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94% (561) • 995 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Glidden
Tent camping on the Raccoon River
1. Tent camping on the Raccoon River
99%
(76)
12mi from Glidden · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come relax at Rainbow Raccoon Ranch on the Raccoon River. The river offers floating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The nearby Rainbow Bend park and other local conservation areas offer hiking opportunities. As a working ranch, we have friendly Scottish Highland cattle onsite for great photos and selfies.
NEW in 2026! We're listed in Hipcamp's 2026 Top 50 Favorite Places to Camp! Check us out!!
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
2. Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
98%
(220)
37mi from Glidden · 13 sites
Our retirement dream is to share our beautiful property with people who love the outdoors. We started with our rustic tent sites and slowly added cabins. We go from primitive to sites with heat and air conditioning. We are not far from the Interstate but sure seems like we are as you travel the 4.6 miles of gravel road to step back in time.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Burkhart Farm
3. Burkhart Farm
99%
(45)
41mi from Glidden · 5 sites
We live in the country on a working grain farm (corn and soybeans).
It can get noisy and dusty during harvest and grain hauling operations.
You could wake up to deer eating grain around the bins. In the evenings,
you can look down to the East by tree line for deer and turkey.
We can handle any size RV.
Please pick up after your dogs. We have guest children that play in yard.
All spots are level.
All electric sites are 30/50 and are for year-round use.
We have 9 sites with electric and city water.
3 sites are gravel.
4 sites are grass.
2 are concrete.
We also have a large primitive camping area west of the grain bins in open yard (no electric or water).
Rv parking is available on grass when ground is hard or on the concrete and gravel driveway when soft.
We have one picnic table for campers’ use.
There is a trail we keep mowed North East of the hay barn alongside the crops, which is great for walking/dog run.
Gray water may be dumped in the farm field; the crops love it.
Sorry, we can no longer recommend black water dump stations as the local campgrounds are refusing non-customer use.
Whistling Donkey in Woodward has a dump station; you can call them and ask if you can use it (515) 438-2669.
You can be as private or engaged with us as you feel.
Dumpster is by machine shed.
There are 30+ local TV channels (no cable available).
Open southern skies for satellite use.
The lights automatically turn off at 10 PM. Fire pit is available for your use. Firewood is available East of the barn. Fire Pit light dims down to 15% after 10 PM. Yard lights also come on for one minute at Noon every day. Stargazing really pops at night on a clear night. You are welcome to turn lights back on and continue outdoor activities and use fire pit as long as you do not disturb other campers.
Mouse and weather vane lights stay on all night for your convenience.
Please do not put trash in fire pit. (I have to clean it out)
We would prefer if guests arrive before dark; we like to settle down for the evening.
WIFI is 250 Mbps depending on number of users.
WIFI is Farm. Password is farmfarm (no caps)
(Farm is 4 Miles North of Woodward). 1140 300th St Woodward Iowa
Caution; Google maps has a tendency to have you take extra gravel roads. Follow the instructions below to stay on paved roads untill last 1/3 mile.
From Woodward: Head to North end of town turn left to the West onto North 3rd St. Go 1/4 mile turn right at T intersection to the North onto R18 for two miles. At stop sign turn left to the West on R18. (stay on R18 do not go straight North onto the gravel) in 1 mile turn right to the North still on R18 for 3 miles turn right to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile. Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot.
From Ames: Head West on highway 30 to Highway 17 go South for 5 miles to Luther turn right on E57 to the West for 7 miles. At stop sign turn left to the South on R18 for 3 miles turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile. Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot.
From Ogden: Head South on Highway 169 for 5 miles to E57 turn left to the East for 4 miles. At stop sign turn right to the South on to R18 for 3 miles. Turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile. Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot.
From East bound Interstate 80 Turn at exit 110 (Adel / Winterset) onto Highway 169 and go north 29 miles to E57. (Google maps has a tendency to have you turn onto 300 street which is an extra 4 miles of gravel road go North to E57) Turn right to the East for 4 miles. At stop sign turn right to the South on R18 for 3 miles. Turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile. Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot.
