98% (528) • 46 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ames
Greenhouse Camping
1. Greenhouse Camping
97%
(151)
17mi from Ames · 2 sites
We love this beautiful land that has been in our family since 1917, and think you will too!
We are located 1/2 mile off I-35 at the north border of the City of Ankeny.
Here you'll find the best of both worlds just fifteen minutes away from your quiet campsite - Boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing at Saylorville Lake.
Canoe,
kayak
and paddleboat rental at Big Creek State Park.
Swimming & waterplay for all ages at the Ankeny Aquatic Center.
Upscale shopping and dining at the District.
Or venture out
a bit further to concert venues in Ames & Des Moines, local farmers markets, Des Moines' beautiful riverwalk and exciting nightlife, or
the Iowa State Fair.
It's the best of country and suburban living!
End your day with a quiet stroll along the mowed walking path that overlooks one of the most beautiful areas of
Four Mile Creek in Iowa, which circles right back to your cozy campfire.
Learn more about this land:
You'll love this relaxing space to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors! Very easy access, we are just 1/2 mile off of Interstate-35. Our farm is bordered by nature on three sides and the city of Ankeny on the south. This is a single campsite, private and quiet. Your campsite has an adjoining mowed private walking trail overlooking Four Mile Creek, and is also within walking distance of Ankeny sidewalks for biking, walking, jogging. It’s the best of both worlds - town and country!
We're a 15 minute drive from Big Creek and Ledges State Parks, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake where you can enjoy fishing, skiing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and the beach life. You'll find unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, a good movie, a thriving live music scene just 15 minutes away in downtown Des Moines, downtown and campus town Ames, and at The District in Ankeny.
Upon your arrival you'll find the greenhouse mini-fridge is stocked with 4 complimentary bottles of water and everything you'll need for making S'mores.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$31
/ night
DILLON TREE FARM
2. DILLON TREE FARM
100%
(10)
37mi from Ames · 7 sites
Up-and-coming Christmas tree farm sits near the Iowa River (1/4 mile away). Up to 7 electrical hookups. In between two smaller towns (Alden and Iowa Falls) with restaurants and things to do. We have a big gravel lot. Christmas trees, timber, and a creek to explore. A nice peaceful setting to enjoy with friends and family.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$36
/ night
Bend River Farms
3. Bend River Farms
99%
(190)
38mi from Ames · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bend River Farms is just a short drive from Interstate 80/35. The farm is nestled in the gently rolling hills of central Iowa. Little Camp Creek flows through the property and continues on towards the mighty Des Moines river. Cool woodland meadows provide a comforting back drop to your tent site or glamping experience.
All our sites come with complimentary firewood, we offer reduced prices during the summer and a 15% discount on weekday bookings.
Our property offers private restrooms, showers, complimentary towels and firewood, 24/7 laundry room, Wi-Fi, a dish washing station, play area with jungle gym, hiking trails, hands on farm animal activities, a communal outdoor dinning area and a saltwater hot tub await your arrival!
Bend River Farms was a former junk yard that has now been transformed into a cottage core dream. The farm is operated much like family farms of the 1920's. The focus is on small scale, multi system agriculture, we have fresh eggs, produce and honey for sale.
Bend River Farms is not a resort or public camp ground. It is a place to enjoy wild spaces and recharge. Agri-tourism at it's best. Learn about native prairie restoration, regenerative agriculture and sustainable ranching from owners, Amy Buckendahl and Dave Breese.
Please understand that our property is a working farm, and our staff are often busy working on projects and have full careers, outside of farming. We do not have the same amenities as a public campground or "all inclusive" camp resort. Instead, we offer your wandering heart a place to rest.
All travel to the farm is on paved roads, with no confusing dirt roads to navigate. The property is located near the small community of Runnells, Iowa in rural Camp Township. Enjoy a cold beer or hot food at one of the two local taverns, or check out the local ice cream shop or our local farmer's market on Tuesday evenings during the summer. Don't worry if you forget something! We have a nearby gas station and a general store.
Don't forget, we have smores kits, farm fresh honey and eggs available for purchase, check out the EXTRAS option during checkout!
Amy, our own resident biologist, will give you an opportunity to learn about livestock husbandry and the local wildlife. The farms orchard boasts several wild bird feeding stations, with edible landscaping!
A stay on our farm will provide you with an opportunity to learn about Land Management in an agricultural setting. Learn about carpentry and welding from a master fabricator, or book an adventure to learn about gardening, poultry care, horsemanship, beekeeping and even falconry! These are also available in the EXTRAS option during checkout.
