Top Tent Camping near Waverly, IA

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Waverly? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Waverly's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Waverly, IA (29)

Showing results 1-10 of 29 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Waverly

180 Reviews of 29 Waverly Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar View Park
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Cedar View Park

    Beautiful park, gross bath house

    This is a lovely park. It is fairly quiet, you can hear some highway noise in the distance. The lake is lovely and clean. The spots are gravel, most sites will require some leveling but are not too bad. 

    Each site has a newer electric pedestal with 30 and 50 amp service, and each site has a water spigot, as well as a picnic table and fire ring.

    There are a few sites that back up directly to the lake. There is a swimming beach and a dock. There is a city park adjacent to the campground with a playground and picnic shelter.

    I had 3 bars on on T-mobile which got me 64 down and 18 up. On Verizon I had 3 bars which got me 65 down and 12 up.

    The shower house was pretty bad though. It was older, which doesn't bother me, but it was dirty. There are camp hosts on site but I guess their duties do not include ever cleaning the restroom. There was food trash in there all week, and if you look around you'll find feces, blood, and personal hygiene trash including used condoms.

    I would stay in this campground again because I have a self contained unit and do not need to use the on-site shower house.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oelwein City Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Oelwein City Park

    This is a beautiful city park campground

    I enjoyed my 5 night stay at Oelwein City Park Campground. It's located on the south end of town, there is only one business within walking distance. It's a great restaurant (Oelwein Family Restaurant) and it's about a 15 minute walk.

    There is one shower house, and several vault toilets throughout the park. The shower house is old and a little run down but was very clean. I had no problems using it.

    The city park is adjacent to the campground and has picnic shelters, a playground, and a dog park.

    There are electric and water hookups at most sites, and there is a dump station. The park was pretty full on the weekend as you would expect, but very quiet during the week.

    I had great Verizon and T-mobile service here.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fontana County Park
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Fontana County Park

    New, clean, no trees

    There is a brand new campground here with full hookups. There are no trees so I decided to pass and not camp here. Evidently there is an "old" campground somewhere in this park also that I did not find. The signs will direct you to the new campground.

    I had good T-mobile and Verizon service here.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Klocks Island Park
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Klocks Island Park

    Crowded and quiet

    This seems like a quiet campground. It's just off the highway but there was almost zero traffic on this small highway. I drove through here on a Saturday in mid September. All spots were taken. I had barely usable Verizon service here and no T-mobile service. I was not able to camp here. The restroom building looked fairly new.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Grove State Park
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Union Grove State Park

    Loved it!

    Loved this campground! We just stayed for one night, but wish it had been two. Small and quiet. A few trails to hike and a horse camp that I didn’t have time to explore. Nice lending library as well. Bathroom/shower combos are nice (1 is ADA). Not far off the interstate. Some sites are off with level & weird (ie stairs/door open on an incline and away from the table), and our picnic table was sloped. So pick your site carefully. 19E was ok - table not level and high stairs required from TT but good for Starlink connection and close water spigot (elec only at these sites)

  • Niki S.
    Camper-submitted photo from R Campground, Inc
    Jul. 15, 2024

    R Campground, Inc

    Very clean, friendly owners, great co-campers

    Randy was amazing and very attentive to my questions. Check in was super easy and the directions for check in were clearly spelled out. Everything was mapped out and the website was easy to use as well. The pond itself was pretty to look at and made for great photos, however it was loaded with geese which made it not user friendly. I would recommend this campground, and I will definitely go back to camp again!

  • Nick B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Bluff County Park
    Jun. 6, 2024

    Wildcat Bluff County Park

    Quiet with good trails

    Very nice little park if you like hiking or Frisbee golf. There is not much to the park besides campsites and the Frisbee golf course. It has a small playground with just a few swings and a slide. Bathrooms were horrible. I would not suggest staying unless you have your own restroom. Also there is no dump station so be prepared to take your shit home with you.

  • I
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy Acres RV Park
    May. 25, 2024

    Lazy Acres RV Park

    Don’t recommend

    We stayed here towards the end of May. They hadn’t cut the grass but was in the process of cutting it. This caused swarms of bugs. We are from Ky backwoods and are use to bugs but this was awful. The bathhouse was clean. The campground is right off the main highway so easy getting off and right back on.

