Iowa Camping: The Best Camping Trip Near You!
Trade the city noises for birds chirping, the sun's rays and the smell of nature when you go camping in Iowa with your family!
Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping, the sun's rays filtering through the trees, and the crisp scent of nature filling your nostrils. This could be your reality during a family camping trip in Iowa. Yes, Iowa!
Boasting an abundance of picturesque campgrounds, the Hawkeye State has a diverse landscape offers a perfect retreat for families looking to bond, recharge, and create lifelong memories. Picture yourself roasting marshmallows around a crackling fire, hiking through lush forests, and watching your kids learn about the great outdoors firsthand.
Read on to discover the best family-friendly campsites in Iowa, and start planning the ultimate outdoor adventure that will delight and inspire your entire family.
Get your free downloadable camping checklist here!
Iowa - A Brief Overview
Iowa is a Midwestern state in the United States that's rich in history and has plenty to offer for campers. Iowa's history dates back to the Native American tribes that lived there before it was discovered and claimed by European explorers. It was named after the Iowa River, which was named after the Iowa people, one of the tribes that were removed from the state.
Mississippi River
One of the most famous attractions in Iowa for campers is the Great River Road along the Mississippi River. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the river and plenty of opportunities to stop and soak up the beauty of the landscape. For those who enjoy water activities, there are plenty of opportunities to boat, kayak or paddleboard on Iowa's many waterways.
State Parks
Iowa's state parks are also a popular attraction for campers. Backbone State Park is known for its rugged rock formations and hiking trails, while Maquoketa Caves State Park is home to some of the largest caves in the state. Ledges State Park features beautiful limestone cliffs and hiking trails, while Pikes Peak State Park offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.
Historic Discovery
For history buffs, there are several museums and historical sites to explore during your camping trip. The Amana Colonies are a group of seven historic villages that were founded by German immigrants in the mid-1800s. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is the birthplace of the 31st U.S. president, and the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium feature exhibits about the history and ecology of the river.
So, Come On
In Iowa, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, and camping. Whether you're interested in history or outdoor adventure, Iowa has a lot to choose from. Stay tuned as we walk through the options in more detail.
Cities / Counties With Nearby Camping
Iowa is packed with towns and cities that offer numerous opportunities for camping enthusiasts to quench their thirst for adventure. Here are some of the most popular towns and cities in Iowa that boast fantastic camping locations:
1. Des Moines: Des Moines is a destination that every camping enthusiast needs to consider visiting. It's the capital city of Iowa, and it offers several camping opportunities within its vicinity. The town boasts a range of amenities, including barbecue pits, picnic areas, fire rings, and playgrounds.
2. Davenport: Davenport is an incredible destination that offers opportunities for camping enthusiasts to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This city along the Mississippi River is known for its gorgeous natural scenery and fantastic opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
3. Cedar Rapids: Cedar Rapids is a vibrant town that is popular among campers. It's home to several state parks and campgrounds that offer opportunities for camping enthusiasts to escape the city's urban life. Cedar Rapids is a fantastic spot for hiking, kayaking, and canoeing.
4. Ames: Ames is a charming town that is perfect for camping enthusiasts who are looking for a getaway spot. The town has several camping sites that are dotted around its vicinity, including Ada Hayden Heritage Park and Ledges State Park. There are hiking trails, wildlife, birding, and photography opportunities in Ames.
5. Iowa City: Iowa City is a thriving destination that provides excellent camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The town has several state parks and national forests that offer breathtaking scenery, as well as pristine opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and fishing.
Counties
1. Johnson County: If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway amidst nature, Johnson County has some great camping options to offer. The Coralville Reservoir Camping area is a popular destination that offers tent, RV, and cabin sites. The campsite boasts stunning views of the reservoir, and activities like fishing, boating, and hiking are all available nearby. For a more rustic experience, you can head to Sugar Bottom Campground, which features campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and access to the lake. It’s a great place to get back to the basics and indulge in some quiet time with your loved ones.
2. Polk County: There are some fantastic camping opportunities awaiting you in Polk County. Jester Park Campground is one of the most popular campsites in the area, located within a wildlife refuge. It features over 80 RV sites with water and electric hookups, other amenities as well as exclusive tent camping sites by the lake. If you’re up for a little adventure, indulge in some canoeing, kayaking, or fishing in the nearby Saylorville Lake. In addition, Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt is an idyllic setting that features hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas along with camping spots for tents and RVs.
