Tent campsites near Sumner, Iowa cluster primarily in the rolling hills of northeastern Iowa, with elevations ranging from 950 to 1,100 feet. The area features limestone bluffs and hardwood forests, with camping options scattered across Bremer, Chickasaw, and Fayette counties. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, with July and August bringing the warmest camping conditions averaging 80-85°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: River Ranch Camping provides access to multiple fishing spots along nearby waterways. "My family loves River ranch. It doesn't have all the amenities like other campgrounds but that's what makes it a great place to camp. It is back woods camping," notes camper Missy B.
Swimming in former quarries: Chickasaw Park offers swimming in a converted quarry area when conditions permit. Camper Chantal C. describes the experience: "It is adjacent to an old quarry where swimming and fishing is currently allowed at your own risk. Due to multiple accidents and/or deaths jumping/diving and cliff jumping is no longer allowed."
Backcountry hiking: Yellow River State Forest features multiple trail systems ideal for day hiking or overnight backpacking. "I've done this loop several times, and have never been disappointed. Lots of quiet, and many more great views on the upper trails. There are some thin trails down steeper hillsides, so make sure to take it slower if the ground is muddy," shares Kevin C.
Cemetery exploration: For those interested in historical sites, Chickasaw Park contains an old cemetery accessible via hiking trails. According to Chantal C., "If you're not afraid of ghosts, are respectful, and you follow the road ALL THE WAY BACK there is a very old cemetery which we thought was very intriguing."
What campers like
Budget-friendly camping: Yellow River State Forest offers some of the most affordable tent sites in the region. Kevin T. notes, "This site fills up really fast because of the cheap price of only 9 dollars. This is the cheapest but one of the best campsites I've been to."
Free firewood: Waucoma Campground (also known as Little Turkey Campground) provides complimentary firewood, a rarity among campgrounds in the area. Douglas M. appreciates the amenity, noting "Clean shower free wood staff is friendly."
Secluded sites: Camp Glen Wendel in Yellow River State Forest provides exceptional privacy between sites. "Well spaced out camp sites, very primitive. Great spot to view the stars. Awesome for kids," shares Macel C.
Multiple water features: Several campgrounds feature both river access and pond options. James M. describes Camp Glen Wendel: "Sites have fire rings and benches, some more spacious than others. This Camp has wonderful stands of coniferous trees. The 2nd site in has a small pond at Camp side."
What you should know
Site availability challenges: Many campgrounds in the area operate on a first-come, first-served basis with limited capacity. For Echo Valley State Park Campground, Kerry M. notes: "This campground is non-electric, self-pay, non-reservable, and has only a few sites. There is a nice trout stream, with a few sites right by the stream."
Facility conditions vary significantly: While some campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities, others have minimal maintenance. Regarding Chickasaw Park, Chantal C. reports: "While the grounds are mowed that is about all that is done on the camping side of the river for maintenance. I won't walk into the pit style restrooms let alone use them."
Water access locations: Most campgrounds require planning for water access. At Camp Glen Wendel, James M. advises: "Potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk," indicating campers need to fill containers before heading to their sites.
Campground closures: Before planning a trip, verify that your chosen destination remains open for camping. Thunder Woman Park, though listed in some directories, no longer permits camping according to camper Mitch: "No camping allowed, CG closed many years ago."
Tips for camping with families
Star-gazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution makes many campgrounds excellent for astronomy activities with children. At Yellow River State Forest, Macel C. recommends taking advantage of the "Great spot to view the stars. Awesome for kids."
Age-appropriate trail selection: Yellow River State Forest offers varying trail difficulties suitable for different age groups. Lynn G. advises, "Amazing place to explore for all ages. Who knew that Iowa has hills like this?! We did the backcountry camping (less than 0.5 miles walking)."
Phone service considerations: Despite remote locations, some backcountry sites maintain cellular connectivity. This provides peace of mind for families with children, as noted by Shyla G. at Yellow River State Forest: "Beautiful hike and nice area to set up camp, also had service!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe local fauna in natural settings. At Echo Valley State Park, Wilber S. describes an unexpected animal encounter: "The hiking trail was perfect for a morning stroll with my dog and coffee and there certainly is a petting zoo (my German Shepard was a little uncertain about the goats)."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive campgrounds near Sumner have significant restrictions for larger recreational vehicles. Kerry M. warns about Echo Valley State Park: "It is most suitable for tent, truck, or teardrop camping... large RVs would not do well."
Alternative lodging: When traditional RV sites are unavailable, nearby communities offer additional options. Kerry M. notes the proximity of services: "Nearby West Union - The Barrel Drive-in Restaurant is a local favorite, but closed all winter."
Site selection for larger units: For those with bigger RVs, prioritize campgrounds specifically designating big-rig friendly status in their amenities list. Of the campgrounds in the Sumner area, River Ranch Camping is one of the few marked as accommodating for larger vehicles.
