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The best beach camping in Iowa

·

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.

99% (231)

Top-rated campgrounds

Lake red rock biggest lake in Iowa!

1. Nature Heaven

96%
(315)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Knoxville, IA
The winter camping is on the way! We believe each season has it’s special nature-beauty, so we open year around. This seclude, beautiful pet friendly 40 acres of fenced camping site is on hilly land and is rare in Iowa with view of 3.5 private fishing ponds and far view of the Red Rock Lake. There are 10 acres nature timber area that keep you away from the other campers and rest of the world. Each site has a firepit, picnic table and a solar light. The drinking water is at the entrance, but no electricity on. There are tons of nature features, you may see deer, rabbits and other game birds by your campsite. Each camping sites have good distances to keep privacy from each other. A recently built a 20ft diameter geodesic glamping dome tent is for those who want more climate-controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent nature's gifts. For surrounding areas, the close by White Breast Beach is open from May 23-September 3, 2024, boating, hunting and hiking activities in the lake red rock. For our camper's safety, any hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come for hunting with Iowa hunting tags, a couple of public hunting grounds are near our camping ground. The recently built glamping geodesic Dome tent is located on a top of hill. You will have a fantastic sunset view of ponds and lake view while enjoy the great nature and have a comfortable stay. The cell phone signals are good from most providers; you may use your cell phone hotspot work remotely at this astonishing Lake Red Rock Oasis ^_^. Hope you will find joy, peace and happiness in this wonderful piece of natural land and the Red Rock Lake areas. A little history of this land: These 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 Master's 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 the nature lovers and campers to enjoy the fantastic view of the lake, ponds, hills and tall grass, Butterflys... The site is totally different from what the Google map shows now.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Rooted Timbers

2. Rooted Timbers

100%
(20)
4 sites · Tents · Stuart, IA
We're Ben, Trinh, Camille, and Sage. We purchased this 12 acres in Fall '20 as a way to share our love of the outdoors with our friends and family. As time went on, we noticed a need in making outdoor activities more accessible and inclusive to those outside our network. Rooted Timbers was created with the intention of making it easier for you to disconnect from business and connect with stillness.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Upper Iowa Resort & Rental

3. Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites

40 sites · RVs · Dorchester, IA
Discover the unique charm of Upper Iowa Resort, nestled in the picturesque Northeast Iowa along the banks of the stunning Upper Iowa River, conveniently located between Dorchester and Waukon. This serene getaway offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring cozy cabins, spacious campsites, and convenient river rentals. At Upper Iowa Resort, you'll find a variety of amenities designed for family fun and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our spring-fed swimming pool, complete with a sandy beach, or let the kids explore multiple playgrounds. Engage in friendly competition on our basketball court or sand volleyball court. For those seeking adventure, we offer canoe and kayak rentals, along with shuttle services to enhance your river experience and just be sure to book in advance! Unplug and unwind in this tranquil setting, where cell phone service is limited, allowing you to truly connect with nature. If you need to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available. Explore the surrounding area for even more outdoor activities. Visit local shops, wineries, and breweries in nearby towns, or embark on a hiking adventure at Mt. Hosmer in Lansing, which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. You can also find scenic trails in Waukon and Decorah. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole to cast a line
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
Bollman Bluffs River Camp

4. Bollman Bluffs River Camp

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cresco, IA
Experience the Driftless Region like never before at Fossilstone Camp, tucked along the Upper Iowa River. Pitch your tent or park your camper near the spacious beach and tranquil pond, refresh in the outdoor shower, and wander the trails that wind through the property. Evenings come alive with crickets, wildlife, and rolling fog, creating the perfect backdrop for a stunning stargazing night. Fossilstone Camp is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful riverside escape.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$43
 / night
Welcome to Betty! Our darling 68' Comet camper ❤

5. Lucky Star Farm

100%
(4)
1 site · Lodging · Iowa City, IA
Located on a 20-acre stretch of land between Iowa City and Kalona, Lucky Star Farm is a working farm raising dairy goats, llamas, chickens, turkeys & ducks. We are dedicated to sharing local food, education and lodging with the community. Come visit our diverse, sustainable and entertaining farm! The farm is full of outdoor opportunities. Guests can stroll over to the pond and swim, explore, or relax on the sandy beach and dock. Guests are also welcome to fish (catch and release) or use the stand-up paddleboard (lifejackets provided). There is a fire pit, complimentary firewood, and roasting sticks for your use. At the barn you can visit the goats and see their kids playing in the spring. There is a half mile trail around the property that takes you past the restored prairie and llama pasture. Guests can see what's growing in the edible forest and circle through the mandala garden. Visit the chicken coop and see how farm fresh eggs are made!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$113
 / night
The Prairie Lodge

