Camping in Iowa: Best Iowa Campgrounds 2023

Q: Where can I camp for free in Iowa?

In Iowa , you can find free camping at several locations, including some county parks and wildlife management areas. Keep in mind that amenities may be limited, and you should always follow the Leave No Trace principles. Some popular free camping spots in Iowa include the following: Yellow River State Forest Brushy Creek State Recreation Area Volga River State Recreation Area Lake Red Rock For more camping options in Iowa , you can explore Hipcamp.

Q: Do you need a permit to camp in Iowa?

Permits are not generally required for camping in Iowa 's state parks, but you will need to pay fees and make reservations for campsites. To reserve a campsite, you can use the Iowa State Parks reservation system. Fees vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided, such as electricity and water hookups. Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's a good idea to arrive early during peak camping season. You can explore various camping options in Iowa , including forest, river, and fishing camping, on Hipcamp. Be sure to follow the rules and regulations of the specific park or campground you choose to camp in.

Q: How do I reserve a camping spot in Iowa?

To reserve a camping spot in Iowa , you can use the Iowa State Parks Reservation System for public parks and campgrounds. This system allows you to search for available camping spots, view campsite details, and make reservations online. Keep in mind that for public parks and campgrounds, you cannot make reservations on Hipcamp, but you can learn about them. If you are looking for private campgrounds, you can use Hipcamp to find and book unique camping experiences on private land, including tent camping, RV camping, and cabin rentals. Simply search for your desired location in Iowa , browse the available listings, and make a reservation through the Hipcamp platform.

United States
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Iowa

99% (2037 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Iowa

Under $50

97%

(428)

Top camping destinations

New Albin

238 campgrounds

Maquoketa Caves State Park

273 campgrounds

Ledges State Park

140 campgrounds

Pikes Peak State Park

290 campgrounds

Waterfall in the adjacent park is a 500 foot walk down the trail.

Riceville

213 campgrounds

Green Valley State Park

151 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Iowa

97%

(428)

Come Enjoy the Beauty

61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Earlham, Dallas

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.

99%

(144)

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.

100%

(24)

#JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

10 sites · Tents15 acres · Jones

Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences, great to test out camping skills and or for those who just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax. Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people? Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing! Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully. We have 15 acres of woods with natural rock features, which allows you to fully bond with nature. Clothing is optional through out all the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available. Day passes are the same as booking a sunbathing spot. Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on your body. Perfect little spot to float down the river to your camping spot. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill. Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely.

99%

(208)

Folk School Farm Stay

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Oxford, Johnson

Come enjoy the natural beauty of a working farm! In our transition to agroforestry, wetland restoration and perennial ag, you'll find some great spaces to walk your dog, let your children run and learn about ecological conservation. The farm is also home to a flower cutting garden, a food forest garden, and a folk school. Guests are welcome to cut flowers for a donation, and enjoy the sheep, chickens and resident cat. The setting is also great for taking in sunrises, sunsets and star gazing. Come explore the landscape, book a farm tour or enjoy some studio space at Land Alliance Folk School.

97%

(186)

Lake Red Rock Oasis

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Knoxville, Marion

This beautiful 40 acres of fenced hilly land with 3.5 private ponds for fishing by the red rock lake in Iowa are perfect for tent camping and RVs. We recently built a 20ft diameter geodesic dome tent for those who want more climate controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent nature's gift. There are 3 tent/RV sites on top of the hill, one in the woods. Each site has a firepit, picnic table and a solar light . The drinking water is at the entrance. RVs need to be self contained. There are tons of nature features, you may see deer, rabbits and other game birds by your campsite. White breast beach is very close to the campground, a lot of water activities in the lake red rock are year round. For our campers safety, hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come for hunting with a Iowa deer hunting license, a couple of public deer hunting grounds are near our camping ground. The recently built glamping geodesic Dome tent is located on a top of hill. Our campers will have a fantastic water pond and lake view while enjoy the great nature, and have a comfortable stay . Yes! You may even bring your chicken to camp here.^_*. And cell phone signals are good to use your hotspot remote working at this astonishing Lake Red Rock Oasis ^_^. Hope you will find joy, peace and happiness in this wonderful piece of natural land and surrounding the Red Rock lake areas. A little history of this land: This 40 acres of land was a surface mining site. The reclamation works done during the 1970s. But over the years, the soil was seriously eroded. Anna and Peilin, who have Masters and PhD in soil and environment health background, bought this land several years ago and started to restore the vegetation. Now the site looks beautiful and ready for nature lovers and campers to enjoy the fantastic view of the lake, ponds and tall grass... The site is totally different from what the Google map shows now.

