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Preparation Canyon State Park Campground features 10 backpacking, hike-in only campsites where pets are welcome throughout the park's 340 acres of scenic landscape. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table, with trails connecting the sites through the unique Loess Hills terrain. The sites are well-maintained and dispersed for privacy, particularly Site 3 which offers excellent star-gazing opportunities. Loess Hills Hideaway accepts pets at both their tent sites and cabin accommodations, with the owner maintaining clean facilities throughout the property. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground and Hitchcock County Nature Center also permit pets at their tent, RV, and cabin sites, though specific pet restrictions are not detailed.
Huff-Warner Access Area provides pet-friendly camping with a boat ramp access to the Missouri River, though owners should note the river's fast current makes it unsafe for dogs to swim freely. The campground features concrete pads, electric hookups, and showers, though visitors should bring their own drinking water as the on-site water has a strong metallic taste. Jones Pond offers quiet, secluded camping for pet owners with no crowds, though the area lacks bathrooms and drinking water facilities. The area surrounding these campgrounds includes numerous hiking trails throughout the Loess Hills State Forest adjacent to Preparation Canyon, allowing campers and their pets to explore nearly 8 miles of beginner to intermediate level trails. Campers should pack insect repellent when camping near water sources, as flying insects can be particularly aggressive during warmer months.
"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"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"Really impressed with this location. Incredible hiking just outside your door."
"Other than the coyotes it was very quiet and dark and a hiking trail starts at your back door. TKCompass on YouTube"
"Very quiet and peaceful place I have been there few times and I never see anyone else around. There is no bathroom or drinking water so make sure you are ready for that."
"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."
"The lake is small and meant for non. Motorized boats. There's a ton of trails around the outside of the park. If you follow the far outside one, it's almost three and a half miles."
"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."
"I pulled in late at night easy to navigate stayed the next day and did some trails apparently the land formations are 1 of only 2 in the world how about that Iowa."
"if you want to get some hiking in that’s not just all flat walking this is a great place in this area. The views show you the vast farmland here and are great for sunrise and sunset!"
from $10 - $50 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $15 / night
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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!
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.
GuideI didn’t stay here but did scout it out. Small park by the NishnaBotna river. I did see a camper there with his dog but website specifically says no pets.
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.
ScoutWe showed up easter sunday when everyone in the loop left except one van, so it was pretty empty. But the wind was so intense an constant. Probably about 20 to 25mph wind all day and night. Temp was mid 70s to 80s. Well kept sites and the park ranger came through to check reservations were correct on the posts. Random people did come through the loop area to either hang out or go to the trail, which alerted our dogs everytime. We even thought some lady did a drug deal by grabbing an orange bag from one of the electric posts then left, pretty weird. We stayed on site 81 next to water which was essential. Big lake close by to fish which I'm guessing the only thing to do here other than walk the trail. I ran the trail for a workout, it's all grass around the lake. All the sites are pretty close together, about 20 to 30 apart so of you like that then there you go, but we wanted space for our dogs and privacy. Stayed 2 nights. All views of corn.
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.
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.
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.
GuideThese Iowa state parks are extremely clean and well taken care of. The lake is huge with multiple trails that the kids loved. Playground was directly behind us which is a plus for us.
Dispersed camping opportunities exist in several areas near Pisgah, Iowa, including the Loess Hills State Forest which features unique topography formed by wind-deposited silt during the last ice age. These hills rise 200 feet above the surrounding plains creating a distinctive landscape found in only two places worldwide. Camping options range from primitive hike-in sites to full-service RV parks, with many locations allowing pets and offering different levels of accessibility.
Hiking the Loess Hills trails: Preparation Canyon State Park offers nearly 8 miles of trails through unique terrain. Christopher S. shares, "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 are the most remote in the park and might tempt those seeking that added level of solitude."
Wildlife observation and stargazing: The elevation of the hills provides excellent viewing opportunities. According to Alison D. at Preparation Canyon State Park Campground, "There's a trail up a hill right near by that had great views of the area and a lovely sunset!" The remote location also means minimal light pollution for stellar night skies.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds offer boat ramp access to nearby water bodies. The Huff-Warner Access Area provides Missouri River access, though as Tammy F. notes, "The river current is quite fast here. 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."
Privacy between sites: The dispersed nature of many campgrounds provides seclusion. At Jones Pond, Roberto G. reports, "Very quiet and peaceful place I have been there few times and I never see anyone else around. There is no bathroom or drinking water so make sure you are ready for that."
Educational opportunities: Local nature centers offer learning experiences. At Hitchcock County Nature Center, Lynn G. found, "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping."
Year-round accessibility: Unlike seasonal destinations, many local sites remain open throughout the year. At Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, Katie S. appreciates that "they have a replica of the Boat that Lewis and Clark traveled on many years ago. They will also occasionally take it out and give rides. They also have a history museum to accompany the boat."
Limited facilities at remote sites: Be prepared for primitive conditions at certain locations. Roberto G. warns about Jones Pond: "There is no bathroom or drinking water so make sure you are ready for that."
Insect preparation essential: Riverside locations can have significant insect activity. As Tammy F. discovered at Huff-Warner Access Area, "You're camping by a river (i.e., water), so there are many, many flying insects. Be sure to have insect repellent, as they are merciless."
Water quality concerns: Not all potable water sources are palatable. Tammy F. also notes, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Some areas have distinct advantages during different times of year. Roberto G. suggests, "October is a very colorful time of the year very peaceful the pond for what I heard isn't a good place for fishing but just a mile away there is a hunting park."
Choose accessible campsites: Some locations require hiking to reach sites. According to Karen W. at Hitchcock Nature Center, "The campgrounds are a little way away from the road and more secluded so they're very quiet. You do have to pack your stuff down a bit of a steep hill."
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Certain campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. At Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, N K. found it "Well 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)."
Consider educational programming: Some sites offer special events for children. Karen W. says Hitchcock Nature Center has "a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy. There's all levels of hikes. They have a hawkwatch tower. Lots of information about Hawks and nature conservation. We love doing their extra classes."
Select level sites with adequate space: Some campgrounds better accommodate larger vehicles. Regarding Missouri Valley City Park, Kelly R. notes, "With 30/50 electric and water this place is well worth the $15 they charge. It's all on an honor system so make sure to bring some cash."
Check water and hookup quality: Not all utilities are created equal. Tammy F. warns that at Huff-Warner, "The water, while potable (so we were told), has a very, very strong iron/metallic taste."
Consider noise factors: Some otherwise pleasant campgrounds have noise issues. Marisol G. observes about Missouri Valley City Park, "Besides the traffic noise because it's close to the hwy, the train passed at night like 4 or 5 times, so have that in mind if you light sleep."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Pisgah, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Pisgah, IA is Preparation Canyon State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 8 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Pisgah, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 75 dog-friendly camping locations near Pisgah, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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