Best Camping near Sheldon, IA

Sheldon is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Sheldon is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Sheldon, IA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Sheldon, IA (73)

    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground

    1. Blue Mounds State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    137 Photos
    142 Saves
    Hardwick, Minnesota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

    2. Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

    34 Reviews
    62 Photos
    232 Saves
    Brandon, South Dakota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Park - Rock Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Park - Rock Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Park - Rock Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Park - Rock Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Park - Rock Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Park - Rock Rapids

    3. Island Park - Rock Rapids

    7 Reviews
    6 Photos
    26 Saves
    Larchwood, Iowa

    Island Park camping entrance is on North Boone Street and has 22 campsites with electrical hookups with water and sewer available. Each campsite has picnic table and fire pit. Restrooms are located in the park and also restroom/showers on the north end of the swimming pool bathouse. Island Park has the Rock River flowing though providing fishing, swimming and tubing; Rec Trail for walking and biking; playgounds; picnic shelters and Swimming Pool with 2 water slides, zero entrance and water toys.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $5 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Hollow Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Hollow Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Hollow Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Hollow Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Hollow Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Hollow Park Campground

    4. Sandy Hollow Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    7 Photos
    4 Saves
    Sioux Center, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek State Park

    5. Mill Creek State Park

    3 Reviews
    4 Photos
    15 Saves
    Paullina, Iowa

    Mill Creek Park is one of the highlights of O'Brien County. The park offers a variety of activities for the whole family throughout the year! 48 campsites complete with 20/30/50 AMP service, water, internet, and cable connections

    2- modern 12 person camping cabins 2- Primitive 6-person camping cabins Concession Stand Lodge Hiking Biking Swimming Beach Year-round Handicap Fishing Platform Bird and Wildlife Watching Showers Modern Toilets Dump Site

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $17 - $20 / night

    • No image available

      6. Alton Roadside Park

      2 Reviews
      3 Saves
      Alton, Iowa
      • Pets
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs
      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground

      7. Palisades State Park Campground

      27 Reviews
      77 Photos
      191 Saves
      Garretson, South Dakota
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Bend Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Bend Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Bend Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Bend Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Bend Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Bend Campground

      8. Rivers Bend Campground

      4 Reviews
      12 Photos
      8 Saves
      Rock Valley, Iowa
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      Camper-submitted photo from Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park

      9. Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park

      11 Reviews
      20 Photos
      53 Saves
      Canton, South Dakota

      Newton Hills State Park's unique dark forest, amidst a vast open prairie, has prompted many legends, including buried gold, robbers' hideouts and horse thieves. But visitors today recognize it as a great place to camp, swim, hike and fish. The park also plays host to folk music concerts and the popular FestiFall in October. The Newton Hills Lodge, built in 1915, served as the historic caretaker's home in Canton, SD, and played an important role in serving the healthcare needs of a variety of patients before being opened to guests. It can sleep up to 12 people and has four bedrooms and two baths. Like the lodge, camping cabins are open year-round. Each cabin accommodates 4 people with a set of bunk beds and a double bed. Both RV and tent sites are available, as well as horse camp sites. A boat ramp, beach and fishing dock let you enjoy water activities at Newton Hills State Park.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Campground

      10. Willow Creek Campground

      5 Reviews
      12 Photos
      16 Saves
      Le Mars, Iowa

      Situated in the scenic Le Mars Municipal Park, campers have access to all the park facilities including sand volleyball, tennis courts, shelter house, swimming beach, a 3.6 acre spring fed pond, and located next to the Willow Creek 27-Hole Golf Course.

      Campers can also enjoy the newly renovated Historic Campground Club House and Restroom/Shower Facility (see slideshow above).

      NOTE: Storm Shelter located in the Club House basement during inclement weather.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
    Show More
    Showing results 1-10 of 73 campgrounds

    Recent Reviews in Sheldon

    230 Reviews of 73 Sheldon Campgrounds


    • Tori K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
      Jan. 28, 2025

      Blue Mounds State Park Campground

      Nice Park!

