The best campgrounds near Emmetsburg, Iowa with a private bathroom

Camping near Emmetsburg is straightforward—over 470 sites with toilets, so you can skip the shovel and focus on the outdoors. Most spots hover around $25 a night, but you’ll find a few at $18 if you’re watching your budget. Campsites like Happy Camping Snapshot Farm (54 reviews), Secluded riverside ranch (31 reviews), and Lutheran Lakeside Camp (19 reviews) stand out for friendly hosts and easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and even snow sports when the season hits. Showers and pet-friendly rules are common. You’ll find sites tucked along rivers, hidden in quiet fields, and close to town for supplies. Book ahead if you want a spot with a real toilet and a hot shower—these go fast, especially on weekends.

99% (135)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping near Emmetsburg is straightforward—over 470 sites with toilets, so you can skip the shovel and focus on the outdoors. Most spots hover around $25 a night, but you’ll find a few at $18 if you’re watching your budget. Campsites like Happy Camping Snapshot Farm (54 reviews), Secluded riverside ranch (31 reviews), and Lutheran Lakeside Camp (19 reviews) stand out for friendly hosts and easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and even snow sports when the season hits. Showers and pet-friendly rules are common. You’ll find sites tucked along rivers, hidden in quiet fields, and close to town for supplies. Book ahead if you want a spot with a real toilet and a hot shower—these go fast, especially on weekends.

99% (135)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

98%

(107)

48mi from Emmetsburg · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Blue Earth, MN

Learn more about this land: Start your morning with a perfect view of the sunrise (site 2), or a more shaded, sleep-in a bit (site 1) along with your favorite morning beverage. Take a walk on our country road or into town, approximately a mile and a half to restaurants, visitors center at the Jolly Green Giant Statue, hardware stores, Shell gas station & food mart or access to miles of paved trails around the town. Explore and have fun locating the dozens of "Little Sprouts" (baby Green Giants) around town. Very easy entrance and exit to Blue Earth, site is located at the intersection of Interstate 90 & HWY 169.

2. Secluded riverside ranch

100%

(41)

46mi from Emmetsburg · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Goldfield, IA

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. Lutheran Lakeside Camp

98%

(21)

29mi from Emmetsburg · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Spirit Lake, IA

Our mission is to be a place of belonging for all people to find joy and purpose in God's creation. We have a beautiful property with lots of activities and amenities to offer and we want to share it with as many people as possible. All the income we receive through campers and guests goes towards Camp for ALL Kids, where we allow foster children to attend camp at no cost. Learn more about this land:Park your RV and enjoy WiFi, endless activities onsite as well as peace and serenity while only being a few miles from the Okoboji excitement. Back in, hook up to 30 or 50 amp, Dump Station, short walk or drive to the waterfront. All guests get a picnic table and fire ring. Enjoy 3.5 miles of trails, basketball, sand volleyball, gaga ball, human foosball, 9 square, soccer filed, playground, and open fields.

4. Ambrose A Call State Park

1 site · Algona, Iowa

Discover the natural charm of Ambrose A Call State Park.

5. Emerson Bay State Recreation Area

82 sites · West Okoboji, Iowa

Emerson Bay State Recreation Area: A Lakeside Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

Electrical Hookup

Showers

Potable water

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

1047mi from Emmetsburg · 12 sites · Lincoln , DE

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.

7. Bright Lake Park

30mi from Emmetsburg · 1 site · Fairmont, MN

Bright Lake Park stands out as a serene and primitive campground nestled along the shores of Bright Lake in Martin County, Minnesota, offering a unique escape into nature. This sparsely developed park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing campers to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the outdoors without the need for reservations. Visitors can select from grassy lakeside tent sites or a limited number of RV spots, most of which lack hookups, although a few may offer electricity. The campground is surrounded by gentle rolling prairie, providing a picturesque backdrop for your stay. While amenities are rustic, including picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets, a well is available for fresh water. What Bright Lake Park may lack in modern conveniences, it more than compensates for with its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Campers can enjoy fishing or launching small boats from the gravel ramp, as well as exploring informal trails on foot or horseback. Horse camping is permitted, and there’s ample open space for outdoor activities. Evenings at the park are particularly enchanting, often featuring breathtaking sunsets over the lake and clear, starry skies. With a nightly fee of just $15 for primitive sites, this campground is a favorite among budget-conscious campers and self-sufficient RVers looking to disconnect from

