Tent campsites near Preston, Iowa range from primitive river sites to established county parks with varying levels of amenities. The area sits at approximately 725 feet elevation in the rolling hills between the Maquoketa and Wapsipinicon river valleys. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, making most primitive camping areas seasonal from April through October, with summer humidity levels typically between 60-80%.
What to do
Fishing spots accessible by foot: Lock and Dam 13 offers fishing along the spillway with a small beach next to the dam. One camper notes it's "about a mile walk and a half mile off the tracks. Very beautiful and peaceful place. Great fishing, especially along the spillway."
Paddling routes: Wapsi River Environmental Education Center provides river access for paddlers with "Wapsipinicon River access just down River Trail" and "offers paddling, fishing" according to reviews. The center maintains a one-mile stretch of river with designated put-in points.
Wildlife observation: Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area features native habitat restoration areas. Access requires either hiking in or paddling, with "two parking sites to hike in or access by river" according to visitor reviews. The area supports diverse bird populations, particularly during spring and fall migrations.
Astronomy viewing: The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center includes the Menke Observatory that "offers sky programs" for campers. The rural setting provides minimal light pollution, creating opportunities for stargazing throughout the year.
What campers like
Secluded riverside spots: Joinerville County Park provides quiet camping along the Maquoketa River. As one camper reports, the "CG is day use year-round though primitive camping is by approved permit application 1 month in advance of stay. Gravel access road into and around park."
Night sky viewing: The lack of nearby cities creates excellent stargazing conditions. A camper at Wapsi River Environmental Education Center mentions "No city like that so night sky shines with stars," while another notes the "dark skies" as a highlight of their stay.
Environmental education programs: Indian Meadows Campground offers educational opportunities within Loud Thunder Forest Preserve. One visitor describes it as "Primitive perfection" with "individual private sites. If you're seeking seclusion, this is it! Some are more open, others are like a nature playpen."
Minimalist camping experiences: Several tent sites near Preston require self-sufficiency. At Lock and Dam 13, campers report, "This isnt exactly a campsite. You have to park off a gravel road on the iowa side and its about a mile walk and a half mile off the tracks." These sites appeal to those seeking isolation and basic camping conditions.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Many primitive camping areas require advance permits rather than walk-up registration. Joinerville County Park requires "approved permit application 1 month in advance of stay," while other sites have similar restrictions to manage visitor numbers.
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping sites have minimal amenities. Joinerville County Park has "No toilets" despite river access, and campers should plan accordingly with portable sanitation solutions.
Pack-in, pack-out policies: Worthington Sportsman's Club and other sites enforce strict leave-no-trace principles. A visitor reports that it's "So secluded without being in the middle of nowhere. People driving around the pond didn't even know we were there!" but warns "you have to watch out for nettles."
Seasonal considerations: Most tent camping sites near Preston have limited winter accessibility. Many roads to primitive sites become impassable during wet conditions, particularly during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall when river levels rise.
Tips for camping with families
Consider cabin options: For families wanting a wilderness experience with reliable shelter, Koch's Meadow Lake Campground provides amenities within natural settings. A reviewer notes it's a "full service CG for RVs with community buildings, gravel road lanes, pet friendly, and lake access for fishing, paddling and swimming."
Nature education opportunities: The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center "specializes in environmental education" with "exhibits and native live animals, trails, prairie" according to visitor reports. The center offers structured programs suitable for children of various ages throughout the summer.
Swimming spots: Several locations offer swimming access during summer months. Koch's Meadow Lake Campground allows swimming in their lake, while Lock and Dam 13 has "a little beach next to the dam" as mentioned by campers who've visited with children.
Watch for hazardous plants: Some camping areas contain plants that can cause skin irritation. At Worthington Sportsman's Club, campers are advised to "watch out for nettles" in the camping area, and similar vegetation exists at other primitive sites throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Few primitive camping areas near Preston accommodate larger RVs. Cedar River Campground offers full hookups but spaces are "tighter than what we prefer" according to one RVer.
Access challenges: Many roads to primitive camping areas aren't suitable for trailers or larger vehicles. As one camper at Blackhawk Memorial Park noted, it's "Great little off grid camping for people that aren't afraid of bugs! No trailers with yapping ankle biters."
Seasonal RV sites: Some campgrounds offer long-term seasonal spots. Cedar River Campground has "Seasonal cg along the Cedar River with camp store, ice, wood, propane, showers/restrooms," making it more suitable for RVers needing amenities than the primitive tent sites closer to Preston.
Dump station locations: RVers should note that most primitive areas lack sanitary dump facilities. Cedar River Campground provides dump stations, but primitive campsites like those at Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area have no such facilities.
