Campgrounds for various types of camping can be found in multiple areas near Ottumwa, Iowa. Ottumwa City Park offers established camping from April through October with both tent and RV sites, featuring amenities such as electric hookups, drinking water, and showers. Just 15 miles south in Drakesville, Lake Wapello State Park Campground provides a more diverse camping experience with tent sites, RV spots, and cabin accommodations. For those seeking a more primitive experience, Eldon Wildlife Management Area, located approximately 10 miles southeast of Ottumwa, offers dispersed camping with minimal amenities but allows tent camping in a more natural setting. The Ottumwa area provides excellent camping options for both beginners and experienced campers looking to enjoy Iowa's outdoor beauty.
"We stayed on the primitive group side of the lake. There is a small pond that we were able to let some of our scouts get started in kayaks and canoes before getting into the main lake," noted a visitor about Lake Darling State Park. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with many sites closed during winter months from December through March. Lake Wapello State Park remains open until December 31, while Lake Keomah State Park Campground, located about 20 miles north of Ottumwa, offers year-round access. Reservations are recommended for developed campgrounds, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Cell service varies throughout the area, with better coverage at established campgrounds closer to towns. Many campgrounds provide electric hookups and water access, though primitive sites typically lack these amenities.
Several visitors mentioned the fishing and water recreation opportunities as highlights of camping in the region. Lake Wapello State Park features hiking paths around the lake, with one reviewer noting "great fishing and walking paths" and that "Iowa has done a great job fixing up this area." The campgrounds near Ottumwa provide varying levels of privacy between sites, with more secluded options available at wildlife management areas. Developed campgrounds typically offer amenities such as showers, flush toilets, and picnic tables, while dispersed camping areas like Eldon Wildlife Management Area provide a more rustic experience with no facilities. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly during spring and summer storm seasons, making weather awareness important for campers throughout the region.
"Has a lake you can fish at right in campground. Although it is right next to a major road, but also extremely close to downtown and anything you might need."
$15 - $100 / night
"Some campsites are close to the lake. Several hiking paths-Lakeshore Trail goes around the whole lake, so be sure to reserve 2-3 hours to conquer this path-more if you like to take in the scenery. "
"I have camped at lake wapello for 32 years in a row over my birthday in September it is the cleanest friendliest best wildlife great fishing wonderful campsites a place that I will always return to."
"We drive to the end of Umber Ave and found two spots perfect for camping. We chose the one nestled next to the corn field. Perfect dispersed camp site with no road noise or visitors."
$14 - $44 / night
"There is a beach to swim, and great fishing in the lake."
$15 - $110 / night
"We stayed on the primative group side of the lake. There is a small pond that we were able to let some of our scouts get started in kayaks and canoes before getting into the main lake. "
"Sites were fairly level and all pretty close to the showers/restrooms, and well spaced out between sites. "
TravelerA variety of types of spots. We stayed in a truck bed in the "Tent C" spot. We were the only ones there, but it would accommodate up to at least four different tent spots. We had a great view of the lake and it was really quiet the night we stayed.
TravelerWe found this on a trip back from MS. It’s free and had men’s and women’s vault toilets. Great sunset opportunities!
GuideGreat little spot if you are heading through IA! Love to hear the peepers all singing in early spring!
ScoutI rent year round. Love this place. Quiet, fishing, dead end so little traffic. The owners are great people. Bring your boat, kayak, tube. You can float the river.
ScoutHomeless, Crack heads using the showers/bathrooms. Men and women can share the bathroom and shower together even when children are in the facilities.
ScoutThis is a really nice campground. It’s run by friendly, helpful people. It’s well maintained, the bathrooms are clean, you’re not packed together like sardines, there’s a nice bike/walking trail around the park and (at least when we’ve visited) bald eagles, blue herons and pelicans line the river. It’s just a little over an hour from us so it’s easy to get to.
We’re trying parks all over Iowa and Howell has been one of our favorites.
LegendFollowing up on my review from over a year and a half ago, I’m adding a bunch of additional photos as well as an abbreviated post pointing out the HIGHS and LOWS of this county park campground gem in a very rural part of Iowa.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) EZ access and just a 20 minute / 9 mile drive due south from I-80 via Exit 201; (2) Incredibly well-manicured campground – very clean and well-organized; (3) Superb Midwestern hospitality from the CG staff and camping community; (4) The RV area looks to be brand spanking-new and offers very nice FHUs and fairly spacious areas as well as most have an excellent view of Lake Diamond; (5) The hiking trails and bountiful fishing spots make this a simply wonderful campground; (6) Incredibly simple honor system to accessing any site on a first-come, first-served basis – simply stick your money in an envelope and pick out whatever location suits you; (7) While basic, the bathhouses were in pretty good condition and very clean; (8) Kid’s playground is fantastic and nearly brand new; (9) Reasonably priced bundles of pre-cut firewood; and (10) Overall the overnight price to stay here, whether RV or tent-camping is very cheap, so great value for $
LOWLIGHTS: (1) There’s no security gate to prevent any wandering traffic in here, although you are so far out in the boondocks, it’s not really much of a concern; (2) The newly minted RV area slopes down to the lake, but as you park perpendicular, it shouldn’t be an issue; (3) Also, because the RV area is new, there’s no trees or brush, which creates a lack of privacy between sites; (4) Nearly all of the RV slots – save the few that are right next to the lake - have no shade, so bring your own awning or shelter; (5) Some sites have very close proximity to their neighbors; (6) Picnic tables & fire rings, at least in the tent camping areas, are worn-out and in pretty poor condition and should be replaced or refurbished; (7) The water in Lake Diamond is quite dark and murky, so unless you are an adventurous soul, I don’t recommend swimming here
Happy Camping!
