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Best Dispersed Camping near Steamboat Rock, IA

13 Reviews

Free primitive camping near Steamboat Rock, Iowa includes several secluded options within driving distance. Eagle City County Park offers the most developed dispersed camping experience on 172 acres along the Iowa River. The park features both upper and lower camping areas with fire rings and picnic tables. A hand pump well provides water access, though recent visitors note it may not always be operational. Vault toilets are available in the lower area, though campers report they are poorly maintained.

Eagle City County Park was previously free but now requires a $10 permit payable online after claiming a first-come, first-served site. Lake Considine and Cross Ford River Access provide more rustic boondocking alternatives with 14-day camping duration limits typical for the area. As one camper shared, "Lake Considine is completely primitive. There is a nice lake great for fishing but you'll need to bring a table as it's that primitive." These sites lack facilities but offer isolation for those seeking an undeveloped camping experience. Access roads to most dispersed camping areas remain passable for standard vehicles, though some sites can accommodate small trailers but not larger RVs.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Steamboat Rock, Iowa (4)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Steamboat Rock, IA

4 Photos of 4 Steamboat Rock Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Steamboat Rock, IA

13 Reviews of 4 Steamboat Rock Campgrounds

  • Brian F.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 21, 2020

    Eagle City County Park

    Quiet camping in the middle of nowhere.

    This park is located on 172 acres of land. It has an enclosed picnic shelter, hand pump well, vault rest rooms, primitive camping, and 2 swing sets. The park was named after the town of Eagle City platted in 1878 and at one time contained a general store, post office, grist mill, saw mill, blacksmith’s shop and doctor’s office.  This area has been used for primitive camping with an upper and lower level. The Iowa River runs next to this campground. The campground is down a couple miles of maintained gravel Rd.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Eagle City County Park

    Fee required now

    Note that they do now require a permit to stay here. Sites are first come first served with no reservations. Cost is $10 and you can pay up to 30 min after claiming your site. Great camping area, pit toilet, regularly mowed, great riverside view, level spots for tent and vehicle camping with fire rings.

  • Chantal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2021

    Lake Considine

    Completely and Gloriously Primitive

    If you're coming out here plan to bring a table. It's that primitive. For us that's great though!! There is a nice lake that is great for fishing, there was access for small boats previously (think kayak/canoe). It is located out literally in the middle of nowhere wrapped by trees on both sides with a cleared out area that you could set a tent or bring a camper if you're ok with no hookups. We love the simplicity and seclusion this area provides. We have never been charged to camp here.

  • Kerry M.
    Aug. 8, 2021

    Eagle City County Park

    Secluded campground near the Iowa River

    Eagle City Park has two parts - a lower campground that is a paddlers camp on the Iowa River, and an upper campground with a few secluded campsites.

    All campsites are free, and there are many to choose from. I have camped in both the upper and lower campgrounds, in summer and fall. I tend to prefer off-season when I am (often) the only camper in either campground. Summer will have more campers, ranging from tents to small RVs, but there are plenty of campsites so it is never full.

    There is nowhere to buy firewood, but a short hike in the woods usually produces a small supply for a campfire.

    Negatives:

    As there are no trash containers, it is not uncommon to find the firepits full of burned or unburned trash.

    There is a very poorly kept vault toilet in the lower campground. I do not believe that it is ever pumped out. The upper campground has no toilet. I always bring my own stool "just-in-case" but otherwise just take care of business after I take the 20 minute drive to get home.

    The gates are closed all winter, often into late spring. The roads are not plowed in either campsite. It is a nice place to hike in winter time, but there is no camping.

  • Jason K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Eagle City County Park

    Good for an overnight stop

    First, there is no pit toilet. Second, you need to pay ($10) via a website. Scan the QR code by the entrance. I couldn't get it to work.

    Sites are fine. A couple of options for hammock camping. Nothing special.

    We stopped driving cross country.

  • Chantal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2021

    Eagle City County Park

    Perfect Primitive Camping

    We go to Eagle City a least once a year to just get away from it all, it's close to home but feels cut off which is what I look for when camping. We have only camped on the lower side to facilitate fishing the river, but we walk up to, and through the upper side every time also. We love how quiet it is, we are quite often the only ones down there. Kayakers frequent the river access on the lower side as well as some equestrian use for river access. Hand pump for water. Grounds are well maintained but not bug treated, so be prepared. We have camped with an RV when its cooler and doesn't need an A/C but we love to tent camp out there. We've gone at all different times from Memorial day through Labor day. My boyfriend has gone later in the year though also.

  • Megan C.
    Sep. 8, 2022

    Eagle City County Park

    Our Favorite Little Spot

    Wow! This campground surprised us! Not only is it directly on a river with wildflowers, it has a pit toilet and hand pump water. There was only one other group while we were there. Such a sweet place that we will be back to every time we pass through that area. Definite recommend.

  • C
    Jun. 10, 2023

    Eagle City County Park

    Amazing spot

    Couldn’t have asked for more, 5-6 nice spots right on a river, picnic table and fire pits and the grounds are well kept. It was also easy to find and access even with a low clearance car.

  • A
    Nov. 29, 2021

    Eagle City County Park

    Great spot!

    Had a nice time here on the first night of a long road trip, no one else was around except some coon hunter came and went a couple times which was a little spooky until I figured out what was going on, would definitely return!

Guide to Steamboat Rock

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Steamboat Rock, Iowa, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers unique spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Riverside Relaxation for Dispersed Campers

  • The Eagle City County Park features several well-kept sites right by the river, perfect for a peaceful getaway with picnic tables and fire pits available for use.
  • Campers can enjoy hammock camping options at the Eagle City County Park, making it an ideal spot for those who love to relax in nature.
  • With easy access and a beautiful riverside view, this area is a favorite among visitors seeking a tranquil camping experience.

Fishing Adventures While Free Camping Near Steamboat Rock

  • The secluded setting of Lake Considine offers a great fishing experience, surrounded by trees and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Anglers can enjoy the simplicity of fishing from the shore or launching small boats at Lake Considine, making it a perfect spot for a day on the water.
  • This primitive area allows for a true escape into nature, ideal for those who appreciate a more rugged camping experience.

Wildlife Watching Opportunities for Dispersed Campers

  • The Cross Ford River Access is known for its wildlife sightings, providing a great opportunity for nature lovers to observe local fauna.
  • Campers at Cross Ford River Access can enjoy a peaceful environment, perfect for birdwatching and appreciating the natural surroundings.
  • With its drive-in access, this spot is convenient for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while keeping an eye out for wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Steamboat Rock, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Steamboat Rock, IA is Eagle City County Park with a 4.2-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Steamboat Rock, IA?

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Steamboat Rock, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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