- /
- Camping with Wildlife watching
The best camping near Fairfield with wildlife watching
100% (367) • 14 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fairfield
Whitetail Tent Camping
1. Whitetail Tent Camping
100%
(11)
21mi from Fairfield · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Folk School Farm Stay
2. Folk School Farm Stay
99%
(282)
44mi from Fairfield · 10 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
from
$40
/ night
Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
3. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
99%
(85)
46mi from Fairfield · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$105
/ night
Lake Darling State Park
4. Lake Darling State Park
State park 13mi from Fairfield · 85 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Darling State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Lacey-Keosauqua State Park
5. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park
State park 20mi from Fairfield · 82 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lacey-Keosauqua State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Blueberry Farm on a Hill
6. Blueberry Farm on a Hill
100%
(19)
47mi from Fairfield · 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
from
$45
/ night
River Camp
7. River Camp
99%
(45)
48mi from Fairfield · 3 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
from
$51
/ night
Crossroads RV Park
8. Crossroads RV Park
23mi from Fairfield · 11 sites
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!
Geode State Park
9. Geode State Park
100%
(1)
State park 33mi from Fairfield · 168 sites
Discover Geode State Park's serene lake and lush trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Wapello State Park
10. Lake Wapello State Park
100%
(1)
State park 35mi from Fairfield · 93 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Wapello State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Lake Keomah State Park
11. Lake Keomah State Park
State park 36mi from Fairfield · 61 sites
Discover the charm of Lake Keomah State Park with its serene lake and lush trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rathbun Lake
12. Rathbun Lake
100%
(1)
Park 52mi from Fairfield · 391 sites
Discover Rathbun Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
100% (367) • 14 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fairfield
Whitetail Tent Camping
1. Whitetail Tent Camping
100%
(11)
21mi from Fairfield · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Folk School Farm Stay
2. Folk School Farm Stay
99%
(282)
44mi from Fairfield · 10 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
from
$40
/ night
Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
3. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
99%
(85)
46mi from Fairfield · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$105
/ night
Lake Darling State Park
4. Lake Darling State Park
State park 13mi from Fairfield · 85 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Darling State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Lacey-Keosauqua State Park
5. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park
State park 20mi from Fairfield · 82 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lacey-Keosauqua State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Blueberry Farm on a Hill
6. Blueberry Farm on a Hill
100%
(19)
47mi from Fairfield · 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
from
$45
/ night
River Camp
7. River Camp
99%
(45)
48mi from Fairfield · 3 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
from
$51
/ night
Crossroads RV Park
8. Crossroads RV Park
23mi from Fairfield · 11 sites
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!
Geode State Park
9. Geode State Park
100%
(1)
State park 33mi from Fairfield · 168 sites
Discover Geode State Park's serene lake and lush trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Wapello State Park
10. Lake Wapello State Park
100%
(1)
State park 35mi from Fairfield · 93 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Wapello State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Lake Keomah State Park
11. Lake Keomah State Park
State park 36mi from Fairfield · 61 sites
Discover the charm of Lake Keomah State Park with its serene lake and lush trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rathbun Lake
12. Rathbun Lake
100%
(1)
Park 52mi from Fairfield · 391 sites
Discover Rathbun Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Kelly
October 2025
34 ft travel trailer
With pets
If you are looking for a quiet spot this is the place. Plenty of wildlife to see deer bald eagles.
See moreM
Michelle
October 2025
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
See more
K
Kael
September 2025
Tent
The place was gorgeous and the weather was fantastic when we went. I highly recommend staying if you’re in the area.
See more
K
Katherine
September 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
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!
See more
Michelle
September 2025
With kids
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!
See more
N
Nehemiah
September 2025
With pets
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.
See more
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.
See moreC
Chad
August 2025
16 ft car
The work restorative work Anna is doing to her land is inspiring, particularly the wetlands around the pond--gorgeous!
Recommend the farm tour option.
See more
Jeremy
August 2025
With pets
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.
See more
peter
August 2025
Tent
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.
See more
J
Jager
August 2025
Tent
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.
See more
Cassie
August 2025
With pets
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
See more
Candace
July 2025
Tent
Great spot!! The llamas were super fun!! The Host Jenna and Eric were great people! Very friendly and accommodating! Would stop in again!! I highly recommend!
See more
D
Dan
July 2025
Tent
Spent my last night at Jenna & Eric’s place on my way back home from travelling out West.
The camping spot was private and quiet, surrounded by beautiful oak trees. I would highly recommend getting blueberries during your stay as they were delicious.
If I was ever out their way I would definitely stay there again!
See morec
charlie
July 2025
10 ft pop-up camper
With pets
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.
See moreJ
Jade
June 2025
Tent
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 🤎
See more
E
Ed
June 2025
Tent
With kids
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
See more
Ilse
June 2025
Tent
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!
See moreT
Tina
June 2025
Tent
It was pleasant and relaxing. Check in was straightforward. The bathroom/shower facilities were excellent.
See moreM
Michael
May 2025
Tent
Group trip
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!
See more