100%

(63)

J.V. Vineyard & Retreat

6 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.

Bend River Farms

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Runnells, Polk

Bend River Farms is nestled in the gently rolling hills of central Iowa. Camp Creek flows through the property and continues on towards the mighty Des Moines river. Native prairie restoration, regenerative agriculture and ranching are the focus of owners, Amy Buckendahl and Dave Breese. Bend River Farms was a former junk yard that has now been transformed into a cottage core dream. Cool woodland meadows provide a comforting back drop to your tent site or your dome tent glamping experience. Private showers, complimentary firewood, waste disposal and a saltwater hot tub await! The farm is located just 13 miles off Interstate 80 and travel to the farm is all paved roads, with no confusing dirt roads to navigate. The property is located near the small community of Runnells, Iowa in Camp Township. Enjoy a cold beer and food at one of the two local taverns, check out the local ice cream shop or Tuesday farmer's market during the summer. The farm has nearby gas stations and a general store. A stay on the 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. Fancy a fireside meal or homestead dinner? Dave is a trained chef and loves to cook for our guests. Amy, our own resident biologist, will give you an opportunity to learn about livestock and local wildlife. The front orchard boasts several wild bird feeding stations, with edible landscaping! Come learn about gardening, poultry care, horsemanship, beekeeping and even falconry! Off-site, but nearby opportunities: miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, kayaking and fishing. Adventureland amusement and water park and the Iowa State Fair Grounds is only 20 minutes away, along with big city fine dining, music and art museums are all less than thirty miles drive when you need a break from nature. Fee based Transportation is available for guests flying in or needing a break from travel. 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 use of agricultural practices that foster restoration and productivity." Local conditions determine which practices are most appropriate, a regeneratively managed food system should improve the long-term health and function of agricultural ecosystems and the communities that depend upon them, physically, culturally, spiritually, and economically. Regeneratively managed businesses protect and improve the natural function of water, nutrient, and carbon cycles by taking steps to increase biodiversity in the agricultural ecosystem, minimize reliance on external inputs, and avoid the use of synthetic chemicals whenever possible.”

99%

(366)

Windy Goat Acres

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Chelsea, Tama

We love animals, plants, art, and outdoor recreation and love sharing these things with people! We found the perfect little plot for all of these things we love. Nature, art, animals, and lots of space! The hilly, lush land is also known as the Bohemie Alps and it's quite a beautiful area tucked away in Iowa.Visit with the llamas, goats, peacocks, potbelly pigs and the horses and hike around the property or stay in for a quiet stay with a good book and enjoy all the sights and sounds. Lots of extra 'add ons' to enhance the experience!Semi wooded property with hiking trails, hammocks, aerial silks, campfire pit. 5 mi away is Otter Creek Lake, a recreational park for fishing, kayaking, swimming, etc. We have 2 kayaks available. So much to do! Also perfect to just relax, meditate, yoga, sleep...

Horse Creek Adventures

26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents170 acres · Sidney, Fremont

Horse Creek Adventures is a 170 acre ranch that provides an opportunity for visitors to stay one night or several days to enjoy the land and area sights. You have your choice as to how you want to stay. Our "off the grid" cabins offer a special opportunity to camp with a roof. The cabins are extremely popular! Check out the information about them and then check the photos posted by quests and read their reviews to give you lots of ideas of how you could enjoy these one of a kind sites. Tenting is available all over the 170 acres. You can tent by the pond; on top of the hill, or in a valley. These sites allow you to "get away from it all" and let the stress melt away. We have tenting sites close to a road to give you flexibility to see local attractions while enjoying the whole 170 acres. Lastly, we have RV hook-ups with 119, 30 amps and 50 amps The land is part of the famous Loess Hills. There are hilltops to take in the breath taking views and valleys surrounded by trees. A pond full of trophy sized bass , catch and release, no license required. Wildlife abounds including a wide variety of birds. We have been described by avid birders as a rich place for birding. The area is rich with history-Lewis and Clark; French Canadian trappers and their Lakota wives established French Villages; Mormons came through here on the way to Utah; Jesse James played cards. Waubonsie State Park is close with hiking trails and seven miles of Horse trails. At night you can use a portable corral to have your horse close. End the day around a campfire, look at the stars and the lightening bugs and be serenaded to sleep by the coyotes and whip-poor-wills Enjoy !!

