The best pets off leash 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% (752) 31 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Iowa

Nature Heaven by lake red rock

1. Nature Heaven by lake red rock

96%
(317)
Knoxville, IA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We open year-round!! The winter camping is on the way! We believe each season has its special nature-beauty, so we open year-round. This secluded, beautiful, pet-friendly 40 acres of fenced camping site is on hilly land and is rare in Iowa, with a view of 3.5 private fishing ponds and a far view of the Red Rock Lake. There are 10 acres nature timber area that keep you away from the other campers and the 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 natural features, you may see deer, rabbits, and other game birds by your campsite. Each camping sites have good distance to keep privacy from each other. A recently built 20ft diameter geodesic glamping dome tent is for those who want a more climate-controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent gifts. For surrounding areas, the nearby White Breast Beach is open from May 23 to September 3, 2026, with boating, hunting, and hiking activities in Lake Red Rock. For our campers' safety, any hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come 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 top of a hill. You will have a fantastic sunset view of ponds and a lake view while enjoying the great nature and having 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 were 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 environmental health backgrounds, 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 Google Maps shows now.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Sgt. Bluff Lazy K Camp

2. Sgt. Bluff Lazy K Camp

100%
(10)
Sergeant Bluff, IA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
**Welcome to Your Relaxing RV or Tent Getaway!** Nestled in a peaceful, scenic setting, on a paved road our RV/Tent friendly Hipcamp property offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy spacious, level parking, beautiful natural surroundings, and easy access to local bike trails, Browns Lake or Missouri River and small-town charm. Whether you're here to unwind, explore, or just pass through, you'll find comfort, convenience, and a warm welcome waiting for you. Relax, Recharge & Explore — Full Hookup RV and tent Sites Near Sioux City, IA. Enjoy the comfort and charm of our peaceful RV / tent retreat just one mile from Sgt. Bluff, IA. Our full-hookup, pet-friendly, kid friendly (you may well catch some of our five grandaughters over for a visit) site features treated water, indoor laundry, and restrooms with hot showers, gas grill and a cozy gas fire pit for evening relaxation. Unwind under the rustic "grainzebo," a unique seating area perfect for soaking in the rural charm. A storm shelter on site in case of threatening weather. We're conveniently located just a mile from groceries, gas stations, and local dining options. Adventure is right at your doorstep—with easy access to the Plywood Trail's 100+ miles of paved biking paths that wind through scenic countryside and along the Missouri River. Catch a game at Explorers Ball Field, a show at Tyson Event Center, visit the Hard Rock Casino or explore numerous other nearby museums and attractions. Enjoy wide-open views of the Loess Hills—just a short drive from camp—for a true taste of Iowa's natural beauty.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Red Rock Springs

3. Red Rock Springs

100%
(33)
Knoxville, IA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private secluded camping area near Lake Red Rock. Two camp spots spread out over 6.5 wooded acres. There is a Spring-fed stream that runs through this property. Spot Abundant wildlife including turkey, deer, owls and eagles. Several trails wind through this camp. Pull your camper or pitch a tent. (depending on which site you select) The restroom has enough solar power to charge all your devices. This property Borders Army corps of engineers land. Competine Creek is only 1200 feet from this camp and feeds into Lake Red Rock. Great for canoes or kayaks. This camp is Less than a 5 min drive to Lake Red Rock boat ramp. 8 min to Knoxville, 10 min to Pella. This is an off grid property with a clean, simple bathroom featuring a composting toilet and hand-washing sink. (sink currently winterized but hand sanitizer provided)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Chasing Nirvana Retreat

4. Chasing Nirvana Retreat

Redfield, IA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Chasing Nirvana Retreat - a peaceful 40-acre escape in the heart of rural Iowa, designed for campers, RV travelers, and van-lifers seeking space, quiet, and open skies. Our land offers multiple private sites suitable for tent camping and RVs, along with our thoughtfully converted Sprinter van stay, Chasing Nirvana, for guests looking for a glamping experience. Whether you arrive with a tent, an RV, or just a sense of adventure, you’ll find room to spread out and truly unplug. Each site is surrounded by wide-open prairie, offering stunning sunrises, star-filled nights, and the kind of stillness that makes time slow down. Guests are free to explore the acreage, relax by their campsite, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of nature. This retreat is ideal for: -Tent campers looking for space and privacy -RV travelers seeking a quiet overnight or multi-day stay -Van-lifers and road trippers craving a unique rural stop -Couples, families, furry friends, and solo travelers who love the outdoors If you’re chasing rest, simplicity, fresh air, and Nirvana- you’ve found your spot!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Draco Hill Nature Farm

