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91% (825) • 1,296 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Columbus Junction
Ramsey Creek Natural Area
1. Ramsey Creek Natural Area
100%
(17)
24mi from Columbus Junction · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
3 acres that were converted from a cornfield 30 years ago to an area containing prairie, woods and creek. A great place to relax and enjoy rural Iowa, guests are welcome to roam the mowed areas and paths while respecting other guests. In the heart of the largest Amish community west of the Mississippi, only 2 miles from Kalona Historical Village. Groceries, gas and food and dump station available in Kalona, firewood available on site, kayak trips may be arranged.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
River Camp
2. River Camp
99%
(53)
25mi from Columbus Junction · 2 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
Draco Hill Nature Farm
3. Draco Hill Nature Farm
98%
(740)
33mi from Columbus Junction · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
As of 9/19, the ground is currently saturated and we have more rain in the forecast. If you decide to reserve, please drive on the ridges of the farm road entering the farm and not in the ruts.
If you've never seen the tallgrass prairie, this is your chance! Right now, the prairie is in full bloom. Turkey tail, Indiangrass, partridge pea and many other beautiful native plants are at their best.
The orchard trees are also loaded with fruit and nuts. If you've never seen a chestnut burr, a bundle of heartnuts, or Asian pears book now. No picking please - they aren't ripe yet.
The weather is great and the campsites are mowed and ready for you! The river is low enough for you to walk down to it. You can only do that from Sun and Swimming and Shade and Swimming so be sure to book one of those if you want to dip your toes in the water.
We know everything's expensive these days. Camping is a cheap and easy way to get away. Don't own a tent? Rent one from us. Would rather use a gas stove than struggle with a fire? We've got those too. We've also reduced our Sycamore Site to a super low $20/night for those of you pinching pennies. We hope you can enjoy it at that rate. Remember, a load of firewood is included. Please don't reserve this site if you're towing a trailer.
Book over the October 17 weekend and catch our 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 map at our website.
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 for rent
-- 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 or large RVs 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 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
Mississippi River - Pools 11-22
4. Mississippi River - Pools 11-22
100%
(2)
Park 54mi from Columbus Junction · 152 sites
Discover the scenic splendor of Mississippi River - Pools 11-22.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi River
5. Mississippi River
100%
(1)
Park 54mi from Columbus Junction · 97 sites
Discover a scenic section of one of America's most iconic rivers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Folk School Farm Stay
6. Folk School Farm Stay
99%
(298)
33mi from Columbus Junction · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come enjoy the natural beauty of a working farm! In our transition to agroforestry, wetland restoration and perennial ag, you'll find some great spaces to walk your dog, let your children run and learn about land conservation. The farm is also home to a flower cutting garden, a food forest garden, and a folk school. Guests are welcome to cut flowers for a donation, and enjoy the sheep, chickens and resident cat. The setting is also great for taking in sunrises, sunsets and star gazing.
Come explore the landscape, book a farm tour or enjoy some studio space at Land Alliance Folk School.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Blueberry Farm on a Hill
7. Blueberry Farm on a Hill
100%
(22)
34mi from Columbus Junction · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our idyllic 10-acre historic farmstead in rural Johnson County, Iowa (about 8 miles west of Iowa City). We are a bookish, quiet couple with a 9-year-old daughter, 2 llamas, 4 chickens, 2 babydoll sheep, 3 housecats, and 5 barn cats. In June and July, we open our farm to the public for U-pick organic blueberries.
