helpful to us new timers."

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. One camper at Hitchcock County Nature Center warned, "The only downside is bring several bottles of bug spray; the mosquitoes are terrible!"
• Cash Only: Some campgrounds, like Arrowhead Park Campground, require cash for payment. A reviewer reminded, "Friendly reminder to bring CASH. FIRST COME FIRST SERVE."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Two Rivers State Recreation Area noted, "For the tent sites, I wish there were more amenities."

Tips for camping with families:

• Bring Bug Spray: As mentioned earlier, mosquitoes can be a nuisance. Make sure to pack plenty of bug spray to keep the little ones comfortable.
• Check for Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and trails. One family enjoyed their stay at Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, saying, "Beautiful park, beautiful scenery and amazing playground!"
• Plan for Clean Restrooms: Families appreciate clean facilities. A camper at Hitchcock County Nature Center mentioned, "Super clean bathrooms and hot showers."

Tips from RVers:

• Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds, like Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area, are big rig friendly. A reviewer noted, "Nice city park. Electric hookups."
• Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. One camper at Glenn Cunningham Lake Campground said, "The area we booked is very new, and FHU."
• Dump Stations Available: Ensure the campground has a dump station. A visitor at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area mentioned, "Dump station by the entrance."

Camping near Onawa, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to pack your essentials and enjoy the great outdoors!