8. Cedar-Hanson Park

48mi from Emmetsburg · 1 site · Trimont, MN

Cedar Hanson Park stands out as the largest park in Martin County, Minnesota, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities right by Cedar Lake. This picturesque campground features 37 well-equipped campsites with water and 30-amp electric hookups, alongside a selection of primitive tent sites for those seeking a more rustic camping experience. Visitors can enjoy a range of facilities, including a modern bathhouse with flush toilets and hot showers, a convenient dump station, and two picnic shelters perfect for group gatherings. The park is a recreational paradise, boasting a sandy beach for swimming, multiple docks for fishing panfish and bass, and a boat ramp for easy access to the lake. Scenic lakeshore trails invite hikers to explore the area, while children can enjoy the playground and ample grassy spaces for yard games. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot deer and wild turkeys during their stay. Open from May 1 to mid-October, Cedar Hanson Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with affordable rates of around $25 per night for campsites with hookups. As evening falls, campers often gather around the large community fire ring or their individual fire pits to roast marshmallows and share stories. For families seeking a campground that combines comfort with the charm

9. Flying Goose Campground and Resort

40mi from Emmetsburg · 136 sites · Fairmont, MN

Discover the unique charm of Flying Goose Campground, a beloved family destination that has been cherished for over 50 years on the picturesque shores of Lake Imogene. As the third owners of this historic campground, we proudly continue the legacy established by its original farming family, ensuring that the spirit of community and fun remains at the heart of our operations. Our mission is to create a safe, enjoyable, and relaxing environment where families can create lasting memories together. We are committed to maintaining the campground's reputation for modern, clean, and well-maintained facilities. Each year, we strive to enhance the campground, making it an even more inviting place for our guests. We invite you to consider Flying Goose Campground for your next vacation. Whether you're seeking a peaceful night off the road, an adventurous weekend by the lake, or a seasonal retreat, we are confident that we can provide the perfect spot for you. With nearby attractions such as swimming holes, outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While we can’t promise perfect weather, we can guarantee a fun-filled experience that you and your family will treasure for years to come!

10. Gull Point State Park

112 sites · Wahpeton, Iowa

Discover the Serene Beauty of Gull Point State Park.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Showers

11. Marble Beach State Recreation Area

221 sites · Orleans, Iowa

Discover the Serenity of Marble Beach State Recreation Area.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Showers

12. Kilen Woods State Park

37 sites · Lakefield, Minnesota

Discover Kilen Woods State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Campfires

13. Lizard Creek Ranch Campground

45mi from Emmetsburg · 51 sites · Fort Dodge, IA

Discover the charm of Lizard Creek Ranch Campground, a unique retreat nestled at 1762 Johnson Ave, Fort Dodge, Iowa. Just minutes away from the bustling city, our campground offers a serene escape on well-maintained blacktop roads, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the scenic trails that lead you to Lizard Creek, where you can wade into the refreshing waters, cast a line for fishing, or simply bask in the sun. The tranquil environment is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. Our campground features 48 spacious sites, each equipped with a fire ring and full hookups to ensure a comfortable stay. For your dining needs, the Creekside Restaurant and Bar is conveniently located on the property and is open six days a week, offering delicious meals to satisfy your cravings. Additionally, we provide laundry and shower facilities available in one of our cottages, which can be requested for your convenience. Experience the peaceful surroundings and exceptional amenities at Lizard Creek Ranch Campground, where relaxation and adventure await.

Camper favorites near Emmetsburg

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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

1047mi from Emmetsburg · 12 sites · Lincoln , DE

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.