      Bathrooms are nice and clean. There's a little free library near the restroom. Layout for getting water and dump station is a little odd as you have to drive through the campground to get to it rather than it being on your way out. Site had a picnic table and fire ring. Firewood is available at the park office. Would love to come back and do some rock climbing here now that I learned there are spots!

    • Ken G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground
      Sep. 25, 2024

      Palisades State Park Campground

      beautiful area, clean campsite

      This was a wonderful spot.  Lots of really nice short hikes down by the water which was really beautiful with the cliffs on the water.  Sites were very nice and clean.  We were able to get a site on a Friday night last minute by calling ahead.

    • eThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Point Park
      Sep. 11, 2024

      Sandy Point Park

      Beautiful, quiet spot

      We struck out 4times before finding this place and we are so happy that we did! What a great little gem - lakeside, crickets chirping and perfect

    • Jenni C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Olson City Park
      Aug. 15, 2024

      Olson City Park

      Great Spot

      Though we didn’t stay long, this campground was tidy, well marked, and a perfect stop for the night. The campsites were clean, facilities were top notch, and the park and walking path provided a great spot to wear kids out before continuing on.

    • Corey S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
      Aug. 12, 2024

      Blue Mounds State Park Campground

      Terrific Campground

      Peaceful and serene, great site.  Was able to walk around before the sun went down and listen to the Bison, wasn't able to see them but we could hear them.  Sites were great and amenities were clean and spacious.

    • Carolyn M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Split Rock Park
      Aug. 11, 2024

      Split Rock Park

      Beautiful Scenery, Clean Park

      This place is so cool! The falls was constructed during the Great Depression by the WPA, and the visitors center is made from the same pink quartz that lines the river. Really cool kayaking into Devils Gulch and up the Split Rock Creek. Will return to this nicely kept State Park. Gas station in town is quaint but has a public restroom and some basic supplies. Really lovely town. Falls lull you to sleep at night and the trains passing by are really neat to hear. Trains will go by till around midnight.

    • LThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground
      Aug. 3, 2024

      Palisades State Park Campground

      New King section open in Palisades

      Totally new entrance with easy access to new section that will handle larger RVs with toads. Open area with no shade but easy placement for satellite reception on RV or ground. New hard surface roads with gravel sites.

    • Dave K.
      Camper-submitted photo from Island Park - Rock Rapids
      Jul. 24, 2024

      Island Park - Rock Rapids

      Campground Currently Closed

      Drove over tonight excited for my stay at this neat looking park. Unfortunately it appears that the June 2024 flood damaged the campground and it’s currently closed for repair.

    • Nathan L.
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
      Jul. 18, 2024

      Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

      Nice little nook with lots of cover!

      This campsite was great! We had a tent site, number 24, and it was tucked into the woods but still close to the parking lot!

      The neighboring sites are far enough away where you still have privacy but if you had two next to each other with a large group it could still function as one. Beautiful hiking trails, play grounds, disc golf, volleyball net, and so much more. Also, the lady at the front was cute as a button!

      Highly recommend!

    • Jessie C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
      Jul. 16, 2024

      Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

      Fun and relaxing

      We booked this site last minute as we needed a place to stop for the night. The website was pretty easy to use to book the site. The ranger at the station was super friendly and helpful. Our camp site is beautiful and there is plenty of room. There are lots of trails here, so I got a good run in. My husband biked over to Brandon to get a good ride. There is a sweet disc golf course too! I’m mad I didn’t bring my discs!

    • Ila R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Split Rock Park
      Jun. 12, 2024

      Split Rock Park

      No showers/toilets

      It is a beautiful little park. Good place for kayaking or fishing. I was just there to camp. The park is small. There are no showers or toilets, just outhouses, and they were a good distance for me to walk being disabled. If you have T-Mobile, there is absolutely NO service.