Campers have access to a private firepit with 4 chairs, a bathroom shed with a composting toilet, a campfire coffee percolator, a prairie trail, a hammock, a free little library, and a beanbags lawn game. We're looking for Hipcampers who are respectful and clean.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
8. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
99%
(90)
46mi from Columbus Junction · 1 site
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 Catch and release fishing is allowed. 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
Miss Effie's Country Flowers
9. Miss Effie's Country Flowers
100%
(37)
47mi from Columbus Junction · 1 site
Ms. Effie’s Flower Farm is a gated you pick flower farm located in beautiful rural countryside. Peace and tranquillity is what you will find when you are surrounded by amazing flowers and rolling farm fields. The cornzebo is a unique gathering spot with romantic lighting and comfortable seating. It’s a great place to watch the sun come up! The fire pit is also available for use.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Lake Darling State Park
10. Lake Darling State Park
State park 28mi from Columbus Junction · 85 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Darling State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Wildcat Den State Park
11. Wildcat Den State Park
100%
(1)
State park 28mi from Columbus Junction · 28 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Wildcat Den State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Geode State Park
12. Geode State Park
100%
(1)
State park 31mi from Columbus Junction · 168 sites
Discover Geode State Park's serene lake and lush trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Coralville Lake
13. Coralville Lake
80%
(5)
Park 38mi from Columbus Junction · 480 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Coralville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Whitetail Tent Camping
14. Whitetail Tent Camping
100%
(12)
49mi from Columbus Junction · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Camping, (Fishing at 2 of our sights) Enjoying a campfire and sometimes even petting Pedro the donkey!
Learn more about this land:
Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people)
You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing.
You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on.
If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite.
If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cottage on the Bay
15. Cottage on the Bay
100%
(3)
20mi from Columbus Junction · 1 site
This Sears kit home was originally built in 1941 and has been remodeled to give it a more cabin like feel. It sits on 1.38 acres of land with mature trees and direct access to Boston Bay which connects to the Mississippi River. Enjoy the view from the new deck or take your boat or jet ski down the road to one of 3 public boat launches. This area is known for boating, fishing, hunting, camping and snowmobiling.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Mardan RV Spot
16. Mardan RV Spot
25mi from Columbus Junction · 1 site
Short- to long-term RV lot available at 2449 Mardan Lane in Mount Pleasant. Lot rent is $17 per night or $510 per month when billed monthly, with a six-month minimum lease required. A completed application and approval are required.
RVs and travel trailers must be model year 2011 or newer. Utilities are not included, and a deposit equal to one month’s rent is required. Lawn care is provided, making this a convenient, low-maintenance option for an extended stay.
Pets
Full hookups
Lucky Star Farm
17. Lucky Star Farm
100%
(8)
27mi from Columbus Junction · 1 site
Located on a 20-acre stretch of land between Iowa City and Kalona, Lucky Star Farm is a working farm raising dairy goats, llamas, chickens, turkeys & ducks. We are dedicated to sharing local food, education and lodging with the community. Come visit our diverse, sustainable and entertaining farm!
The farm is full of outdoor opportunities. Guests can stroll over to the pond and swim, explore, or relax on the sandy beach and dock. Guests are also welcome to fish (catch and release) or use the stand-up paddleboard (lifejackets provided). There is a fire pit, complimentary firewood, and roasting sticks for your use. At the barn you can visit the goats and see their kids playing in the spring. There is a half mile trail around the property that takes you past the restored prairie and llama pasture. Guests can see what's growing in the edible forest and circle through the mandala garden. Visit the chicken coop and see how farm fresh eggs are made!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Oak Tree Homes
18. Oak Tree Homes
100%
(1)
29mi from Columbus Junction · 3 sites
Authentic Iowa homestead and hobby farm experience! Come enjoy a peaceful stay surrounded by chickens, guineas, peacocks, goats, and sheep.
Please let us know in advance if you need a 50 amp, 30 amp, or 20 amp hookup, and whether you’re flexible between 50 or 30 amp. We currently have (1) 50 amp hookup, (2) 30 amp hookups, and multiple 20 amp options. Knowing your needs ahead of time helps us get everyone settled comfortably.
While we’re not a traditional campground, we enjoy sharing our calm and welcoming space with fellow travelers. Our electricity is powered by our on-site solar array. Fresh water, recycling, and limited trash disposal are also available.
No dogs allowed without prior coordination, please.
We love dogs and have a working Great Pyrenees named Hank. He’s a friendly 120-pound “puppy” who can get very excited around other dogs and may be a bit overenthusiastic when greeting newcomers. While he is not aggressive, he is still in training and has been known to jump up, including on vehicles.