3. Winneshiek County: For those looking for a unique and picturesque camping experience, Winneshiek County is the perfect destination. The Chimney Rock Campground, located near Decorah, is nestled in a breathtaking valley and offers an array of camping opportunities that range from tent sites to full-hookup RV park style amenities. A host of amenities is available, including a heated swimming pool, playground, rec hall, and canoeing opportunities on the Turkey River.
Pulpit Rock Campground is also a popular place to camp near Decorah with 56 back-in sites, 19 pull-through sites, and 37 tent camping sites. Additionally, DeSoto Bend Wildlife Area is a must-visit, offering primitive camping facilities in the midst of over 2000 acres of dense woodland surrounded by picturesque views. The wildlife area is a great destination for birding, fishing, and nature walks.
Ron Knezek
Iowa State Parks
If you are a fan of or even new to state park camping, Iowa is home to a variety of breathtaking state parks that provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures for the whole family. Whether you're looking for a scenic camping spot or a place to hike, bike, or fish, these state parks have got you covered. Here are some brief summaries of the state parks in Iowa, along with some information about the tent and RV camping options and specific activities you can expect to find at each.
Reservations & Fees
Camping in Iowa State Parks is a great way to enjoy the outdoors no matter what time of year. During the peak season (May through September) it is best to make reservations as far in advance as possible as many campgrounds fill up quickly during this time. Non-refundable reservation fees apply, cancellation fee and a nonrefundable change fee.
The reservation system is easy to use and can be done online or by telephone. Fees for tent camping vary depending on the park but range from $10-$20 per night. Rates for RV camping are usually a bit more but include full hookups such as electricity and water.
Tent Campers
For tent campers, most state parks in Iowa provide picnic tables, fire pits, and outdoor grills. Many of them also offer flush toilets and showers nearby, as well as playgrounds and other recreational activities like hiking, biking, and swimming.
RV Campers
For RV campers, many state parks feature full-hookup RV sites with amenities like cable TV hookups and WiFi. They also typically include a dump station so you can empty your holding tanks upon departure. They include modern showers, outdoor activities and are open year round including winter months. Whether you are camping with a tent or an RV, there are plenty of opportunities to experience all that Iowa State Parks have to offer.
Get your free downloadable RV camping checklist here!
Backbone State Park
One great option is Backbone State Park, which is located in northeast Iowa in Delaware County. This park features plenty of activities for nature lovers, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Plus, there's a campground on site that offers 125 campsites for both tent and RV camping. Additionally, visitors can explore the park's historic stone structures or take a dip in the swimming pool.
Waubonsie State Park
If you're looking for a more rustic camping experience, then you'll love Waubonsie State Park in the extreme southwest of Iowa in Fremont County. This park is home to some of the state's oldest and most impressive trees, as well as stunning views of the Loess Hills. There are only 12 campsites available for tent camping, but there's plenty of space for primitive camping as well.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Located in Jackson County on the eastern side, this park boasts some of the most unique geological formations in the Midwest. Visitors can explore the area's many caves, hike on scenic trails, and try their hand at trout fishing. Maquoketa state park offers both tent and RV camping, with modern amenities available for RVs.
Pikes Peak State Park
Located alongside the Mississippi River in Clayton County, Pikes Peak State Park offers breathtaking views of the water and surrounding bluffs. Hikers and bikers can enjoy the park's many trails, while anglers can try their luck at catching walleye and smallmouth bass. The park offers both tent and RV camping in its 77 sites, with several sites equipped with electrical hookups.
Ledges State Park
Located in Boone County in central Iowa, this park is known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and winding rivers. Visitors can hike the park's many trails, swim in the river, or enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning scenery. The park has over 100 campsites and offers both tent and RV camping, with several sites equipped with electrical hookups and modern amenities available for RVs.
Lacey Keosauqua State Park
Lacey Keosauqua State Park is nestled in the heart of Van Buren County, Iowa, and is the perfect getaway for those seeking to reconnect with nature. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities for both tent camping and RV camping enthusiasts. For those who prefer tent camping, the park has numerous primitive camping sites, each equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table. RV enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the park offers full hookups, including water, electric, and sewer. Activities at the park include hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and swimming. The park also has a playground and a disc golf course for family-friendly fun. Additionally, visitors can explore the quaint town of Keosauqua or take a scenic drive along the Des Moines River.
