The best dog-friendly campgrounds in Iowa

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States. If you're looking to bring your furry friends along and explore the beautiful terrain of Iowa, we've got you covered. With over 590 options specifically catered to pet-friendly camping in Iowa, you'll have plenty of choices. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for a more luxurious experience, our campgrounds range from as low as $5 to an average price of $45 per night. Looking for recommendations? Check out Horse Creek Adventures with 255 reviews, Windy Goat Acres with 208 reviews, and Draco Hill Farm with 192 reviews. They offer popular amenities such as pets, campfires, and showers, and you can enjoy activities like hiking, off-roading, and biking. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Iowa!

98% (2.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Iowa

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States. If you're looking to bring your furry friends along and explore the beautiful terrain of Iowa, we've got you covered. With over 590 options specifically catered to pet-friendly camping in Iowa, you'll have plenty of choices. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for a more luxurious experience, our campgrounds range from as low as $5 to an average price of $45 per night. Looking for recommendations? Check out Horse Creek Adventures with 255 reviews, Windy Goat Acres with 208 reviews, and Draco Hill Farm with 192 reviews. They offer popular amenities such as pets, campfires, and showers, and you can enjoy activities like hiking, off-roading, and biking. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Iowa!

98% (2.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Iowa

1. River Camp

99%

(45)

3 sites · RVs · Iowa City, IA

Learn more about this land: Private 28 acre parcel with scattering of cabins and houses. Includes many feet of river frontage with private road along river that makes for good biking or walking. Some trails in forest. Lots of birds and wildlife. Large 100 year old oak trees, giant sycamores and cottonwood trees on the property. Short trail to river provides access for kayaking or fishing. Put in at Sturgis Ferry Park by airport in Iowa City and kayak to campsite or go further to Hills Access at Hills, Iowa. Camp site is close to Iowa City, but the quiet site seems 100's of miles away. River Camp is close to Ryerson's Woods State Forest Preserve, Johnson County Fairgrounds, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area and a 10 minute drive to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

2. Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

96%

(58)

1 site · Lodging · 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. AC and Heat are in the Lodge 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 schwazer and two goats. 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 - payment at the time of check in 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!

3. Timberline Cabins, Waukee

100%

(3)

15 sites · Lodging · Waukee, IA

Discover the unique charm of Timberline Campground, where the tranquility of nature meets the convenience of urban life. Located on the outskirts of Waukee, Iowa, this gem offers a peaceful retreat while being easily accessible from Interstate 80, just a mile and a half away. Timberline Campground features a variety of spacious cabins and (New in 2025!) glamping area known as Horseshoe Bend. The newest section of our camp includes vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters from the iconic series Yellowstone. Horseshoe Bend campers each sleep up to 4 and make a fun and memorable spot for family gatherings, reunions or twinkling star getaways. Guests consistently rave about the pristine facilities and pool, weekend youth activities and special entertainment like themed grill outs, band appearances and more. You must check out Waukee Best Mascot Myrtle the Turtle in the camp store! After a day of adventure, you can enjoy local restaurants and shops that are just a short drive away. Explore nearby hot spots, including Raccoon River Valley Trail, Vibrant Music Hall, Barn Town Brewery and Jordan Creek Mall to name a few. Let your hosts at Timberline Campground show you how to enjoy country camping with all the conveniences of city life!

4. Chief’s Lookout

4 sites · Lodging · Moulton, IA

Two cozy guest cabins (Amish made)that can sleep up to 4 a piece and a kitchen cabin (Chief Keokuk) that also sleeps four. Tucked in a serene wooded cove with a small pond, great for swimming and fishing. Located just two miles North of the Missouri border, and 7 miles south of Moulton, IA. The kitchen cabin has a full bathroom and full kitchen. There is a community fire pit on the patio with three picnic tables offered, horse shoe pit, and a deer hanging post and first come first serve dog kennel with dog house. It is located 2 miles away from 3,000 acres of public hunting land in Iowa, called Sedan Bottoms and a couple miles away from about 3,500 acres of public hunting in Missouri and it’s called Rebels Cove.

5. Prairie Horizon

100%

(3)

1 site · RV · Waterloo, IA

Acreage on a gravel road with many shade trees surrounded by farm land. Easy access from Highway 20, Interstate 380, and Avenue of the Saints making it great for an overnight stop from your travels. Wake up to a symphony of song birds (check your Merlin app to see who is singing) and enjoy morning views with your coffee. Beautiful sunrise and sunset views and clear stargazing. You would never guess that within 10 miles you will find hiking and biking trails, municipal golf course, water park, amusement park, casino, shopping (grocery, gas, Target, Walmart, restaurants), Cedar Valley Arboretum, and John Deer tractor museum and factory tours. Our Hound Dog will alert us of your arrival. Not to worry though, he is restrained. We are happy to share garden produce, herbs and flowers that are grown in our gardens. The acreage is also home to several antique tractors. We can accommodate travel trailor, fifth wheel, popup campers (with toilet) and RV's. 1 site, back in. Accommodates slide outs. Surface type - gravel, grass Surface levelness - fairly level Electrical hookup - 30 amp Water hookup - hose for tank fill available Generators allowed - no Sewage hookup - no TV hookup - no Toilets available - no Campfire allowed in fire pit as weather permits. Firewood provided. Pets allowed on leash. Must follow safety and sanitation rules. Pet on leash and pick up poop. Trash bin - yes Picnic table - yes Wifi - no Laundry - no Hot tub - no Check in - after 2:00 pm Check out - before 12:00 pm Cancellation - flexible Minimum nights - 1 Accepts bookings - 4 months out