Bright Lake Park

30mi from Emmetsburg · 1 site · Fairmont, MN

Bright Lake Park stands out as a serene and primitive campground nestled along the shores of Bright Lake in Martin County, Minnesota, offering a unique escape into nature. This sparsely developed park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing campers to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the outdoors without the need for reservations. Visitors can select from grassy lakeside tent sites or a limited number of RV spots, most of which lack hookups, although a few may offer electricity. The campground is surrounded by gentle rolling prairie, providing a picturesque backdrop for your stay. While amenities are rustic, including picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets, a well is available for fresh water. What Bright Lake Park may lack in modern conveniences, it more than compensates for with its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Campers can enjoy fishing or launching small boats from the gravel ramp, as well as exploring informal trails on foot or horseback. Horse camping is permitted, and there’s ample open space for outdoor activities. Evenings at the park are particularly enchanting, often featuring breathtaking sunsets over the lake and clear, starry skies. With a nightly fee of just $15 for primitive sites, this campground is a favorite among budget-conscious campers and self-sufficient RVers looking to disconnect from

Cedar-Hanson Park

48mi from Emmetsburg · 1 site · Trimont, MN

Cedar Hanson Park stands out as the largest park in Martin County, Minnesota, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities right by Cedar Lake. This picturesque campground features 37 well-equipped campsites with water and 30-amp electric hookups, alongside a selection of primitive tent sites for those seeking a more rustic camping experience. Visitors can enjoy a range of facilities, including a modern bathhouse with flush toilets and hot showers, a convenient dump station, and two picnic shelters perfect for group gatherings. The park is a recreational paradise, boasting a sandy beach for swimming, multiple docks for fishing panfish and bass, and a boat ramp for easy access to the lake. Scenic lakeshore trails invite hikers to explore the area, while children can enjoy the playground and ample grassy spaces for yard games. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot deer and wild turkeys during their stay. Open from May 1 to mid-October, Cedar Hanson Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with affordable rates of around $25 per night for campsites with hookups. As evening falls, campers often gather around the large community fire ring or their individual fire pits to roast marshmallows and share stories. For families seeking a campground that combines comfort with the charm

Flying Goose Campground and Resort

40mi from Emmetsburg · 136 sites · Fairmont, MN

Discover the unique charm of Flying Goose Campground, a beloved family destination that has been cherished for over 50 years on the picturesque shores of Lake Imogene. As the third owners of this historic campground, we proudly continue the legacy established by its original farming family, ensuring that the spirit of community and fun remains at the heart of our operations. Our mission is to create a safe, enjoyable, and relaxing environment where families can create lasting memories together. We are committed to maintaining the campground's reputation for modern, clean, and well-maintained facilities. Each year, we strive to enhance the campground, making it an even more inviting place for our guests. We invite you to consider Flying Goose Campground for your next vacation. Whether you're seeking a peaceful night off the road, an adventurous weekend by the lake, or a seasonal retreat, we are confident that we can provide the perfect spot for you. With nearby attractions such as swimming holes, outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While we can’t promise perfect weather, we can guarantee a fun-filled experience that you and your family will treasure for years to come!

Lizard Creek Ranch Campground

45mi from Emmetsburg · 51 sites · Fort Dodge, IA

Discover the charm of Lizard Creek Ranch Campground, a unique retreat nestled at 1762 Johnson Ave, Fort Dodge, Iowa. Just minutes away from the bustling city, our campground offers a serene escape on well-maintained blacktop roads, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the scenic trails that lead you to Lizard Creek, where you can wade into the refreshing waters, cast a line for fishing, or simply bask in the sun. The tranquil environment is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. Our campground features 48 spacious sites, each equipped with a fire ring and full hookups to ensure a comfortable stay. For your dining needs, the Creekside Restaurant and Bar is conveniently located on the property and is open six days a week, offering delicious meals to satisfy your cravings. Additionally, we provide laundry and shower facilities available in one of our cottages, which can be requested for your convenience. Experience the peaceful surroundings and exceptional amenities at Lizard Creek Ranch Campground, where relaxation and adventure await.

