Best Dog-Friendly Camping in Iowa

Best known for its rich farming history, Iowa is also rich and diverse in nature, with a multitude of destinations to camp and hike. If you’re planning on camping in Iowa, you’re in luck.

Effigy Mounds National Monument is situated on the bank of the Mississippi River at the eastern border of Iowa. Part of the “driftless” region of Iowa that was left untouched by the passing glaciers thousands of years ago, the area’s bluffs, forests, and other habitats host diverse ecosystems to explore and admire.

More than that, Effigy Mounds is notable for its historic settlement by the Native American Effigy Moundbuilders, who build massive sets of mounds that, from a bird’s eye view, form the shape of animals such as bears, cats, and birds. These nature-inspired monuments blend well with the natural scenery, making it an ideal site for camping.

Another excellent site for camping in Iowa is Maquoketa Caves State Park. Located next to the eastern Iowa town of Maquoketa, the 370-acre park contains amazing caves weaving throughout the limestone bedrock of the bluffs. Spelunkers and nature-enthusiasts alike will enjoy exploring the caverns, such as the 800-foot long Dancehall Cave.

Even if you’re not up for venturing into the caverns, there are plenty of other things to do at Maquoketa Caves. Hikers can walk along six miles of trails throughout the park, passing by habitats ranging from bluffs to woodlands to prairies. Unfortunately, the campgrounds are closed until October 2018 for renovations to the camping facilities, but when it is open again you should definitely consider a visit.

Camping in Iowa is diverse and plentiful, there are countless campsites and trails that you may wish to consider. Once you start exploring Iowa’s natural ecosystems, you’ll begin to see the true beauty of the vibrant state.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites in Iowa (520)

    1. Ledges State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Boone, IA
    Website
    +1 (515) 432-1852

    $12 - $25 / night

    "One of my favorite locations to camp in Iowa as a Boy Scout growing up was Ledges State Park. Since I hadn't been back in years, I decided to check it out and spend a night camping there."

    "One of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites."

    2. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Baldwin, IA
    Website
    +1 (563) 652-5833

    $15 - $25 / night

    "You really can't go wrong with any trail or cave. The kids enjoyed hiking between Lower- and Upper-Dancehall Caves. The trail goes underground and through some water. Window Cave was also a hit."

    "Caves were closed but we had a great time hiking the trails. Very clean campground. Plenty of wood for campfires, just had a donation box. Electric campsites have plenty of shade."

    3. Hitchcock County Nature Center

    29 Reviews
    Honey Creek, IA
    Website
    +1 (712) 328-5833

    $10 - $50 / night

    "I pulled in late at night easy to navigate stayed the next day and did some trails apparently the land formations are 1 of only 2 in the world how about that Iowa."

    "if you want to get some hiking in that’s not just all flat walking this is a great place in this area. The views show you the vast farmland here and are great for sunrise and sunset!"

    4. Jester County Park

    29 Reviews
    Granger, IA
    Website
    +1 (515) 323-5300

    $20 - $25 / night

    "There was four of us and a dog."

    "Jester Park is our go-to camping destination in central Iowa! By far, this county park has a lot of fun activities and access points to the Saylorville waterway circuit."

    5. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park

    29 Reviews
    Dundee, IA
    Website
    +1 (563) 924-2527

    $12 - $200 / night

    "Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa.

    There are two campgrounds."

    "The lake was super gross, with excessive floating moss (probably a weather issue) and EXCESSIVE goose poop everywhere. The beach was basically unusable, with goose bombs everywhere."

    6. Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    McGregor, IA
    Website
    +1 (563) 873-2341

    $20 / night

    "It is crowded with older people like us,in the electric sites, and their older dogs. Level sites. Showers. Concession stand at the picnic area."

    "It is within walking distance of the overlook of the magnificent Upper Mississippi River at the confluence of the Wisconsin River. There are other walking/hiking opportunities."

    7. Sugar Bottom Campground

    24 Reviews
    North Liberty, IA
    Website
    +1 (319) 624-2102

    $14 - $240 / night

    "Very nice COE campground north of Iowa City in the Lake Coralville area. Beautiful setting, lots of options for sites."

    "Nice grassy sites near lake for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing. Near Iowa Raptor Project that conducts raptor programs and site with walking tour and live raptors, and Macbride State Park as well."

    8. Lake Anita State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Anita, IA
    Website
    +1 (712) 762-3564

    $12 - $20 / night

    "This campground has both RV full hookup and electric sites very close to the lake. Campsites offer a great view of lake and close access to docks."

    "We had 5 dogs in our group and spent a lot of time on the walking trails with them!"

    9. Des Moines West KOA Holiday

    22 Reviews
    Earlham, IA
    Website
    +1 (515) 834-2729

    "Decent playground, water pillow for bouncing, fishing pond, dog park, swimming pool. Well maintained, lots of planned activities. KOA, so not a lot of nature. But no traffic or train noise."

    "Roadside Oasis, a place to rest a weary head, food, showers, etc. Cabins always help get you in and get out early without setting up camp."

    10. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Onawa, IA
    Website
    +1 (712) 423-2829

    $15 - $40 / night

    "Well kept & family friendly camping in Iowa!"

    "There’s a pretty big playground near all the sites. When I went in the first weekend of October they had a little trick or treat night too! Extremely nice amenities; flush toilet and showers."

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Showing results 1-10 of 520 campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews in Iowa

2062 Reviews of 520 Iowa Campgrounds



Guide to Iowa

Iowa offers a variety of pet-friendly camping options, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry companions. From scenic trails to well-equipped campgrounds, there’s something for every pet owner.

Tips for camping with dogs near Iowa

Dog owners appreciate the amenities at these campgrounds

  • Jester County Park offers electric hookups and clean shower facilities, making it easy to keep your pet comfortable during your stay.
  • At Lake Macbride State Park Campground, you’ll find picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for enjoying meals with your pet by your side.
  • Sugar Bottom Campground provides a variety of sites, including those with electric hookups, ensuring a comfortable experience for both you and your dog.

Dog-friendly activities while camping near Iowa