Fancy a fireside meal or homestyle dinner? Dave is a trained chef and loves to cook for our guests. Select a meal during checkout.
Off-site, but nearby opportunities: miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, kayaking and fishing. The Iowa State Fair Grounds and Adventureland Waterpark is only 20 minutes away, along with big city fine dining, music and art museums are all less than a thirty miles drive; when you need a break from camping and nature.
Fee based transportation is available for guests flying in or needing a break from driving, or whenever you need a quick trip into town.
Our philosophy:
"Here at Bend River Farms we are passionate about regenerative agriculture. We strive to push ourselves and our partners to think of the future and the longevity of our agricultural practices. "
Regenerative Agriculture is an agricultural philosophy that both acknowledges the degenerative impact of poor land stewardship, and the positive use of agricultural practices that foster restoration and productivity."
Local conditions determine which practices are most appropriate. A well managed food system should improve the long-term health and function of the agricultural system and the communities that depend upon them, physically, culturally, spiritually, and economically.
Regeneratively managed businesses protect and improve the natural function of our water, nutrient, and carbon cycles by taking steps to increase biodiversity in the agricultural system, and works to minimize reliance on external inputs, and avoid the use of synthetic chemicals whenever possible.”
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Ledges State Park
4. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
State park 14mi from Ames · 94 sites
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Saylorville Lake
5. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
Park 20mi from Ames · 446 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
6. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
96%
(493)
43mi from Ames · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property has a year round running creek called Bear Creek. They also mined the stone off the property for the State Capital in Des Moines, Iowa. Abundant wildlife and
mature beautiful trees. Hiking trails, playground equipment, dog park, shelterhouse, showerhouse/restrooms, community fire pit, all sites have fire pits and picnic tables, laundry area, rec room, and welcoming staff!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
7. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
State park 31mi from Ames · 252 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Brushy Creek State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Walnut Woods State Park
8. Walnut Woods State Park
100%
(3)
State park 34mi from Ames · 22 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Walnut Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Dolliver Memorial State Park
9. Dolliver Memorial State Park
State park 34mi from Ames · 24 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Dolliver Memorial State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Pine Lake State Park
10. Pine Lake State Park
100%
(1)
State park 37mi from Ames · 127 sites
Discover Pine Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Springbrook State Park
11. Springbrook State Park
State park 46mi from Ames · 111 sites
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
98% (528) • 46 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ames
Greenhouse Camping
1. Greenhouse Camping
97%
(151)
17mi from Ames · 2 sites
We love this beautiful land that has been in our family since 1917, and think you will too!
We are located 1/2 mile off I-35 at the north border of the City of Ankeny.
Here you'll find the best of both worlds just fifteen minutes away from your quiet campsite - Boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing at Saylorville Lake.
Canoe,
kayak
and paddleboat rental at Big Creek State Park.
Swimming & waterplay for all ages at the Ankeny Aquatic Center.
Upscale shopping and dining at the District.
Or venture out
a bit further to concert venues in Ames & Des Moines, local farmers markets, Des Moines' beautiful riverwalk and exciting nightlife, or
the Iowa State Fair.
It's the best of country and suburban living!
End your day with a quiet stroll along the mowed walking path that overlooks one of the most beautiful areas of
Four Mile Creek in Iowa, which circles right back to your cozy campfire.
Learn more about this land:
You'll love this relaxing space to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors! Very easy access, we are just 1/2 mile off of Interstate-35. Our farm is bordered by nature on three sides and the city of Ankeny on the south. This is a single campsite, private and quiet. Your campsite has an adjoining mowed private walking trail overlooking Four Mile Creek, and is also within walking distance of Ankeny sidewalks for biking, walking, jogging. It’s the best of both worlds - town and country!
We're a 15 minute drive from Big Creek and Ledges State Parks, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake where you can enjoy fishing, skiing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and the beach life. You'll find unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, a good movie, a thriving live music scene just 15 minutes away in downtown Des Moines, downtown and campus town Ames, and at The District in Ankeny.
Upon your arrival you'll find the greenhouse mini-fridge is stocked with 4 complimentary bottles of water and everything you'll need for making S'mores.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$31
/ night
DILLON TREE FARM
2. DILLON TREE FARM
100%
(10)
37mi from Ames · 7 sites
Up-and-coming Christmas tree farm sits near the Iowa River (1/4 mile away). Up to 7 electrical hookups. In between two smaller towns (Alden and Iowa Falls) with restaurants and things to do. We have a big gravel lot. Christmas trees, timber, and a creek to explore. A nice peaceful setting to enjoy with friends and family.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$36
/ night
Bend River Farms
3. Bend River Farms
99%
(190)
38mi from Ames · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bend River Farms is just a short drive from Interstate 80/35. The farm is nestled in the gently rolling hills of central Iowa. Little Camp Creek flows through the property and continues on towards the mighty Des Moines river. Cool woodland meadows provide a comforting back drop to your tent site or glamping experience.