GuideClean showers & flush toilet’s. No hand towels. Sites are close together. Some road noise. But overall a nice campground for one night.
ScoutWife and I met friends here in August 2025. This was the middle between us & them as we live in CO and they live in NY. The campground was very well maintained. Shower rooms & restrooms were very clean and all were functional. We really enjoyed the long weekend here. Be advised tho, we were not adequately prepared for the humidity in August. Being from Colorado where we live at much higher altitudes & we didnt expect the humidity to affect us as it did. Not a bad thing, we were just used to 15% max and that weekend we saw 90% with 90 degrees. Wife and I will likely return and see more of the Amana communities in the fall.
Camping sites near Ottumwa, Iowa range from primitive dispersed options to full-service campgrounds with varied amenities. The area sits within the rolling hills of southeast Iowa, which features a mix of agricultural land and wooded areas along the Des Moines River valley. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for campers seeking outdoor recreation.
Fishing opportunities: At Eveland Access, campers can enjoy direct river access for angling. "Great area right on the river. excellent for fishing or boating," notes Dorothy H. The location provides easy water entry points for both shore and boat fishing.
Trail exploration: Lake Fisher offers smaller camping areas with exceptional fishing spots. "Very small campground. Wonderful fishing areas," reports one visitor. The compact size makes it ideal for quick weekend getaways when larger parks are booked.
Paddle sports: Multiple water bodies support non-motorized boating. A Lake Darling visitor mentioned, "There were several people out on the water in kayaks and paddle boats, very calm waters. Beautiful little lake with out a ton of traffic, perfect!!" Boat rentals are available at select locations for those without their own equipment.
Updated facilities: Recent renovations at McGowen Recreation Area have improved the camping experience. "Small area. Lots of improvement being made. Will be an excellent camping area," comments Dorothy H. The campground continues to develop its amenities and infrastructure.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Eldon Wildlife Management Area, a camper noted, "We drive to the end of Umber Ave and found two spots perfect for camping. We chose the one nestled next to the corn field. Perfect dispersed camp site with no road noise or visitors."
Multi-use trails: Several campgrounds feature walking paths for day hikes. At Ottumwa City Park, Dorothy H. mentioned, "Chief Wapello Trail is the highlight to this campground. Lots of traffic as it is in the city limits. Facilities have been in good shape."
Site privacy varies: Campgrounds offer different levels of seclusion between sites. "Small lot for hunters to park and go. For a secluded spot, good enough to camp. As long as you don't need any utilities," explains a visitor about Eldon Wildlife Management Area.
Utility placement issues: At Lake Darling State Park Campground, a camper observed, "The full hookup sites have the neighbors waste tube close the campers picnic table. Sometimes getting a whiff of black water waste while trying eat dinner leaves a little to be desired." Consider site selection carefully when booking.
Shower facilities: Bathroom conditions differ across campgrounds. As Douglas P. notes about Lake Darling, "The bathroom facilities are clean and well kept but the showers could use some updating and better cleaning maintenance."
Beginner water sports: Shallow water areas provide safe learning environments. "There is a small pond that we were able to let some of our scouts get started in kayaks and canoes before getting into the main lake," shares Robert F. about Lake Darling State Park.
Urban camping option: Ottumwa City Park offers unique in-town camping with convenient access to city amenities. "Nice Campground in the middle of town, close to stores and has nice walking trails. Has a pond to fish as well and across the street from the city park!" explains Jessilynn L.
Budget-friendly pricing: Many campgrounds offer affordable rates. Stephanie S. mentioned about Ottumwa City Park, "$18 for full hook up. What a deal. Has a lake you can fish at right in campground."
Hookup availability: Lake Keomah State Park Campground provides various electrical options. "Multiple electric site are available to reserve, along with a handful that are first come-first serve. Drinking water is available throughout the campground," notes Dave N.
Site leveling: Most established campgrounds feature relatively level sites. "Most sites are level with at least partial shade. Picnic tables and fire rings at each site," Dave N. reports about Lake Keomah.
Seasonal variations: Weekday camping offers more solitude. "Gets busy on the summer weekends, but very quiet during the week," according to a Lake Keomah visitor, making mid-week reservations ideal for those seeking quieter experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Ottumwa City Campground located?
Ottumwa City Park is located in Ottumwa, Iowa, within the city limits. The campground offers convenient access to local amenities while providing a camping experience within the urban area. For those looking for camping options just outside Ottumwa, Lake Darling State Park Campground is within a reasonable driving distance and features both primitive camping areas and improved sites around a scenic lake with good fishing opportunities and walking paths.
Is tent camping allowed at Ottumwa campgrounds?
Yes, tent camping is allowed at campgrounds in and around Ottumwa. Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground in Southeast Iowa welcomes tent campers and offers well-maintained, clean facilities in one of Iowa's oldest state parks. Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground in Shimek State Forest provides a wooded, tucked-away setting ideal for tent camping with nice tiered fire rings and vault toilets. While some campgrounds may have designated tent sites, others offer mixed-use sites suitable for both tent and RV camping. It's advisable to check specific campground regulations before your visit, as some may have restrictions or designated tent-only areas.
What camping amenities are available at Ottumwa campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Ottumwa offer various amenities to enhance your camping experience. North Overlook Camp at Lake Red Rock provides heavily shaded sites with direct access to a large beach, shower houses, and concessions. Honey Creek Resort offers premium amenities including an RV park right on the lake, as well as a resort hotel with an indoor waterpark and cabins for rent. Many area campgrounds typically provide basic facilities like fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, with some offering electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities depending on the specific location.
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