5. Draco Hill Nature Farm

98%
(705)
West Branch, IA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
THANK YOU to all our guests who enjoyed Draco Hill Nature Farm, were considerate to one another and who left their sites as clean as they found them in 2025. Hipcampers Rock! We'll see you in 2026. Book in mid-June or October and catch our Community Potluck or Chestnut Festival. Come any time for privacy at your site or a hike trails. Take a dip in the pond if you dare! Learn more and see interactive map at dracohill.org A convenient 7 miles north of Interstate 80 but feels like an oasis away from it all. Enjoy nature in a private, wooded river valley setting. And check out our extras! -- Fatwood for starting fires easily -- Up to 3 extra bundles of firewood -- A 7-person tent -- A Coleman stove, matches and tank of fuel -- A personal tour of the exotic fruits and nuts and ecological restoration we're growing here. NO generators please. Campers like to go to sleep under the stars to the sound of frogs, cicadas, coyotes, deer and the rustling wind through the tallgrass prairie. Wake to an amazing sunrise over the river. Enjoy a hike through our 4 miles of trails on 75 acres of rolling woodlands and prairie, picking berries, finding mushrooms, scaring up a turkey or pheasant in the brush or listening to the birds. (Pull out your Merlin app to see who's singing!) Play in the river or upland pond, cut cattails and prairie grasses for souvenirs and enjoy being unplugged for a while. Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. This is "socks and shoes, jeans and boots" kind of camping. You're visiting wild places and a working perennial farm, so please dress appropriately for your optimal enjoyment. If you go off trails and other mowed places, you increase your chances of contact with poison ivy, wild parsnip and ticks. Please research these ahead of time and be prepared. We live here and encounter them frequently without more than a slight inconvenience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
River Camp

6. River Camp

99%
(45)
Iowa City, IA · 3 sites
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.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$51
 / night
Roy's Acres

7. Roy's Acres

100%
(25)
Randalia, IA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our expansive 360-acre farm, in the family for nearly 80 years, has undergone significant transformation. What was once a grove of trees and a borrow pit for highway construction has evolved into a welcoming campground. Amidst this landscape, we've erected two buildings, one of which is a shop equipped with a restroom and a charming porch. Nestled on this porch, my wife and I delight in evenings spent observing the deer and other wildlife, fostering a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Originally conceived as a space for family enjoyment and camping, we've now decided to extend this hospitality to others, embarking on further campground development. Our campground offers a variety of spots, some equipped with electricity for convenience, while others offer a more primitive experience, allowing guests to disconnect and embrace the tranquility of nature. While relaxation is our specialty, we have other outdoor activities to enjoy. With a pond for fishing and paddle boating, as well as close access to the Volga River for canoeing and kayaking, there’s plenty to explore. The Volga River State Recreation Area is only 10 miles away and offers more fishing, boating and hiking opportunities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
RidgeRiverView Acres

8. RidgeRiverView Acres

100%
(8)
Sherrill, IA · 4 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

9. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

99%
(85)
Williamsburg, IA · 2 sites
We offer one private site on four acres, including a small pond, beach, treehouse, trails and peace and quiet. In addition to the tipi, there are kayaks, canoe, fire ring, wood supply, cooking equipment, dutch ovens, hammock, and tables and chairs. Campers will need to bring sleeping bags and food. Dogs are welcome. There is a rustic restroom (outhouse), with an outdoor shower. Water and electricity are available at the restroom and campsite. In addition, Navigation Play-Williamsburg, provides outdoor play opportunities at the farm on a seasonal basis. If interested, find her on her facebook page. Our dream was to restore an old farmstead to prairie and woods, grow our own food, make some wine and create a wonderland for grandchildren. The tipi and pond campsite is our way of sharing our place. We love meeting new people, especially those that are looking for a new camping experience.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$105
 / night
Cedar Springs

