Camping opportunities near Calmar, Iowa include a variety of developed campgrounds offering both tent and RV sites within a 20-mile radius. Pulpit Rock Campground in Decorah serves as one of the region's most popular destinations, providing electric hookups, showers, and river access. Lake Meyer County Park Campground in Fort Atkinson offers another well-established option with both tent and RV sites, featuring lakeside views and hiking trails. Several campgrounds in the area accommodate cabin rentals and glamping experiences, including Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground and Skip-A-Way Resort. Most established campgrounds operate seasonally, with Pulpit Rock specifically open from April 1 to November 1.
The majority of campgrounds in the region require reservations, particularly during summer weekends when sites fill quickly. Seasonal considerations significantly affect camping conditions, with most facilities operating from spring through fall. Several campgrounds offer electric hookups ranging from 30-amp to 50-amp service, though availability varies by location. Water hookups and sanitary dump stations exist at most developed sites, making the area suitable for RV camping. Tent campers can find dedicated areas along waterways at several parks, though these prime spots often book well in advance. Fishing opportunities, particularly for trout, represent a significant draw for many visitors. As one camper noted, "Lake Meyer sits atop a hill above the lake. Beautiful trails with lots of wildlife. Even an eagles nest."
The campground experience varies significantly across the region. According to reviews, tent sites along the Upper Iowa River at Pulpit Rock Campground offer peaceful waterfront camping but can be closely spaced. A visitor mentioned, "The tent sites near the river look more spaced out." Several campgrounds feature hiking and biking access, with Pulpit Rock providing direct access to the Trout Run Trail, connecting to downtown Decorah. Campers frequently highlight the clean facilities, with many noting the well-maintained shower houses and restrooms. Reviewers consistently mention the region's natural beauty, particularly along waterways, though some note proximity to highways can create noise at certain campgrounds. Family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and recreational courts exist at larger facilities, making them popular destinations throughout the camping season.
"If you camp rustic, like I did, you camp right next to he upper Iowa river but don't worry because it's not too loud that you won't be able to fall asleep."
"This campground is located right outside of scenic Decorah and has trails for hiking or biking. Easy access for kayakers and tubers and walking distance to great breweries."
"As someone who bicycle tours I appreciated fire wood being on site and close to where the tent area is. The bathrooms aren’t the best but they worked."
"Lake Meyer sits atop a hill above the Lake. Beautiful trails with lots of wild life. Even an eagles nest. There are hook ups and water."
$28 - $37 / night
"City water only available central locations otherwise a delight spot in a wonderful town"
"Easy access for kayaking and tubing on the Upper Iowa River."
"Camp right along side the Upper Iowa River....80 foot limestone bluffs! Campground shuttles and rents canoes/kayaks."
$25 / night
"Gorgeous bluffs and river to camp right next to! Can’t wait to go back!"
"The camping sites also have large tall trees where a camper should be parked which causes you to park way to close to the fire pit."
"This was a nice campground next to a small town- nice quiet sites. Sites were kind of close together. Mostly seasonal spots here."
"Some weekly activities include canoeing, tubing down the Turkey River, swimming, fishing and paddle boats in the Lake, a splash pad for kids and occasionally a dumping tank for free, also miniture golf"
ScoutStaying in the Deerfield (?) loop provided quiet sites, some good wooded walks in the campground, and clean bathrooms. The park itself offers pretty, remote hiking along the bluffs and in the forests. You won't get bored camping here, although Wyalusing is a little too big to be walkable. Summers can be very hot, and swimming at Wyalusing is iffy/nonexistent.
TravelerNice sites there was some trash around but it is right on the Root river bike trail.
GuideWyalusing State Park is a real gem, if you’re able to get a spot. The campsites along the ridge offer the best views, but do not have electricity. The inner campsites have electricity but no views. Definitely not the most private campground, with many sites being tight up against the campground road.
There are some very nice hiking trails here, as well as a few interesting things like the little “cave” you can check out. We came here in April and had a wonderful time, it was not too muddy and not too cold at night.
TravelerWe visited Backbone State Park with our two young kids, and it quickly became one of our favorite Iowa getaways. The park’s rugged cliffs and shaded trails made it feel like a real adventure without being too challenging for little legs. The Backbone Trail was a hit– the kids loved scrambling over rocks and exploring the forest, and we loved that the scenery kept all of us engaged.
The campground was perfect for our family. Our site was spacious and tucked among the trees, giving the kids plenty of room to play while still feeling safe and close by. The restrooms were clean, the campground was quiet at night, and having a mix of electric and non-electric sites made it easy to choose what fit our setup. We could walk straight from our campsite to the lake and several trailheads, which made the trip feel super low-stress.
Overall, Backbone State Park gave us that great balance of adventure and ease— a beautiful spot where the kids could explore, and we could unwind together. It’s definitely a place we’ll return to.
LegendUnsure about this one. It is a small triangle of grassy land in between gravel roads and fields. It looks to be the remains of an old town by the sign present. I suppose one could set-up a tent here, but there was no signage stating that. I drove by in October and there was a roped off area right off the gravel for an “entrance” but it looks like a couple cars could park partially on the side of the road to use the picnic area and grounds.
