Tent camping near Roland, Iowa offers secluded options within a 30-minute drive radius. The region features several county-managed parks with varying degrees of privacy and amenities. Most campgrounds in this part of central Iowa sit at elevations between 900-1100 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Fishing access points: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides excellent fishing opportunities with lakeside tent sites. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing... The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish. No swimming is allowed and only electric motors, no gas," notes Willy W.
Observatory visits: The astronomy program at Ashton Wildwood Park offers unique stargazing experiences. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's (except the 1st Saturday) was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable. They showed how their telescopes worked and took us a tour of the building and classroom," explains Willy W.
Hiking trails: Explore maintained trails at Ashton Wildwood Park with specific natural features. "There is a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult and was great for rehab after my knee replacement," shares Deb K.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campsites at Colfax Quarry Springs Park provide ample room for setup and privacy. "I would highly recommend site #13. It had plenty of space for a large tent and canopy. It had a nice access spot for fishing," reports Jerry V.
Well-maintained facilities: Many parks receive praise for cleanliness and upkeep. "Very clean, easy to reserve. Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained," says Michael K. about Ashton Wildwood Park.
Affordable camping: The region offers budget-friendly tent camping options. "It's only $7/night!" mentions Deb K. regarding Ashton Wildwood Park, while Colfax Quarry Springs Park charges $10 per night for registration.
What you should know
Water availability: Several campgrounds require bringing your own water supply. At Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area, no drinking water is available on-site, and facilities are minimal. Even at more developed sites, water access can be limited, with Ashton Wildwood Park requiring campers to "drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower, also a water spigot on the back side."
Reservation systems: Most tent sites operate on first-come, first-served basis. Colfax Quarry Springs Park has a special river campsite that requires calling ahead for reservations, while regular sites use on-site registration.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or recreational activities. "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal," mentions Willy W. about Colfax Quarry Springs Park, while another camper reported late-night disturbances at Twin Anchors Campground: "Its 1130 pm and we r camping by the playground and there's about 10 children at the playground with no adults."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks provide recreational equipment for children. "There is a small park to play at for kids," notes Willy W. about Ashton Wildwood Park, making it convenient for families with younger children needing activity options.
Educational opportunities: The orienteering course at Ashton Wildwood Park offers a learning activity. "There is also a orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it," explains a visitor, providing an adventure option for older children.
Multi-generational camping: Several parks accommodate family gatherings of different ages. "I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping. Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious," shares Deb K.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Twin Anchors Campground provides electric, water and sewer hookups for RVs, though tent campers note the campground "seems more for RVs. Sometimes you have to share a fire pit with other tents if it's busy."
Tent-only sections: For those seeking separation from RVs, Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers designated tent areas. "Isolated campgrounds. Tent only none of that RV B.S.," states Luke C., highlighting the appeal for tent campers wanting a more traditional camping experience.
Ground conditions: Be prepared for varying terrain at different campgrounds. "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," advises Jerry V. about Colfax Quarry Springs Park, which can affect tent setup and comfort.
