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99% (158) • 861 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carson
Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
1. Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
96%
(63)
20mi from Carson · 1 site
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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill
2. Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill
99%
(38)
24mi from Carson · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
You can camp, wander, head down the road to Viking Lake. Easy, relaxing and not too many rules. I don't do trash, unattended firepits or really loud gatherings past dusk. I love to camp but, this is our oasis. We also have outdoor dogs that help keep the coyotes and wildlife at bay. The means that they may bark at night.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Rolling Acres Farm
3. Rolling Acres Farm
100%
(17)
25mi from Carson · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Rolling Acres Farm is a 17-acre oasis and sanctuary in a sea of corn and soybeans. Larry grew up on this land, which we now steward. The farm has been managed using organic practices for over 50 years and provides habitat for birds, mammals, and bees.
We're conveniently located just 1.5 miles off Interstate 80, making us an easy stop for travelers.
The campsites are on flat, grassy ground with 110-volt electrical hookups and a water hydrant supplied by our private well. Because our farm has been organically certified, our 160-foot-deep well has been tested for E. coli and nitrates for the past 20 years. Our water is very safe, though it is high in iron. The campsites are located in an area where we once grew vegetables, near an old orchard and the pastures where we graze sheep. We also offer spaces in our large farmyard.
Elk Horn, a charming Danish village, is just up the road and home to the Museum of Danish America and Thomas Dambo's Troll Fjord Faerge.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Manawa State Park
4. Lake Manawa State Park
State park 23mi from Carson · 73 sites
Discover the allure of Lake Manawa State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Viking Lake State Park
5. Viking Lake State Park
State park 27mi from Carson · 107 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Viking Lake State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Omaha Campsite - ONE SITE ONLY
6. Omaha Campsite - ONE SITE ONLY
94%
(54)
46mi from Carson · 1 site · Tent, RV
DO NOT DRIVE THRU CAMPGROUND
My ONE and ONLY Hipcamp site is locate right at the entrance of this small property. All campers must be 35 feet or less in length and given the small size of the campground it's easiest if you arrive before dark.
The entrance is on a curve so make sure you enter from the left hand side of the road and don't be afraid to roll thru a little grass to make sure you have plenty of room. Make a hard hairpin turn to the right and your campsite is straight ahead and like everything here, a pull-thru site. (Please see HIPCAMP main photo)
This is a long-term campground but I keep this one spot up front for our traveling friends to enjoy as you move across the country as options can be limited. Enjoy your stay and if you're ever unsure about anything just give me a ring.
Please make sure to arrive before dark. Small campground and quiet community with minimal lighting can make for a challenging and sometimes disorienting arrival if not careful.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
The Flying A
7. The Flying A
100%
(1)
17mi from Carson · 1 site · Tent, RV
Our property is a quiet stretch of rural southwest Iowa farmland near Hawthorne, centered around a peaceful, stocked pond surrounded by wide-open row-crop fields. This isn’t a commercial campground—it’s a simple, private slice of the country where you can slow down, cast a line, float on the water, and enjoy true Midwestern quiet.
Set about a quarter mile off a low-traffic gravel road, the pond offers privacy, minimal noise, and very low light pollution. On clear nights, the sky fills with stars, and the sounds of frogs and evening breezes replace traffic and city noise.
The pond is stocked and open for catch-and-release fishing. Swimming is allowed, and guests are welcome to bring kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and other non-motorized watercraft. The shoreline is open for walking, relaxing, and finding your favorite sunset spot.
An old railroad caboose sits near the pond, adding a unique touch of character and history to the setting (interior not accessible).
This is intentionally a primitive camping experience. There are no hookups, no potable water, and no restroom facilities at this time. A 110V outlet is available near Site A for light-duty use, and trash drums are provided. Guests should come prepared and plan to be self-sufficient.
We welcome respectful campers who appreciate simple outdoor experiences—quiet mornings by the water, kids learning to fish, or peaceful evenings under wide Iowa skies. If both campsites are occupied, they sit across the pond from each other, allowing space and separation while sharing the same beautiful setting. We ask guests to keep noise reasonable so everyone can enjoy the calm atmosphere.
Access is drive-up in most conditions, though heavy rain can make the ground soft.