LegendThe directions took me to a green area, but there was also a building/shed on the property and the only road off the main gravel road was a driveway… so I’m not sure. I took a photo of where I took the photos from the road. Maybe you need to park and hike in, but not accessible for a vehicle?
LegendThis campground is a county campground that looks pretty new or recently upgraded. It is on the outskirts of town by a mile or two. There is nice walking and biking trails on the property and the river is close by. A nature center is on the property. There is a boat launch available near for putting your yak or canoe in. This is seasonally open.
LegendThis is a fairly basic campground attached to Deer Creek Speedway. Nice grassy sites. There is a path to drive carts/wheelers to the track. This is located directly off highway 63.
TravelerThe camp ground is split in two separate sections. We camped in the south section and found it to be pretty nice spot. Although the north section looks to be a little nicer. Definitely a popular spot so book in advance! The dump station is really small and kind of wonky but works good. Bathrooms and showers are clean. Definitely would recommend during the fall time! The area is absolutely stunning!
Camping options near Calmar, Iowa offer experiences ranging from riverfront sites to lakeside retreats within a 20-mile radius. This region sits within the Driftless Area, characterized by steep limestone bluffs, cold water trout streams, and elevations ranging from 850-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with cool evenings around 55-65°F, creating comfortable camping conditions throughout the main season.
Explore Upper Iowa River paddling routes: At Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground, visitors access canoe and kayak rentals with shuttle service. "This part of Iowa is a treasure. Deb and her crew are always helpful and accommodating. They run a great canoe/kayak/tube rental with shuttle service," notes camper Kelly D.
Bike the Trout Run Trail: The 11-mile paved loop connects to Pulpit Rock Campground, offering convenient access for cyclists. "The campground is situated next to the Trout Run Trail, providing quick and easy access to the 11-mile loop or in to the city center of Decorah," explains Travis P.
Fish local streams and lakes: Multiple campsites provide fishing opportunities, especially for trout. "Fishing was really great catching several fish for dinner including some really nice size rainbow trout," reports Mike G. from Pulpit Rock Campground.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain good bathroom and shower facilities. "The facilities are nice, bathrooms were clean," states Travis P. about Pulpit Rock Campground, while a Lake Meyer County Park visitor notes, "The bathrooms aren't the best but they worked."
Riverside camping: Sites along waterways offer direct access to fishing and paddling. "My boyfriend and I stayed right on the river with our pups (pet friendly) and it was BEAUTIFUL. Easy access to restrooms but secluded and quiet too," shares Kari S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bluffton Resort (formerly Randy's) and other sites offer chances to spot local wildlife. "Lake Meyer sits atop a hill above the Lake. Beautiful trails with lots of wild life. Even an eagles nest," reports Lourene M. about Lake Meyer County Park Campground.
Highway noise affects certain sites: Some campgrounds have sites located near roadways. "Our site was 48 and it was noisy with the highway there. Will go back just move more in ward," advises Tiffany R. about Pulpit Rock.
Site spacing varies significantly: At many campgrounds, RV sites can be closely situated. "What I didn't enjoy was how close each RV site is. The sparks from our fire were making their way to our neighbors site," explains Travis P.
Water access limitations: Not all campgrounds provide full water hookups. At Pulpit Rock, "City water only available central locations otherwise a delight spot in a wonderful town," according to Robert T.
Seasonal considerations: The best places to camp near Calmar, Iowa typically operate from April through October. Skip-A-Way Resort runs "from April 15 thru Oct 15," according to Lourene M.
Multiple activity options: Skip-A-Way Resort offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "They have a beach for swimming. Boats for renting... You can rent kayaks, bikes. They have mini golf... They have river rafting, a playground for little kids, and a mini horse for petting," shares jeremiah B.
Budget-friendly options: Lake Meyer provides affordable tent camping. "It was very inexpensive for tents ($10 I think) and the tent camping area was very nice with 3 giant pine trees and some picnic tables and fire rings," reports B B.
Weekend planning: Popular campsites near Calmar fill quickly, especially in summer. "We drive about 3.5hrs to stay and its definitely worth it! We enjoyed one day of kayaking and another day of cycling on the trout run trail," shares Reah E. about her experience at Bluffton Resort.
Site selection matters: At Bluffton Resort, site placement can affect your experience. "The camping sites also have large tall trees where a camper should be parked which causes you to park way to close to the fire pit," warns Tonya B.
Check amenities before booking: Campgrounds offer varying levels of hookups. At Goeken Co Park, facilities are more primitive: "Best for self-contained campers and tents if you don't mind roughing it," advises Carolyn M.
Extended stay options: Some Calmar area campgrounds cater to longer-term campers. Skip-A-Way Resort has "permanent sites and rentals. There is tent sites and rental campers also. Sewer, water and electric," according to Lourene M.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Calmar, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Calmar, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 155 campgrounds and RV parks near Calmar, IA and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Calmar, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Calmar, IA is Pulpit Rock Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 17 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Calmar, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Calmar, IA.
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