6. The Prairie Lodge

100%
(1)
1 site · Lodging · Elkader, IA
Welcome to The Prairie Lodge — A Rustic Retreat on Historic Land Nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, The Prairie Lodge sits on 200 acres of native prairie and timber as part of the Cook Heritage Farm Estate. This cherished family property has been passed down through generations for over 173 years. The property borders the scenic Turkey River and is surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle bluffs that lead toward the mighty Mississippi River. Rich in natural beauty, the Driftless Area is geologically unique—never touched by glaciers—and is known for its caves, underground streams, blind valleys, sinkholes, and cold spring-fed creeks. The Prairie Lodge, once the main “corn crib” used for drying and storing harvested corn, has been thoughtfully renovated into a comfortable and charming retreat. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a cozy living room, and an open loft with four queen beds. The loft comfortably sleeps eight and can accommodate up to ten guests with a blow-up mattress if needed. Step onto the east-facing patio deck with your morning beverage and watch the sunrise over fields of blooming prairie flowers. Wildlife is abundant—deer, rabbits, songbirds, pheasants, and even eagles are frequent visitors. As night falls, the second-floor deck becomes the perfect spot for stargazing and listening to the calls of coyotes echoing across the land. Next door to the Lodge, you’ll find the Bin Bar—a once-abandoned grain bin transformed in 2017 into a unique gathering space ideal for late-night storytelling and nightcaps under the stars. For those traveling with a larger group, RV campsites with full water, sewer, and electrical hookups are available near the Lodge. If additional accommodations are needed beyond the Prairie Lodge, please contact your Hipcamp host for details and availability. Activities nearby: Iowa towns including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each town boasts its own fun for day and evening entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining spots.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$176
 / night

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.

99% (231)

Top-rated campgrounds

Lake red rock biggest lake in Iowa!

1. Nature Heaven

96%
(315)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Knoxville, IA
The winter camping is on the way! We believe each season has it’s special nature-beauty, so we open year around. This seclude, beautiful pet friendly 40 acres of fenced camping site is on hilly land and is rare in Iowa with view of 3.5 private fishing ponds and far view of the Red Rock Lake. There are 10 acres nature timber area that keep you away from the other campers and rest of the world. Each site has a firepit, picnic table and a solar light. The drinking water is at the entrance, but no electricity on. There are tons of nature features, you may see deer, rabbits and other game birds by your campsite. Each camping sites have good distances to keep privacy from each other. A recently built a 20ft diameter geodesic glamping dome tent is for those who want more climate-controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent nature's gifts. For surrounding areas, the close by White Breast Beach is open from May 23-September 3, 2024, boating, hunting and hiking activities in the lake red rock. For our camper's safety, any hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come for hunting with Iowa hunting tags, a couple of public hunting grounds are near our camping ground. The recently built glamping geodesic Dome tent is located on a top of hill. You will have a fantastic sunset view of ponds and lake view while enjoy the great nature and have a comfortable stay. The cell phone signals are good from most providers; you may use your cell phone hotspot work remotely at this astonishing Lake Red Rock Oasis ^_^. Hope you will find joy, peace and happiness in this wonderful piece of natural land and the Red Rock Lake areas. A little history of this land: These 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 Master's 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 the nature lovers and campers to enjoy the fantastic view of the lake, ponds, hills and tall grass, Butterflys... The site is totally different from what the Google map shows now.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Rooted Timbers

2. Rooted Timbers

100%
(20)
4 sites · Tents · Stuart, IA
We're Ben, Trinh, Camille, and Sage. We purchased this 12 acres in Fall '20 as a way to share our love of the outdoors with our friends and family. As time went on, we noticed a need in making outdoor activities more accessible and inclusive to those outside our network. Rooted Timbers was created with the intention of making it easier for you to disconnect from business and connect with stillness.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Upper Iowa Resort & Rental

3. Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites

40 sites · RVs · Dorchester, IA
Discover the unique charm of Upper Iowa Resort, nestled in the picturesque Northeast Iowa along the banks of the stunning Upper Iowa River, conveniently located between Dorchester and Waukon. This serene getaway offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring cozy cabins, spacious campsites, and convenient river rentals. At Upper Iowa Resort, you'll find a variety of amenities designed for family fun and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our spring-fed swimming pool, complete with a sandy beach, or let the kids explore multiple playgrounds. Engage in friendly competition on our basketball court or sand volleyball court. For those seeking adventure, we offer canoe and kayak rentals, along with shuttle services to enhance your river experience and just be sure to book in advance! Unplug and unwind in this tranquil setting, where cell phone service is limited, allowing you to truly connect with nature. If you need to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available. Explore the surrounding area for even more outdoor activities. Visit local shops, wineries, and breweries in nearby towns, or embark on a hiking adventure at Mt. Hosmer in Lansing, which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. You can also find scenic trails in Waukon and Decorah. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole to cast a line
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
Bollman Bluffs River Camp

4. Bollman Bluffs River Camp

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cresco, IA
Experience the Driftless Region like never before at Fossilstone Camp, tucked along the Upper Iowa River. Pitch your tent or park your camper near the spacious beach and tranquil pond, refresh in the outdoor shower, and wander the trails that wind through the property. Evenings come alive with crickets, wildlife, and rolling fog, creating the perfect backdrop for a stunning stargazing night. Fossilstone Camp is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful riverside escape.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$43
 / night
Welcome to Betty! Our darling 68' Comet camper ❤

5. Lucky Star Farm

100%
(4)
1 site · Lodging · Iowa City, IA
Located on a 20-acre stretch of land between Iowa City and Kalona, Lucky Star Farm is a working farm raising dairy goats, llamas, chickens, turkeys & ducks. We are dedicated to sharing local food, education and lodging with the community. Come visit our diverse, sustainable and entertaining farm! The farm is full of outdoor opportunities. Guests can stroll over to the pond and swim, explore, or relax on the sandy beach and dock. Guests are also welcome to fish (catch and release) or use the stand-up paddleboard (lifejackets provided). There is a fire pit, complimentary firewood, and roasting sticks for your use. At the barn you can visit the goats and see their kids playing in the spring. There is a half mile trail around the property that takes you past the restored prairie and llama pasture. Guests can see what's growing in the edible forest and circle through the mandala garden. Visit the chicken coop and see how farm fresh eggs are made!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$113
 / night
The Prairie Lodge

6. The Prairie Lodge

100%
(1)
1 site · Lodging · Elkader, IA
Welcome to The Prairie Lodge — A Rustic Retreat on Historic Land Nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, The Prairie Lodge sits on 200 acres of native prairie and timber as part of the Cook Heritage Farm Estate. This cherished family property has been passed down through generations for over 173 years. The property borders the scenic Turkey River and is surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle bluffs that lead toward the mighty Mississippi River. Rich in natural beauty, the Driftless Area is geologically unique—never touched by glaciers—and is known for its caves, underground streams, blind valleys, sinkholes, and cold spring-fed creeks. The Prairie Lodge, once the main “corn crib” used for drying and storing harvested corn, has been thoughtfully renovated into a comfortable and charming retreat. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a cozy living room, and an open loft with four queen beds. The loft comfortably sleeps eight and can accommodate up to ten guests with a blow-up mattress if needed. Step onto the east-facing patio deck with your morning beverage and watch the sunrise over fields of blooming prairie flowers. Wildlife is abundant—deer, rabbits, songbirds, pheasants, and even eagles are frequent visitors. As night falls, the second-floor deck becomes the perfect spot for stargazing and listening to the calls of coyotes echoing across the land. Next door to the Lodge, you’ll find the Bin Bar—a once-abandoned grain bin transformed in 2017 into a unique gathering space ideal for late-night storytelling and nightcaps under the stars. For those traveling with a larger group, RV campsites with full water, sewer, and electrical hookups are available near the Lodge. If additional accommodations are needed beyond the Prairie Lodge, please contact your Hipcamp host for details and availability. Activities nearby: Iowa towns including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each town boasts its own fun for day and evening entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining spots.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$176
 / night

Public campgrounds in Iowa

Cherry Glen Campground
100%
(5)

Cherry Glen Campground

125 sites · Tents, RVs · in Saylorville Lake
Ledges Campground
100%
(4)

Ledges Campground

94 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ledges State Park
Six Pine Campground
100%
(3)

Six Pine Campground

25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Backbone State Park
Lake Ahquabi Campground
100%
(3)

Lake Ahquabi Campground

104 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Ahquabi State Park
Prairie Flower Recreation Area and Campground
100%
(3)

Prairie Flower Recreation Area and Campground

159 sites · Tents, RVs · in Saylorville Lake
Howell Station
100%
(2)