If you’re looking for wide skies, still water, and room to breathe, you’ll find it here.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Shelby Country Inn & RV Park
8. Shelby Country Inn & RV Park
18mi from Carson · 10 sites
Enjoy a convenient and comfortable stay at Shelby Country Inn & RV Park, offering RV sites and motel accommodations in Shelby, Iowa.
The RV park provides a practical stop for travelers looking for a place to park, relax, and recharge, with full-hookup options, including water, electric, and sewer, as well as restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly accommodations.
Guests can also choose from comfortable motel rooms, making the property a convenient option for both RV travelers and visitors who prefer traditional lodging. The property welcomes guests year-round and provides an easygoing setting for overnight stays or extended visits.
Whether you’re traveling by RV or looking for a comfortable room, Shelby Country Inn & RV Park offers convenient accommodations and essential amenities for a relaxing stay.
We offer a small 16-room inn, a 125-site full-hookup RV park (30/50 amp), a storage facility, and an apartment available for short- or long-term stays. Our inn has been completely renovated and boasts a unique charm in every room. We are quietly nestled off I-80, directly across from a wildlife conservation area.
Pets
Full hookups
Willow Creek
9. Willow Creek
21mi from Carson · 1 site
Escape to our lush oasis in the sea of farmland! Located on the property of our wedding venue you'll have access to gorgeous walking trails where wildlife and flowers are in abundance.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Prairie Rose State Park
10. Prairie Rose State Park
State park 28mi from Carson · 95 sites
Discover Prairie Rose State Park's serene landscapes and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wilson Island State Recreation Area
11. Wilson Island State Recreation Area
State park 35mi from Carson · 130 sites
Discover the natural charm of Wilson Island State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Anita State Park
12. Lake Anita State Park
100%
(2)
State park 36mi from Carson · 160 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Anita State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Waubonsie State Park
13. Waubonsie State Park
State park 41mi from Carson · 86 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Waubonsie State Park and its array of outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Best Nest Farm
14. Best Nest Farm
26mi from Carson · 2 sites
Located in the scenic Loess Hills of Southwest Iowa, 12 miles Southeast of Glenwood, Best Nest Farm offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience for those looking for a relaxing or adventurous getaway in the country. On our 50-acre property , we truly have the best of all worlds: an active farm we share with our furry and feathered friends (farm dogs, barn cats, friendly alpacas and ducks), a lake teeming with wildlife, and pristine woodlands. Best Nest Farm is the perfect oasis for those who enjoy outdoor activities as well as those seeking a peaceful retreat in the serenity of nature.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Tiny Home Alley Delight
15. Tiny Home Alley Delight
31mi from Carson · 1 site
Get cozy and settle into this secluded romantic little bungalow. This tiny home has an open concept with a dash of old cabin feel. Enjoy a good nights rest on the clean memory foam mattress that features an electric winch to raise and lower the bed. Outside you can you can enjoy BBQ and an evening by the fire pit with complete privacy.
The space
This tiny home features a queen size bed that is hung by rope. The winch will lower and raise the bed to the ceiling to provide more available space for activities. A working space table that folds down from the wall that includes a comfortable 3-way chair that can be converted to a lounge sofa or to a comfy little cot that sleeps 1 person. A loft sits above the kitchenette that the kids and/or you short kings and queens will be able to lay your head down for a good nights rest on the memory foam padded bedding.
Guest access
You will have private access to the tiny home property from the alley behind the main little brick home. The parking lot can fit up to 2 compact cars along with free street parking. The property is completely fenced off with exception of the driveway.
*This tiny home is located on the same property as the main little brick house but only accessible via the alley. Please do not disturb guests at the main house address that is 6227 Parker St.
Other things to note
Although the unit has a bath tub, the water heater is a limited size and not designed to fill the tub with hot water. This water heater will only support quick showers. I recommend spacing out quick showers for multiple guests.
To add, the fixtures on the tub are just for design. They do not operate. The fixtures for the shower head bucket are located directly above the bath fixtures located on the wall. They can sometimes be hidden by shower curtain.
This is a low flow system that pours out of a bucket. It’s a relaxing old fashioned way of showering. Please do not have expectations of a high pressure shower head you may be accustomed.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
City Explorers' Stampede
16. City Explorers' Stampede
100%
(9)
32mi from Carson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome Adventurers', inner city adventures await you! We are centralized right in the heart of the city, close to many must-see attractions. Kayak (2 person) rental is available. Firepit, charcoal grill, and a telescope (by request) are available. Additional add-on services are offered if one should enjoy Reiki, card readings, and/or a homemade warm breakfast ($8-10 per depending on meal). Prebooking of additional add-on's are required before visit to accommodate your custom experience. Explore what Omaha has to offer!