10. Cedar Springs

93%
(21)
Decorah, IA · 2 sites
The property has been in my family for over 40 years and was originally settled in the mid 1800's. It is about 10 acres and is primarily wooded with Cedar, Oak, Maple, Hickory and Birch. The topography is diverse, having steep heights, easy flats and everything in between; which makes hiking fun and interesting. The lower College Drive side features a historic limestone homestead and quarry, also a fossil rich creek-bed and rustic (4WD) road to the top. The upper property (Hwy. 52 access) offers a secluded forest as well as a spacious meadow. The woods are filled with birds and many other indigenous wild animals. We are only a half mile from towns edge and two miles from its center (also a five minute drive from Luther College). The Decorah area is well known for its scenic natural beauty and has extensive hiking trails, biking trails, cross-country ski routes, rivers, creeks and hunting areas. People come here year round for our outdoor recreation and beauty. Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Tubing, X-country skiing, and Trail Riding are very popular activities around here. Bring a side-by-side or ATV and have a blast both on the property and around the area. Decorah has several museums, a movie theater, 2 golf courses and bowling alley in addition to dozens of charming shops and several restaurants. You'll never get bored staying at Cedar Springs.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$88
 / night
Cedar Springs

11. Cedar Springs

100%
(1)
Decorah, IA · 2 sites
THE PROPERTY: Cedar Springs includes wooded forest terrain, pasture, an old limestone quarry, and high bluffs with beautiful views. This historic property has multiple elevations and geological features which make it a truly special & unique location. The quarry below the lodgings forms a natural amphitheater with amazing acoustics and has an extra large bonfire pit and two additional fire pits. The quarry space is available for all guests to enjoy except when privately reserved. There are hiking trails, an 1800’s limestone home and scenic bridge which make for great exploring and photo opportunities. Also, if you love art you will enjoy discovering the series of 19 elevated stained glass sculpture panels installed throughout the property.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$88
 / night
Legacy Landing

12. Legacy Landing

100%
(2)
Elkader, IA · 2 sites
Formerly the Mederville Wildlife Club, this land is situated on the north side of the hill and is accessible by a very rough “B” road. The property features two stocked fishing ponds, a vineyard, and trails for hiking, photography, mushroom hunting, and birdwatching. There’s a fire pit for campfires — and more stars than can be counted. It’s secure and very private.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night
Captain's Cove Muscatine

13. Captain's Cove Muscatine

100%
(1)
Muscatine, IA · 1 site
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$150
 / 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% (752) 31 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Iowa

Nature Heaven by lake red rock

1. Nature Heaven by lake red rock

96%
(317)
Knoxville, IA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We open year-round!! The winter camping is on the way! We believe each season has its special nature-beauty, so we open year-round. This secluded, beautiful, pet-friendly 40 acres of fenced camping site is on hilly land and is rare in Iowa, with a view of 3.5 private fishing ponds and a far view of the Red Rock Lake. There are 10 acres nature timber area that keep you away from the other campers and the 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 natural features, you may see deer, rabbits, and other game birds by your campsite. Each camping sites have good distance to keep privacy from each other. A recently built 20ft diameter geodesic glamping dome tent is for those who want a more climate-controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent gifts. For surrounding areas, the nearby White Breast Beach is open from May 23 to September 3, 2026, with boating, hunting, and hiking activities in Lake Red Rock. For our campers' safety, any hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come 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 top of a hill. You will have a fantastic sunset view of ponds and a lake view while enjoying the great nature and having 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 were 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 environmental health backgrounds, 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 Google Maps shows now.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Sgt. Bluff Lazy K Camp

2. Sgt. Bluff Lazy K Camp

100%
(10)
Sergeant Bluff, IA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
**Welcome to Your Relaxing RV or Tent Getaway!** Nestled in a peaceful, scenic setting, on a paved road our RV/Tent friendly Hipcamp property offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy spacious, level parking, beautiful natural surroundings, and easy access to local bike trails, Browns Lake or Missouri River and small-town charm. Whether you're here to unwind, explore, or just pass through, you'll find comfort, convenience, and a warm welcome waiting for you. Relax, Recharge & Explore — Full Hookup RV and tent Sites Near Sioux City, IA. Enjoy the comfort and charm of our peaceful RV / tent retreat just one mile from Sgt. Bluff, IA. Our full-hookup, pet-friendly, kid friendly (you may well catch some of our five grandaughters over for a visit) site features treated water, indoor laundry, and restrooms with hot showers, gas grill and a cozy gas fire pit for evening relaxation. Unwind under the rustic "grainzebo," a unique seating area perfect for soaking in the rural charm. A storm shelter on site in case of threatening weather. We're conveniently located just a mile from groceries, gas stations, and local dining options. Adventure is right at your doorstep—with easy access to the Plywood Trail's 100+ miles of paved biking paths that wind through scenic countryside and along the Missouri River. Catch a game at Explorers Ball Field, a show at Tyson Event Center, visit the Hard Rock Casino or explore numerous other nearby museums and attractions. Enjoy wide-open views of the Loess Hills—just a short drive from camp—for a true taste of Iowa's natural beauty.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Red Rock Springs

