Lake Camping in Iowa: Best Lake Campsites 2023

United States
—
Iowa

99% (371 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Iowa

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

100%

(1)

The Waypoint

5 sites · RVs18 acres · Earlham, Dallas

A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35. 18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community. If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.

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.

Lutheran Lakeside Camp

20 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Spirit Lake, Dickinson

Our mission is to be a place of belonging for all people to find joy and purpose in God's creation. We have a beautiful property with lots of activities and amenities to offer and we want to share it with as many people as possible. All the income we receive through campers and guests goes towards Camp for ALL Kids, where we allow foster children to attend camp at no cost. Learn more about this land:Park your RV and enjoy WiFi, endless activities onsite as well as peace and serenity while only being a few miles from the Okoboji excitement. Back in, hook up to 30 or 50 amp, Dump Station, short walk or drive to the waterfront. All guests get a picnic table and fire ring. Enjoy 3.5 miles of trails, basketball, sand volleyball, gaga ball, human foosball, 9 square, soccer filed, playground, and open fields.

Lake Red Rock Oasis

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

This seclude, beautiful 40 acres of fenced camping site is on a hilly land with 3.5 private ponds for fishing by the Red Rock Lake in Iowa. The camping sites 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. We have 3 tent/RV sites on top of the hill, and one in the woods, plus a geodesic dome tent glamping site. 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.

Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill

2 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Stanton, Montgomery

Learn more about this land: You can camp, wander, head down the road to Viking Lake. Easy, relaxing and not too many rules. I don't do trash, unattended firepits or really loud gatherings past dusk. I love to camp but, this is our oasis. We also have outdoor dogs that help keep the coyotes and wildlife at bay. The means that they may bark at night.

from

$20

/ night

10 top lakeside campgrounds in Iowa

97%

(198)

Lake Red Rock Oasis

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

This seclude, beautiful 40 acres of fenced camping site is on a hilly land with 3.5 private ponds for fishing by the Red Rock Lake in Iowa. The camping sites 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. We have 3 tent/RV sites on top of the hill, and one in the woods, plus a geodesic dome tent glamping site. 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.

The Waypoint

5 sites · RVs18 acres · Earlham, Dallas

A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35. 18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community. If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.

Lutheran Lakeside Camp

20 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Spirit Lake, Dickinson

Our mission is to be a place of belonging for all people to find joy and purpose in God's creation. We have a beautiful property with lots of activities and amenities to offer and we want to share it with as many people as possible. All the income we receive through campers and guests goes towards Camp for ALL Kids, where we allow foster children to attend camp at no cost. Learn more about this land:Park your RV and enjoy WiFi, endless activities onsite as well as peace and serenity while only being a few miles from the Okoboji excitement. Back in, hook up to 30 or 50 amp, Dump Station, short walk or drive to the waterfront. All guests get a picnic table and fire ring. Enjoy 3.5 miles of trails, basketball, sand volleyball, gaga ball, human foosball, 9 square, soccer filed, playground, and open fields.

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.

from

$28

/ night

100%

(37)

The Edge of Driftless

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Strawberry Point, Delaware

There is 20 acres with Backbone Golf Course on the east and Backbone State Park on the South. There is 10 acres of biomass grass (Miscanthus) and the rest is woods and homestead. Prairie is to the west and south, driftless to the north and east where the glacier didn't go.Learn more about this land:There is a golf course with a club house next door, a state park with hiking and trout fishing is also next to the property. The sunsets are beautiful and the location is quiet. Watch for deer, turkey, eagles and wild life, listen for owls, coyotes, morning doves and the wind in the trees and grass.

Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill

2 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Stanton, Montgomery

Learn more about this land: You can camp, wander, head down the road to Viking Lake. Easy, relaxing and not too many rules. I don't do trash, unattended firepits or really loud gatherings past dusk. I love to camp but, this is our oasis. We also have outdoor dogs that help keep the coyotes and wildlife at bay. The means that they may bark at night.

from

$20

/ night

100%

(1)

Amanda Q.’s Land

15 sites · TentsCedar Falls, Black Hawk

I just love this back area and would love to share with others. If your looking to be in a secluded spot close to lakes and rivers this is the place for you.

from

$15

/ night

Captain's Cove Muscatine

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Muscatine, Muscatine

Originally built with four ponds to accommodate a Catfish Farm and Shitake Mushroom Farm - this property has been in the family for four generations. We are pleased to share this amazing property with your family to continue the tradition of enjoying life's moments. We consider this place a small piece of heaven in Iowa and hope you will too. The activities available range from fishing, swimming or kayaking, in our private ponds, bonfires, outdoor grilling, sunrise or sunset watching, hiking around the property, and so much more. The property is just minutes away from Wild Cat Den State Park, bike paths and the Muscatine River Front.

