Tent camping opportunities around Winterset, Iowa include multiple county-managed conservation areas with primitive facilities. Located in Madison County, this area features rolling hills with elevation changes between 900-1,100 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, making spring through fall the primary camping season, with campsites often closing after the first significant snowfall.
What to do
Fishing access: At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, site #13 provides direct water access for anglers. "I would highly recommend site #13. It had plenty of space for a large tent and canopy. It had a nice access spot for fishing," notes Jerry V. The park is known for largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish.
Astronomy viewing: Ashton Wildwood Park features an observatory open most Saturday evenings. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's (except the 1st Saturday) was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable. They showed how their telescopes worked and took us a tour of the building and classroom," explains Willy W.
Paddling opportunities: Several locations provide kayaking access. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing. There is a half mile portage with a campsite on the river which you must call to reserve," writes Willy W. about Colfax Quarry Springs Park. Rental equipment is available on-site from a local vendor.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Campsites at Ashton Wildwood Park offer ample room and privacy. "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents. Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious. It's only $7/night!" reports Deb K. The natural setting provides shade and separation between campers.
Clean facilities: Despite primitive amenities, maintenance receives positive reviews. "Very clean, easy to reserve. Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained," notes Michael K. about Ashton Wildwood Park. At Colfax, Christopher M. shares, "Awesome campground, clean and well maintained. Even the outhouses smelled good."
First-come camping: Otter Creek Park offers simple, unreserved camping. "Love this little 1st come first camp county park!" writes Steve H. This option provides flexibility for spontaneous weekend trips, though campers should note some parks may close temporarily, as Mansel J. reported Otter Creek was "closed for camping indefinitely" in a recent review.
What you should know
Water availability: Drinking water access is limited at most locations. "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water," advises Willy W. about Ashton Wildwood Park. Visitors should plan to bring sufficient water or locate spigots at facility buildings away from camping areas.
Bathroom options: Most sites offer basic sanitation. At Kuehn Conservation Area, pit toilets serve both upper and lower camping areas. James M. notes that these are "Nice quiet sites along the Raccoon River" with basic amenities. Some parks like Ashton Wildwood offer flush toilets at the observatory building but only pit toilets near campsites.
Campsite surfaces: Site conditions vary by location. Colfax sites have sandy surfaces due to the former quarry operation. "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," notes Jerry V. This affects tent staking and gear organization, requiring campers to bring appropriate equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some locations include play areas for children. "There is a small park to play at for kids," mentions Willy W. about Ashton Wildwood Park. The park offers both camping and day-use amenities suitable for families.
Educational opportunities: The Rooted Timbers area provides nature-based learning opportunities. The orienteering course at Ashton Wildwood Park offers another educational activity. "There is also a orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it," explains Willy W.
Kid-friendly hiking: Trails vary in difficulty across parks. "There is a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult and was great for rehab after my knee replacement," shares Deb K. about Ashton Wildwood, indicating manageable terrain for children and those with mobility concerns.
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused atmosphere: Several parks prioritize tent camping with minimal RV infrastructure. "Isolated campgrounds. Tent only none of that RV B.S.," states Luke C. about Colfax Quarry Springs Park. This creates a quieter experience without generator noise or large vehicles.
Level site availability: Finding suitable spots for vehicle-based camping requires scouting. "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties," reports Christopher M. about Colfax Quarry Springs Park. Most parks lack designated RV pads or hookups, making them best suited for self-contained camping.
Access considerations: Some locations have limited vehicle access. "Definitely follow the directions on Dyrt, google took us on a winding gravel road that led to the same place," advises Topaz G. about reaching Ashton Wildwood Park. Larger vehicles may find navigation challenging on rural roads.