3. Red Rock Springs

100%
(33)
Knoxville, IA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private secluded camping area near Lake Red Rock. Two camp spots spread out over 6.5 wooded acres. There is a Spring-fed stream that runs through this property. Spot Abundant wildlife including turkey, deer, owls and eagles. Several trails wind through this camp. Pull your camper or pitch a tent. (depending on which site you select) The restroom has enough solar power to charge all your devices. This property Borders Army corps of engineers land. Competine Creek is only 1200 feet from this camp and feeds into Lake Red Rock. Great for canoes or kayaks. This camp is Less than a 5 min drive to Lake Red Rock boat ramp. 8 min to Knoxville, 10 min to Pella. This is an off grid property with a clean, simple bathroom featuring a composting toilet and hand-washing sink. (sink currently winterized but hand sanitizer provided)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Chasing Nirvana Retreat

4. Chasing Nirvana Retreat

Redfield, IA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Chasing Nirvana Retreat - a peaceful 40-acre escape in the heart of rural Iowa, designed for campers, RV travelers, and van-lifers seeking space, quiet, and open skies. Our land offers multiple private sites suitable for tent camping and RVs, along with our thoughtfully converted Sprinter van stay, Chasing Nirvana, for guests looking for a glamping experience. Whether you arrive with a tent, an RV, or just a sense of adventure, you’ll find room to spread out and truly unplug. Each site is surrounded by wide-open prairie, offering stunning sunrises, star-filled nights, and the kind of stillness that makes time slow down. Guests are free to explore the acreage, relax by their campsite, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of nature. This retreat is ideal for: -Tent campers looking for space and privacy -RV travelers seeking a quiet overnight or multi-day stay -Van-lifers and road trippers craving a unique rural stop -Couples, families, furry friends, and solo travelers who love the outdoors If you’re chasing rest, simplicity, fresh air, and Nirvana- you’ve found your spot!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Draco Hill Nature Farm

5. Draco Hill Nature Farm

98%
(705)
West Branch, IA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
THANK YOU to all our guests who enjoyed Draco Hill Nature Farm, were considerate to one another and who left their sites as clean as they found them in 2025. Hipcampers Rock! We'll see you in 2026. Book in mid-June or October and catch our Community Potluck or Chestnut Festival. Come any time for privacy at your site or a hike trails. Take a dip in the pond if you dare! Learn more and see interactive map at dracohill.org A convenient 7 miles north of Interstate 80 but feels like an oasis away from it all. Enjoy nature in a private, wooded river valley setting. And check out our extras! -- Fatwood for starting fires easily -- Up to 3 extra bundles of firewood -- A 7-person tent -- A Coleman stove, matches and tank of fuel -- A personal tour of the exotic fruits and nuts and ecological restoration we're growing here. NO generators please. Campers like to go to sleep under the stars to the sound of frogs, cicadas, coyotes, deer and the rustling wind through the tallgrass prairie. Wake to an amazing sunrise over the river. Enjoy a hike through our 4 miles of trails on 75 acres of rolling woodlands and prairie, picking berries, finding mushrooms, scaring up a turkey or pheasant in the brush or listening to the birds. (Pull out your Merlin app to see who's singing!) Play in the river or upland pond, cut cattails and prairie grasses for souvenirs and enjoy being unplugged for a while. Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. This is "socks and shoes, jeans and boots" kind of camping. You're visiting wild places and a working perennial farm, so please dress appropriately for your optimal enjoyment. If you go off trails and other mowed places, you increase your chances of contact with poison ivy, wild parsnip and ticks. Please research these ahead of time and be prepared. We live here and encounter them frequently without more than a slight inconvenience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
River Camp

6. River Camp

99%
(45)
Iowa City, IA · 3 sites
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.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$51
 / night
Roy's Acres

