Best Campgrounds near Humboldt, IA

County parks and state recreation areas dominate the camping landscape around Humboldt, Iowa. Joe Sheldon County Park, located within Humboldt city limits, provides tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with a seasonal operating window from April through October. Within a 30-minute drive, Kennedy County Park near Fort Dodge and Brushy Creek State Recreation Area in Lehigh offer additional developed camping options. The region features a mix of prairie and woodland settings, with several campgrounds situated near small lakes and waterways. Most facilities provide electric hookups, with varying levels of additional amenities from basic to full-service sites.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the Humboldt area. Most campgrounds operate from mid-April through October, with some extending into December. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with occasional humidity and thunderstorms. As one camper noted about nearby Brushy Creek, "This little nugget is laid out on a vast prairie. Most sites have younger trees that provide some shade." Wind exposure can be a factor at several locations, particularly in open prairie settings. Cell service varies throughout the region, with Verizon users reporting 0-2 bars at most campgrounds. Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, though some accept reservations through county websites.

Water access represents a common feature at campgrounds in the area. Several parks offer boat ramps, fishing opportunities, and swimming areas during summer months. Campers frequently mention clean facilities as a highlight, with one visitor to Kennedy County Park noting it's "beautiful, well taken care of, has a nice playground and access to a beautiful golf course." Weekday visits typically provide quieter experiences with better site selection. Mosquitoes and flies can be prevalent during summer months, particularly near water features. Shade availability varies significantly between campgrounds, with some prairie locations offering minimal tree cover. Most campgrounds maintain well-kept shower houses and restroom facilities, though availability may be limited during shoulder seasons.

Best Camping Sites Near Humboldt, Iowa (67)

    1. Joe Sheldon County Park

    2 Reviews
    Humboldt, IA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 332-4087

    2. Kennedy County Park

    4 Reviews
    Badger, IA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 576-4258

    $20 - $100 / night

    "I can't say enough about Kennedy Memorial County park in Fort Dodge Iowa. Its beautiful well taken care of has a nice playground and access to a beautiful golf course! And FREE WIFI!"

    "Multiple kids parks, beach area, fishing areas with boat ramps, trails, kids butterfly garden."

    3. Lotts Creek Co Park

    1 Review
    Humboldt, IA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 332-4087

    4. Lizard Creek Ranch Camping

    1 Review
    Fort Dodge, IA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 890-3758

    $25 / night

    5. Coopers Cove Co Park

    1 Review
    Rolfe, IA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 335-4395

    $20 / night

    "There is lots to do, trails, kayaking, fishing, playground and picnic areas also."

    6. Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Lehigh, IA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 359-2539

    $15 - $50 / night

    "Nice clean park, if passing through Iowa it's a nice overnight. A little loud if tent camping. Area not large enough to separate hard shell campers and tent campers."

    "We LOVE the hiking trails. Some can be a pretty good workout & steep for a 61 year old, but they are do-able & have resting benches a long the way."

    7. North Equestrian Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

    9 Reviews
    Lehigh, IA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 543-8298

    $19 - $37 / night

    "Hitching posts behind each site which we enjoyed seeing. The roads inside the campground were all asphalt so lots of bikers enjoying rides around the grounds."

    "Camped here in order to be close to Fort Dodge first thing in the morning.  I stayed in the Beach Campground.  It's not on the beach, but close to it.  There are 3 total campgrounds in the park. "

    8. The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Whittemore, IA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 887-2371

    "Two adjacent camping areas are partially shaded and will accommodate rigs of all sizes. I counted (8) 50 amp and (16) 30 amp sites. Rest rooms, showers, fresh water and a dump station are provided."

    "One is very close to a train line, which runs infrequently. Sites are grass, level, and reasonably well maintained. All sites are pull through. Only electrical hookups are available at the sites."

    9. Devine Wildlife Area

    1 Review
    Algona, IA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 295-2138

    10. Grotto Campground

    2 Reviews
    Whittemore, IA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 887-2371

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Doesn’t feel quite like the middle of nowhere and located right next to nice trees and train tracks. Recommended for a nice, easy spot to sleep."

    "Next to train tracks but only one train came by and it wasn’t loud. Definitely recommend if you’re in the area. You pay at the gift shop across the street. $20 for RV and $10 for tent."

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Recent Reviews near Humboldt, IA

137 Reviews of 67 Humboldt Campgrounds


  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Siems County Park

    Nice little campground

    Mix of sites. Some have electric and water. Some have electric but have to share a water spigot. Small lake. Public restrooms and shower. Frisbee Golf. Well kept.

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground

    Mixed bag

    Small campground. Not busy while I was here. Sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared. Free firewood is provided. Nice oak trees. No privacy between sites. Pit toilets. No showers. Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course. $18 per night.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Sac City Park

    Right on the Raccoon River

    Nice clean campground with water and electricity at the RV sites. Some of the tent sites also have electricity. RV sites are $20 (for the 2025 season).

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Devine Wildlife Area

    Free and fairly primitive

    Dispersed camping really. You can bring a big rig in. No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up. No water, no electric, no toilet. Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent. But the price is right.

