Luxury camping in Iowa

Explore lakes, rivers, wide-open expanses, and hilly countryside in the heart of the American Midwest.

98% (943 reviews)

United States
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Iowa

98% (943 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Iowa

Community favorites in Iowa

Stories from the community

Colleen

4 days ago

2 nights at Luxury in Nature Near Des Moines

The most beautifully crafted and well thought out space. Off the beaten path a bit so it’s nice and quiet with dark skies at night and a lovely view of the sunrise from your bed as you wake. Everything you might need is provided for a quick weekend getaway. Only a short really pleasant backroad drive into nearby Des Moines. Hosts are attentive to guests needs checking in with anything you may need but providing you with plenty of privacy. Stay here you won’t regret it.

Paula

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay

Beautiful and relaxing get away. Cute cottage and wonderful host. We will definitely be back.

Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

I did not want to leave. I had a little spot by the stream and I saw an amazing variety of birds. Really - warblers, and a kingfisher and so on. It was totally delightful. The host was super nice and friendly. I felt safe, this place is clean and welcoming. You can for sure hear the highway, it didn’t bother me though.

1 night at Folk School Farm Stay

Hey we had fun, it certainly was an adventure for us...It is 'just a shed. but that is what we were expecting. No ementies, no bed so we brought our own. Fun stay, even our dogs enjoyed it. Next time we might try one of the other bookings there.

1 night at Windy Goat Acres

We loved our stay!! It was truly a unique experience. My 4-year-old daughter had a blast with all the animals. We came on a Sunday night and it was pretty quiet. We definitely plan to come back someday!

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

My boyfriend and I brought our dog along with us for an amazing stay at Lady Morphia's Castle on the Hill. The animals, the land, the small and thoughtful touches throughout the cabin and the property are all the things that make this place so unique. We were so impressed with the books, games, DVDs, decorations, and activities available to us in the cabin. The owners were great to chat with and were happy to answer our many questions about the animals and the property. If you love animals, this is the place for you!

Athena

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

We loved staying on the hill in the hobbit house. The little touches of wonder in each corner of the hobbit house and the land were such a special touch. The views of the sunrise and sunset were beautiful. The farm is a magical getaway to unplug from the stressors of life. A little piece of heaven tucked in the bohemian hills of Iowa.

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging

This was a wonderful place to stay. It was magical. Very quiet. Great place for a campfire and star gazing. Wagon was cozy and well put together. Would absolutely recommend.

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Very nice farm and VERY friendly hosts. Thanks for allowing my son to help (or bother you while) feeding animals. We had a blast with and took some great pleasure in disconnecting from the crazy pace of life in one of your yurts.

Pam

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Country living at its best. Cozy lodging, walking trails to explore and animals galore waiting to meet you.

Denise

April 2025

1 night at Windy Goat Acres

Peaceful. Serene. Beautiful. Magical. Unique. An experience I wont forget! I saw Windy Goat Acre’s hobbit house in the 2025 Travel Iowa magazine and knew I had to explore this place. It didn’t disappoint. It is inviting, cozy, clean and comfy and has an amazing view of the farm, all while still being secluded. The sounds of the animals - many of whom roam the farm - cozy sitting areas throughout the farm, walking trails, add-on’s such as wood for campfires and a morning waffle bar, all make this stay unique. The cabins and yurts are really cool too. Jessica is a great host. I would love to return and see how the farm changes with the seasons.

Amber

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Windy Goat Acres! This was our 3rd time staying at the retreat cabin. The weather was a little on the colder side, so we didn't get to enjoy the farm as much as we would've liked, but otherwise we both left feeling completely serene. I highly recommend Windy Goat Acres!

Sarah

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Windy Goat Acres is my happy place. The cabin was super cozy. If you're interested in going in colder months, this is the perfect cabin. The fireplace is so warm! As always, Jess was an amazing host, and we had a wonderful time hanging out with her and her critters. If you are an animal lover, Windy Goat Acres is a must-see! This was my husband and I'd second time visiting, and we are making it an at-least yearly ritual to come.

