The best pets off leash campgrounds 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% (748)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

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% (748)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

2. Red Rock Springs

100%

(32)

1 site · Tent, RV · Knoxville, IA

Private secluded camp spot Near Lake Red Rock. Enjoy your own private 6.5 wooded acres to explore. 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. 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)

3. Sgt. Bluff Lazy K Camp

100%

(8)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sergeant Bluff, IA

**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. Storm shelter 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.

4. Captain's Cove Muscatine

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Muscatine, IA

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.

5. Draco Hill Nature Farm

98%

(705)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · West Branch, IA

We're closing out another wonderful season with a Chestnut Festival Sunday, Oct. 19th at 2 pm. THANK YOU to all our guests who appreciated Draco Hill Nature Farm, enjoyed the trails and the river, were considerate to one another and who left their sites as clean as they found them. Hipcampers Rock! We'll see you in 2026. 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 Freeze-dried apples A Coleman stove, matches and tank of fuel 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. Draco Hill Nature Farm hosts free events during the year. See Dracohill.org/events for details. Make it part of your camping experience or sign up for your own private sustainable agriculture tour under "Extras." This is a "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 parsnhip and ticks. Please research these ahead of time and be prepared. We live here and encounter them frequently without more than a slight inconvenience.

6. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

99%

(85)

2 sites · Lodging · Williamsburg, IA

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.

7. 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.

8. Cedar Springs

93%

(21)

2 sites · Lodging · Decorah, IA

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.

9. RidgeRiverView Acres

100%

(8)

4 sites · Lodging · 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.

10. Cedar Springs

100%

(1)

2 sites · Lodging · Decorah, IA

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.

11. Roy's Acres

100%

(25)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Randalia, IA

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.

12. Legacy Landing

100%

(2)

2 sites · Lodging · Elkader, IA

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.

Camper favorites in Iowa

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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.

Cedar Springs

93%

(21)

2 sites · Lodging · Decorah, IA

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.

RidgeRiverView Acres

100%

(8)

4 sites · Lodging · 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.

Cedar Springs

100%

(1)

2 sites · Lodging · Decorah, IA

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.

Roy's Acres

100%

(25)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Randalia, IA

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.

Legacy Landing

100%

(2)

2 sites · Lodging · Elkader, IA

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.

Stories from the community

Sadie

2 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Legacy Landing

Such a lovely space in a gorgeous place with great hosts! Betty and Ed were super welcoming, friendly, and accommodating to our needs as guests. Their land is stunning and it was so nice to step right outside the cabin to go on nature walks. The nearby towns are fun to explore too. The photos of their cabin don’t do it justice, it’s very cute and thoughtfully designed! Would happily stay here again.

J

Judy

3 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

1 night at Red Rock Springs

We loved this very private and roomy campsite! We heard owls, cranes, and coyotes, and we saw geese and trumpeter swans fly overhead. The stars were amazing! We also found the solar lighted bathroom with the composting toilet to be quite a luxury for boondocking. I would highly recommend this site. My only advice…the ground is very rocky, so wear boots or good solid shoes. Enjoy!

d

dave

3 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

1 night at Red Rock Springs

We loved this spot. The restroom was well lit and clean. Beautiful spot with actual owls we heard at night.

C

Carrie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

Nice little getaway! I loved that it was secluded enough but you could still drive to town if need be. I like to use this app because of my fear reactive dog. She needs space from humans and dogs, and we both enjoy getting away and relaxing in nature. The neighbors did have dogs that barked through out the night and she found it very hard to settle with the barking. That was my only complaint! The weather did change on us while we were there so we did pack up and leave a little early, but I would definitely come back and give it another go in the future.

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.

J

Jenny

October 2025

14 ft travel trailer

1 night at Red Rock Springs

We loved our first experience taking out our little Falcon camper and we are so happy it was here. This is a private site with a lighted composting toilet area, with TP and a hand washing station 😊. It has a fire pit and an option to purchase firewood. The view of the trees is stunning, especially this time of year and we enjoyed walking around the grounds. Also there are many paved trails close by within a short drive. Joshua is kind and helpful. Thanks Joshua. We plan on returning and telling our friends and family about your little gem.🌳🐿🦌

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.

S

Sara

October 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

We loved camping here, and our dogs had so much fun exploring. The tripod to cook over the fire was handy as well as being able to venmo for firewood. We plan to return!

G

Gregory

October 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Sgt. Bluff Lazy K Camp

This was a great choice for our fifth night. Laundry, shower, cool grain bin lounge and all the hook ups. The hosts were very nice and helpful. All this and we had it to ourselves. And, eclectic décor as well.

G

Gabby

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Legacy Landing

This was a trip for my spouse and I to celebrate our anniversary, and it was the absolute best experience to have one-on-one time away from kiddos and to be in nature. Betty was a wonderful communicator, very thorough in her instructions and directions, and gave us the lay of the land upon arrival. We were kicking ourselves that we didn’t reserve more than two nights. From hiking to fishing to cooking outside, firepit, cards and movies inside, it was a lovely experience. The cabin itself was perfect. Brand new and very functional. We truly had everything we needed and more. Do yourself a favor and check this place out!

T

Tim

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Draco Hill Nature Farm

What a great little hideaway! Close to my home, super quiet and peaceful right next to the river. Everything is well marked and well kept. Nice trails to explore and super nice host. I will definitely be coming back to this one at least once a year.

C

Christopher

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Draco Hill Nature Farm

Great solitude and privacy along the river! We met for a small reunion with old friends and this was a perfect halfway point for all of us. Would return 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.

m

manuel

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Roy's Acres

Our trip to Roy's acres was the precursor to an amazing camping anniversary road trip and Roy's acres didn't disappoint. It was the perfect way to comfortably get our first camp night bug out of our system. It was clean, had electricity in the site we chose and strung lights that made for amazing ambiance. While there was no shower (which they are currently remedying) the restrooms were extremely clean and had flush toilets. The camp his host Steve was not only friendly and inviting but supplied us with free wood. I would definitely recommend it for a quick stay or long one if your wanting a comfortable clean hip camp.

C

Colleen

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Draco Hill Nature Farm

This is our second trip to Draco Hills and we love it! Absolutely beautiful scenery, sounds and sights of the local wildlife, and peace and quiet. The perfect little grounding getaway just minutes off of I-80.

Z

Zach

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

Joshua was very helpful and the stay was great! The property was very nice and private, all in all a great experience!

K

Kasra

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Roy's Acres

Steve and Ellen were absolutely amazing during the entirety of our stay. Their help and welcoming personality gave us the best weekend getaway. Steve was generous and allowed us to use his paddle boat on the beautiful pond and wood for the campfire. Keep a good eye out at night for a clear sky of stars. Had a great time on this acre, fishing, camping, cooking, and all. Highly recommend!

T

Travis

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Draco Hill Nature Farm

Had a great time tent camping at this location. I have camped here multiple times and will continue. Host is great and very quick to return messages when you have questions. 5/5

m

mark

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to RidgeRiverView Acres

Great site with a ton of trails and water activities available. Went fishing and caught some bass. Breathtaking views l.

L

Luke

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Red Rock Springs

Great host, calm grounds and beautiful scenery would definitely camp again

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.