    • Joshua D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Silver Sioux Recreation Area
      Jun. 2, 2024

      Silver Sioux Recreation Area

      Hidden gem

      Was it expecting how nice this campground was compared to more primitive ones in the area. Beautiful site! Has tent camping, full rv hook ups, and a nice playground for the kids.

    • Joshua D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Stieneke Area Park
      Jun. 2, 2024

      Stieneke Area Park

      Small county park

      Small park, peaceful, river access for canoe/kayak. No designated camp sites but plenty of space for tent or camper.

    • Joshua D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Ranney Knob Area
      Jun. 2, 2024

      Ranney Knob Area

      Small county park

      Small park, has some picnic tables, a toilet, and a trash can. Says you can pay to camp but no designated camp sites and limited parking. Does offer access for canoe/kayaking on the river. Camping is $10 a night, pay on site.

    • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Marble Beach State Rec Area
      May. 21, 2024

      Marble Beach State Rec Area

      Van camping here was just okay

      Camped in Site #59 on Oct. 6-7, 2023. Our site had a fire ring, table, as well as electric & water. Spirit Lake is behind the site, although there was no lake access from there. Nice hearing the water lapping on shore. Registering for a site was a little confusing. There was a friendly host in the campground. Our site sloped down toward the lake; had to use our traction boards to level the van as best we can. No privacy between sites. The 6 room restroom/shower was clean. Overall, the campground was large and well maintained. It had an RV park feel to it, which is not our preferred type of camping. I believe folks in larger rigs will be comfortable here.

    • J
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
      Oct. 20, 2023

      Blue Mounds State Park Campground

      Couldn’t have asked for better weather!

      What an amazing time! We stayed at site 54E which was pretty secluded our first night there. We got there a little late in the afternoon to do anything but get set up after which we got our grill going and enjoyed a delicious steak dinner. The next morning we went on a couple trails and just enjoyed the beautiful fall colors and we lucked out because the buffalo were close to the ranger station. It was quiet our entire stay and the weather cooperated except for some wind and a little rain. Definitely will be coming back!

    • Nicholas S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park
      Oct. 15, 2023

      Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park

      Perfect to relax and bring the kids!

      I had an amazing time at Newton Hills Campground in South Dakota with my family and young children. The spacious and clean facilities provided the perfect backdrop for our outdoor getaway, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation away from the city. The kids had a blast exploring the natural surroundings and participating in the family-friendly activities. This campground is a true gem for those seeking a wholesome outdoor experience.

    • J
      Camper-submitted photo from Grand Falls Casino
      Oct. 10, 2023

      Grand Falls Casino

      Good stopover on way to Sturgis

      It’s a casino RV park. Basic amenities. They offer free dry parking in their main parking lot. FHU 30/50 available. $30 during week, $40 weekend, $50 holiday weekend. Also has nice looking golf course on property as well with reasonable rates. As for the casino, decent selection of slots and tables with a live poker room. The kind of restaurants you’d expect. Buffet open on weekend. Quick stop cafe open during the hours you’d expect and a steakhouse open for dinner. I stopped on the way to and back home from Sturgis, as it’s about a full day’s drive from the house. Will definitely plan on using every year from now on

    • N M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Palisades State Park Campground
      Sep. 28, 2023

      Palisades State Park Campground

      Quiet and quick

      We stopped here for one night, site 29E. Really nice area except there was a bunch of wasps invading our space as there is some sort of fruit tree above. Nice space, so clean, lots of amenities. Park rangers stopped by to say hi. There is a train you can hear during the night. Almost all the sites were full, mostly RVs.

    • Dean G.
      Camper-submitted photo from Brown County Park
      Sep. 18, 2023

      Brown County Park

      Brown County

      This place is HUGE. We were shocked at the size of the state park and how many many campsites there were. We were back on Taylor Ridge so we had a noticeable drive in/out anytime we went anywhere. Bathrooms were clean and maintained. Sites had ample space. Because it is all on the ridges of the park, there is a significant decline after the campsite “flat area”

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Campground
      Sep. 14, 2023

      Willow Creek Campground

      Enjoyed our stay

      Had a fishing derby going on but was still overall quiet. Shelter house was rented for our family reunion, was a great space.

