Camping sites near Westfield, Iowa offer options in diverse terrain spanning three states—Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Most sites in this region sit at elevations between 1,100-1,320 feet along the Missouri River watershed, creating varied camping environments from wooded bluffs to riverside settings. Seasonal temperature swings are significant, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows dipping below 20°F, affecting campground operations throughout the year.
What to do
Horseback riding: Turkey Ridge at Ponca State Park provides access to numerous equestrian trails through diverse terrain. A camper shared, "There are hiking trails, horseback riding, archery, horseback riding, etc. The charm of the area is still there: riverfront views, rolling hills, simple trails through nature."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks offer fishing without requiring additional permits. At Lazy H Campground, one visitor noted, "Full hookups are great. Tons of activities to do here. There's fishing, boating, biking, and swimming. Private lake so no fishing license required."
Historical exploration: Several campgrounds contain significant historical sites. Elk Point City Park Campground features "historic Lewis and Clark campsite" according to a visitor who described it as "Cute and historical city park that offers multiple 30 Amp hook up sites for $15."
Disc golf courses: For those seeking recreational activities beyond hiking, several parks maintain disc golf courses. A reviewer at Elk Point City Park mentioned "Lots of play grounds, dog park, disc golf" among the amenities available at this economical camping option.
What campers like
Spacious primitive sites: Campers consistently praise the roomy tent camping areas at Turkey Ridge — Ponca State Park, with one reviewer noting, "We found a great space in the Turkey Ridge campground. Electric with a water spigot between 2 spaces. We were in a tree cave with very little sunlight."
Affordable options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate parks with reasonable fees. At Elk Point City Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "This is a really nice campgrounds. It only has electricity but for $15.00 it was very nice and quiet."
Clean facilities: Several parks maintain exceptional hygiene standards. A visitor to Union Grove State Park Campground shared, "Be prepared to higher your campground expectations after this one! Definitely one of the cleanest most well kept campgrounds I've seen in a while. Shower rooms/bathrooms are immaculate, and smell so nice."
Winter camping availability: Unlike many Iowa campgrounds that close seasonally, certain parks remain open year-round. A Turkey Ridge visitor reported, "A lot of places in Iowa are closed to camping until April or even May. I looked west and quickly found this... The primitive rate is $15, but they reduced it to $10 in the off-season."
What you should know
Internet connectivity varies: Cell service quality differs significantly between locations. At Scenic Park, visitors report reliable service, while at Stone State Park, one camper noted, "There was sketchy coverage for your phone so I couldn't pull up Alltrails, make sure to download before you drive in."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. Oak Bluff Campground visitors mentioned, "Another campground Oak Bluff is for reservations only" highlighting the importance of planning ahead.
Park pass requirements: Nebraska state parks require entrance permits in addition to camping fees. A Turkey Ridge camper explained, "A pass is required to camp, so you can add another $5 if you're a Nebraska resident, and $8 if you're from out of state. Season passes are also available, $40 resident, $45 non-resident."
Shower costs: Some facilities charge for shower use. A camper at Ponca State Park noted, "Park had dump station, pay showers ($1 for 6 minutes), and flush toilets. Restrooms were very clean."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Lazy H Campground offers exceptional water recreation options. One visitor explained, "The beach has giant floating lily pads that the kids loved. There are showers on the beach to wash off feet after you're done swimming."
Educational opportunities: Several parks maintain interpretive centers with family-friendly exhibits. A Ponca State Park visitor shared, "For the 100 years celebration they had re-enactments, making walking stick adornments, bird catch and release to show an up close and personal peek at the local birds."
Playground accessibility: Not all playgrounds are located near camping areas. At Stone State Park, a camper warned, "There is a nice playground, but it is not located anywhere near the campground (it is located closer to two of the cabins). If you are camping with children, please note this."
Swimming facilities: Several parks maintain pools for family recreation. A Ponca State Park visitor mentioned, "There are hiking trails, playgrounds, and even a water park" when describing family amenities at the park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have size restrictions that limit larger RVs. At Scenic Park, a visitor noted, "All the spots are spacious...neighbors are not on top of you. This spot had a nice concrete pad with a picnic table. Full hook-ups with sewer, water, electric, cable, and wi-if."
Utility availability: Electric service varies between parks and specific sites. A camper at Turkey Ridge specified, "Electric with a water spigot between 2 spaces" highlighting the need to verify hookup availability when booking.
Pull-through access: Limited pull-through sites exist in the area. At Elk Point City Park, a visitor cautioned, "Spots are small. Wouldn't recommend anything with a slide-out. No pull through. Water is centrally located. Each site has electric. Some are 50 some are 30."
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies considerably between campgrounds. At Union Grove State Park, campers report "level sites" while other parks may require additional stabilization equipment.