All our sites come with complimentary firewood, we offer reduced prices during the summer and a 15% discount on weekday bookings.
Our property offers private restrooms, showers, complimentary towels and firewood, 24/7 laundry room, Wi-Fi, a dish washing station, play area with jungle gym, hiking trails, hands on farm animal activities, a communal outdoor dinning area and a saltwater hot tub await your arrival!
Bend River Farms was a former junk yard that has now been transformed into a cottage core dream. The farm is operated much like family farms of the 1920's. The focus is on small scale, multi system agriculture, we have fresh eggs, produce and honey for sale.
Bend River Farms is not a resort or public camp ground. It is a place to enjoy wild spaces and recharge. Agri-tourism at it's best. Learn about native prairie restoration, regenerative agriculture and sustainable ranching from owners, Amy Buckendahl and Dave Breese.
Please understand that our property is a working farm, and our staff are often busy working on projects and have full careers, outside of farming. We do not have the same amenities as a public campground or "all inclusive" camp resort. Instead, we offer your wandering heart a place to rest.
All travel to the farm is on paved roads, with no confusing dirt roads to navigate. The property is located near the small community of Runnells, Iowa in rural Camp Township. Enjoy a cold beer or hot food at one of the two local taverns, or check out the local ice cream shop or our local farmer's market on Tuesday evenings during the summer. Don't worry if you forget something! We have a nearby gas station and a general store.
Don't forget, we have smores kits, farm fresh honey and eggs available for purchase, check out the EXTRAS option during checkout!
Amy, our own resident biologist, will give you an opportunity to learn about livestock husbandry and the local wildlife. The farms orchard boasts several wild bird feeding stations, with edible landscaping!
A stay on our farm will provide you with an opportunity to learn about Land Management in an agricultural setting. Learn about carpentry and welding from a master fabricator, or book an adventure to learn about gardening, poultry care, horsemanship, beekeeping and even falconry! These are also available in the EXTRAS option during checkout.
Fancy a fireside meal or homestyle dinner? Dave is a trained chef and loves to cook for our guests. Select a meal during checkout.
Off-site, but nearby opportunities: miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, kayaking and fishing. The Iowa State Fair Grounds and Adventureland Waterpark is only 20 minutes away, along with big city fine dining, music and art museums are all less than a thirty miles drive; when you need a break from camping and nature.
Fee based transportation is available for guests flying in or needing a break from driving, or whenever you need a quick trip into town.
Our philosophy:
"Here at Bend River Farms we are passionate about regenerative agriculture. We strive to push ourselves and our partners to think of the future and the longevity of our agricultural practices. "
Regenerative Agriculture is an agricultural philosophy that both acknowledges the degenerative impact of poor land stewardship, and the positive use of agricultural practices that foster restoration and productivity."
Local conditions determine which practices are most appropriate. A well managed food system should improve the long-term health and function of the agricultural system and the communities that depend upon them, physically, culturally, spiritually, and economically.
Regeneratively managed businesses protect and improve the natural function of our water, nutrient, and carbon cycles by taking steps to increase biodiversity in the agricultural system, and works to minimize reliance on external inputs, and avoid the use of synthetic chemicals whenever possible.”
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Ledges State Park
4. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
State park 14mi from Ames · 94 sites
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Saylorville Lake
5. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
Park 20mi from Ames · 446 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
6. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
96%
(493)
43mi from Ames · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property has a year round running creek called Bear Creek. They also mined the stone off the property for the State Capital in Des Moines, Iowa. Abundant wildlife and
mature beautiful trees. Hiking trails, playground equipment, dog park, shelterhouse, showerhouse/restrooms, community fire pit, all sites have fire pits and picnic tables, laundry area, rec room, and welcoming staff!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
7. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
State park 31mi from Ames · 252 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Brushy Creek State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Walnut Woods State Park
8. Walnut Woods State Park
100%
(3)
State park 34mi from Ames · 22 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Walnut Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Dolliver Memorial State Park
9. Dolliver Memorial State Park
State park 34mi from Ames · 24 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Dolliver Memorial State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Pine Lake State Park
10. Pine Lake State Park
100%
(1)
State park 37mi from Ames · 127 sites
Discover Pine Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Springbrook State Park
11. Springbrook State Park
State park 46mi from Ames · 111 sites
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Kristina
3 weeks ago
30 ft Class C
With pets
Dave and Dena were great hosts! We really enjoyed our time!