    • L
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
      Sep. 13, 2023

      Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

      Great choice

      We are on a e/w road trip. We knew absolutely nothing about this state park but it was on our route so took a chance. An excellent choice! Sites are big and roomy. We have two big dogs and were able to put them both on 30 foot leads. Lots of trails. Bathrooms exceptionally clean. Showers great. Park staff friendly and helpful. We liked it so much we stayed a second night. Definitely would return.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Ludlow Park
      Sep. 4, 2023

      Ludlow Park

      Not a camping site

      Contacted the office that manages these campgrounds and was told that the Olson Park campground is the only park with camp sites in Worthington…

    • G
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mounds State Park Campground
      Sep. 3, 2023

      Blue Mounds State Park Campground

      Site 13

      Stayed at Blue Mounds on one of the hottest weekends this summer! We booked site 12 initially based off of reviews from the Dyrt suggesting riverside sites. Site 11 and 12 were NOT good. There's a dumpster in the middle of the two sites, absolutely no privacy, and no shade. Thankfully, there is good cell service (and free wifi!), and we looked up what other sites were open. 13 was open! And boy did we luck out with this. Even though it's just adjacent, 13 had a nice little secluded area for our tent, and a *private* riverside walk out to the cliffs overlooking the river! No direct river access- it's about a 15 foot drop to the river. The moonrise from this site was gorgeous. Had a spooky visit from the Starlink satellites. We drove in the morning to the bison area and saw about 12 of them roaming near the fence.  Bathrooms were decent. Close by to Luverne for any last minute needs while camping.


    Guide to Sheldon

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

    What to do:

    • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Blue Mounds State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "We went on a couple trails and just enjoyed the beautiful fall colors."
    • Wildlife Viewing: Check out the bison at Blue Mounds State Park Campground. A camper shared, "We could hear the Bison, wasn't able to see them but we could hear them."
    • Disc Golf: Enjoy a round of disc golf at Big Sioux Recreation Area. One reviewer said, "The disc golf course really took this park to the next level."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Palisades State Park Campground noted, "Bathrooms were exceptionally clean."
    • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A reviewer at Big Sioux Recreation Area mentioned, "Sites are big and roomy."
    • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the activities available. One camper at Sioux Falls Yogi Bear said, "It was an absolute blast for our kids with plenty of activities to keep them entertained."

    What you should know:

    • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways. A camper at Sioux Falls KOA mentioned, "Lots of noise since it’s off the highway."
    • Reservations: It's a good idea to book your site in advance, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Union Grove State Park Campground noted, "The lady was unhelpful and rude" when trying to make a reservation.
    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have markets or stores nearby. A camper at Newton Hills Campground mentioned, "There are plenty of parks and paved roadways to wander around on."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One family at Sioux Falls Yogi Bear said, "Great pool and kid activities."
    • Plan for Quiet Time: If you want a peaceful experience, consider visiting during weekdays. A camper at Newton Hills Campground noted, "It was very busy with lots of families out and about."
    • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save you trips to the store. A visitor at Big Sioux Recreation Area mentioned, "The ranger at the station was super friendly and helpful."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Palisades State Park Campground said, "Open area with no shade but easy placement for satellite reception on RV."
    • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups for convenience. A camper at Sioux Falls KOA noted, "Clean and easy to pull in & around."
    • Be Prepared for Noise: If you're near highways, expect some noise. A visitor at Shady Grove Campground mentioned, "Highway noise was very very loud."

    Camping near Sheldon, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular campground near Sheldon, IA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sheldon, IA is Blue Mounds State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 46 reviews.

    • What parks are near Sheldon, IA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, there are 1 parks near Sheldon, IA that allow camping, notably Saylorville Lake and Conestoga Lake.