7. Roy's Acres

100%
(25)
Randalia, IA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our expansive 360-acre farm, in the family for nearly 80 years, has undergone significant transformation. What was once a grove of trees and a borrow pit for highway construction has evolved into a welcoming campground. Amidst this landscape, we've erected two buildings, one of which is a shop equipped with a restroom and a charming porch. Nestled on this porch, my wife and I delight in evenings spent observing the deer and other wildlife, fostering a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Originally conceived as a space for family enjoyment and camping, we've now decided to extend this hospitality to others, embarking on further campground development. Our campground offers a variety of spots, some equipped with electricity for convenience, while others offer a more primitive experience, allowing guests to disconnect and embrace the tranquility of nature. While relaxation is our specialty, we have other outdoor activities to enjoy. With a pond for fishing and paddle boating, as well as close access to the Volga River for canoeing and kayaking, there’s plenty to explore. The Volga River State Recreation Area is only 10 miles away and offers more fishing, boating and hiking opportunities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
RidgeRiverView Acres

8. RidgeRiverView Acres

100%
(8)
Sherrill, IA · 4 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

9. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

99%
(85)
Williamsburg, IA · 2 sites
We offer one private site on four acres, including a small pond, beach, treehouse, trails and peace and quiet. In addition to the tipi, there are kayaks, canoe, fire ring, wood supply, cooking equipment, dutch ovens, hammock, and tables and chairs. Campers will need to bring sleeping bags and food. Dogs are welcome. There is a rustic restroom (outhouse), with an outdoor shower. Water and electricity are available at the restroom and campsite. In addition, Navigation Play-Williamsburg, provides outdoor play opportunities at the farm on a seasonal basis. If interested, find her on her facebook page. Our dream was to restore an old farmstead to prairie and woods, grow our own food, make some wine and create a wonderland for grandchildren. The tipi and pond campsite is our way of sharing our place. We love meeting new people, especially those that are looking for a new camping experience.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$105
 / night
Cedar Springs

10. Cedar Springs

93%
(21)
Decorah, IA · 2 sites
The property has been in my family for over 40 years and was originally settled in the mid 1800's. It is about 10 acres and is primarily wooded with Cedar, Oak, Maple, Hickory and Birch. The topography is diverse, having steep heights, easy flats and everything in between; which makes hiking fun and interesting. The lower College Drive side features a historic limestone homestead and quarry, also a fossil rich creek-bed and rustic (4WD) road to the top. The upper property (Hwy. 52 access) offers a secluded forest as well as a spacious meadow. The woods are filled with birds and many other indigenous wild animals. We are only a half mile from towns edge and two miles from its center (also a five minute drive from Luther College). The Decorah area is well known for its scenic natural beauty and has extensive hiking trails, biking trails, cross-country ski routes, rivers, creeks and hunting areas. People come here year round for our outdoor recreation and beauty. Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Tubing, X-country skiing, and Trail Riding are very popular activities around here. Bring a side-by-side or ATV and have a blast both on the property and around the area. Decorah has several museums, a movie theater, 2 golf courses and bowling alley in addition to dozens of charming shops and several restaurants. You'll never get bored staying at Cedar Springs.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$88
 / night
Cedar Springs

11. Cedar Springs

100%
(1)
Decorah, IA · 2 sites
THE PROPERTY: Cedar Springs includes wooded forest terrain, pasture, an old limestone quarry, and high bluffs with beautiful views. This historic property has multiple elevations and geological features which make it a truly special & unique location. The quarry below the lodgings forms a natural amphitheater with amazing acoustics and has an extra large bonfire pit and two additional fire pits. The quarry space is available for all guests to enjoy except when privately reserved. There are hiking trails, an 1800’s limestone home and scenic bridge which make for great exploring and photo opportunities. Also, if you love art you will enjoy discovering the series of 19 elevated stained glass sculpture panels installed throughout the property.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$88
 / night
Legacy Landing

12. Legacy Landing

100%
(2)
Elkader, IA · 2 sites
Formerly the Mederville Wildlife Club, this land is situated on the north side of the hill and is accessible by a very rough “B” road. The property features two stocked fishing ponds, a vineyard, and trails for hiking, photography, mushroom hunting, and birdwatching. There’s a fire pit for campfires — and more stars than can be counted. It’s secure and very private.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night
Captain's Cove Muscatine

13. Captain's Cove Muscatine

100%
(1)
Muscatine, IA · 1 site
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$150
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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 pets off leash 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.

Top national parks and forests in Iowa