100%

(6)

Anthony E.’s Land

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · MN

Sunset at Blue Oasis RV Park

124 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Onawa, Monona

Our full-service campground offers large full hook-up sites that accommodate every size RV. Located in Onawa, Idaho.

Burkhart Farm

8 sites · RVs10 acres · Woodward, Boone

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. 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) 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

Available this weekend

100%

(11)

Rainbow's End Farm

3 sites · Tents55 acres · Lisbon, Linn

Rainbows End Farm is a 55 acre property with a mix of pasture, field, forest, and creek bottom. Mown paths are maintained for exploring the landscape. The creek is spring-fed and has several spots for access and recreation. Campsites are located south of the house/barn. Each includes a fire ring, with wood provided.

Anthony E.’s Land

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Mower

Burkhart Farm

8 sites · RVs10 acres · Woodward, Boone

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. 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) 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

Come Enjoy the Beauty

61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Earlham, Dallas

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.

100%

(1)

Roy's Acres

3 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Randalia, Fayette

Our farm is about 360 acres and has been in the family for almost 80 years. Until about 20 years ago this part of the farm was just a grove of trees and the borrow pit where they took dirt to build up the highway. Over the years we have cleared the ground and added 2 buildings. The shop building includes a restroom and a porch. The porch is where my wife and I love to spend an evening. It’s a great spot to relax and watch the deer and other wildlife. We created this space for family fun and camping. Now, we have decided to share our space with others and will be developing more camping spots as we go. We will have a few spots with electricity but some will be primitive spots so you can unplug and get away. The Volga River runs through the farm and most of the time can be paddled with a canoe or kayak. You can paddle all the way to Fayette or the Volga River State Recreation Area. We have a small pond on site where you can fish, but no swimming. There’s also fishing at the state park.

Star Hosts in Iowa

99%

(208)

Folk School Farm Stay

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Oxford, Johnson

Come enjoy the natural beauty of a working farm! In our transition to agroforestry, wetland restoration and perennial ag, you'll find some great spaces to walk your dog, let your children run and learn about ecological conservation. The farm is also home to a flower cutting garden, a food forest garden, and a folk school. Guests are welcome to cut flowers for a donation, and enjoy the sheep, chickens and resident cat. The setting is also great for taking in sunrises, sunsets and star gazing. Come explore the landscape, book a farm tour or enjoy some studio space at Land Alliance Folk School.

#JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

10 sites · Tents15 acres · Jones

Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences, great to test out camping skills and or for those who just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax. Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people? Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing! Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully. We have 15 acres of woods with natural rock features, which allows you to fully bond with nature. Clothing is optional through out all the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available. Day passes are the same as booking a sunbathing spot. Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on your body. Perfect little spot to float down the river to your camping spot. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill. Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely.

Bend River Farms

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Runnells, Polk

Bend River Farms is nestled in the gently rolling hills of central Iowa. Camp Creek flows through the property and continues on towards the mighty Des Moines river. Native prairie restoration, regenerative agriculture and ranching are the focus of owners, Amy Buckendahl and Dave Breese. Bend River Farms was a former junk yard that has now been transformed into a cottage core dream. Cool woodland meadows provide a comforting back drop to your tent site or your dome tent glamping experience. Private showers, complimentary firewood, waste disposal and a saltwater hot tub await! The farm is located just 13 miles off Interstate 80 and travel to the farm is all paved roads, with no confusing dirt roads to navigate. The property is located near the small community of Runnells, Iowa in Camp Township. Enjoy a cold beer and food at one of the two local taverns, check out the local ice cream shop or Tuesday farmer's market during the summer. The farm has nearby gas stations and a general store. A stay on the 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. Fancy a fireside meal or homestead dinner? Dave is a trained chef and loves to cook for our guests. Amy, our own resident biologist, will give you an opportunity to learn about livestock and local wildlife. The front orchard boasts several wild bird feeding stations, with edible landscaping! Come learn about gardening, poultry care, horsemanship, beekeeping and even falconry! Off-site, but nearby opportunities: miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, kayaking and fishing. Adventureland amusement and water park and the Iowa State Fair Grounds is only 20 minutes away, along with big city fine dining, music and art museums are all less than thirty miles drive when you need a break from nature. Fee based Transportation is available for guests flying in or needing a break from travel. 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 use of agricultural practices that foster restoration and productivity." Local conditions determine which practices are most appropriate, a regeneratively managed food system should improve the long-term health and function of agricultural ecosystems and the communities that depend upon them, physically, culturally, spiritually, and economically. Regeneratively managed businesses protect and improve the natural function of water, nutrient, and carbon cycles by taking steps to increase biodiversity in the agricultural ecosystem, minimize reliance on external inputs, and avoid the use of synthetic chemicals whenever possible.”