Howell Station

143 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Red Rock
Lake Anita Campground
100%
(2)

Lake Anita Campground

160 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Anita State Park
Lake Macbride Campground
100%
(2)

Lake Macbride Campground

103 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Macbride State Park
Acorn Valley Campground
100%
(1)

Acorn Valley Campground

95 sites · Tents, RVs · in Saylorville Lake
Geode Campground
100%
(1)

Geode Campground

168 sites · Tents, RVs · in Geode State Park
Dam Complex Campground
100%
(1)

Dam Complex Campground

173 sites · Tents, RVs · in Coralville Lake
North Overlook Campground
100%
(1)

North Overlook Campground

54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Red Rock

Stories from the community

Site 2 with large open space.
C
Cristian
October 2025
Tent
1 night at Nature Heaven
Great location, and accommodating host. Great directs and signs as you go through. Defined trailed with class 2 base gravel for easy 2wd access. Saw multiple deer both day for short time I was there. Well maintained.
See more
Welcome to Betty! Our darling 68' Comet camper ❤
J
Jay
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Lucky Star Farm
Such a beautiful place! The camper was perfect for our weekend in Iowa City, and the farm setting was more amazing than we imagined. Susan was a great host, and everything was just as we had hoped. We’ll be back!
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Site 3. is on a hill top. One part of the site is in the shade and another part is on a limited open spaces. This site have beautiful view of pond, hills and lake. very nice sunset view if weather permit.
G
Georgia
September 2025
Tent
2 nights at Nature Heaven
Wow this place is just so gorgeous. We fit one 2 person tent and one 4 person tent very comfortably next to each other. When you’re in or around your tent, or sitting at the bonfire it’s incredibly private, but you can still walk out just 30 feet and see the beautiful wide open view. Definitely will be back soon a recommending this site to all of my friends!!!
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Site 4 in woods
Avatar
Cristian
September 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
10/10 returning soon again beautiful area quiet away from everyone perfect spot
See more
Out side the dome portable fire pit. A perfect spot to watch sunsetting. There is an additional sitting area behind the dome with another fire pit and picnic table. Additional spaces behind the dome for hammocks car parking etc.
E
Eric
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
Loved the location, the view. And the fun setup. Had a great time!
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Nature Heaven
Avatar
Kit
September 2025
Tent
2 nights at Nature Heaven
My friend and I had a lovely time camping on Anna’s land! When we arrived there was someone already in our spot but Anna quickly sorted out another spot for us that we think was even nicer than what we had planned. We had a great view with a gentle breeze. All the spots offer lots of privacy.
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Site 2 with large open space.
C
Cody
September 2025
30 ft toy hauler
With kids
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
Anna’s Hipcamp spot near Lake Red Rock is beautiful-lovely prairie with peaceful sunsets and sunrises. It’s great for stargazing and telescope use, with private access, a water fill, fire pits, and good campsites. The hosts are great, and it’s boondocking on restored land that feels truly serene.
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Site 3 campsite
E
Erin
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
Loved the land and the campsite. Everything was exactly as it was described and pictured. Very friendly couple that owns the land- only 12 mins from Pella. Beautiful views of the lake and sunset from this spot.
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Nature Heaven
M
Michelle
August 2025
With kids
1 night at Nature Heaven
We enjoyed the unique dome experience with breath taking views! Our stay was during the middle of the week, so we enjoyed the peace & quiet with no campers around us. Taking a peaceful walk while watching the sunset & sunrise was beautiful.
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Lucky Star Farm
J
Jennifer
August 2025
1 night at Lucky Star Farm
Susan greeted us outside the camper when we arrived & we instantly felt at home. She has such a lovely presence & Lucky Star Farm is truly magical! Their vintage camper, “Betty” is adorable, meticulously clean, & thoughtfully stocked. We were quickly greeted by several resident barn cats & could see llamas, goats, & sheep from our little patio. We loved everything about our stay & definitely plan to visit again with our kids! Thank you so much, Susan & Rich! Hope to see you again soon!
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Nature Heaven
Avatar
Bethany
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
Very beautiful space. It's secluded but not too far from Knoxville or Pella. The beach was nice and close as well as one of our favorite hiking spots, the Stu Kuyper trail.
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Nature Heaven
M
Mariya
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
We loved tent camping at Anna’s property. Site 4 is so secluded and peaceful. The vibe was super chill. The instructions were very clear and it was very easy to find. The toilet was clean. It was a very nice private experience. Saw some deer in the bushes too. So cool.
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Nature Heaven
T
Tyler
August 2025
1 night at Nature Heaven
Loved being perched on the hill . Great communication . Such a special kind of adventure . So comfortable !
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Site 4 in woods
C
Chet
July 2025
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
Great place to camp. It was a bit wet out the weekend we went and the spot we picked was in a low area. The owners met us out there and moved us to higher site with an awesome view. Great customer service. It is secluded but close to all the places you want to go.
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Site 3. is on a hill top. One part of the site is in the shade and another part is on a limited open spaces. This site have beautiful view of pond, hills and lake. very nice sunset view if weather permit.
E
Emily
July 2025
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
We had a wonderful time and thought the description was very accurate!
See more
Out side the dome portable fire pit. A perfect spot to watch sunsetting. There is an additional sitting area behind the dome with another fire pit and picnic table. Additional spaces behind the dome for hammocks car parking etc.
B
Brian
July 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
Been here multiple times!! Love the spots!!! Love the fishing!! Thanks so much for the perfect getaway Anna!!
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Site 3. is on a hill top. One part of the site is in the shade and another part is on a limited open spaces. This site have beautiful view of pond, hills and lake. very nice sunset view if weather permit.
J
Jim
July 2025
14 ft pop-up camper
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
Nice quiet place. Easy to find. Easy to park and maneuver. Really pretty place near red rock lake.
See more
Nature Heaven
L
Loganzum
June 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
The area is very well taken care of and the site was very clean! Every site is well secluded and far enough away from each other we didn’t hear anybody else. Will definitely be coming back.
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Site 4 in woods
C
Chris
June 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
For a first camping trip. Hands down recommend it. Place was clean the landscaping was right. Caught so many fish the vibes was chill. Bugs are crazy tho definitely bring spray. Much love to the owner of this place tho many respects Yoo!!
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Out side the dome portable fire pit. A perfect spot to watch sunsetting. There is an additional sitting area behind the dome with another fire pit and picnic table. Additional spaces behind the dome for hammocks car parking etc.
H
Heath
June 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven
We had an amazing time staying at the geodesic dome -- the site was very peaceful and the dome was super cozy. Anna's hospitality was also exceptional. I'd highly recommend the dome to anybody looking for an awesome experience!
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Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
Saylorville Lake
Polk City, Iowa
Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
Ledges State Park
Luther, Iowa
Backbone State Park
80%
(5)
Backbone State Park
Dundee, Iowa
Lake Ahquabi State Park
100%
(3)
Lake Ahquabi State Park
Indianola, Iowa
Lake Red Rock
100%
(5)
Lake Red Rock
Pella, Iowa
Lake Anita State Park
100%
(2)
Lake Anita State Park
Anita, Iowa
Lake Macbride State Park
100%
(2)
Lake Macbride State Park
Solon, Iowa
Rathbun Lake
100%
(1)
Rathbun Lake
Rathbun, Iowa
Coralville Lake
80%
(5)
Coralville Lake
North Liberty, Iowa
Mississippi River - Pools 11-22
100%
(1)
Mississippi River - Pools 11-22
Hampton, Illinois

