98% (724) • 884 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Elma
Pine River Campsites
1. Pine River Campsites
93%
(30)
14mi from Elma · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This secluded property is just off Hwy 9 five miles west of Cresco, Iowa. It has 50/30/20 amp service with water, sewer, garbage and internet. The property has a view of the north branch of the Turkey River, walking tails, fire ring, picnic table and firewood available for purchase. Open all year, winter rates apply. Daily, weekly, monthly rates also available. Message for special rates. Pet friendly.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Spring Valley Ponds
2. Spring Valley Ponds
100%
(26)
31mi from Elma · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Plenty of outdoor spaces to hike, bike, fish, canoe, and paddleboard! Property adjoins to a bike trail that will take you into town and varies other places including a newly installed 18 hole Frisbee Golf Course.
From Turtles, to Eagles, chances are you will see both during your stay, along with a deer or 2. A nature lover's paradise, you'll have the opportunity to fish or simply relax and take in the serene surroundings. Guests are welcome to fish the ponds, but it is limited to catch and release only. We trust that all guest will be respectful of this policy and of the land. Spring Valley creek Runs along the property and guests are welcome to fish that as well.
There are seven camping sites to choose from - one of which is even located on its own island! Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves as you take in the breathtaking views.
Located in Spring Valley just a half a mile outside of town, and just a 30 minute drive to the charming, quaint town of Lanesboro. Plenty of shopping and places to eat! This is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But If you want more of the city experience, Rochester is an easy 35-minute drive away and offers all the amenities and experiences of a bigger city.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Valley Angus Farm
3. Valley Angus Farm
93%
(34)
32mi from Elma · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We offer the DESIRABLE DOZEN: 1. Staying on a beautiful working angus cattle farm 2. Staying in a cool rustic 1880 Barn Mow 3. Nearby Canoeing/kayaking 4. Fishing 5. Campfires along the creek 6. Hayrides over the Oak Savannah hills and pastures on the 400 acres 7. Biking on the asphalt regional bike trails that pass through the farm 8. Hunting 9. Grilling Angus Beef raised on our farm 10. There are 400 acres for you to enjoy. 11. Wading in the clear creek 12. Hiking the trails.
We cannot accommodate any electric hookups for campers at this time.
Learn more about this land:
We have an 1880 Barn Mow you can stay in. Pitch your tent along spring fed Spring Valley Creek. You are a 3 minute walk from the main family farmhouse with chickens, a working angus cattle farm, we offer Wi-Fi off the porch. Hayrides, farm tours and cookouts with our home raised angus beef available. Limestone bluff tour. Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum nearby. Mystery cave 12 minutes away. Pets are allowed on this family farm. We have electricity but only low power
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Louise State Park
4. Lake Louise State Park
100%
(1)
State park 20mi from Elma · 39 sites
Discover the natural charm of Lake Louise State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
5. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
100%
(2)
State park 29mi from Elma · 135 sites
Discover the allure of Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0
6. Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0
95%
(10)
34mi from Elma · 1 site
Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0 is a clean and quiet camper that is located just a few feet from your private cave and waterfall! KAYAK and CANOE RENTALS AVAILABLE ON SITE by Uncle Jon. A gem that you cannot find anywhere else in Decorah! A secret hideaway for photos, hiking, sightseeing and connecting to nature. A secluded area for easy R&R while listening to water flow, chirping birds, watching deer and horses pass by. 1 queen bed sleeps 2, 1 twin bed sleeps 1, and 2 full bunk beds sleep 2-4. We charge a $25 non-refundable pet fee. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and have fun! Uncle Jon and Rose
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Gossman Goat Ranch
7. Gossman Goat Ranch
99%
(147)
34mi from Elma · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We have a lovely piece of property to come enjoy a getaway at. We enjoy all of the peace and quiet around here. The night sky is unbeatable in my eyes. We have a small hobby farm with lots of very tame animals. We have 42 acres to roams with lots of trails within the woods that are filled with aged oak trees and many young maple trees. Our property is filled with lots of wild flowers and wildlife.
We are locate 3 miles from the root river if you enjoy fishing or going for a float down the river. There are two caves in our area that are a must see while you are visiting. I you like to hike there is a state park 14 minutes from us that have many miles of hiking trails and horse trails.