Come Enjoy the Beauty

61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Earlham, Dallas

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.

Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

13 sites · Lodging40 acres · Menlo, Guthrie

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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Prairie Rose State Park

Jacksonville, Iowa

Volga River State Recreation Area

Fayette, Iowa

Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

Hampton, Illinois

Camping in Iowa guide

Sandwiched between the Mississippi, Missouri, and Big Sioux Rivers, Iowa is characterized by a mix of plains and hilly countryside, farmlands, lakes, and rivers. This Midwestern state is full of spots to get out and adventure, with about 83 state parks and nearly 6,000 campsites spread among them. The state also has an extensive river system—with numerous lakes and reservoirs—and boating and angling are among the most popular summer activities here. Like elsewhere in the Midwest, the winter months often bring with them plenty of snow, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Where to Go

Northwest Iowa

Northwest Iowa has lots of parks and camping opportunities along the Des Moines River, including the massive Brushy Creek State Recreation Area and Dolliver Memorial State Park. The Lakes Region—home to West and East Okoboji Lakes and Big Spirit Lake—is particularly popular among boaters, anglers, and birders, with a number of state parks and wildlife preserves across the region. Camping is available at Gull Point State Park.

Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa is characterized by wide-open farmland and pretty woodlands. Cyclists can take a tour of this region on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, which stretches for 63 miles from the Missouri border up to Council Bluffs near the Nebraska border. The region's Loess Hills State Forest is one of the more popular areas for outdoor recreation, offering a fishing lake and more than 60 miles of trails.

Northeast Iowa

Iowa's Northeast is ideal for getting outside, with miles of recreation opportunities, from trout fishing to canoeing, on the Mississippi River and its Upper Iowa River tributary. Popular spots in the region include Backbone State Park, which offers camping, fishing, and cycling and hiking trails. The Effigy Mounds National Monument, which preserves hundreds of ancient effigy mounds built by Indigenous people during the first millennium, is also worth a visit.

Southeast Iowa

There's no shortage of lakes in Iowa's southeastern region, including Lake Keomah, Indian Lake, and Lake Bonnefield, in the charming town of Fairfield. This region is home to Lake Red Rock—the largest lake in the state—and the lakefront Elk Rock State Park offers camping, boat ramps, and 13 miles of trails. Other lake areas worth checking out include Geode State Park on the banks of Lake Geode and Lacey-Keosauqua State Park, which has camping, cabin rentals, and easy access to Lake Seguma.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Iowa, you can find free camping at several locations, including some county parks and wildlife management areas. Keep in mind that amenities may be limited, and you should always follow the Leave No Trace principles. Some popular free camping spots in Iowa include the following:

For more camping options in Iowa, you can explore Hipcamp.

Permits are not generally required for camping in Iowa's state parks, but you will need to pay fees and make reservations for campsites. To reserve a campsite, you can use the Iowa State Parks reservation system. Fees vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided, such as electricity and water hookups. Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's a good idea to arrive early during peak camping season. You can explore various camping options in Iowa, including forest, river, and fishing camping, on Hipcamp. Be sure to follow the rules and regulations of the specific park or campground you choose to camp in.

Camping fees at Iowa State Parks can vary depending on the type of site and amenities provided. Generally, prices range from around $11 to $24 per night for a standard non-electric tent site. Electric sites can cost between $16 and $26 per night. Full hookup sites with electric, water, and sewer can range from $19 to $32 per night. You can find more information on Iowa State Parks camping options by visiting Hipcamp.

To reserve a camping spot in Iowa, you can use the Iowa State Parks Reservation System for public parks and campgrounds. This system allows you to search for available camping spots, view campsite details, and make reservations online. Keep in mind that for public parks and campgrounds, you cannot make reservations on Hipcamp, but you can learn about them.

If you are looking for private campgrounds, you can use Hipcamp to find and book unique camping experiences on private land, including tent camping, RV camping, and cabin rentals. Simply search for your desired location in Iowa, browse the available listings, and make a reservation through the Hipcamp platform.