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lotts Creek Co Park

    Camping in the shade of tall oaks

    Nice little campground. 5 sites. Water, electricity, picnic table and fire pit with grilling grate at each one. Flush toilet and sink in bathroom. Old style playground. Shelter with more picnic tables. First come, first serve. $15 per night. Nicely set up for a multiple family campout.

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Smith Lake County Park

    Good value camping

    This is a pretty quiet campground in my experience. For $15 you get water/electric sites with access to bathrooms and showers. Dogs are allowed on leash. Pretty nice playground. The beach area has been taken over by geese though.

  • Kristy E.
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Lake Cornelia Park

    Beautiful place

    This is a beautiful county park with lots of camping sites with great views and generous camping spots. It is on a small lake that has good fishing, full hookups, and very nice swimming b each beach. We also enjoyed walking on the many trails.

  • Bethany G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground

    Peaceful

    I stayed at this campground a week after Memorial Day weekend along with my dogs in our minivan/tent. I butted up against woods with neighbors to one side which made me feel like I had a pretty private area to myself. Other than the bugs, which it is that time of the year, I enjoyed our time and the almost non-existent cellphone service. However, I was able to text my family via satellite to let them know I was okay. It could be seen as a pro or con, but I think we all need no phone time at some point to just set still and relax. I look forward to camping here again soon!

  • Ryan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2025

    Don Williams Park

    Beautiful park

    Great sites right on the lake. Trails, fishing and beautiful lake views.


Guide to Humboldt

Camping near Humboldt, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore scenic trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals."
  • Fishing and Kayaking: Enjoy fishing or kayaking at Beeds Lake State Park. A visitor shared, "Nice trails to hike or bike, beautiful small lake, great for kayaking and fishing."
  • Biking: The High Trestle Trail is perfect for biking enthusiasts. One reviewer noted, "Great place to stay... Just a few minutes drive to High Trestle Bridge."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and shower facilities. A review for Clear Lake State Park Campground stated, "Bathrooms clean, nice warm showers! Nice beach, lots to do."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many visitors enjoy the welcoming vibe. A camper at Swede Point Park said, "People were accommodating and friendly."
  • Scenic Views: The natural beauty of the campgrounds is a big draw. One camper at Dolliver Memorial State Park remarked, "Dolliver State Park was our maiden voyage... The park's beauty and tranquility did get disturbed a couple times."

What you should know:

  • Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell coverage. A visitor at Iowa Ledges State Park mentioned, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected."
  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially in summer. A review for Clear Lake State Park Campground noted, "If full, you would have no privacy."
  • Reservation Policies: Some campgrounds require reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Eagle City County Park mentioned, "Sites are first come first served with no reservations."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. One camper at Swede Point Park said, "Friendly & helpful campground host. Great hiking trails in park."
  • Activities for All Ages: Choose campgrounds that offer various activities. A family at Spring Lake County Park enjoyed, "Bike/hiking trail, disc golf, kayak/paddle boat rentals, swimming beach."
  • Quiet Spots: For a more peaceful experience, opt for campgrounds with spacious sites. A visitor at Briggs Woods Park noted, "Very quiet park, we stayed in the back."

Tips from RVers:

  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. A reviewer at Pilot Knob State Park mentioned, "For $12/night on a 30AMP hookup, I really can't complain."
  • Level Sites: Check for level sites to make parking easier. A camper at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area shared, "The roads inside the campground were all asphalt so lots of bikers enjoying rides around the grounds."
  • Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has easy access to dump stations. A visitor at Dolliver Memorial State Park appreciated, "The campground was super clean and the bathrooms the cleanest I’ve seen at a state park."

Camping near Humboldt, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities do Humboldt campgrounds offer?

Campgrounds in the Humboldt area offer a variety of amenities for different camping styles. Spring Lake County Park features approximately 100 sites along the lake with easy shoreline access, a playground, disc golf course, roller rink, and concession stand. Many sites are reservable online through mycountyparks.com, and there's even a golf course nearby. Little Wall Lake County Park provides clean facilities with a friendly host, though sites are situated somewhat close together. Most campgrounds in the area offer electric hookups, water access, and basic facilities like bathhouses or shower houses.

Can I rent an RV in Humboldt, Iowa for camping?

While Humboldt doesn't have dedicated RV rental businesses within the city limits, you'll find rental options in larger nearby cities like Fort Dodge and Webster City. An alternative to renting is enjoying the comfortable accommodations at McIntosh Woods State Park Campground, which offers unique yurts for rent (bunk bed, futon, table/chairs inside) alongside traditional campsites. Similarly, Briggs Woods Park near Webster City provides cabin rentals as an alternative to RVs, with amenities including access to canoeing, kayaking, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities.

What campgrounds are available in Humboldt, Iowa?

While Humboldt itself has limited camping options, several excellent campgrounds are available within a short drive. Joe Sheldon County Park is located near Humboldt, offering drive-in access, water hookups, toilets, and sites that accommodate big rigs. For more options, Kennedy County Park in Fort Dodge (about 15 miles from Humboldt) provides well-maintained facilities, a playground, free WiFi, and access to a golf course at just $18 per night. Other nearby options include Lotts Creek County Park near Livermore and Lizard Creek Ranch Camping near Fort Dodge.