If you are more the small town strolling type of person we have lots of small towns around us that are filled with shops and lots of great food! There is a large system of bike trails in our area that make a very fun way to check out some of the small towns.
If you have a family with kids we have a lot of fun activities you can do with your kids, like spending time with the goats and chickens, playing on our playground, or taking a nice walk through the woods looking for fossils!
We do offer a 5% discount to military members and first responders! Please bring proof of service and use code 7R78I5SU on booking. Thank you for your service!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Roy's Acres
8. Roy's Acres
100%
(29)
38mi from Elma · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our 360-acre family farm—held by our family for nearly 80 years—has been transformed from a tree grove and a former highway borrow pit into a welcoming campground.
We’ve built two structures on the property, including a shop with a restroom and a cozy porch where my wife and I enjoy evenings watching deer and other wildlife. What began as a spot for family camping has grown into a campground we’re now opening to guests.
Campsites range from electric-hookup sites for convenience to primitive sites for those who want to unplug and enjoy quiet time in nature.
Beyond relaxing, guests can fish and paddle-boat on our pond or access the nearby Volga River for canoeing and kayaking. The Volga River State Recreation Area is just 10 miles away and offers additional fishing, boating, hiking, and horseback-riding opportunities.
Update: So far this spring we haven't seen any fish in our pond. We don't know what happened to them and if fishing on the pond will be possible this year.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River
9. Bluff Hollow Camp on the Root River
99%
(346)
46mi from Elma · 1 site · Tent, RV
The property is one of a kind. The Driftless Region starts right here in SE Minnesota. It is secluded with mature trees, beautiful bluffs, fishing, kayaking! It is a nature lovers dream!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
10. Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
100%
(6)
State forest 88mi from Elma · 174 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Volga River State Recreation Area
11. Volga River State Recreation Area
State park 43mi from Elma · 82 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Volga River State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Clear Lake State Park Iowa
12. Clear Lake State Park Iowa
State park 49mi from Elma · 177 sites
Discover the Serene Beauty of Clear Lake State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
George Wyth State Park
13. George Wyth State Park
100%
(1)
State park 49mi from Elma · 69 sites
Discover the natural charm of George Wyth State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Edge
14. The Edge
96%
(315)
46mi from Elma · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This 6 acre farm used to be a sod farm, and then a Christmas tree farm. Camping provided is in the remnants of the uncut Christmas tree forest which is about 6 acres. Small little get away from Rochester. Airport traffic, but it is enjoyable. 10 minutes to downtown Rochester. PLEASE KEEP DOGS OFF OF THE BEDS IN THE CABIN.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Back 20
15. The Back 20
93%
(20)
46mi from Elma · 1 site
The Back 20 is is a cute and secluded place to rough it. Completely private half mile off the road. Please read entirety of description and how to access property before booking.The Back 20 is an ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK PROPERTY!!!!! There is uneven ground/terrain, trip hazards, valleys, loose stone, brush hazard to vehicles, no way for emergency vehicles to enter this property successfully type of hazards. We are not responsible for any injury/death you or your guests may incur while navigating property and by entering property you agree to such terms. This is a No Trespassing without permission property. Access To the Back 20: This is a HIKE IN ONLY PROPERTY! You are also welcome to ATV or Snomobile back there. Cabin is half mile off road, be prepared in case of inclement weather or tough conditions for the hike. There is parking area located just off the road before the trail starts to right.No HUNTING without permission!!! We manage this land properly for all hunters and non hunters to enjoy. That being said no hunting will be allowed on property of any sort unless you have prior permission. Guests caught hunting without permission will be considered Trespassers.This is a Dry cabin. There is no water on property. In warm conditions the water barrels may/may not be full. Feel free to use the water from them for dishes or bathing outside. It is not drinkable water and bringing your own drinking water in is necessary. There is an outhouse and a small boat toilet in the home. We prefer you to use the outhouse overall. If use inside toilet, you must rinse it outside and clean before leaving. No exceptions.Learn