If you are approved to bring a dog, please understand it is at your own risk. For safety, we recommend keeping windows up as you arrive. Hank is contained by an underground wireless fence and won’t approach vehicles on the road, but once you enter the driveway, you’re in his territory. Introducing dogs carefully is encouraged.
We are a working farm family sharing our home—not a commercial campground—so we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you’re uncomfortable around large, energetic dogs, this may not be the best fit. That said, well-behaved traveling pups are welcome with prior approval.
There’s plenty of space to relax and explore, plus a fire pit with wood provided, beautiful sunsets, and a swing set for the kids.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
House 1949
19. House 1949
35mi from Columbus Junction · 2 sites
Secluded 33-Acre Retreat with Pond, Fishing & Trail Access
Escape to 33 acres of open Iowa countryside with everything you need for an easygoing, family-friendly stay. Any size rig is welcome here—park on the level gravel pad or pull into the open fields and set up wherever suits you best. There’s plenty of room to spread out, let the kids roam, and settle in.
Head down to the 4-acre pond to cast a line or simply soak in the peace and quiet. Right outside your door, you’ll have direct access to more than 20 miles of connected trails, perfect for hiking, walking the dog, or exploring on wheels.
On-site amenities:
• Flat, level gravel surface plus open fields—park wherever works best
• Any size rig welcome
• Family-friendly with plenty of space to roam
• 4-acre pond with fishing access
• More than 20 miles of connected trails directly from the property
• Potable water hose for filling your fresh water tank
• Trash dumpsters on-site
Come for the fishing and stay for the peace and quiet. Ideal for families, anglers, trail lovers, and anyone looking to slow down and enjoy the land.
Pets
Chestnut Ridge Campground
20. Chestnut Ridge Campground
35mi from Columbus Junction · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Private Farm Campsite Near Fort Madison
Escape the crowds and enjoy your own private campsite on our peaceful family farm just minutes from Fort Madison, Iowa. Whether you're traveling with an RV, camper, or tent, you'll have a spacious one-acre campsite all to yourself—perfect for relaxing, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying the quiet countryside.
Wake up to birds singing, spend the day exploring the area, or simply unwind around the campfire under a sky full of stars. The campsite features a large fire ring and picnic area making it a great destination for couples, families, or a small group of friends.
Kids will enjoy the open space to play, while adults can relax enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Your Campsite Includes:
🌳 Private one-acre campsite
🔥 Fire ring
⛺ Room for one RV/camper or up to three tents
🚗 Parking for two vehicles
🐕 Pets welcome with prior approval
🌅 Beautiful sunsets and excellent stargazing
🤫 Quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Located just a short drive from Fort Madison, you'll have easy access to restaurants, grocery stores, the Mississippi River, and local attractions while still enjoying the peace and privacy of the country.
If you're looking for a quiet place to unplug, make memories around the campfire, and enjoy the outdoors, we'd love to host you.
Come relax, slow down, and experience the best of Southeast Iowa. Located on a quiet country road. Fire Ring included. Firewood available for purchase.
Located 5 minutes from small town gas station with food. Located 10 minutes from another small town with grocery store and restaurant.
Pets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
E
Erica
1 week ago
With pets
Such a beautiful property! The camping site was very well maintained and the owners provide almost anything you need and more. It was lovely being able to let my dogs offleash to swim and run around while watching the sunset. The cots they offer for the tipi were really nice too. And the wine they make is delicious! I will definitely be back.
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S
Sophie
2 weeks ago
Tent
We absolutely loved our stay here! Anna was a lovely host and the site was tucked away with plenty of privacy and great facilities. We would definitely recommend and look forward to staying again.
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Victoria
2 weeks ago
41 ft fifth wheel
With pets
Beautiful, private, and well maintained! Our dogs had space to run around (beware the burrs!), and we were close enough to Iowa City if we needed anything. Highly recommend this site!