Public campgrounds in Iowa

100%

(3)

Six Pine Campground

25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Backbone State Park

100%

(1)

Fishermans Corner Campground

56 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

100%

(3)

Walnut Woods Campground

22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Walnut Woods State Park

100%

(1)

Wildcat Den Campground

28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wildcat Den State Park

100%

(7)

Big Paint Campground

139 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yellow River State Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

M

Michael A

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Timberline Cabins, Waukee

Rented one of the cabins by the pond. From the moment arriving we were greeted with such great customer service. We enjoyed every moment of our stay especially sitting by the pond having a fire and just enjoying the stars and all the deer that were roaming bye. We will definitely be back again.

K

Kelly

October 2025

34 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Camp

If you are looking for a quiet spot this is the place. Plenty of wildlife to see deer bald eagles.

G

Gregory

October 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Prairie Horizon

The camp site was really nice, the experience was like going to visit family. Sue has a nice property with lovely trees and garden. We would definitely do it again!

M

Michelle

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at River Camp

This is the perfect spot for people who love fishing, the Hawkeyes, or have family in Iowa City. Full hook-ups and a quiet spot. Loren is easy to work with and very accommodating.

C

Christopher

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

We loved how unique and charming the lodge felt. Rob has done an amazing job creating a getaway, that simply shifts your focus onto nature, literally in his own backyard. We highly recommend to anyone looking for a quick weekend getaway!

j

james

October 2025

1 night at Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

Secluded little area facing wooded area. Unique and cool structure. And great communication.

A

Arjan

October 2025

4 nights at Timberline Cabins, Waukee

We stayed a few nights in this cabin. It was nicely situated with view on the small lake. Liked the firepit. Staff was very helpful.

T

Tayler

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

This was a really cool find! You would never think you would be right in town by pictures. When you go to the restroom you’ll get greeted with the sweetest dog!:) there is so many cool things to look at in the yard and cabin! One thing I would tell future campers is if you want to use a blanket be sure to bring one. There was one on the main bed but only big enough for one person. I didn’t ask if there were any extras tho.

C

Crystal

September 2025

2 nights at Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

Best way I can sum up Robs property is that it's just like camping, except there is a bed, air conditioning, and heat provided. Rob has set the cabin up very well, and there is a small table with chairs and some books and games if interested. My partner and I like to tent camp, but when it's too hot or cold for us, we find simple cabins that provide a space to cool off or warm up but still space to cook outside and live "simply" Robs property gave us the perfect chance for that. As a warning to others though, that maybe wouldn't bring a car full of camping supplies to stay, the cabin does not come equipped with cooking supplies, plates, cups, etc. There are restaurants close by, but If you're looking to just relax and stay in, you'll have to be prepared or plan to door dash food. The space is cozy and feels extremely private, even though it's at the end of Robs property. It feels like you're away from the city. The bathroom is accessible through the garage, and is apart of the main house. It is clean, and Rob even put towels out for us. The large sink in the restroom was a great place to do dishes. While the site description includes water and a picnic table, there was not a picnic table, and the water is from the houe (you have to locate it, it's not right near the cabin) This is a hipcamp listing, not a 5 star Airbnb. If you are searching for a 5 star BnB, this ain't it. But a great hipcamp? Absolutely!

Wendy

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

It was so nice to get away for a weekend and Rob’s land was a great “in between” - it feels very much part of the land and surrounding nature, while being very accessible to main roads. Would definitely recommend!

M

Mary

September 2025

30 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Prairie Horizon

Sue is a wonderful host!! Both Sue and her husband greeted us when we arrived and helped us back into our spot. They were very friendly and made us feel like we were family. The site was very peaceful and the views were Beautiful!! It was very clean and well groomed. They had a table and chairs, firepit with firewood and they had a swing facing the views. We would definitely come back and stay here! Thank you Sue and Dave for sharing your wonderful property with us!! 😀

D

D Scott

August 2025

19 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Prairie Horizon

Beautiful, peaceful spot. I was met by the host as I drove in, and they helped me back in and set up my water and power. Definitely a five star campsite. I will stay there again when I'm in the area. Thanks Sue and Dave

Nicole

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

Rob was a great host! Communication was excellent. The property was super cute and well cared for. The lodge is tucked back in a very private nook in the trees. We enjoyed the grill and fire pit onsite. We were lucky enough to see a family of deer in the woods, and loved interacting with the two sweet goats on the property. It’s a perfect little oasis close to Omaha! Thanks for sharing your beautiful property, Rob!

Kelly

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

This was a neat little spot to stop for a night. Basic and private, with a little porch to sit on while listening to all the summer insects, and a barred owl visit in the middle of the night. The host's communication was great and directions were clear.

B

Barritt

May 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Camp

Awesome campsite for a weekend getaway. Great place to let the dogs roam around off leash.

J

Josh

May 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Camp

Great private spot! Loren was very friendly and a great host.

Tirzah

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

Super cute spot! Love all the Native American themed decor and nature books. Loved hearing the birds chirp. Beds were pretty comfy too. Rob was very nice and so were his animals.