From Des Moines take 141 to the North to Woodward (From Woodward see above).
For questions about the route look at our host site at the photo map.
Local Hospital
Perry IA ---------------------515 465-3547
Boone IA--------------------515 432-3140
Local gas station:
Casey’s General Store (gas, pizza, sub sandwiches, and groceries).
Madrid (9 miles away) is the closest diesel fuel.
Restaurants in Woodward:
Cayennes Café
Whistling Donkey Sports Bar and Grill
Laundry:
Uptown Laundry, 115 S Main St., Woodward
Groceries:
A J’s Grocery Store
Picket Fence Creamery
Banks:
E-Bank, ATM 217 S Main St., Woodward
Local Attractions:
Picket Fence Creamery
Woodward High Trestle Bridge & BikeTrail
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Black Hawk State Park
4. Black Hawk State Park
State park 22mi from Glidden · 128 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Black Hawk State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Springbrook State Park
5. Springbrook State Park
State park 24mi from Glidden · 111 sites
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rolling Acres Farm
6. Rolling Acres Farm
100%
(16)
43mi from Glidden · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Rolling Acres Farm is a 17-acre oasis and sanctuary in a sea of corn and soybeans. Larry grew up on this land, which we now steward. The farm has been managed using organic practices for over 50 years and provides habitat for birds, mammals, and bees.
We're conveniently located just 1.5 miles off Interstate 80, making us an easy stop for travelers.
The campsites are on flat, grassy ground with 110-volt electrical hookups and a water hydrant supplied by our private well. Because our farm has been organically certified, our 160-foot-deep well has been tested for E. coli and nitrates for the past 20 years. Our water is very safe, though it is high in iron. The campsites are located in an area where we once grew vegetables, near an old orchard and the pastures where we graze sheep. We also offer spaces in our large farmyard.
Elk Horn, a charming Danish village, is just up the road and home to the Museum of Danish America and Thomas Dambo's Troll Fjord Faerge.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Waypoint
7. The Waypoint
98%
(67)
46mi from Glidden · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
A camping destination located near the confluence of I80 and I35. Please note this location is a working farm with livestock guardian dogs and cattle. You may hear and see these animals should you stay at The Waypoint.
18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vehicles and so much space for the community.
If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.
The Waypoint is a wanderer’s respite in central Iowa, 18 acres of land celebrating Iowa’s natural and agricultural beauty. Wide open spaces, a peaceful quarry pond — a perfect place to recharge before you continue on your journey.
The Waypoint is located just five minutes off the interstate but is perfectly peaceful. Head to the town of Earlham to fuel up, grab some provisions and enjoy local coffee.
Note from owners:
This is our home and a working farm. We welcome you to stay and we hope you find it as comfortable and beautiful as we do. We do not offer an RV Park experience, we do not have hook-ups for water or power. If you bring a large rig, you may have to navigate trees and plants that surround our private lane and some camping spots are in tree surrounded areas. Please do not book here if that makes you uncomfortable. Thank you for your consideration!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
8. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
95%
(508)
50mi from Glidden · 55 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property has a year round running creek called Bear Creek. They also mined the stone off the property for the State Capital in Des Moines, Iowa. Abundant wildlife and
mature beautiful trees. Hiking trails, playground equipment, dog park, shelterhouse, showerhouse/restrooms, community fire pit, all sites have fire pits and picnic tables, laundry area, rec room, and welcoming staff!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Firefly Creek Ranch
9. Firefly Creek Ranch
92%
(13)
31mi from Glidden
Our property was once the County Home until it was closed due to regulatory changes to the mental health industry. The property sat vacant for 2 years as a deficit for the county and its taxpayers. We had a plan to breathe new life into this property by re-opening as a non-profit Art, Community, and Retreat Center. We are in the heart of the rolling hills surrounding Guthrie Center & Lake Panorama. It is simply an amazing place. Please come and see what makes this experience unique. Learn more about this land:Peaceful farm setting in the rolling hills of Guthrie County, Iowa. Outdoor rustic camping and indoor simple Bed & Breakfast rooms. 10 Rustic Campsites or 1 with water and electric hook-ups for additional $5 night. Self contained campers welcome. Ask about our Gathering & Retreat Center with 8 indoor overnight accommodations available. Sleeps 8-15.