See moreM
M
3 weeks ago
Group trip
We had such a lovely time at Walking Stick! The space is so beautiful and being able to just get comfy and have the whole area to ourselves is unbeatable. Having all the cooking supplies provided is so helpful. We could have stayed forever!
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M
Mike
August 2026
Tent
With pets
My daughter and I had a blast tent camping at Draco Hill! Our site had plenty of space and we enjoyed walking the trails through the beautiful prairie and wooded areas. Bonus being right on the river and being able to explore there too! We’ll definitely be back.
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D
David
August 2026
Tent
With pets
James was an excellent host. He has a beautiful property, we look forward to enjoying it again!
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Z
Zander Ostrovsky
August 2026
Tent
Stayed at Jenna & Eric’s farmstead on my way across country and it was an absolutely perfect night under the stars! They were welcoming and accommodating given our late arrival time. The animals were very very adorable and the fire was a great way to end a long day of driving. We hope to be back again when the blueberries are in season. Must stay if in the area!
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K
Kyle
August 2026
Tent
With kids
Excellent experience! Suzan was an excellent host. Her land is a little oasis near home and we can’t wait to visit again.
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D
Dana
August 2026
10 ft campervan
Very cool sites for primitive camping. The Sun site offered a great view of the sunset, sunrise and the night sky.
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D
Dan
August 2026
Tent
This is a nice property very close to Kalona yet feels remote. A variety of trees and a tall grass prairie combined with mowed walkways made for an interesting walk. James was wonderful about communication.
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Fritz
August 2026
1 night at Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
The private space is really nice. The camp is very well equipped with everything you would need for camping, pond time and sitting areas.
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Michaela
August 2026
16 ft car
Perfect set up for our Van! Right by the river, flat and with a picnic table. A slice of heaven in Iowa
See moreJ
Jeanette
August 2026
Tent
Group trip
We loved the space and the convenience of the Folk School building. It was great to see the sheep and cows. We had good shade which was needed to keep cool while camping.
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T
Tracie
August 2026
Tent
With kids
Our family had a great time camping on Anna’s land. We loved being near so much beautiful landscaping and the flock of sheep. It was convenient to have bathrooms and showers so near our campsite too.
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P
Phyllis
August 2026
With kids
Loved camping at Walking Stick tee pee. The hosts were very kind and helpful. The land is absolutely beautiful, we really enjoyed our time there🩵
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Emily
August 2026
18 ft pop-up camper
With pets
We enjoyed staying right by the river, with an easy drive into town! Great, peaceful stop on our road trip.
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K
Karin
August 2026
Tent
Beautiful setting. Thoughtful host. Great set up. Accomodating.
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Sue
July 2026
22 ft truck camper
Perfect for a quick stay while on the road. Electrical hook up was right by the road but no traffic so we had very quiet night.
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Jennifer
July 2026
19 ft Class B
Anna greeted us with warmth and showed us to our level parking spot, offered an electrical hookup, and showed us lovely dog walking paths. Later, I clipped some kale and a leek, as I had purchased a forage pass, and we purchased maple syrup, which was delicious on our breakfast. We met other campers in the kitchen, and felt welcomed to explore the wetlands and gardens around the property. We viewed a gorgeous sunset over the farm field and had a great sleep. There were ample clean showers and toilets in the building nearby. There was an amazing restaurant-quality kitchen available—with many sinks for washing dishes. Everything was meticulously clean and this farm felt very inviting. The kale and leeks were delicious in our dinner and the whole experience nourished our souls. Anna loves what she does and couldn’t have been friendlier. She clearly enjoys meeting new people and being creative and it made us want to return. This was a stand-out host and we highly recommend.
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J
Joy
July 2026
Tent
With pets
The farm was a perfect spot to camp at as I drove across the states with my dog and kids. Being outside in God’s creation is my favorite way to relax and we loved the shaded meadow we camped in and falling asleep to the sound of crickets was so peaceful. The shared kitchen was beautiful and clean and the bathroom and shower were lovely as well. We hope to stop by when we travel again.
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