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Water hookup
The ALOHA SPIRIT Camper
17. The ALOHA SPIRIT Camper
100%
(2)
34mi from Carson · 1 site
Bring your Positive Vibes and Enjoy the relaxation of The ALOHA SPIRIT. My '69 Holiday Camper is available for the solo camper or pair of campers. The camper is located in the heart of Papillion. Situated in the suburbs but access to whimsical porches and backyard this camper will lift your spirits.
Escape to So Cal while enjoying the peacefulness of the Midwest.
Toilets
Campfires
Private Camper/RV w/ Full Hookups in Omaha, NE
18. Private Camper/RV w/ Full Hookups in Omaha, NE
35mi from Carson · 1 site
ENJOY GLAMPING AT OMAHA NE! HEAT, AC, HOT WATER. About 20 min drive from UNMC, Eppley Airfield Airport, 30 min from Council Bluffs, less than 5 min to nearest Walmart, 11 min walk to bus stop, right off of I-680 for easy commute. You’ll have a private camper built in 2022 that can accommodate 2 Adults & 2 Kids comfortably!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
Retro Camper at Flourish Gardens
19. Retro Camper at Flourish Gardens
100%
(1)
41mi from Carson · 1 site
Home to two creatives, the gardens have been meticulously designed and lovingly maintained. We create sculptures that are sold around the country, many of which are beautifully displayed throughout the gardens.
Discover hidden corners to explore, a charming loveseat swing, a relaxing hammock, and peaceful paths where you can wander and lose yourself in the garden's beauty.
Enjoy one acre of beautifully landscaped gardens surrounded by a waterway, secluded in a private neighborhood while still being close to dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Oakwood Retreat
20. Oakwood Retreat
100%
(1)
42mi from Carson · 5 sites
Nestled on 20 peaceful acres in the rolling countryside of southwest Iowa, Oakwood Retreat was created as a place to slow down, reconnect, and experience the beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a quiet retreat from everyday life, you'll find a unique glamping experience designed to help you unwind.
Our property features thoughtfully designed accommodations, including an elevated tree dome and cozy A-frame cabins, each offering its own private outdoor space and a private bathroom in our modern bathhouse. Wander our walking trails, relax beneath the stars, enjoy the sounds of birds, insects, and frogs, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Located just 8 minutes from Lake Icaria and within easy driving distance of Corning, Omaha, Des Moines, and The Legacy wedding venue, Oakwood Retreat offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience.
Here, you'll trade traffic for birdsong, screens for sunsets, and busy schedules for meaningful moments around the fire.
We can't wait to welcome you!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Trudi
3 days ago
Weekend Trip to Retro Camper at Flourish Gardens
I wanted to leave a “no, I wouldn’t” recommend to a friend because I want to keep this place a secret!!!! But to be fair, this is the coolest place I have ever stayed and was sad we couldn’t stay longer! I will definitely come back JUST to stay here. The yard/garden belongs in a magazine and rivals any botanical garden I’ve paid for…although maybe smaller, but great nonetheless!!!! Shower was amazing and the camper “Dottie” was so adorable! I guess I’ll share this gem with y’all, you’re welcome!
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G
G2G
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
This little place is great! The decor is so cozy and the glass front is great for watching the wildlife. The goats were fun to interact with and we loved hearing them in the morning. There were so many things to see along the way back and forth through the yard to the cabin. We will for sure be back.
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M
Melissa
August 2026
24 ft campervan
We had a wonderful night at the farm! Denise was very communicative before our stay and Larry was so kind to check in and ask if there’s anything we needed. There’s a clean outdoor bathroom available and Larry gathered some firewood for us. Recommended!
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Jeff
August 2026
18 ft truck camper
I was needing a place to rest and Rolling Acres Farm was right along my route. I told Denise when I would be arriving and they responded very quickly. The farm is less than five minutes from the highway, but you feel completely secluded. Follow the driving path all the way back to the big greenhouse and you have the whole place to yourself- except for the sheep lol!
Larry greeted me almost immediately and answered all my questions. I made dinner and turned off all my lights to take in the amazing night sky. So peaceful and quiet. Will return!