Other options in Iowa

  • Lazy H Campground
  • Lazy H Campground
  • Lazy H Campground

Lazy H Campground

40 sites · Akron, IA
Discover the unique charm of our campground, nestled within 235 acres of stunning natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Little Pearle Lake, a 50-acre paradise for anglers, is teeming with a variety of fish, including Walleye, Perch, Crappie, Bluegill, Bass, three types of Catfish, and even Rainbow Trout, making it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts. In addition to fishing, our campground offers a picturesque beach for swimming, where you can relax and soak up the sun. For those looking to explore the water, we provide rentals for boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards, allowing you to fully enjoy the serene beauty of our 50+ acre lake. Venture into the heart of our campground, where over three miles of scenic trails wind through 100 acres of lush forest. These trails are perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, geese, and a variety of birds, including Heron, Osprey, and majestic Bald Eagles. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking moments!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best beach camping in Iowa guide

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.

Popular Iowa trips

All
Lakeside camping
RV parks & camping
River, stream, or creek camping
Cabins
Camping with fishing
Forest cabins
Glamping

Top parks in Iowa

Effigy Mounds National Monument
Waubonsie State Park
Geode State Park
Lake Macbride State Park
Ledges State Park
Yellow River State Forest
Coralville Lake
Saylorville Lake

States near Iowa

Indiana
Missouri
Minnesota
Wisconsin
Michigan
West Virginia
Alabama
Arkansas

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me
Best RV camping near me
Best glamping near me