The best campgrounds near Fairfield, Iowa with fishing

Fairfield fishing fans have over 650 campsite options geared for casting a line, with nightly rates starting at $40 and an average of $50. You’ll find sites set along ponds, creeks, and rivers—prime territory for anglers who want to drop a hook at sunrise. Many spots welcome pets, allow campfires, and offer toilets, making it easy to relax between fishing sessions. For a local favorite, check out Folk School Farm Stay (226 reviews), or try the unique tipi setup at Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp (62 reviews). If riverside casting is your style, River Camp (37 reviews) puts you right by the water. Besides fishing, you’ll run into folks hiking, watching wildlife, or even gearing up for snow sports when the season’s right.

100% (351)

Top-rated campgrounds

Fairfield fishing fans have over 650 campsite options geared for casting a line, with nightly rates starting at $40 and an average of $50. You’ll find sites set along ponds, creeks, and rivers—prime territory for anglers who want to drop a hook at sunrise. Many spots welcome pets, allow campfires, and offer toilets, making it easy to relax between fishing sessions. For a local favorite, check out Folk School Farm Stay (226 reviews), or try the unique tipi setup at Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp (62 reviews). If riverside casting is your style, River Camp (37 reviews) puts you right by the water. Besides fishing, you’ll run into folks hiking, watching wildlife, or even gearing up for snow sports when the season’s right.

100% (351)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Folk School Farm Stay

99%

(282)

44mi from Fairfield · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oxford, IA

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.

2. River Camp

99%

(45)

48mi from Fairfield · 3 sites · RVs · Iowa City, IA

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.

3. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

99%

(85)

46mi from Fairfield · 2 sites · Lodging · Williamsburg, IA

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. 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.

4. Lake Darling State Park

85 sites · Pleasant Plain, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Darling State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

5. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

82 sites · Keosauqua, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lacey-Keosauqua State Park.

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Potable water

Toilets

6. Whitetail Tent Camping

100%

(10)

21mi from Fairfield · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Keosauqua, IA

Camping, (Fishinfg 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.

7. Crossroads RV Park

23mi from Fairfield · 11 sites · Mount Pleasant, IA

Nestled at the intersection of two major highways in Southeast Iowa, our family-owned RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience and charm that sets it apart from the rest. With easy access to local attractions and natural wonders, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Spanning a generous acreage, our park provides ample space for relaxation and privacy, ensuring a peaceful retreat for all our guests. Enjoy the serene surroundings while taking advantage of our special amenities, which include well-maintained facilities and recreational areas designed for family fun. Nearby, you'll find a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking trails to swimming holes, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Additionally, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, allowing you to explore the vibrant community while enjoying your stay. Come experience the warmth of our family-run RV Park, where unforgettable memories await!

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8. Battle of Athens State Historic Site

29 sites · Missouri

Explore Civil War history and riverfront landscapes at this park in northeastern Missouri.

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Potable water

Toilets

9. Geode State Park

100%

(1)

168 sites · Danville, Iowa

Discover Geode State Park's serene lake and lush trails.

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Potable water

Toilets

10. Lake Wapello State Park

100%

(1)

93 sites · Unionville, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Wapello State Park.

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Potable water

Toilets

11. Lake Keomah State Park

61 sites · Keomah Village, Iowa

Discover the charm of Lake Keomah State Park with its serene lake and lush trails.

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Potable water

Toilets

12. Nauvoo State Park

100%

(2)

30 sites · Nauvoo, Illinois

Situated peacefully on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, historic Nauvoo State Park has nature lovin’ folk jumping for joy at the sight of an expansive lake and sandy, mile-long shoreline. Take in some of the best views the park has to offer on the Locust Lane Trail. A 1.5-mile loop, the path winds around the lake, through the woods, and over prairie flower dotted hillsides. The campsites are many and the accommodations are vast. From spacious, individual sites, to a youth group area, all are centrally located and hook you up with VIP access to all adventurin’ possibilities.

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Toilets

Campfires

13. Rathbun Lake

100%

(1)

391 sites · Rathbun, Iowa

Discover Rathbun Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers.

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Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Fairfield

Lake Darling Campground

13mi from Fairfield · 85 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Darling State Park

Lacey-Keosauqua Campground

20mi from Fairfield · 82 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

Battle of Athens State Historic Site Campground

32mi from Fairfield · 29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Battle of Athens State Historic Site

100%

(1)

Geode Campground

33mi from Fairfield · 168 sites · Tents, RVs · in Geode State Park

100%

(1)

Lake Wapello Campground

35mi from Fairfield · 93 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Wapello State Park

Lake Keomah Campground

36mi from Fairfield · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Keomah State Park

100%

(2)

Nauvoo Campground

44mi from Fairfield · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nauvoo State Park

Buck Creek Campground

48mi from Fairfield · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

100%

(1)

Prairie Ridge Park Campground

49mi from Fairfield · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Stories from the community

K

Kelly

October 2025

34 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Camp

If you are looking for a quiet spot this is the place. Plenty of wildlife to see deer bald eagles.