Dolliver Memorial State Park
10. Dolliver Memorial State Park
State park 40mi from Glidden · 24 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Dolliver Memorial State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Prairie Rose State Park
11. Prairie Rose State Park
State park 40mi from Glidden · 95 sites
Discover Prairie Rose State Park's serene landscapes and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ledges State Park
12. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
State park 43mi from Glidden · 94 sites
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Anita State Park
13. Lake Anita State Park
100%
(2)
State park 44mi from Glidden · 160 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Anita State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Vines of Grace LLC
14. Vines of Grace LLC
93%
(7)
7.3mi from Glidden · 1 site · Tent, RV
Picturesque vineyard located by Saint Mary's Catholic Church and Willey Ballpark & Playground. The vineyard is equipped with a private 30-amp hookup and city water. The views are truly astonishing with an open view of the sunrise. At night you will see the Milkyway with no light pollution given our geographical location in Willey, Iowa. The property has walking paths around the vineyard and plenty of open space to run free.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Chasing Nirvana Retreat
15. Chasing Nirvana Retreat
40mi from Glidden · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Chasing Nirvana Retreat - a peaceful 40-acre escape in the heart of rural Iowa, designed for campers, RV travelers, and van-lifers seeking space, quiet, and open skies.
Our land offers multiple private sites suitable for tent camping and RVs, along with our thoughtfully converted Sprinter van stay, Chasing Nirvana, for guests looking for a glamping experience. Whether you arrive with a tent, an RV, or just a sense of adventure, you’ll find room to spread out and truly unplug.
Each site is surrounded by wide-open prairie, offering stunning sunrises, star-filled nights, and the kind of stillness that makes time slow down. Guests are free to explore the acreage, relax by their campsite, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of nature.
This retreat is ideal for:
-Tent campers looking for space and privacy
-RV travelers seeking a quiet overnight or multi-day stay
-Van-lifers and road trippers craving a unique rural stop
-Couples, families, furry friends, and solo travelers who love the outdoors
If you’re chasing rest, simplicity, fresh air, and Nirvana- you’ve found your spot!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Riverside Park Campground
16. Riverside Park Campground
13mi from Glidden
Riverside Park Campground stands out for its stunning natural beauty and proximity to the serene Middle Raccoon River, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features miles of scenic trails that meander alongside the river, perfect for hiking and exploring. During the summer months, kayaking and canoeing are popular activities, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil waters.
The campground operates on a self-registration basis and is available on a first-come, first-served model. Campers must register upon arrival and display their camping receipt at their designated site. With 20 electric sites equipped with individual electric and water connections, RV campers will find comfort and convenience. Tent camping options are also available for those seeking a more rustic experience.
Additional amenities include a shower house and a dump station, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors. Please note that the Carroll County Conservation Board campgrounds do not accept reservations, so plan your visit accordingly. Enjoy the natural wonders and outdoor activities that Riverside Park has to offer!
Spring Lake County Park
17. Spring Lake County Park
18mi from Glidden
Experience the charm of Spring Lake Park in Jefferson, a unique destination that combines natural beauty with a wealth of outdoor activities. Spanning 240 acres, this park features a stunning 50-acre lake surrounded by well-maintained campsites, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
With 120 electrical campsites and two convenient shower houses, Spring Lake Park caters to all your camping needs. The lake's shoreline is nearly level with the water, providing easy access for campers, fishermen, and anyone looking to enjoy the serene waterside atmosphere. A concessionaire on-site offers roller skating, boat rentals, and a selection of food and beverages, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a fun-filled day.
The park's wooded areas, covering 120 acres, serve as a habitat for diverse wildlife, including deer, turkeys, small mammals, and various bird species. For those who enjoy staying active, Spring Lake Park boasts over two miles of asphalt roads perfect for biking, jogging, and walking. Additionally, several hiking trails wind through the wooded sections, inviting exploration and adventure.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed day outdoors, Spring Lake Park in Jefferson is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone.