See moreC
Caylan-Santos
August 2026
Tent
With kids
Plenty of space, private, and really nice hosts.
The back field has cool stuff to explore
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H
Harry
August 2026
20 ft Class B
Got there late but Kelli was super helpful in helping us find our spot.
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t
tim
August 2026
Weekend Trip to Oakwood Retreat
Small but neat. Plenty of amenities to make your stay enjoyable. Loved the relaxed vibe of the whole place. Disappointed we didn't take more time to explore the whole property buy we enjoyed just hanging around our spot in the time we had there.
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R
Ryan
August 2026
19 ft campervan
2nd time I’ve stayed here while passing though. Very nice hospitality and there are some cool local spots in the area.!
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P
Paul
August 2026
Tent
We were apprehensive about what we'd find for camping in the middle of Iowa, but Denise and Larry set a phenomenal tone for our trip. It was a nice peaceful place to set up, especially for the low price, but there are some things that you simply can't put a price on. Bella, their angel of a Golden Retriever, stayed with us for the whole evening, and slept next to our tent at night, keeping us safe. The cats, Pepper and Juliet, were also so friendly and happy we were there. But most importantly, Larry and Denise are some amazing people that it was a genuine pleasure to meet. They've made a beautiful life through their work and their cultivation of a multigenerational farm, and the experience of meeting them will stick with us for a long time. Cannot recommend enough.
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Brooke
August 2026
2 nights at Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
Great space! Would go again! Recommend for more of a camping experience with AC!
See moreM
Morgan
August 2026
Tent
With pets
Easy to find, good communications, and a nice campsite. Highly recommended!
See moreH
Heather
July 2026
14 ft rooftop tent
Denise was a great communicator before and during our visit. Loved chatting with her and Larry- such sweet people! Bella their dog was so sweet as she greeted us upon arrival and then stayed close by most of our visit! Several cats roamed around too!
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Stephen
July 2026
Tent
A beautiful place, friendly pets, and the hosts were very flexible when I was delayed and arrived late. Very grateful to them!
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M
Mackenzie
July 2026
16 ft car
With pets
What a special place. I was so honored to be the first camper on such a beautiful property. It was peaceful, quiet, and exactly what I needed. The paddle boat was such a fun touch, and Gordon and Cody’s kindness and hospitality made the stay even more memorable. If you’re looking to truly unplug, this is the place.
See moreK
Kayti
July 2026
With pets
The cabin was great! It was in his backyard but right up against the tree line so very quiet, private & secluded. The goats were a great surprise to see in the morning. Thank you!
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C
Colin
July 2026
Tent
I arrived just about midnight on a last-minute reservation to stop for the night, I couldn’t have picked a better place!!
As soon as I pull up and I start grabbing my tent and supplies, a very friendly golden retriever walks up to me and we become friends. Looking up to the sky, realized that the stars are so the prettiest I’ve ever seen, and I was astounded with the lack of light pollution in this part of Iowa. I decided I’d watch them once I finished up with my tent.
The best part of my trip out west solo was last night as I lay in the field next to my tent with this friendly golden retriever right next to me and this just as nice little barn cat making the three of us a jolly bunch of peas in a pod. It was the most peaceful and relaxing thing in the world.
I think Denise for taking care of me. They have an awesome property and I would 100% come back here again. The golden retriever who I named Bruce (because I didn’t know his name) slept on the outside of my tent all night long, protecting me from all the bumps in the night.
If you’re looking for an amazing place to stay, ideally with your significant other, this is the place to go. I wish I could’ve shared the memory with somebody other than the dog and the cat LOL
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Harlen
July 2026
30 ft travel trailer
Hosts are wonderful and will give you options for places to set up. Water available- didn’t need electric so can’t speak to that. Excellent for a quick overnight stop.
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T
Tiffany
July 2026
16 ft car
With pets
I needed to get away with my dogs and unplug. It was the best choice I could’ve ever made.
What an incredible spot. A true gem. I’m not sure I would share it if it was mine.!
See moreJ
Joshua
June 2026
18 ft campervan
With pets
Incredibly nice couple that owned the farm, and beautiful sunset at the back
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V
Verena
June 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Wonderful place with amazing people and tiny goats! My dog loved running through the tall grass after our long drive. The views were stunning and the spot priceless. We watched the sunrise and then headed back on the road.
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