more about this land:Enrich yourself in this private retreat nestled away from the road within a beautiful hardwood valley. No internet, no tv, limited cell service with property..Deer, Fox, coyote, and eagles are just a small amount of wildlife you will see here. Great for a weekend unplugged to relax among the stars. Small dry cabin with 1 queenbed, and two cots with sleeping bags. Room for extra tents as well. Pit toilet with outside shower available in summer. Nearby trout stream 1 mile away. Cute and comfy spot to unwind and unplug. Bring your flashlight! It’s dark back here but oh the stars you’ll see on a clear night! Solar power will keep your phone charged in case of emergency. Large deck with picnic table and no one around. Completely private! Great spot to be in nature. Clothing optional!This property is like camping with a cabin. You will need to bring pots pans dishes cutlery as it is not provided.. Wood stove heat in winter. Must bring your own wood or scavenge on land. Very homey and wonderful way to rough it!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Twins Campground
16. Twins Campground
100%
(1)
17mi from Elma · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
This campground is located approximately two miles south of Cresco, Iowa on the Turkey River. It offers large sites with fire rings, some have landscaped patios, 50/30/20 amp service, walking trails, river views, playground area and fishing. It adjoins State of Iowa land. Pet friendly campground. Open all year, winter rates apply Oct. 31st to March 31st. Daily, weekly, monthly rates also available. Message for special rates.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Unity Campsites
17. Unity Campsites
18mi from Elma · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Unity Campsites offers camper hookups at our building site with access to a large yard, walking trails, a playset, and a pond. The property is located just northwest of Cresco, Iowa, making it a great home base for exploring Northeast Iowa and Southeast Minnesota.
A washer and dryer are provided for your convenience. These sites are ideal for both short stays while passing through and extended camping for traveling workers. Extended-stay rates are available.
Nearby Trails & Parks :
Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail
A 20-mile asphalt trail connecting Cresco, Ridgeway, and Calmar. Perfect for biking, hiking, jogging, nature viewing, and even cross-country skiing in winter.
Prairie Springs Recreational Trail
A 3.5-mile paved trail that runs from downtown Cresco at Balk Park to Vernon Springs. Great for easy walks or short runs close to town.
Kendallville Park & Campground
Located about 6 miles north of Cresco, this scenic park is a nice spot for camping, fishing, and enjoying the Upper Iowa River.
Howard County Conservation Parks & Nature Areas
Howard County manages several smaller parks and natural areas, including Prairie’s Edge Nature Center in Cresco. These spots are perfect for birdwatching, light hiking, picnicking, and soaking up the outdoors.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Bollman Bluffs River Camp
18. Bollman Bluffs River Camp
100%
(2)
25mi from Elma · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the Driftless Region like never before at Fossilstone Camp, tucked along the Upper Iowa River. Pitch your tent or park your camper near the spacious beach and tranquil pond, refresh in the outdoor shower, and wander the trails that wind through the property.
Evenings come alive with crickets, wildlife, and rolling fog, creating the perfect backdrop for a stunning stargazing night. Fossilstone Camp is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful riverside escape.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Under The Stars Chimney Rock
19. Under The Stars Chimney Rock
100%
(3)
28mi from Elma · 1 site · Tent, RV
At Chimney Rock Campground, we aim to help friends and families create lasting memories. Chimney Rock offers diverse experiences, from enjoying your RV or one of our cabins to the serenity of tent camping along the river or in the woods. We offer kayak, canoe, and tube rentals for those seeking adventure to explore the beautiful Upper Iowa River. Rated second most beautiful river in the United States.
We strive to cultivate a deep connection with nature and a strong sense of community. Through engaging activities and personalized interactions with our dedicated staff, we're committed to understanding and meeting each of our guests' unique needs. Our goal is to make Chimney Rock Campground a place where you'll want to return year after year.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sunny Rock
20. Sunny Rock
100%
(6)
30mi from Elma · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
This secluded property is just south of Rockford, Iowa on the Shell Rock River.
The site has water and electric.
There is a portapotty / portashower available on site.
This area has up to 4 sites for group use. FOR INDIVIDUAL USE, BOOK SITE #1. Book sites #2, #3 or #4 only if you have other parties in your group.