Public campgrounds near Emmetsburg

Ambrose Call Campground

22mi from Emmetsburg · 1 site · in Ambrose A Call State Park

Emerson Bay Campground

30mi from Emmetsburg · 82 sites · Tents, RVs · in Emerson Bay State Recreation Area

Gull Point Campground

30mi from Emmetsburg · 112 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gull Point State Park

Marble Beach Campground

35mi from Emmetsburg · 221 sites · Tents, RVs · in Marble Beach State Recreation Area

Kilen Woods State Park Campground

47mi from Emmetsburg · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kilen Woods State Park

Stories from the community

Leo

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Charming host and quiet area. Great place to stop along your jorney and get a snapshot of the Green Giant.

J

Jenna

October 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Chelsey has a great set up and is conveniently located right near the highway and local restaurants. She was very helpful upon our arrival and ensured we had what we needed. If ever in the area again, I would definitely stay at Chelsey's farm if available.

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!

T

Tony

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Beautiful spot with large shade trees. Amazing sunrise view from property. Whimsical outhouse facility gave it a homey vibe. We were greeted by the owner’s two very friendly and sweet dogs. One sat with us while we had our coffee and just wanted some head scratching. It made us feel good since we were missing our dogs that couldn’t come with us on this trip.

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!

C

Cori

October 2025

23 ft Class B

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Chelsey’s hospitality was awesome! Loved the quaint wooded area and was able to take a run in the morning. A great start to our RV adventure- thanks again Chelsey⭐️⭐️

J

Joe

October 2025

45 ft Class A

With kids

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

A great place to stay. Close to the highway and a very nice farm and the host was great.

B

Bob

October 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Super host, cute place, convenient location. Composting toilet was fine.

Eric

October 2025

23 ft campervan

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

We really enjoyed our stay here. Chelsey was so warm and welcoming (and her pups too!). Yes there’s some road noise but it didn’t bother us a bit. Easy to find and the space was wonderful.

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

J

Jake

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

First off, the host was wonderful. Her and her family are very friendly and make you feel at home. They have two nice dogs, a few barn kitties (also friendly), a couple chickens, and a rooster. The rooster is actually quieter than most when crowing in the morning. The campsite was clean and close to the outhouse. There was a big fire pit and a nice picnic table. There was enough space for four tents (two big and two small) and an 8x8 canopy. We brought four dogs with us too and didn't have any issues. The farm was very cute and quaint. There were a couple other folks camping on the property too but lots of space between sites. We loved our stay at the farm and would come again. Keep in mind, this is not your typical camp in the woods setup - this is on a farm with more field than tree. It is beautiful in its own right and was a great way to mix up our camping experience.

Jessica

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Very private, beautiful property. The host was friendly and very hospitable— offering firewood, providing a citronella candle, and got an extra digger out for the sand box. This is a good beginner campsite — close to help, but enough privacy to enjoy your time. We had a small fire the first night, unfortunately, though we struggled to enjoy it. For some reason, the mosquitos were the worst we have ever experienced. They swarmed us even with the citronella candles and bug spray. A member of the host’s family did say that this was very unusual to have them this bad though. So, hopefully, it won’t be a hindrance to future campers, because it really is a great, convenient site— especially if you are just popping up a tent for the night and heading into town to see the green giant as we were doing. After camping at 8 different sites, this site is the one we felt most safe at too!

H

Harrison

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Good spot, cool location. Nice little bathroom for guests and would stay again!

K

Kendra

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Perfect overnight stop, super accommodating to our last minute booking and made sure we got settled on arrival! Would definitely recommend if in the area

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!

R

Reese

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Awesome place to stay! Chelsey was super friendly and helpful! Highly recommend!

T

Tom

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Picture perfect farm. Wish I could've stayed longer. Property is large, gorgeous and plenty of things for my dog to check out and sniff. The outhouse was amazing and much welcomed after a couple days on the road. If I am anywhere close in the future this will be my must stay.

J

John

July 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Happy Camping Snapshot Farm

Friendly owner, friendly pups, convenient pastoral location

C

Christine

July 2025

Tent