Tent campsites near Runnells, Iowa are predominantly located within a 15-mile radius of town in Jasper and Polk counties. The camping terrain features a mix of prairie landscapes and wooded areas, with elevations ranging from 750 to 900 feet above sea level. Most camping areas experience typical Midwestern seasonal variations with hot, humid summers and potential for heavy rainfall in spring and early summer that can affect trail and campsite conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers excellent fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. According to visitor Jerry V., "The site had a nice access spot for fishing," making it convenient for anglers camping at the park. Only electric motors are permitted on the water.
Stargazing sessions: Ashton Wildwood Park features an observatory with weekend access (except first Saturdays). As Michael K. notes, "Very clean, easy to reserve," making it a good base for night sky viewing. The astronomers are described as "great people and very knowledgeable" who provide tours of the facility and classroom.
Hiking trails: Multiple difficulty levels exist across the area's parks. At Mariposa Recreation Area, "There are hiking trails and one that goes to a back pond," states Willy W., who adds there's also "a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore."
Paddling excursions: Several parks offer kayaking opportunities. Willy W. describes Colfax Quarry Springs Park as "my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing," with "two places to launch kayaks" and even "a half mile portage with a campsite on the river."
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Ashton Wildwood Park offers exceptional site spacing. Topaz G. shares that "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents," providing privacy often lacking at more crowded campgrounds.
Affordability: Camping costs remain low compared to private campgrounds. One visitor mentions Ashton Wildwood Park costs "only $7/night!" making it an economical option for tent camping near Runnells.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain their amenities well. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, Christopher M. notes it's an "Awesome campground, clean and well maintained. Even the outhouses smelled good," which can be rare for primitive camping facilities.
Well-maintained sites: Many campgrounds feature flat, usable spaces. Christopher M. found sites at Colfax Quarry Springs Park "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties," while noting each site has "Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits."
What you should know
Water availability: Access to drinking water varies significantly. At Ashton Wildwood Park, campers should note there's "no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water," though one camper mentions "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."
Bathroom facilities: Most sites have basic facilities. At Kuehn Conservation Area, James M. describes "Primitive County Conservation Sites" along the Raccoon River with toilet facilities but limited amenities.
Reservation systems: Most parks operate on first-come, first-served basis. Steve H. describes Otter Creek Park as a "little 1st come first camp county park," though some locations like Ashton Wildwood Park are described as "easy to reserve."
Terrain challenges: Several campgrounds have sandy soil due to their origins. Jerry V. notes about Colfax Quarry Springs Park: "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," which affects tent staking and overall comfort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children. At Twin Anchors Campground, there's "a small petting zoo and a small beach," according to Abby F., though she cautions it "feels more like a neighborhood verses camping in nature."
Short hiking loops: Kid-friendly trails are available at multiple parks. Deb K. mentions Ashton Wildwood Park has "a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult," making it appropriate for families with younger children.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience higher noise levels. One camper at Twin Anchors reported: "Its 1130 pm and we r camping by the playground and there's about 10 children at the playground with no adults. And there's about 5 golf carts running around."
Group camping options: Family gatherings can be accommodated at select parks. Deb K. notes Ashton Wildwood Park has "a big group site for family get togethers," making it suitable for larger family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many parks aren't suited for larger recreational vehicles. Willy W. says about Mariposa Recreation Area: "It's pretty spacious and has lots of room for tent camping. I wouldn't bring an RV here," indicating terrain challenges for larger vehicles.
Electric hookup availability: Limited electrical service exists at select sites. Luke C. describes Colfax Quarry Springs Park as "Tent only none of that RV B.S.," indicating its focus on more primitive camping experiences rather than developed RV sites.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. Topaz G. advises for Ashton Wildwood Park: "Definitely follow the directions on Dyrt, google took us on a winding gravel road that led to the same place," which could be problematic for larger vehicles.