This property has a river view, walking trails, and a fire ring,
Daily, weekly, monthly rates available.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
B
Barbara
5 days ago
12 ft pop-up camper
Had a great camping experience in our 12 ft popup at the lower campsite. Walking up to the outhouse gave us our cardio for the day! We enjoyed birdwatching at the river, seeing eagles use the river as their super highway, watching the pigeons and swallows on the limestone cliffs and listening to the barred owls at night. Also seeing trout, tadpoles, turtles and hearing frogs. Truly a peaceful experience. Eric was a great host, making sure everything was going well. This site is on our top 5 list of camping experiences and that is saying a lot because we’ve been camping forever. We will be back. Thanks Eric for sharing your land with us. Jim and Barb
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Marie
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Previous reviews cover this amazing spot! Site was as described in primitiveness and solitude.
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E
Eric
2 weeks ago
13 ft campervan
We had an amazing visit at Roy’s Acres. Well maintained land with roomy camping sites. Bathroom was very clean which meant a lot to my wife. Steve and Ellen, the owners, were very friendly and accommodating. We will definitely be back multiple times. Already planning the next visit.
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S
Schylar
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Ended up changing plans last minute and we stumbled across this gem. Mark was amazing and so was the Property! We will definitely come back again.
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M
Mitchel
2 weeks ago
Tent
Spring Valley is an amazing town and very close to multiple awesome hikes and sights. Tha campground is clean and just as beautiful. I would reccomend this site to anyone looking to explore SW Minnesota.
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T
Taryn
2 weeks ago
With pets
Such a gorgeous property and a great place to camp! We stayed in the a frame and while the lot it sits on was a bit small it was still perfect for us and two dogs. We stayed for two nights and ended up being the only ones there for a little while which was perfect for the dogs and lots of area to walk around that we all loved! We already have another trip planned to come back in a couple weeks would definitely recommend!
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J
Jaiden
2 weeks ago
With pets
The A frame was very clean on arrival, and the entire property was beautiful and well maintained. There are ample trails to walk the property and explore.
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e
erica
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We really enjoyed our stay here. Bathroom and shower are provided. River front camping. We will definitely camp here again. The host were very accommodating. We kayaked the iowa river and ended at our camp. Beautiful property and very private.
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e
erica
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
This is a amazing site! River front property. We were able to end our kayak trip at our site.
The property has a a bathroom and shower available. We will definitely stay her again and would recommend to others!!
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M
Madison
2 weeks ago
Tent
This spot was wonderful! We drove down and camped by the river. The area was very peaceful and we walked the trails around the campsite! Love the scenery. Eric is very responsive and gives helpful directions/tips.
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David
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Lanesboro Acres
Best hosts ever. Second time staying here and won't be the last. Most peaceful spot we've been to. Make sure you bring a chair to sit in the Root River!
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M
Melinda
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Heritage Hideaway- Tiny House
The tiny house is a real retreat, well equipped, secluded, with a beautiful view of a valley and sunset from the bench set out on their bluff. We enjoyed our stay and would come back.
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A
Alison
3 weeks ago
Tent
Nice size campground. Lots of birds and a bared owl hoot in the evening. River is wide and slow movement in the nice backdrop of rock formation.
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Kathy
May 2026
Tent
With pets
This was my 5th time visiting The Edge, and I continue to come back in part because it has been a nice place for relative solitude and privacy, yet close to grocery stores, etc. In addition, the property is the very favorite of my dog! He loves being off-leash in the wooded area, and although he is an old man, he acts like a pup when he is here. Will be back again as time allows.
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S
Sara
May 2026
Tent
With pets
Beautiful Campsites, Well Groomed Trails, Amazing Variety of Wild Birds(Even Eagles Flying Above:) Peaceful and Private with No One Else camping on the Other Sites!
Groundskeeper is Extremely Friendly and Knowledgeable!
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Blake
May 2026
A
Andrew
May 2026
28 ft travel trailer
Mark and Becky are always so welcoming and accommodating. The property is peaceful and spread out- we always feel like the only ones there. We have stayed multiple times, and the great memories keep piling on.
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Christin
May 2026
Weekend Trip to Heritage Hideaway- Tiny House
We had a lovely time staying in Troy & Laurie's tiny cabin! Surrounded by farmland and forest it's very peaceful and quiet. The perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature!
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Jacob
April 2026
Tent
Second time staying at Roy’s Acres. Steve is always very friendly. Campsites are nice and clean, bathroom well kept, with a shower on the way! Can’t wait to visit again.
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Maddie
March 2026
Tent
With pets
Secluded land, all the trees helped to keep the wind out of the tent. Slept amazing & woke up to a beautiful open field across the way.
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