Free Camping Collection
Established Camping
Mine Pond Campground — Stephens State Forest
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Effective April 21, 2025 the Equestrian Trails have been closed due to wet conditions. This bulletin will be removed when the equestrian trails are reopened. (Posted April 21, 2025)
Mine Pond Campground in Stephens State Forest is located near Lucas, Iowa. The area features rolling hills and dense woodlands, providing a natural setting for camping. Temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer, and nearby attractions include Stephens State Forest trails and Lake Ahquabi State Park.
Description
DNR - Forestry
Stephens State Forest
Stephens State Forest in south-central Iowa is Iowa’s largest state forest, with seven units totaling more than 15,500 acres in five counties. The forest’s primary function is to provide an example of forest management for Iowa woodland species. First established in the 1930s with tree plantings by the Civilian Conservation Corp, Stephens State Forest is also a backcountry destination for outdoor enthusiasts interested in hiking, horseback riding, camping and hunting.
Location
Mine Pond Campground — Stephens State Forest is located in Iowa
Directions
From the junction of Highway 34 and Highway 65 at Lucas, go south on Highway 65 for 2 miles, go west on 467th Street for 2 miles to enter the Whitebreast Unit of Stephens Forest. To reach the Lucas Unit of Stephens Forest: from the same junction of Highway 34 and Highway 65 at Lucas, go south 2 miles on Highway 65, go west on 467th Street 1 mile, go north on 137th Trail 1 mile.
Address
24550 US Highway 30
Chariton, IA 50049
Coordinates
41.013049913414534 N
93.48102319354413 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Mine Pond Campground — Stephens State Forest needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 50 min from Des Moines
- 1 hr 18 min from Ames
- 2 hrs 2 min from St. Joseph
- 2 hrs 15 min from Iowa City