from

$200

/ night

Saved 5 times

Black Oak Tiny Cabin

1 site · Lodging100 acres · Montour, Tama

Unique tiny cabin experience! Black Oak Cabin has been recently updated and sleeps up to four people. Relax, unwind, and take a break from technology, our cabins are TV and WiFi free to help you truly connect with nature. It features a stunning view of our lake and private deck for sipping your cup of coffe in the morning. Commune with nature on our private trails, beach and more! Black Oak Cabin features a mini fridge, mircowave, and coffee maker. Hot water, A/C and heater.

from

$115

/ night

100%

(1)

Spruce Tiny Cabin

1 site · Lodging100 acres · Montour, Tama

Pilgrim Heights is an oasis of natural beauty and outdoor recreation for all ages! We sit on 100 private wooded acres with an 80 acre recreational lake complete with a beach, and stunning views from our private cabins. From fishing to canoeing to hiking, the center is bursting with enriching activities. 100 private wooded acres 80-acre recreational lake Beach Fishing Boating Swimming Hiking Cross-Country Ski Campfires Challenge Course Frisbee Golf

from

$125

/ night

Under $50

100%

(16)

Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill

2 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Stanton, Montgomery

Learn more about this land: You can camp, wander, head down the road to Viking Lake. Easy, relaxing and not too many rules. I don't do trash, unattended firepits or really loud gatherings past dusk. I love to camp but, this is our oasis. We also have outdoor dogs that help keep the coyotes and wildlife at bay. The means that they may bark at night.

The Waypoint

5 sites · RVs18 acres · Earlham, Dallas

A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35. 18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community. If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.

Lake Red Rock Oasis

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

This seclude, beautiful 40 acres of fenced camping site is on a hilly land with 3.5 private ponds for fishing by the Red Rock Lake in Iowa. The camping sites 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. We have 3 tent/RV sites on top of the hill, and one in the woods, plus a geodesic dome tent glamping site. 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.

Lutheran Lakeside Camp

20 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Spirit Lake, Dickinson

Our mission is to be a place of belonging for all people to find joy and purpose in God's creation. We have a beautiful property with lots of activities and amenities to offer and we want to share it with as many people as possible. All the income we receive through campers and guests goes towards Camp for ALL Kids, where we allow foster children to attend camp at no cost. Learn more about this land:Park your RV and enjoy WiFi, endless activities onsite as well as peace and serenity while only being a few miles from the Okoboji excitement. Back in, hook up to 30 or 50 amp, Dump Station, short walk or drive to the waterfront. All guests get a picnic table and fire ring. Enjoy 3.5 miles of trails, basketball, sand volleyball, gaga ball, human foosball, 9 square, soccer filed, playground, and open fields.

The Edge of Driftless

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Strawberry Point, Delaware

There is 20 acres with Backbone Golf Course on the east and Backbone State Park on the South. There is 10 acres of biomass grass (Miscanthus) and the rest is woods and homestead. Prairie is to the west and south, driftless to the north and east where the glacier didn't go.Learn more about this land:There is a golf course with a club house next door, a state park with hiking and trout fishing is also next to the property. The sunsets are beautiful and the location is quiet. Watch for deer, turkey, eagles and wild life, listen for owls, coyotes, morning doves and the wind in the trees and grass.

from

$33

/ night

Star Hosts in Iowa

97%

(431)

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.

Lake Red Rock Oasis

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

This seclude, beautiful 40 acres of fenced camping site is on a hilly land with 3.5 private ponds for fishing by the Red Rock Lake in Iowa. The camping sites 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. We have 3 tent/RV sites on top of the hill, and one in the woods, plus a geodesic dome tent glamping site. 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.

Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill

2 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Stanton, Montgomery

Learn more about this land: You can camp, wander, head down the road to Viking Lake. Easy, relaxing and not too many rules. I don't do trash, unattended firepits or really loud gatherings past dusk. I love to camp but, this is our oasis. We also have outdoor dogs that help keep the coyotes and wildlife at bay. The means that they may bark at night.

The Edge of Driftless

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Strawberry Point, Delaware

There is 20 acres with Backbone Golf Course on the east and Backbone State Park on the South. There is 10 acres of biomass grass (Miscanthus) and the rest is woods and homestead. Prairie is to the west and south, driftless to the north and east where the glacier didn't go.Learn more about this land:There is a golf course with a club house next door, a state park with hiking and trout fishing is also next to the property. The sunsets are beautiful and the location is quiet. Watch for deer, turkey, eagles and wild life, listen for owls, coyotes, morning doves and the wind in the trees and grass.

from

$33

/ night

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Lake Anita State Park

Anita, Iowa

100%

(2)

Lake Macbride State Park

Lakeside camping in Iowa guide

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for a camping experience by the lake in Iowa, you're in luck. We have over 220 options available specifically for lake camping in Iowa. Prices start as low as $15 per night, with an average price of $60 per night. Our top campsites in the area include "Come Enjoy the Beauty" with 160 reviews, "Lake Red Rock Oasis" with 75 reviews, and "The Edge of Driftless" with 31 reviews. Popular amenities at these campsites include pets, campfires, and trash facilities. And if you're into hiking, off-roading (OHV), or snow sports, you'll find plenty of opportunities nearby. Happy camping!