Squirrel Hollow County Park
18. Squirrel Hollow County Park
18mi from Glidden
Squirrel Hollow Park stands out as a unique destination in Iowa, being the second oldest county park in the state, established in 1934. Spanning 56 acres, this picturesque park is flanked on two sides by a 147-acre wildlife management area, providing visitors with a serene and natural environment.
The park features stunning structures crafted from fieldstone by Civil Works Administration crews during the mid-1930s. At the heart of Squirrel Hollow Park is a charming shelter house perched on a bluff, offering breathtaking views of the North Raccoon River and the surrounding river valley.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy at Squirrel Hollow Park, which offers a variety of activities including camping, river fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. For those looking to explore the waterways, the Henderson Park boat ramp is conveniently located just 8.1 miles upstream, while the Adkins Bridge boat ramp is a short 3.8 miles downstream. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Squirrel Hollow Park is an ideal spot to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.
Great Western County Park
19. Great Western County Park
20mi from Glidden
Great Western Park stands out as a unique destination on the southwestern edge of Manning, IA, thanks to its diverse range of recreational opportunities and natural beauty. Managed by the Carroll County Conservation Board, this park is continually evolving, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
The centerpiece of the park is a stunning 12-acre lake, reaching depths of 14 feet, which is perfect for fishing and boating. A convenient boat ramp allows easy access for watercraft, enhancing your experience on the water. The park also features a well-equipped shelter house, modern restrooms, and a shower house, ensuring comfort during your visit.
Families will appreciate the playground, while walking trails provide a serene environment for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes. For those interested in shooting sports, the park includes a designated shooting range. Additionally, the campground offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature.
With its combination of amenities and natural attractions, Great Western Park is a must-visit location for anyone seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation in Manning, IA.
Camp Crescent
20. Camp Crescent
23mi from Glidden
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Black Hawk Lake, Camp Crescent stands out as a premier destination for family camping in Iowa, offering a serene escape into nature. Our campground is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. From fishing and boating to swimming and hiking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the scenic beauty of Lake View and Black Hawk Lake, where adventure awaits at every turn.
Planning your visit is simple with our user-friendly online reservation system. Conveniently located off Highway 71 and Highway 175 in northwestern Iowa, Camp Crescent provides a tranquil atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the Interstate. Owned by the City of Lake View, our family-friendly campground operates from April 15 to October 1 each year. We offer competitive daily rates, and if you stay for six nights, the seventh night is complimentary from April to September!
At Camp Crescent, guests can easily access four local boat ramps to launch canoes, motorboats, fishing boats, and paddle boats into Black Hawk Lake. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines for walleye, crappies, bullheads, catfish, bass, and bluegill, or participate in our exciting August Carp Fishing Contest. For those who enjoy hiking and biking,
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
N
Nicole
2 weeks ago
45 ft travel trailer
With pets
We have loved staying at the Burkhart farm, a few different times!
This time we had a different view and area and it was honestly sooo wonderful! So private.
We love staying here when we’re wanting to be closer to town.
And love the local restaurant and ice cream shop down the road. We’ve even had fun exploring the high trestle trail.
Being a skip to Boone, made it convenient for laundry and work things. :)
And as always the mark and Donna were just wonderful!
Definitely will be back!
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M
Mich
2 weeks ago
35 ft travel trailer
The hosts were great. We enjoyed learning about their fifth generation farm that surrounded us. The view and sunrise were fantastic. Electricity and water were easily accessed and the site was level. You will have to ask Mark about the Iowa song.
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Jim
2 weeks ago
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very quiet, peaceful, and very friendly hosts. We would definitely come back again.
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A
Amy
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
We loved the cabins and the land. It is a beautiful place to recharge from the city and spend quiet time with your people. We will be frequent flyers, can't wait to go back.
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M
Melissa
3 weeks ago
24 ft campervan
We had a wonderful night at the farm! Denise was very communicative before our stay and Larry was so kind to check in and ask if there’s anything we needed. There’s a clean outdoor bathroom available and Larry gathered some firewood for us. Recommended!
