Tent camping near Whittemore, Iowa occurs primarily on small, primitive sites across wildlife management areas and county parks. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the Des Moines Lobe landform, characterized by gently rolling terrain formed by Wisconsin glaciation. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers cooler conditions with overnight temperatures sometimes dropping below 50°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Iowa Lake Co Campground, tent campers can access shoreline fishing with minimal crowds. Bradley B. noted, "I found this to be a great little spot to stay bike touring through Iowa. It is right in a lake, has water, and a nice vault toilet."
Duck hunting: Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area provides seasonal duck hunting access with primitive camping options. Visitor Kevin T. mentioned, "There is people here who hunt ducks," making this a functional base camp for waterfowl hunters during permitted seasons.
Disc golf: Tent campers at Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground can enjoy the on-site disc golf course between April and November. Joel S. reported the "Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course" making it suitable for weekend recreational camping.
Lakeside sunset viewing: Bright Lake Co Park offers exceptional sunset views over the water from tent sites. Camper Wally B. shared, "Really nice spot almost overlooking the lake (Through the trees), had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents!"
What campers like
Free firewood: Campers appreciate the complimentary firewood at Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground, which eliminates the need to purchase or gather wood. Joel S. mentioned, "Free firewood is provided. Nice oak trees" when describing the amenities.
Solitude on weekdays: Midweek camping at Devine Wildlife Area offers nearly complete privacy with few other visitors. The dispersed nature appeals to those seeking isolation, as Joel S. noted, "Dispersed camping really. You can bring a big rig in. No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up."
Vault toilets: Iowa Lake Co Campground maintains clean vault toilets appreciated by bicycle tourists and tent campers. Bradley B. specifically highlighted this in his review, stating it "has water, and a nice vault toilet" making it suitable for primitive camping without sacrificing basic sanitation.
Spacious tent areas: Bright Lake Co Park provides ample room for multiple tents at each site. According to Wally B., sites had "room for quite a lot of tents! For me and my family it was perfect!"
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most Whittemore area campsites lack developed facilities. At Devine Wildlife Area, Joel S. warns, "No water, no electric, no toilet. Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent."
Water supply considerations: Only a few campgrounds offer drinking water access. At Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area, visitors should arrive with all needed water, as no reviews mention water availability. David B. notes, "We stopped here when we drove from NY to CO and it was fine," suggesting it works for brief stays but lacks conveniences.
Weather impacts: Low water levels affect camping conditions at certain sites. At Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area, Kevin T. warned, "This place was really bad probably because of the low water levels. In very hot temperatures the lake would have a smell."
Varying popularity: Some campgrounds experience significant visitor fluctuations. Iowa Lake Co Campground experiences both crowded and completely empty periods. Bradley B. mentioned, "Unlike the other reviewer I was literally the only one there," while Gabbie G. reported, "There was quite a bit of people when I was there."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established sites with amenities for younger children. Wally B. found Bright Lake Co Park ideal, stating, "For me and my family it was perfect!"
Noise considerations: Weekends may bring louder groups to certain campgrounds. Gabbie G. encountered "rowdy college kids" at Iowa Lake Co Campground but still found it "a blast," suggesting families might prefer weekday visits.
Shelter options: Cenla Campgrounds offers more developed facilities with drinking water and electric hookups, providing backup options during inclement weather for families with young children.
Space requirements: Select sites with adequate space for family-sized tents and gear. Bright Lake Co Park sites include "fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents" according to Wally B., making it suitable for families with multiple tents.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most sites near Whittemore lack RV-specific amenities. Bradley B. specifically noted that Iowa Lake Co Campground is "highly recommend for tents. RVs not so much."
Dispersed parking: At Devine Wildlife Area, Joel S. mentioned, "You can bring a big rig in," but clarified there are "No really prepared sites," indicating the need for self-sufficient camping without hookups.
Access challenges: Many wildlife management areas have unpaved access roads that may become difficult during wet conditions. Devine Wildlife Area requires caution with larger vehicles after rainfall.
Electric options: Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground provides electrical hookups for RVs requiring power. Joel S. confirmed, "Sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared," making it one of the few options for powered camping in the region.