  • Greg K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alden riverview campground
    May. 5, 2024

    Alden riverview campground

    15$! Alden Riverview Campground

    30/50/110 power. Drinking water and dump onsite but not on sites. Wifi! Hot showers, playground,boat launch,fire pits,grills,good camp host.town is right there 2 bars and restaurants. Gas station I think was 8 blocks up to the right. Been hard to find all this for 15 bucks a day!

  • c
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp At The Woods
    May. 3, 2024

    Camp At The Woods

    Open year round

    Very accommodating super nice people helped us back in and set up in middle of winter after dark after we had drove 2 days from the east coast. Our spot was on an incline but the water worked when temp was below freezing the camp was nice with new park for kids new basketball court new pavilion wish we could have been there in the summertime I’m sure the pool is nice when uncovered. I saw laundry and bathrooms by the river.

  • c
    Camper-submitted photo from Twins Campground
    May. 3, 2024

    Twins Campground

    Serene

    Serenity, nature at its best, birdsong all day long wildlife at every turn our campsite was level the owners and manager were great hosts. We stayed several weeks the price was very reasonable, honey wagon service was included ; riding/ hiking trails from campsite.

  • Greg K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twins Campground
    Apr. 13, 2024

    Twins Campground

    Twins campground- cresco,Iowa.

    Very friendly and helpful owner. He even drove to town so we could follow him in. Has playground community area fire pit and a structure built to cover picnic tables. atv trails. Turkey river right there was 20 feet from my site. Porta potty and shower water is hot. 30/50 amp power with water on each site. Water fill station and dump station. Garbage .

  • Lisa T.
    Camper-submitted photo from George Wyth State Park
    Nov. 10, 2023

    George Wyth State Park

    Good local camping

    Easy in and out late fall camping.  I got a great tent spot next to the river.  This is a fine campground that I much prefer during the off season (it gets too busy during the warm season for my liking).  The connection to hiking trails throughout the park is fantastic.

  • Terry F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbertson Conservation Education Area
    Nov. 1, 2023

    Gilbertson Conservation Education Area

    Great place!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Bend Park
    Sep. 7, 2023

    Cedar Bend Park

    Peaceful place

    It was so clean and peaceful. Not overly crowded. The camp host was so friendly and helpful.

  • v
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar View Park
    Sep. 3, 2023

    Cedar View Park

    Wonderful Find!

    Great find! We thought we would be dry camping because it was Labor Day weekend. We found this Park on the app and thought we would check it out. It’s first come first serve. I really never thought there would be any hookups because of what I had read, but they had electric and water! We found a spot right on the Lake! Very busy but wonderful view, location and was only $20.00!

  • Matthew S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA
    Aug. 17, 2023

    Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA

    Nice Park/Clean Bathrooms

    This is a quiet and nice park. Lots of pull through lots. I am missing a swimming pool but they do have a beach by a pond if that interests you. Bathrooms are cleaned daily but at times are quite nasty. Not their fault people are just nasty.

  • Jason H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate Co Park
    Aug. 10, 2023

    Interstate Co Park

    Empty but lovely.

    Here on a Wednesday (which is the only night the nearby restaurant is closed). It was empty. It's on a lovely river with swimming. Mostly people here for day use putting boats in.

    Showers have hot water.

    They don't take reservations. Would definitely stay here again if I'm in the area.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from MacNider Campground
    Jun. 23, 2023

    MacNider Campground

    Pretty good

    Was a quick stop. Surprised when we pulled up it was only $19 a night for only electric & $28 for full hook ups. We came in the end of June & it is not too busy. Still plenty of parking. There is a community pool right beside the camp.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA
    Jun. 22, 2023

    Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA

    Great place to stay

    We stayed at started at the Lost Island water park KOA for just one night while passing through the area. We were in our class C while slowly making our way across the country. We had no problems getting a spot here. Sites are gravel for the RV, reasonably level, and very well maintained. Most sites are pull through. Hookups are in very good condition. Each site had a grassy area with a picnic table. Staff was very friendly and helpful. There was a playground, beach and fenced dog area. Cost was very good for the amenities provided.

