Tent camping near Osage, Iowa provides campers with access to woodland and wetland ecosystems at elevations ranging between 1,100-1,200 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from May through September when average temperatures range from 55-85°F. Sites in this north-central Iowa region feature predominantly hardwood forest surroundings with occasional prairie remnants.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area offers both shore fishing access and a boat launch. "There's a boat launch and paths down each side of the launch you could fish. On the way in, you'll see a deck to the left, providing a scenic overlook," notes camper Skip H.
Creek exploration: Schmidt Farm by Forestville offers campsites where visitors can hear the nearby creek. "I picked campsite two so that I could hear the creek behind me and I enjoyed hearing it the whole time I was there plus the Forestville State Park was just across the creek," explains Amos K.
Nature observation: The region's campgrounds provide habitat for local wildlife and native plant species. "The native wildflowers are a special treat," mentions Karen S. about Schmidt Farm, which offers "the opportunity to explore both private trails and less traveled areas of Forestville State Park."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area provides peaceful camping spots away from crowds. Skip H. mentions, "It's a nice spot off of the main road. It's pretty quiet, but there aren't many spots to camp."
Back-to-basics camping: River Ranch Camping offers a more rustic experience. According to Missy B., "My family loves River ranch. It dont have all the amenities like other camp grounds but that's what makes it a great place to camp. It is Back woods camping."
Dark night skies: The reduced light pollution in rural Iowa allows for excellent stargazing opportunities. Karen S. describes Schmidt Farm by Forestville as "A quiet, back to nature experience under dark skies."
What you should know
Self-registration systems: Most campgrounds in the area use self-pay systems. At Chickasaw Park, "It's $10.00 per night last we stayed, placed into a self pay pole," according to Chantal C.
Facility maintenance varies: Some campgrounds have minimal maintenance. Chantal C. notes about Chickasaw Park, "While the grounds are mowed that is about all that is done on the camping side of the river for maintenance. I won't walk into the pit style restrooms let alone use them."
Limited space at some locations: Smaller campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Skip H. observes about Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area, "There aren't many spots to camp. When you come in on the dirt road, it hooks to the right, and you'll come upon a dirt cul-de-sac."
Tips for camping with families
Historical exploration: Some campgrounds contain historical features worth exploring. At Chickasaw Park, Chantal C. discovered, "If you're not afraid of ghosts, are respectful, and you follow the road ALL THE WAY BACK there is a very old cemetery (we found it foraging firewood) which we thought was very intriguing."
Clean facilities: Little Turkey Campground offers family-friendly amenities. Douglas M. appreciated the "Clean shower free wood staff is friendly" aspects of this campground.
Safety considerations: Parents should supervise children at quarry swimming areas. At Chickasaw Park, "Due to multiple accidents and or deaths jumping/diving and cliff jumping is no longer allowed and can be a misdemeanor charge if found doing so," warns Chantal C.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Many sites have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area, Skip H. notes, "There's enough room that virtually any size camper could navigate into this spot, but if there are other people, that will really complicate your life."
Hookup availability: River Ranch Camping offers electric, water, and sewer hookups for RVs despite its rustic setting, making it one of the few tent camping areas near Osage with these amenities.
Site spacing: Campsites at Schmidt Farm provide more privacy than typical RV parks. Karen S. appreciates that there are "Secluded campsites so you are not camping side by side with others. Site locations offer ample space for multiple tents."