See more
C
Cole
November 2025
15 ft campervan
Group trip
We are becoming regulars, we like to camp in bad weather and the hosts are very accommodating. Love the hot tub. We’ll be back again.
See more
Xavier
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
Great roadside stop. Safe and comfortable. Would reccomend.
See more
J
Jennifer
October 2025
19 ft campervan
With pets
My dogs and I loved our stay on Robin’s land. He is very kind and had everything we needed. Peaceful location and close to everywhere we were going. Will definitely stay again.
See more
N
Nathan
October 2025
Tent
With pets
I loved this campsite! Beautiful ravines on every side and very private. Plenty of firewood was provided by the host. I’m already planning my next visit!
See more
S
Stephannie
October 2025
31 ft travel trailer
With pets
My son and I and our 3 dogs had so much fun! This was our second time this year and with the cooler weather we got to walk on the paths and see what the farm had to offer and all the colors and findings. We will definitely be back next year!!! The host are truly amazing and so welcoming!!!
See more
Laura
October 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
Perfect location, beautiful sunset (picture included) nice grassy trail for an anytime still by yourself or with your dog. Speaking of dogs, Robin has installed a HUGE and I mean HUGE Dog Park. Water, electric and convenient extras if you want them🫶🏼 I’ll be back!
See more
C
Cole
September 2025
16 ft car
Was our second trip out and will continue to maintain this is our favorite central Iowa place to camp. Hosts are great, site is great, whole thing was great, we’ll be back again.
See more
C
Cindy
September 2025
19 ft campervan
We were only there for one night but were welcomed warmly despite a torrential rain. We needed no hook ups so site #1 in their driveway suited our needs. Roosters crow early but we were up to use toilet and take off. Would have liked to explore but no time. The chickens are gorgeous!
See more
Amanda
September 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Convenient metro location with easy access to food and nature areas. Loved the location and didn’t mind the minor road/interstate noise. Clean. Great basic campsite with some extra touches.
See moreE
Executive
September 2025
33 ft travel trailer
This so calm and relaxing. Lots of space and quiet. Right now there is a lot of construction going on in the area, but it was still quiet during our three night stay. Robin stopped by the first night to make sure we were settled in and had what we needed. Very friendly. Met the other camper there who was taking their two dogs to the dog run. Nice fenced in area that is quite large. We don't have dogs, but that was a nice area to take them to play. We will definitely try to stay again if we are in the area.
See more
j
jessica
September 2025
23 ft travel trailer
With pets
Amy and Dave were lovely, we really enjoyed our stay! Their farm is beautiful and the dinner they cooked us was amazing.
See more
M
Matt
September 2025
37 ft fifth wheel
We had a great time camping at Bend River Farms.
Amy and Dave were outstanding hosts, they clearly have a love of what they're doing and made us feel at home. Their land is beautiful and relaxing.
We got great recommendations for local things to do and were close enough to Des Moines to be able to add the city's attractions to our trip.
We are looking forward to being back there!
See moreW
William
September 2025
19 ft Class B
With pets
Amy and Dave are the most wonderful and welcoming hosts!
The site is level and private.
I am going to be a repeat visitor!!
See moreM
Maria
August 2025
16 ft car
Nice little spot. Could use some updated pictures showing the housing development and construction going on across the road. Well-kept yard and very nice dog park. I wasn’t sure where the walking paths were and I didn’t get much information about the property when I checked in with the host. Could use a new bench and fire pit, as well as empty the port-a-pot. It was good for an impromptu night away.
See more
J
John
August 2025
16 ft car
It was a nice getaway. We felt like we on our little piece of land.
See moreA
Abigail
August 2025
Tent
With kids
We had a great time relaxing at Trapper's Hideout. Listening to barred owls, great horned owls, and coyotes at night was amazing. The boys (8 & 4) lived being able to visit the chickens and horses.
See moreM
Michele
August 2025
18 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Nice place to pull in for the night. The little dog park was a bonus.
See moreT
Tyler
August 2025
Tent
With pets
A beautiful little farm that is well maintained and fun to explore. We brought our 2 dogs with us and they absolutely loved running around. The hosts Amy and Dave are incredible. At one point our car battery died and Dave came down to our campsite and gave us a jump. I can't speak highly enough of them or their hospitality. It was really a great experience.
See moreE
Eleanor
August 2025
45 ft travel trailer
With pets
Super nice people. Comfortable and quiet spot. Would stay again!
See more