2 nights at Windy Goat Acres

Such a great family destination! Loved the animals, the yurt, and the peacefulness. Bed was comfy, hosts a delight, waffles yummy, and goat social made everyone happy.

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

The Hobbit House was so cozy! We loved staying there. One thing I didn’t think about is that the cabins are pretty close to each other. I still felt like we had privacy though and we felt very relaxed during our stay. We also appreciated that they allowed pets so we could stay with the furry members of our family.

Autumn

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

What a great trip! I loved the cabin and all the opportunities for interaction with the animals, even other people staying. I wanted a quiet retreat and I got it! Am definitely coming again!

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

It's so naturally pretty out at Windy Goat, even in early spring, that we didn't feel the need to bring extra decorations for our wedding. Our guests were easily entertained with the chess, playhouse, croquet and animals right near the garden bar pergola where we had our ceremony. It truly made for a carefree and wonderful setting for our day. All of our guests felt safe, including the lgbtq+ guests and the kids had a blast! The cabin was very clean and stayed warm and the bed was pretty comfy.

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

This truly was an experience that my family and I will remember forever. If you book with Windy Goat Acres, you will not be disappointed. Highly recommend staying in the Yurt.

1 night at Windy Goat Acres

Windy Goat Acres is a relaxing weekend away. The hosts were very accommodating and it was fun to interact with the animals. The yurt was well equipped with everything we needed. We are already planning a return trip!

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Great place! Super charming and the animals were delightful.

9 top campgrounds in Iowa

99%

(577)

Windy Goat Acres

7 sites · Lodging15 acres · Chelsea, IA

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...

96%

(469)

Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

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

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!

99%

(266)

Folk School Farm Stay

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Oxford, IA

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%

(45)

Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Council Bluffs, IA

This custom designed glamping lodge was a dream of mine for a long time. I wanted a place to go to unwind and be with one with nature. But! wanted it close to town so I do not have to travel far and still be close to the city attractions. The lodge backs up to a large hill--called the Loess Hills. Many deer, raccoon, possum and turkey call it home and so does a few pets of mine to include a mini horse and goat. They just love being adorned by new people. I think you will find this a perfect place for a good nights sleep. Learn more about this land: --Enjoy the deer setting amongst the tree's and nature. Hiking trails close by. Come enjoy a relaxing experience close to the city, the zoo and other attractions. MOST dogs are welcomed -- BUT need to be approved first! before booking. ADDITIONAL FEE REQUIRED> Walking trails close by! and restaurants. Verify with host before booking please. The bathroom/shower is located across the yard in the lower level of the main house. Thank you!

100%

(1)

Luxury in Nature Near Des Moines

2 sites · Lodging22 acres · Norwalk, IA

Come home to luxury in nature in this spacious, double king-bed treehouse and sleep among the stars. Expansive views of rolling hills greet you as you sip your pour-over coffee on the wrap around balcony twenty feet above ground. Rain? No problem. Tuck away on the three-season screened-in porch to watch the iconic Iowa pink sunsets. Built with special touches including stained glass and intricate woodwork, this treehouse boasts warmth throughout and is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime get-away. The scent of pine will carry you through a wooded trail that opens to this spacious treehouse towering 30 feet above the ground. Climb the unique staircase, thoughtfully crafted with historic details, wrapped around a 75 year old tree. Inside, two lofts, each boasting a king-size bed, welcome you to sleep easy or sleep late, because there's no need to rush and nowhere to be, unless you want -- This unique treehouse has its own space on our 22-acre property, centrally located and close to Des Moines. The treehouse is 350 sq ft with a cozy couch and chair, plus spacious kitchen with a dining table for four, a two-burner propane stove, electric kettle and Chemex for pour-over coffee, and fridge for your use. There is a mini-split system to make sure you're comfortable no matter the outside temps. Sleep among the stars in your own private loft with a latching door. Each loft has a roomy king bed with cozy, cotton bedding, plus a remote controlled fan, and you’ll find blackout curtains hidden in the headboard for your deepest sleep. Enjoy morning birdsongs (maybe catch an owl nesting in its nearby box) on the wrap-around balcony where you can see for miles in the distance, or find yourself surrounded by stars each night. Our property is loved for its low light pollution. Sneak out the stained-glass door for a midday nap or a board game on the screened-in porch, where rain and bugs will be no bother. Two lower-level outdoor seating areas make for easy meals or enjoying an evening fire. You’ll find a picnic table, a two-person hammock, and benches around a fire pit with chopped wood stocked nearby. Feel free to cook dinner on the charcoal grill, or upstairs in the kitchen.

