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Lewis and Clark State Park Campground includes designated pet-friendly sites among its established camping area overlooking Blue Lake. The campground features full hookup sites with 50-amp electric service in a well-maintained setting with water access, making it suitable for pets that enjoy swimming. On-Ur-Wa RV Park allows pets throughout its spacious pull-through sites and includes a small dog park area for exercise, particularly convenient for travelers looking for overnight accommodations with their animals. Both campgrounds maintain clean facilities with modern restrooms and showers. Pets must remain leashed in common areas, including the picnic areas and playground facilities. Several reviewers noted the clean bathroom facilities at these campgrounds make for comfortable stays with animals in tow. Firewood availability varies between locations, with On-Ur-Wa providing firewood on-site.
The Onawa area campgrounds provide multiple options for dogs needing exercise, with mowed walking paths through taller grass areas at Lewis and Clark State Park and access to Blue Lake for water-loving pets. All pet-friendly sites include picnic tables and fire rings, allowing owners to keep pets nearby during meals and evening relaxation. Preparation Canyon State Park offers more primitive camping options for hikers with pets, though it lacks water hookups and restroom facilities compared to other local options. Visitors should bring waste bags as pet waste stations are limited at most campgrounds. Seasonal considerations affect availability, with On-Ur-Wa RV Park operating from April 15 to October 15 and Lewis and Clark State Park Campground remaining open year-round. Several parks maintain trash receptacles for proper waste disposal, essential for responsible pet ownership while camping.
"Well kept & family friendly camping in Iowa!"
"There’s a pretty big playground near all the sites. When I went in the first weekend of October they had a little trick or treat night too! Extremely nice amenities; flush toilet and showers."
from $15 - $52 / night
Check Availability"There is a small dog park for the pups. Bathrooms and showers are clean. One of our party is in a wheelchair and had no problem accessing the showers or bathroom. Hosts are very friendly."
"Pulled in, John came into the office, asked if I was a Good Sam member and charged me $43.34 for a full hook-up, extra long pull thru on the outside of the trees."
"Conveniently located approximately 2.5 miles West of I29 and on the Eastern edge of Lewis and Clark state park which makes this KOA very quiet."
"Located directly adjacent to the Preparation Canyon Unit of Loess Hills State Forest; the flora, fauna, and geology of this park are amazing and unique to North America."
"Had no idea such a scenic place could be found in Iowa! I chose the closest walk-in spot, less than a mile in. It was great! Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded."
from $9 / night
Check Availability"I wouldn't plan on letting my kids or dogs get into the water, except to, maybe, wade at the boat ramp where it is protected from the current by small islands where the creek comes in."
"Located far enough from the interstate to avoid any traffic noise River barges were unloading next to the campground when we were here."
"Not to far from the Interstate and Lewis and Clark State Park in Iowa. The gravel site we were on fit our 40 ft fifth wheel without a problem but was slightly off level."
from $52 / night
Check Availability"We live(my dog and I) on a motorcycle - think Van Life on two wheels. A quiet place to put up a tent is so welcome. There are no amenities."
"Has upper amd lower camping area's lower area right next to river . Can stay for months at a time"
"Really impressed with this location. Incredible hiking just outside your door."
"It took a lot of driving to get back in here, but the payoff was a lovely little isolated, three or 4 acres of grass and hardwood trees by a sweet little cemetery of the hill."
"Nice, clean, quiet, lake for swimming and fishing, playground, store, movie nights for kids on Fri and Sat."
TravelerWell kept & family friendly camping in Iowa! We were able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground (~5 setups for different age groups). We could watch the kids play while getting food ready or preparing a line to throw in the water. Short walk to the very clean restrooms with flush toilets & showers. Will come back!
ScoutThis KOA is well-maintained, a little older but the grounds are nice and it is well organized and maintained. The dog park is not so well-maintained but was adequate and the pool was clean, and there is easy access to the freeway Both north and south
LegendThis small campground is right off the interstate, easy to get to. It’s right by a small truck stop, but the noise was not bothersome at all. There is a small dog park for the pups. Bathrooms and showers are clean. One of our party is in a wheelchair and had no problem accessing the showers or bathroom. Hosts are very friendly. Sites are close, but for a one night stay that was just fine.
TravelerDon't let the name mislead you!! I don't think you could consider this a campground at all... it's basically literally a parking lot at the far end of the property for RV hookups outside of the casino. There's power hookups I'm sure don't know about water or dump site at all even but other than the casino / Hotel / restaurant there are zero accommodations to consider this camping otherwise. But hey if you like gambling, Park your RV outside and enjoy! The closest actual campgrounds would be in Salix Iowa, on Browns Lake including Bigelow Park (last I knew it was closed temporarily for construction,) and Snyders Bend campgrounds but the water on that side has all dried up and there's not much to the campground. Otherwise go down to Onawa and there's several places there on Blue Lake including Lewis and Clark or the koa, or even hit the River Campground in Whiting. Not a fan of River camping but it's not a bad looking Campground otherwise if you don't mind being a bit crowded
GuideThis campground is not really designed as an actual campground. It is for fair workers to hook up to during the county fair but is available for use by the general public at all other times. It gets 4 stars not because of any amenities, but because it is a safe uncrowded overnight location that is perfect to stay at with fuel and food nearby and a large area to walk pets.
Pros: Easy to move rigs in and out of, 30&50amp hookups, perfect for an overnight stop right off the highway if you don't want to stay in a Walmart parking lot. Pretty flat spots
Cons: Not built for actual camping (no fire rings/picnic tables/paved sites/bathrooms), sewer dump on location but unavailable for general population use, if you plug into the 30 amp receptacle it is $20 a night, if you plug into the 50amp receptacle it is $25 a night, each pedestal has both plugs. Some may say that is steep for a place like this, but it helps keep it maintained.