M

Michelle

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at River Camp

This is the perfect spot for people who love fishing, the Hawkeyes, or have family in Iowa City. Full hook-ups and a quiet spot. Loren is easy to work with and very accommodating.

K

Katherine

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Folk School Farm Stay

Anna was very friendly and very flexible! She offered multiple spots for us to stay on the property. The bathrooms and kitchen were clean and fit our needs!

Michelle

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

Maria was a great host and we had a great time. They have everything you could need there and it’s great for kids too. Our kids loved the canoe and sand toys. They even brought us some homemade wine that was fantastic!

N

Nehemiah

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

It’s perfect. Clear view for the sunset & sunrise. The teepee was unexpectedly comfortable, being able light up the fire pit in the inside was a 10. It was 45 degrees last night and we slept like new born babies. Trails cut out to enjoy the colors and the life that the their prairie brings to the land. Great hospitality, I even got the chance to enjoy the taste of delicious fruit and drinks produced from the land.. if this place don’t Bless your camping needs, you’re not a camper. If I keep giving details it might seem too good to be true, I advise you to check it out. Overall it was a pleaser to meet them and enjoy this wonderful idea for us to enjoy nature and the peace that comes with it.. We will be back for sure.

J

Jack

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

We had a great time. The hosts were friendly and shared some homemade wine and vegetables from their garden. The property was very well kept and all the amenities made it a very convenient and relaxing camp. Loved staying in the tipi and being able to take a hot outdoor shower. Can’t wait to come back.

C

Chad

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Folk School Farm Stay

The work restorative work Anna is doing to her land is inspiring, particularly the wetlands around the pond--gorgeous! Recommend the farm tour option.

Jeremy

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

I've stayed at walking stick adventures multiple times. It's a private single camp site in a quite rural area. The hosts and campsite provide everything needed for a comfortable stay. Just bring your own bedding and food. Maria and ken are always pleasant and quickly reapond to anything that comes up. The pond and trails are enough to wear out the kids and dogs. This is my family's favorite place to camp.

peter

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Folk School Farm Stay

This is one of my favorite HIPCAMP places to stay. Anna and Dave are wonderful hosts, and have multiple options for where I can place my car/tent. This last visit I stayed in a lovely stand of trees full of quite the assortment of sounds. Before that I was close to the hilarious sheep on property. I picked up some of Anna's Elderberry glaze that she makes- that too was wonderful.

J

Jager

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Whitetail Tent Camping

Me and my wife really enjoyed our stay at whitetail tent camping. It was a cool setup right next to a beautiful pond and nice and secluded from everything.

Cassie

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

We had such a beautifully relaxing stay—truly one of the best camping experiences we’ve had as a family. Our hosts have literally thought of everything to make it comfortable, peaceful, and easy to enjoy. It’s clear they care deeply about creating a welcoming space, and it shows in all the thoughtful details. The site is super kid-friendly! Our daughter loved playing in the sand, swinging in the hammock, and just exploring the outdoors. We were able to slow down, be present, and really enjoy each other’s company. The weather was perfect during our visit, and our dog had the time of her life swimming in the pond and canoeing right along with us. It was such a joy to watch her have fun too. One of the sweetest touches was the hosts sharing some of their homemade wine—it was absolutely delicious and such a generous, personal gesture that made the experience feel even more special. We left feeling refreshed, reconnected, and full of gratitude. Highly recommend for anyone looking to unplug and make meaningful memories in a truly thoughtful and peaceful setting

c

charlie

July 2025

10 ft pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at Folk School Farm Stay

This is absolutely our favorite place to stay on our drive across the country. There is truly something magical and nourishing about the land and the curating they have done to the farm. We always wish we could stay longer.

J

Jade

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Folk School Farm Stay

Anna is such a lovely human I am grateful to have had beautiful conversations with her. She hosts magical lands with firefly’s lighting up the sky at night. It was so peaceful and truly a beautiful space. The kitchen lounge area is stunning and the showers and bathrooms are clean. Highly recommend this beautiful land and beautiful people that govern it. Thank you Anna 🤎

E

Ed

June 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Folk School Farm Stay

Beautiful location, extremely friendly and accommodating host. We stayed the large cabin which had a bathroom and kitchenette. The was also a larger shared kitchen area we used and lounged in. Everyone was comfortable and rested when we left

Ilse

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Folk School Farm Stay

The farm is a beautiful place to visit. I love the mix of camping types, allowing use both tent and cabins. The conservation areas are beautiful and Anna is a wonderful host. The Farm tour is definitely worth the price as an add on!

T

Tina

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Folk School Farm Stay

It was pleasant and relaxing. Check in was straightforward. The bathroom/shower facilities were excellent.

M

Michael

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Whitetail Tent Camping

Charles was an awesome host! Helped load up my gear! Gave me some fishing recommendations. Great spot! Super quiet. Great pond to fish in and some pretty cool albino channel cats! Very great experience! Will definitely be coming back!

J

Jacob

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Whitetail Tent Camping

Super nice and really helpful really cool area super cool fish

B

Barritt

May 2025