100%

(6)

RidgeRiverView Acres

4 sites · Lodging50 acres · Sherrill, IA

160 y/o six generation farm that has been documented and illustrated in both National Geographic and Picture magazines. Site of original log cabin. 20' deep spring fed pond excavated in 2010. 50 acres of trails,trees and wildlife.

100%

(4)

Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging

7 sites · Lodging15 acres · Malcom, IA

*NEW 2023*Prairie-Schooner Wagon*You are invited to stay where the buffalo roam in a beautiful Conestoga Wagon! These unique wagons have heat & a/c, a king bed, twin/twin bunk beds and locking front door. Enjoy the beauty of the sunset along the rolling hills. Stargaze while cuddled around your private fire pit. Wake up to our bison herd grazing near by. Private luxury shower house w/ heat & a/c. The wagons do NOT have a kitchen. They do have a coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, toaster and grill & more.

100%

(37)

Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

2 sites · Lodging, Tents28 acres · Zearing, IA

Threshold Learning Center is 28 acres of prairie, creek, woods, and our barn dormitory. Threshold is first, an outdoor learning center for schools during the school year, and a summer camp offering several day camps, family camps, and trips. As a non-profit, however, we are constantly trying to find a way to offer our programs to everyone regardless of whether they are able to pay our fees while still making enough money to stay open. We started renting TLC to the public 5 years ago for weddings, reunions, or just families who are looking to connect to the world around them. Our motto is "No Child Left Inside" and we want every inner child to enjoy what we have at TLC. We have 7 bedrooms in our dormitory, 5 camp sites, a large camp fire ring, a mini-golf course, and we are always willing to lead your group in an educational experience or take you on a hayrack ride.

100%

(1)

Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay

2 sites · Lodging200 acres · Lacona, IA

We invite you to turn off your phone and unwind on the front porch rocking chair as you watch one of our breathtaking sunsets or sunrises. Pasture and grassland with 7 ponds are accessible by a short hike along the cattle trails. A marked perimeter trail follows Wolfe Creek, home to wildlife and a shady cool spot during the hot days of summer. Mulberry Cottage is at the northeast corner of a 200-acre cattle ranch where we practice rotational grazing on ten paddocks. The cabin, surrounded by Mulberry and Osage Orange (Hedge Trees) are host to berry eating birds and mammals. (And the occasional marsupial). Cattle are fenced outside the cabin area but may be close by where you hear them and see them. Deer and coyotes are common on the property as plenty of birdlife. The cabin is a farm-stay experience with farm fresh eggs, and Mulberry preserves for your baked goods in the morning. You will need your muck boots and cowboy hat to hike our cattle trails and wade in the creeks. Try your hand at "frogging" in the marshes of one of our 7 ponds. Bottle-feeding a calf or collecting eggs are some of the chores you are welcome to participate in. You'll be amazed at the variety of wildflowers and birding opportunities. The head cowboy himself will invite you to chore time or have a farm tour of our grazing and regenerative practices. Our natural beef and tallow products are all for sale at the farm or grill up some "Ohnemusbeef" available at our farm store.

Other options in Iowa

Lazy H Campground

40 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · 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!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Luxury camping in Iowa guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in Iowa. With over 180 available options, you can find the perfect campsite that suits your creature comforts preference. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin, a spacious RV spot, or a scenic tent site, we've got you covered. Explore the beauty of Iowa while enjoying top-rated campsites like Windy Goat Acres (208 reviews), Come Enjoy the Beauty (160 reviews), and Folk School Farm Stay (135 reviews). With popular amenities such as campfires, toilets, and trash facilities, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, indulge in activities like fishing, surfing, and exploring historic sites. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in Iowa!