GuideThis KOA just north of the Iowa border is first class. ! Friendly staff and perfect for kiddos. The pool and adventure area are right up your alley if traveling with kids.
LegendThis is a state park in Iowa right off the Missouri river. And also directly next to or connected to the great nature preserve Desoto Bend. Unfortunately there were massive floods in 2019 in this area that effected the area near the missouri, Platte, and Elkhorn river. Due to these flood this great park is closed along with other parks that are still closed. If you look around and see a few parks that are closed and some that are open but have repairs needed. I hope this park will open in the future. And this and other parks get the repairs that they need. This park is one of Iowa best in my opinion.
GuideContinuing our tour of the best Backpacking parks in our great state of Iowa, my comrade and I spent 2 nights at Preparation Canyon State Park. Located directly adjacent to the Preparation Canyon Unit of Loess Hills State Forest; the flora, fauna, and geology of this park are amazing and unique to North America. If you have not visited this area, put it high on your to-do list. The weekend was blistering hot at 95° F and a 9/10 UV index, but we were conditioning for a larger trip this summer, so we welcomed the challenge.
The park boasts 10 backpacking, hike-in campsites. However, you will find maps and literature that reference only 8, for seemingly good reason. Sites 9 and 10 (apparently more recent additions) are the most remote in the park and might tempt those seeking that added level of solitude. We examined both of them and they were both found to be overgrown and the nearby creek tributary was mostly dry. Instead, we spent both of our nights at Site 3, which seems to be the crown jewel. It is a small trek up a hillside and looks out across the general area, with a phenomenal star gazing opportunity. The creek just to the North was still flowing and provided our water source. You will not regret staying here. The other sites are mostly in the woods and line said creek. I'm certain they would be great as well.
A quick drive from the park lands you at the State Forest Lookout, which is partnered with a short 0.91 mile loop trail that is picturesque. Around the "back," (Northwest side) of the park there are shelters, picnic areas, and overlooks. You cannot park at these locations while camping in the park.
The immediate surrounding towns provide very little in the way of amenities, so plan ahead. The cultural history of the park is intriguing, as it was the site of a 19th century Mormon town (from which the park gets its name). The town however is completely gone, there are no abandoned historical structures to explore.
You won't miss them. Hike through the hilled prairie trail which is the first right as you enter from the Eastside Boundary, and you'll know why you came.
In summary, this park is the quintessential example of the diversity that Iowa has to offer, and rivals Yellow River for it's backpacking. It's proximity to the larger State Forest means you could spend weeks exploring if so inclined.
LegendIt is true that the campground is a big open space with little tree cover, but it is part of the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, and there is a ton of trees, trails, and wildlife around the refuge.
It is right next to the Missouri River, and although the park and campground are in Iowa, the DeSoto National Wildlife Preserve is in both Iowa and Nebraska.
You have to pay separate fees to enter the Wildlife Preserve but it is worth it. The entire area is beautiful and has great views of the Missouri River. There is a visitor center and a few other attractions but the trails and the Missouri River are the best feature.
Camping options near Onawa, Iowa span from developed state parks to primitive backcountry sites, all situated within the unique Loess Hills landform region. The area's distinctive topography was formed by wind-deposited silt during the last ice age, creating dramatic ridges and valleys that rise up to 200 feet above the Missouri River floodplain. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions.
Kayaking on Blue Lake: Lewis and Clark State Park Campground provides direct access to Blue Lake with its sheltered waters. "One end [of the lake] is sheltered so good for kayak," notes Sharon T., who enjoyed paddling among the "many water lilies" during her stay.
Historical exploration: Visit the Lewis and Clark State Park museum to learn about the famous expedition. "They have a great visitor center with amazing displays and exhibits that mark the history of Lewis and Clark and their travels around the area," writes Timothy S.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points around Blue Lake and nearby Missouri River provide fishing spots. At Huff - Warner Access Area, "They have a table near the boat ramp that, I assume, is for cleaning your caught fish," though Tammy F. notes it "did not have running water."
Primitive hiking: Trek through the unique Loess Hills landscape at Preparation Canyon State Park. Christopher S. recommends you "Hike through the hilled prairie trail which is the first right as you enter from the Eastside Boundary, and you'll know why you came."
Clean, modern facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms. At On-Ur-Wa RV Park, campers appreciate the "Extremely clean bathrooms and showers," with Maggie C. noting that "One of our party is in a wheelchair and had no problem accessing the showers or bathroom."
Full hookup options: Electric and water connections are available at multiple sites. Kathy F. was pleasantly surprised by the value at Lewis and Clark State Park, writing, "Oh my the rate was 19.00 for full 50 amp hookup. Beautiful state park in the water nice level sites paved."
Stargazing opportunities: The relative distance from major cities creates dark skies. At Preparation Canyon State Park Campground, Christopher S. found Site 3 to be "the crown jewel. It is a small trek up a hillside and looks out across the general area, with a phenomenal star gazing opportunity."
Pet exercise areas: Beyond standard pet-friendly policies, some campgrounds offer dedicated spaces for animals. Julia R. found Huff - Warner Access Area to be a "Very quiet and peaceful place" with "Very pretty view of the water" where pets can stretch their legs.
Water quality concerns: Several campgrounds have issues with water taste or potability. At Huff - Warner Access Area, "the water, while potable (so we were told), has a very, very strong iron/metallic taste. To the point that, for us, it was undrinkable."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Onawa, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Onawa, IA is Lewis and Clark State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 22 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Onawa, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 65 dog-friendly camping locations near Onawa, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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