The best campgrounds near Dows, Iowa with hiking

In Dows, hikers have over 660 camping options to choose from, all within easy reach of trails that cut through rolling farmland and wooded creek beds. Campsites here start at $15 a night, with an average around $32, and you’ll find places with showers, pet-friendly rules, and reliable toilets—essentials after a day hoofing it through the prairie. Top picks include Secluded riverside ranch (31 reviews), tucked along the water where you can cool off or cast a line, and Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC (30 reviews), which lets you bunk down in a real barn after a day on the trails. Swimming and fishing round out the list of things to do when your boots need a break. Bring your gear, pack light, and get ready to cover ground—Dows rewards those who wander.

98% (71)

Top-rated campgrounds near Dows

In Dows, hikers have over 660 camping options to choose from, all within easy reach of trails that cut through rolling farmland and wooded creek beds. Campsites here start at $15 a night, with an average around $32, and you’ll find places with showers, pet-friendly rules, and reliable toilets—essentials after a day hoofing it through the prairie. Top picks include Secluded riverside ranch (31 reviews), tucked along the water where you can cool off or cast a line, and Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC (30 reviews), which lets you bunk down in a real barn after a day on the trails. Swimming and fishing round out the list of things to do when your boots need a break. Bring your gear, pack light, and get ready to cover ground—Dows rewards those who wander.

98% (71)

Top-rated campgrounds near Dows

1. Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

98%

(41)

36mi from Dows · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

Threshold Learning Center is 28 acres of prairie, creek, woods, and our barn dormitory.  Threshold is first, an outdoor learning center for schools during the school year, and a summer camp offering several day camps, family camps, and trips.  As a non-profit, however, we are constantly trying to find a way to  offer our programs to everyone regardless of whether they are able to pay our fees while still making enough money to stay open.  We started renting TLC to the public 5 years ago for weddings, reunions, or just families who are looking to connect to the world around them.  Our motto is "No Child Left Inside" and we want every inner child to enjoy what we have at TLC.  We have 7 bedrooms in our dormitory, 5 camp sites, a large camp fire ring, a mini-golf course, and we are always willing to lead your group in an educational experience or take you on a hayrack ride.

2. Secluded riverside ranch

100%

(41)

23mi from Dows · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This property encompasses 15 acres featuring a mile of mowed trails that weave through wildflower prairies, along a meandering creek, peaceful woods along the river, and a 501(c)(3) animal rescue providing sanctuary to goats, a llama, a miniature cow, an ostrich and more! The perfect place to unwind, unplug, and connect with nature in a private setting, not on a gravel pad at a treeless, overcrowded campground.

3. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Delaware Beaches

983mi from Dows · 12 sites

Discover the unique charm of the Jellystone Park™ campground in Milford, Delaware, where discerning RV campers find an exceptional blend of upscale amenities and family-friendly activities. Nestled just minutes away from the stunning Atlantic Ocean and the serene Delaware Bay beaches, this park is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Opened in 2009, Delaware Beaches Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for guests of all ages. Enjoy a refreshing swim in our inviting pool, participate in engaging activities, or simply unwind in a peaceful environment. With beloved characters like Yogi Bear™ and Boo Boo™ around, families can create unforgettable memories while indulging in good, clean, healthy fun. In addition to our extensive recreational facilities, we provide a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Guests can savor delicious snacks at our Snack Bar, gather in our Group Meeting Room, or browse unique items at our Gift Shop/Souvenirs. For added enjoyment, we offer Picnic Table Umbrella Rentals, Building Blox, Hopscotch, an Outdoor Theatre, and an Arcade. With so much to explore, Delaware Beaches Jellystone Park™ is the perfect spot for your next vacation adventure.

4. Beeds Lake State Park

142 sites · Hampton, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Beeds Lake State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Pine Lake State Park

100%

(1)

127 sites · Eldora, Iowa

Discover Pine Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

6. Oakwood RV Park

31mi from Dows · 21 sites

Nestled in the heart of Clear Lake, Oakwood RV Park stands out as a premier destination for those seeking an upscale camping experience. Established in 1987, this privately owned RV park has become a beloved fixture in the community, offering a unique blend of comfort and nature. Our park features spacious premium pull-through sites designed for easy accessibility, making it ideal for larger RVs. Guests can choose between pull-through or back-in sites, both equipped with full hookups and complimentary Wi-Fi to ensure a convenient stay. In addition to our top-notch amenities, Oakwood RV Park is surrounded by a wealth of outdoor activities and natural attractions. Visitors can explore nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, and local parks, while also enjoying access to a variety of restaurants and shops in the area. Whether you're looking to relax or embark on an adventure, Oakwood RV Park is the perfect base for your Clear Lake getaway.

7. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

252 sites · Lehigh, Iowa

Discover the rugged beauty of Brushy Creek State Recreation Area.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

8. McIntosh Woods State Park

51 sites · Ventura, Iowa

Discover the Serenity of McIntosh Woods State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

9. Dolliver Memorial State Park

24 sites · Lehigh, Iowa

Discover the rugged beauty of Dolliver Memorial State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

10. Pilot Knob State Park

100%

(1)

60 sites · Forest City, Iowa

Pilot Knob State Park is a go-to for seasoned campers.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Ambrose A Call State Park

1 site · Algona, Iowa

Discover the natural charm of Ambrose A Call State Park.

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Dows

Beeds Lake Campground

15mi from Dows · 142 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beeds Lake State Park

A cabin, in the woods, by the river, on a snowy morning. The warmth inside from the fireplace. Life is quiet, and good.

100%

(1)

Pine Lake Campground

30mi from Dows · 127 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pine Lake State Park

Beach Campground

31mi from Dows · 252 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

McIntosh Woods Campground

32mi from Dows · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · in McIntosh Woods State Park

Dolliver Campground

35mi from Dows · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dolliver Memorial State Park

100%

(1)

Pilot Knob Campground

41mi from Dows · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pilot Knob State Park

Ambrose Call Campground

47mi from Dows · 1 site · in Ambrose A Call State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

H

Hans

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Secluded riverside ranch

Very friendly hosts, cool property with lots of walking trails and cute animals

J

Josh

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Secluded riverside ranch

Great land, and always will enjoy seeing all the animals! Definitely will have to make a stop here again in the future!

Natasha

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Secluded riverside ranch

Awesome private campsite, right next to the river! Clear line of communication with Tyler the whole time. Next time I'll bring a wagon to haul my gear out there, but definitely worth it! My dog loved all the space to run and all the swimming he got to do!

R

Ramsey

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Secluded riverside ranch

I absolutely loved camping at Tyler’s place! It felt so welcoming and private, shout out to Conor being the lil farm cat that showed us around lol Will definitely be returning for another awesome night

Lauren

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Secluded riverside ranch

Tyler and Sarah were so nice, meeting us the moment we arrived. We were given the option of a few sites and essentially, anywhere really. The space we set up camp at was like a shire tucked away not far from the main yard and bathroom. But somehow felt totally secluded. Our music didn't even cut through the trees. The dogs got to run their butts off, we soaked up the gurgling creek and hooting owls. We will definitely be back. My personal highlight- The cows. Next time I need to meet and pet the pig!

Our barn dormitory with 7 bedrooms, a lounge, men's and women's restrooms with showers, and kitchenette on the lower level. The upper level has a full kitchen, a large dining hall/dance hall, and a stage.

Richard

August 2025

5 nights at Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

Our stay at the TLC Learning Center was an incredible experience. I only wish I had more time to explore and take advantage of the many available activities. And next time I would bring more friends and family to enjoy the experience. There’s room for everyone!!

K

Kirsten

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Secluded riverside ranch

This was a great place to stay. Tyler greeted us upon arrival and showed us around pointing out several options for setting up our tent. We were disappointed that it rained the next day so we had to leave without the chance to explore the trail and meet the animals. We’ll have to go there again.

T

Terry

July 2025

22 ft travel trailer

1 night at Secluded riverside ranch

We enjoyed the camp site, the welcoming host and meeting the well cared for rescue animals! Easy to find location, would certainly stay again.

R

Rob

June 2025

14 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Secluded riverside ranch

Tyler was a great host and the site was just what I was looking for! A peaceful place for a getaway complete with a Noah’s Ark full of animals!!

T

Tyrsa

June 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Secluded riverside ranch

We had a great stay at Lazy J's! It was very peaceful and nice to be close to so many different animals. Our kids and dogs loved spending time here and being out in nature. We will definitely be back again sometime!

R

Raymond

May 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Secluded riverside ranch

Tyler was an excellent host. He greeted us upon arrival, gave us the layout of the land. The campsite by the river front was amazing. It’s about 97% shaded with a fire pit right by the river. It’s a great place to unwind and recharge. He even makes his own maple syrup from trees on his land, which is fantastic. And, if you happen to be in the mood to feed some of his animals he’s s rescued, you can purchase some food to give to his critters. We will definitely be going back out to unwind at the riverfront sight again.

K

Katie

May 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Secluded riverside ranch

Great lil find! The house is secluded so no busy roads or highway lights. Tyler was friendly and accommodating with my late arrival. The animals were the sweetest and the cows just stared at me haha! They've got a cat who followed me on my morning walk - super cute! Would recommend to anyone!

J

Jessica

April 2025

Tent

3 nights at Secluded riverside ranch

Tyler was a great host, very friendly and helpful. The site by the river was everything we wanted and hoped for. With only the sounds of nature around, we had total privacy. Tyler had a nice trail mowed through the tall grass which was a great relaxing walk. Would highly recommend this spot and will probably be back. Plus he has really cool cows :)