The best camping near Swan Lake State Park
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Swan Lake State Park adventure.
Discover the serene beauty of Swan Lake State Park.
Popular ways to camp
Top-rated campgrounds near Swan Lake State Park
100%
(64)
J.V. Vineyard & Retreat
7 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Scranton, IA
Nestled in the heart of farm country, you'll find a gem hidden near the Raccoon River.
Find yourself by getting lost in nature! Our property includes over 40 acres of timber with hiking trails throughout. The main property located near by, includes our vineyard and farm. Come meet some of the farm critters, use the modern bathroom/showers, charge devices and relax at the pond. We have several group camp sites as well as remote hike in options (contact us for more info on these!).
Learn more about this land:
Choose to stay in one of our private tent sites, with only views of nature surrounding you. The listed sites here are accessible by car, but if remote/hike in is more your style, we have those, too - just ask! Or try out our tree house camp experience: a platform built into the trees with provided 8 person tent secured to the base (contact us to reserve/book the tree house. Rental is $45/night). We also have a large group site. Firewood is provided on site - please do not bring in your own. We have marked trails, or forge your our path! The campgrounds are a short jaunt from our vineyard. At the vineyard is our event center with B & B lodging. Campers are welcome to use the modern facilities at the event center. Kaibos are located at the primitive tent campground. Guests are welcome to enjoy the pond (kayaks provided, catch & release fishing), 9 hole disc golf course and play area. There are acres of woodlands to explore with ample opportunity for wildlife watching. We are a short drive to a boat launch river access, or walk to the river from our place! Firewood and non potable water is provided for campers.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
100%
(33)
Tent camping on the Raccoon River
1 site · RV, Tent42 acres · Lake City, IA
Learn more about this land:Come relax at Rainbow Raccoon Ranch on the Raccoon River. The river offers floating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The nearby Rainbow Bend park and other local conservation areas offer hiking opportunities. As a working ranch, we have friendly Scottish Highland cattle onsite for great photos and selfies.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
99%
(149)
Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
13 sites · Lodging40 acres · Menlo, IA
Our retirement dream is to share our beautiful property with people who love the outdoors. We started with our rustic tent sites and slowly added cabins. We go from primitive to sites with heat and air conditioning. We are not far from the Interstate but sure seems like we are as you travel the 4.6 miles of gravel road to step back in time.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$15
/ night
100%
(5)
The Waypoint
5 sites · RVs18 acres · Earlham, IA
A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35.
18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community.
If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.
Pets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
92%
(13)
Firefly Creek Ranch
10 sites · RVs, Tents31 acres · Guthrie Center, IA
Our property was once the County Home until it was closed due to regulatory changes to the mental health industry. The property sat vacant for 2 years as a deficit for the county and its taxpayers. We had a plan to breathe new life into this property by re-opening as a non-profit Art, Community, and Retreat Center. We are in the heart of the rolling hills surrounding Guthrie Center & Lake Panorama. It is simply an amazing place. Please come and see what makes this experience unique. Learn more about this land:Peaceful farm setting in the rolling hills of Guthrie County, Iowa. Outdoor rustic camping and indoor simple Bed & Breakfast rooms. 10 Rustic Campsites or 1 with water and electric hook-ups for additional $5 night. Self contained campers welcome. Ask about our Gathering & Retreat Center with 8 indoor overnight accommodations available. Sleeps 8-15.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$25
/ night
100%
(4)
Burkhart Farm
8 sites · RVs10 acres · Woodward, IA
We live in the country on a working grain farm (corn and soybeans).
It can get noisy and dusty during harvest and grain hauling operations.
You could wake up to deer eating grain around the bins. In the evenings,
you can look down to the East by tree line for deer and turkey.
We can handle any size RV.
All spots are level.
All electric sites are 30/50 and are for year-round use.
We have 9 sites with electric and city water.
Water to camp sites is off for the winter.
Water is still available in the barn to refill tanks.
4 sites are gravel.
3 sites are grass.
2 are concrete.
We also have a large primitive camping area west of the grain bins in open yard (no electric or water).
Rv parking is available on grass when ground is hard or on the concrete and gravel driveway when soft.
We have one picnic table for campers’ use.
There is a trail we keep mowed North East of the hay barn alongside the crops, which is great for walking/dog run.
Gray water may be dumped in the farm field; the crops love it.
Sorry, we can no longer recommend black water dump stations as the local campgrounds are refusing non-customer use.
Whistling Donkey in Woodward has a dump station; you can call them and ask if you can use it (515) 438-2669.