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Jeff
3 weeks ago
18 ft truck camper
I was needing a place to rest and Rolling Acres Farm was right along my route. I told Denise when I would be arriving and they responded very quickly. The farm is less than five minutes from the highway, but you feel completely secluded. Follow the driving path all the way back to the big greenhouse and you have the whole place to yourself- except for the sheep lol!
Larry greeted me almost immediately and answered all my questions. I made dinner and turned off all my lights to take in the amazing night sky. So peaceful and quiet. Will return!
See moreC
Caylan-Santos
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Plenty of space, private, and really nice hosts.
The back field has cool stuff to explore
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S
Stellan
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful property and view/access to the river! The animals made it even more special and unique. Would stay again if we roll through this area, probably with a fly swatter next time lol!
See moreS
Shannon
August 2026
18 ft travel trailer
Greeted us and showed us around. Gorgeous sky full of stars
See moreJ
Jeff
August 2026
22 ft campervan
Easy, convenient to town. We came in to ride parts of the High Trestle Trail and this was a great location.
See moreB
Bethany
August 2026
With kids
Very nice people, the cabins were very clean and the grounds were very beautiful and maintained. Very much recommend to stay here.
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T
Tom
August 2026
Tent
Fantastic spot, good fishing and wonderful highland hosts. The people are nice too.
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H
Hayley
August 2026
Tent
Awesome place to camp for the night. Clean showers and lots of sites with shade.
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n
nancy
August 2026
10 ft travel trailer
Perfect night! The animals, trails, and river were amazing.
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P
Paul
August 2026
Tent
We were apprehensive about what we'd find for camping in the middle of Iowa, but Denise and Larry set a phenomenal tone for our trip. It was a nice peaceful place to set up, especially for the low price, but there are some things that you simply can't put a price on. Bella, their angel of a Golden Retriever, stayed with us for the whole evening, and slept next to our tent at night, keeping us safe. The cats, Pepper and Juliet, were also so friendly and happy we were there. But most importantly, Larry and Denise are some amazing people that it was a genuine pleasure to meet. They've made a beautiful life through their work and their cultivation of a multigenerational farm, and the experience of meeting them will stick with us for a long time. Cannot recommend enough.
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C
Carla
August 2026
Tent
Shady Brooks was a fantastic little spot for a camping trip! It's conveniently located, not too far from Saint Charles or Des Moines, making it an easy weekend getaway.
Dave has done an incredible job taking care of the property-everything was spotless and beautifully maintained. One thing I really appreciated was the saying, "Make sure your campsite is cleaner than the day you set up." It's clear everyone takes pride in keeping the campground beautiful, and we were happy to do the same.
One tip for anyone camping here in the summer: don't underestimate the nighttime temperatures! We packed pretty light and were surprised when it dropped to around 64°F overnight. Definitely bring a sweatshirt or an extra blanket just in case.
Overall, we had a wonderful stay and would absolutely come back. Highly recommend Shady Brooks if you're looking for a peaceful, well-maintained campground!
See moreM
Morgan
August 2026
Tent
With pets
Easy to find, good communications, and a nice campsite. Highly recommended!
See moreC
Charles
August 2026
35 ft Class A
With pets
The host greeted me upon arrival as stated in the welcome message. I was directed to a location beside a grain bin with a view of a bean field.
It was quiet and serene, peaceful and it was just what I needed.
There is power water and trash bin on site.
Took my dog for a walk along the county road, we only can across one car and it was the host.
I will definitely stay here again should we be passing this way.
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MICHAEL
August 2026
3 nights at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
This place gets better every year. Great hiking and exploring around. All the cabins are awesome. We come visit every year, and it is absolute tops. I miss it already.
See moreH
Heather
July 2026
14 ft rooftop tent
Denise was a great communicator before and during our visit. Loved chatting with her and Larry- such sweet people! Bella their dog was so sweet as she greeted us upon arrival and then stayed close by most of our visit! Several cats roamed around too!
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