Lake Ahquabi State Park
Situated just south of Des Moines, Lake Ahquabi is a popular spot for campers, boaters, and anglers alike. With over 90 campsites and two large shelters, there's plenty of room for groups and families to enjoy a weekend getaway.
Effigy Mounds National Monument
Although not technically a state park, Effigy Mounds National Monument is a must-see destination in Iowa. Located in Allamakee County, Iowa, with a small part in Clayton County, Iowa, the park is home to over 200 prehistoric mounds, many of which are shaped like animals. Visitors can hike the park's many trails and learn about the area's rich cultural history. Tent camping is available nearby, but RV camping is not allowed within the monument.
Water Activities
Iowa is a fantastic destination for those who love water activities, and it boasts a multitude of lakes that attract visitors from all over the country. Iowa's glacial lakes are renowned for their clear, clean waters, and are a hub for swimming, boating, fishing, and water sports.
Clear Lake
One of the most popular lakes in Iowa is Clear Lake, which is located in north-central Iowa and spans over 3,600 acres. Clear Lake is a favorite for families who enjoy beach activities, such as volleyball, picnicking, and sandcastle building, and it's also a great spot for fishing with a variety of species that include walleye, crappie, and channel catfish.
Spirit Lake
Spirit Lake is another favorite destination for water enthusiasts in Iowa. Located in the northwest corner of the state, Spirit Lake is the largest natural lake in the state at 5,684 acres. Known for its crystal-clear water, visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as swimming, sailing, kayaking, and water skiing. Fishing enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Spirit Lake is a top destination for walleye fishing, with an abundant population of other popular species such as bluegill, crappie, and largemouth bass.
Lake Red Rock
Lake Red Rock is a beautiful recreational area that offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore nature. With over 15,000 acres of land and over 30 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of space for picnicking, swimming, fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Trails are available for those who wish to hike or bike within the park as well. The lake's crystal clear water combined with natural sand beaches makes it an ideal spot for camping and spending time outdoors with friends and family.
Lake Rathbun
Lake Rathbun is yet another must-visit destination in Iowa. With its vast 11,000-acre surface area, visitors can participate in activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and water skiing. The lake is popular among anglers, with species such as largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and walleye available. Additionally, the park surrounding Lake Rathbun is a great spot for hiking or cycling on the many trails, and there are plenty of campsites available those who want to spend the night under the stars.
Lake Macbride
Lake Macbride is a popular spot for recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, boating and camping. With nearly 10,000 acres of land, the lake offers breathtaking views of nature and plenty of opportunities to explore. There are numerous trails available for hikers and bikers, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors without going too far from home. The lake also provides many amenities such as public boat launch sites, picnic areas and a beach house ideal for hosting events or gatherings.
Winter Activities
Winter camping in Iowa can be a thrilling and unique experience for all outdoor enthusiasts. With its beautiful and diverse terrain, Iowa offers a range of camping options for those looking for a winter getaway. From state parks to private campsites, there is something for everyone in Iowa.
Ice Fishing / Cross Country Skiing
One of the most popular winter camping activities in Iowa is ice fishing. With over 30 lakes and rivers in the state, anglers can find a perfect spot to cast their lines and catch a variety of freshwater fish such as walleye, bluegill, and crappie. For those who are less interested in fishing, there are other great options for outdoor activities, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Snowshoeing
Pikes Peak State Park in northeast Iowa is an excellent destination for winter camping with serene trails suitable for both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Adventure enthusiasts may also want to check out Backbone State Park, which is perfect for ice fishing and offers many miles of groomed ski and snowshoe trails.
Be Prepared
It is important to remember that winter camping in Iowa can pose additional challenges compared to summertime camping. Adequate preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. It is essential to bring proper gear, including warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, and a reliable heating source. However, the rewards of experiencing the charm and beauty of the winter landscape in Iowa make the extra effort of winter camping all worth it.
Final Thoughts
No matter what the season, Iowa is a great place for families to come and explore the outdoors. From fishing, kayaking, hiking, and biking to exploring nature, there are plenty of activities for every type of family. Whether you’re looking for just a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, camping in Iowa will surely help to create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds within your family.
So pack your bags and make your reservations because you won’t regret coming to explore all that Iowa has to offer. And if this article inspired you to consider visiting Iowa, remember to subscribe so you can stay up-to-date on my adventures! With some planning, preparation, and a little creativity, I guarantee you will have an unforgettable camping experience in Iowa.
~ Ron
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