You can be as private or engaged with us as you feel.
Dumpster is by machine shed.
There are 30+ local TV channels (no cable available).
Open southern skies for satellite use.
The lights automatically turn off at 10 PM. Fire pit is available for your use. Firewood is available East of the barn. Fire Pit light dims down to 15% after 10 PM. Yard lights also come on for one minute at Noon every day. Stargazing really pops at night on a clear night. You are welcome to turn lights back on and continue outdoor activities and use fire pit as long as you do not disturb other campers.
Mouse and weather vane lights stay on all night for your convenience.
Please do not put trash in fire pit. (I have to clean it out)
We would prefer if guests arrive before dark; we like to settle down for the evening.
WIFI is 250 Mbps depending on number of users.
WIFI is Boondockers. Password is welcome1 (no caps)
(Farm is 4 Miles North of Woodward). 1140 300th St Woodward Iowa
Caution; Google maps has a tendency to have you take extra gravel roads. Follow the instructions below to stay on paved roads untill last 1/3 mile.
From Woodward: Head to North end of town turn left to the West onto North 3rd St. Go 1/4 mile turn right at T intersection to the North onto R18 for two miles. At stop sign turn left to the West on R18. (stay on R18 do not go straight North onto the gravel) in 1 mile turn right to the North still on R18 for 3 miles turn right to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile. Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot.
From Ames: Head West on highway 30 to Highway 17 go South for 5 miles to Luther turn right on E57 to the West for 7 miles. At stop sign turn left to the South on R18 for 3 miles turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile. Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot.
From Ogden: Head South on Highway 169 for 5 miles to E57 turn left to the East for 4 miles. At stop sign turn right to the South on to R18 for 3 miles. Turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile. Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot.
From East bound Interstate 80 Turn at exit 110 (Adel / Winterset) onto Highway 169 and go north 29 miles to E57. (Google maps has a tendency to have you turn onto 300 street which is an extra 4 miles of gravel road go North to E57) Turn right to the East for 4 miles. At stop sign turn right to the South on R18 for 3 miles. Turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile. Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot.
From Des Moines take 141 to the North to Woodward (From Woodward see above).
For questions about the route look at our host site at the photo map.
Local Hospital
Perry IA ---------------------515 465-3547
Boone IA--------------------515 432-3140
Local gas station:
Casey’s General Store (gas, pizza, sub sandwiches, and groceries).
Madrid (9 miles away) is the closest diesel fuel.
Restaurants in Woodward:
Cayennes Café
Whistling Donkey Sports Bar and Grill
Laundry:
Uptown Laundry, 115 S Main St., Woodward
Groceries:
A J’s Grocery Store
Picket Fence Creamery
Banks:
E-Bank, ATM 217 S Main St., Woodward
Local Attractions:
Picket Fence Creamery
Woodward High Trestle Bridge & BikeTrail
Also see:
http://burkhartelectric.com/Burkhart%20Boondockers%20Site.html
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
The best camping near Swan Lake State Park guide
Overview
About
Swan Lake State Park offers a tranquil escape into nature's embrace. Here, you can dive into the refreshing waters under the watchful eye of lifeguards or savor a picnic by the lake, complete with sizzling grills. Wander along the walking trails, or for those seeking a group adventure, reserve the private shelter, where volleyball and horseshoes await. The park's amenities ensure a comfortable visit, with toilets and changing facilities at your disposal.
Notable campgrounds
- Harborside RV Resort: A stone's throw from the park, this resort promises a restful stay with picturesque views.
- Moorings Campground: Nestled close by, Moorings offers a serene camping experience near the coastal waters.
- Searsport Shores Ocean Campground: Enjoy oceanfront camping with a variety of outdoor activities at your fingertips.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early to secure your spot, as the park's popularity can lead to quickly filled reservations.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
- Keep an eye on cancellation policies; sometimes last-minute openings can be your golden ticket.
- Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked.
When to go
The best time to visit Swan Lake State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the lake invites you to swim. However, the park can get busy, so consider a spring or fall trip for a quieter experience. Winters are cold and may limit some activities.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable visit.
- Life jackets are recommended for all swimming activities, even with lifeguard supervision.
- Accessibility is a priority, with facilities catering to visitors with disabilities.
- Remember to bring your own charcoal or firewood for the grills and campfires.
- Group shelter reservations are perfect for large gatherings but book in advance to secure your spot.
Top cities near Swan Lake State Park
- Swan Lake State Park
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.