    The campground had a store, gas station and propane available.

    We had 4 bar LTE with Verizon. Our hotspot was usable and performed very well. We enjoyed our brief stay at this campground. We will stay again when traveling this way.

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pine - Backbone State Park
    Jun. 21, 2023

    Six Pine - Backbone State Park

    Hidden treasure

    Stayed in march it was cold but very nice park , restrooms were nice shower house was closed and locked but the scenery on the hiking trail was amazing

  • Nicolas N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lime Creek Park
    Jun. 14, 2023

    Lime Creek Park

    Can’t go wrong for $15

    Electric, pit toilets, fire ring, picnic table, fishing stream, playground and NOBODY AROUND. This is a gem no more than 5 min off the highway. It might not have the views and whatnot but can’t beat that for convenience!

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Deerwood Park
    May. 30, 2023

    Deerwood Park

    Great we spot

    Quiet, camp host was nice. Firewood available for purchase for $1. Nice lake very close to the campground.

  • Jeannie D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pine - Backbone State Park
    May. 25, 2023

    Six Pine - Backbone State Park

    Just stunning

    This campground was large. The lake reminded me of a puzzle I did with my grandma as a kid. It was fall, and it was just gorgeous. There was a wedding the weekend we were there, but we were lucky to explore the tower the day prior. The nearby communities offer ameneties, which were needed as I sprained a knee hiking the backbone trail my third go. Absolutely adored the weekend we spent here. Wonderful neighbors, great spacious, level sites. I want to say we had electric only, and service was definitely spotty in most areas of camp. We used Verizon, and could not hulu.

  • Quintan B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbertson Conservation Education Area
    May. 7, 2023

    Gilbertson Conservation Education Area

    Education is cool

    The Gilbertson Conservation Education Area is an incredible resource for learning about the environment and conservation efforts. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the natural world and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving it. For those who want to learn more about conservation and environmental education, this area is a must-visit destination. To learn more about conservation and environmental education, consider checking out https://us.payforessay.net/paper-writing-service.



Guide to Waverly

Camping near Waverly, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic lakes to well-maintained campgrounds, there's something for everyone looking to enjoy nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Backbone State Park. One visitor mentioned, "The scenery on the hiking trail was amazing," making it a great spot for those who love to trek through beautiful landscapes.
  • Fishing: Head to Pine Lake State Park for some fishing. A camper shared, "Fishing is good here, as are the hiking trails," highlighting the park's dual appeal.
  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Check out Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground for water activities. One reviewer said, "This campground has it all. Easy access for kayaking and tubing on the Upper Iowa River."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor at George Wyth State Park Campground noted, "The bathrooms were warm and really clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites at Pulpit Rock Campground. One camper remarked, "Wonderful neighbors, great spacious, level sites."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often mention the peacefulness of places like Pinicon Ridge Park. A reviewer said, "Great place to kick back and relax."

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds, like Eagle City County Park, require a fee and do not accept reservations. A camper mentioned, "Sites are first come first served with no reservations."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Beeds Lake State Park pointed out, "Many of the RV sites are very close together," which might not suit everyone.
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Clear Lake State Park, are only open from April to December. Make sure to check the season before planning your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Clear Lake State Park. A parent noted, "The playground was fun for the kids, nice beach access!"
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Choose spots that offer various activities. A camper at Pine Lake State Park mentioned, "Tons of great tent sites, but it seemed like the RV spots were pretty close together."
  • Safety: Always check for nearby medical facilities. A visitor at George Wyth State Park Campground appreciated the park's proximity to Cedar Falls, saying, "Close to Cedar Falls."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites, like Pinicon Ridge Park. One RVer shared, "The site was a level rock pad which was very spacious."
  • Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA noted, "Decent sites with full hookups."
  • Quiet Times: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider camping during the week. A visitor at Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground mentioned, "We have been here during the week and have had the place pretty much to ourselves."

Camping around Waverly, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Waverly, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Waverly, IA is River Ranch Camping with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Waverly, IA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 29 tent camping locations near Waverly, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.