Tent campsites near Sheldahl, Iowa are situated in the rolling hills and river valleys of central Iowa, where elevations range from 850 to 1,000 feet above sea level. The area experiences typical Midwestern seasonal variations with camping seasons generally running April through October. Nearby conservation areas and county parks offer primarily primitive camping experiences with minimal facilities, focusing on natural settings along creeks and wooded areas.
What to do
Stargazing sessions at night: Ashton Wildwood Park hosts regular astronomy events at its on-site observatory. "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," reports visitor Willy W.
Orienteering challenges: Several parks include established orienteering courses. At Ashton Wildwood Park, "There is also a orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it," notes a reviewer who enjoyed the educational aspects of the park.
Kayaking on local waters: Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers kayak rentals directly on site. "There was also company on-site that rents Kayaks," mentions Jerry V., who camped at the park with his two boys. The quarry lake provides calm waters suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Butterfly watching: Mariposa Recreation Area includes dedicated butterfly gardens for nature observation. "There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore," according to Willy W., who recommends the area for country tent camping experiences.
What campers like
Clean facilities despite primitive settings: Campers consistently praise the maintenance of even basic facilities. "Very clean, easy to reserve. Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained," writes Michael K. about his experience at Ashton Wildwood Park.
Sandy shoreline access: Colfax Quarry Springs Park features sites right along the water's edge. Jerry V. recommends "site #13. It had plenty of space for a large tent and canopy. It had a nice access spot for fishing." Other visitors note the sandy terrain: "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that."
Affordable rates: Basic tent camping remains budget-friendly. "It's only $7/night!" notes Deb K. about Ashton Wildwood Park, making it accessible for frequent local visits or travelers passing through central Iowa.
Absence of RVs at select locations: Some campers specifically appreciate tent-only areas. Luke C. celebrates Colfax Quarry Springs Park as having "Isolated campgrounds. Tent only none of that RV B.S."
What you should know
Limited water availability: Most tent sites require bringing your own water. "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water," advises Willy W. about Ashton Wildwood Park, though he notes "There is a Kum & Go up the road to get missing supplies."
Highway noise impacts certain sites: Otter Creek Park and other locations can experience traffic noise despite natural settings. "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal," mentions a Colfax Quarry Springs reviewer.
First-come system limitations: Competition for prime spots exists at non-reservable locations. "Love this little 1st come first camp county park!" says Steve H. about Otter Creek Park, highlighting both the appeal and potential challenge of non-reservation systems.
Varied campground status: Check current operating status before planning trips. For example, Mansel J. warns, "The park is closed for camping indefinitely" regarding Otter Creek Park, demonstrating the importance of verifying operations before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Observatory program planning: Schedule weekend camping around astronomy events for educational opportunities. "The quiet campground and big campsites" at Ashton Wildwood Park complement the observatory experience, according to Chris C., making it ideal for families with children interested in science.
Kid-friendly accommodations: Mariposa Recreation Area combines play areas with nature exploration. "There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore. There is also a shelter to have parties with picnic tables," notes Willy W., creating multiple activity options for families.
Multiple-tent site selection: Groups with children benefit from spacious sites. "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents," Topaz G. observes at Ashton Wildwood Park, allowing families to create separate sleeping areas while maintaining proximity.
Local camping for short trips: Consider nearby options for introducing children to camping. "I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping," shares Deb K., who lives just 7 miles from Ashton Wildwood Park and appreciates the convenience for short family outings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for quiet camping: Twin Anchors Campground sees varied noise levels depending on location. "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," reports Bill O., suggesting avoiding playground-adjacent sites for quieter evenings.
Limited RV options near Sheldahl: Many conservation areas prohibit or significantly limit RV camping. "I wouldn't bring an RV here," cautions Willy W. about Mariposa Recreation Area, as many locations prioritize tent camping in more natural settings.
Seasonal considerations: Several campgrounds near Sheldahl operate seasonally. Christopher M. notes the Colfax Quarry Springs facilities were "clean and well maintained" with "level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties," suggesting suitable conditions for smaller rigs and pop-ups during operating months.
