The best campgrounds near Grinnell, Iowa with wifi provided

If you’re camping in Grinnell and need wifi, you’re in luck—over 40 campsites here keep you connected while you’re off the grid. Prices start at just $15 a night, with an average around $54. Expect reliable basics: toilets, pet-friendly rules, and spots where campfires are allowed. You’ll find places to swim, watch wildlife, or hit the hiking trails. Local favorites include Folk School Farm Stay (226 reviews), Bend River Farms (136 reviews), and Trail-Side Rural Retreat (7 reviews)—each with their own quirks and loyal campers. You’ll find sites tucked along rivers and open fields, perfect for a mix of screen time and stargazing.

100% (423)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you’re camping in Grinnell and need wifi, you’re in luck—over 40 campsites here keep you connected while you’re off the grid. Prices start at just $15 a night, with an average around $54. Expect reliable basics: toilets, pet-friendly rules, and spots where campfires are allowed. You’ll find places to swim, watch wildlife, or hit the hiking trails. Local favorites include Folk School Farm Stay (226 reviews), Bend River Farms (136 reviews), and Trail-Side Rural Retreat (7 reviews)—each with their own quirks and loyal campers. You’ll find sites tucked along rivers and open fields, perfect for a mix of screen time and stargazing.

100% (423)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bend River Farms

99%

(189)

35mi from Grinnell · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Runnells, IA

Bend River Farms is just a short drive from Interstate 80/35. The farm is nestled in the gently rolling hills of central Iowa. Little Camp Creek flows through the property and continues on towards the mighty Des Moines river. Cool woodland meadows provide a comforting back drop to your tent site or glamping experience. All our sites come with complimentary firewood, we offer reduced prices during the summer and a 15% discount on weekday bookings. Our property offers private restrooms, showers, complimentary towels and firewood, 24/7 laundry room, Wi-Fi, a dish washing station, play area with jungle gym, hiking trails, hands on farm animal activities, a communal outdoor dinning area and a saltwater hot tub await your arrival! Bend River Farms was a former junk yard that has now been transformed into a cottage core dream. The farm is operated much like family farms of the 1920's. The focus is on small scale, multi system agriculture, we have fresh eggs, produce and honey for sale. Bend River Farms is not a resort or public camp ground. It is a place to enjoy wild spaces and recharge. Agri-tourism at it's best. Learn about native prairie restoration, regenerative agriculture and sustainable ranching from owners, Amy Buckendahl and Dave Breese. Please understand that our property is a working farm, and our staff are often busy working on projects and have full careers, outside of farming. We do not have the same amenities as a public campground or "all inclusive" camp resort. Instead, we offer your wandering heart a place to rest. All travel to the farm is on paved roads, with no confusing dirt roads to navigate. The property is located near the small community of Runnells, Iowa in rural Camp Township. Enjoy a cold beer or hot food at one of the two local taverns, or check out the local ice cream shop or our local farmer's market on Tuesday evenings during the summer. Don't worry if you forget something! We have a nearby gas station and a general store. Don't forget, we have smores kits, farm fresh honey and eggs available for purchase, check out the EXTRAS option during checkout! Amy, our own resident biologist, will give you an opportunity to learn about livestock husbandry and the local wildlife. The farms orchard boasts several wild bird feeding stations, with edible landscaping! A stay on our farm will provide you with an opportunity to learn about Land Management in an agricultural setting. Learn about carpentry and welding from a master fabricator, or book an adventure to learn about gardening, poultry care, horsemanship, beekeeping and even falconry! These are also available in the EXTRAS option during checkout. Fancy a fireside meal or homestyle dinner? Dave is a trained chef and loves to cook for our guests. Select a meal during checkout. Off-site, but nearby opportunities: miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, kayaking and fishing. The Iowa State Fair Grounds and Adventureland Waterpark is only 20 minutes away, along with big city fine dining, music and art museums are all less than a thirty miles drive; when you need a break from camping and nature. Fee based transportation is available for guests flying in or needing a break from driving, or whenever you need a quick trip into town. Our philosophy: "Here at Bend River Farms we are passionate about regenerative agriculture. We strive to push ourselves and our partners to think of the future and the longevity of our agricultural practices. " Regenerative Agriculture is an agricultural philosophy that both acknowledges the degenerative impact of poor land stewardship, and the positive use of agricultural practices that foster restoration and productivity." Local conditions determine which practices are most appropriate. A well managed food system should improve the long-term health and function of the agricultural system and the communities that depend upon them, physically, culturally, spiritually, and economically. Regeneratively managed businesses protect and improve the natural function of our water, nutrient, and carbon cycles by taking steps to increase biodiversity in the agricultural system, and works to minimize reliance on external inputs, and avoid the use of synthetic chemicals whenever possible.”

2. Folk School Farm Stay

99%

(282)

48mi from Grinnell · 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.

3. Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey

100%

(2)

15mi from Grinnell · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · Newton, IA

Discover the unique charm of our centrally located KOA, where you immerse yourself in the beauty of an open, rolling landscape. Our campground features spacious RV and tent sites, including gravel full hook-up pull-through sites and large grassy back-in sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Take a refreshing dip in our pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or relax by our catch and release fishing pond, full of bluegill, bass, and channel catfish. We offer spacious cabins and the cutest vintage sleeping campers (the Silver Sisters) for those who want to bring non-RV owners along on vacation. Check out our cabin and glamping listing on Hip Camp too! As the sun sets, enjoy the cooler evenings by hiking the adjoining 1-mile nature trail, challenging yourself to the 9-hole disc golf course and watching your children explore our playground, jumping pad, and GaGa pit. We even have weekend pancake breakfasts, kiddie train rides and craft activities (peak season months). We cater to your furry friends with a fenced dog park, allowing them to run free and off-leash while you unwind nearby. We are close to many Central Iowa attractions and events, including Alta House Wedding & Event Center, the Iowa Speedway, Knoxville Nationals, Pella Tulip Time and downtown Des Moines Farmers Market. It's always a Great Day at Newton, Des Moines East KOA!

4. Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa

15mi from Grinnell · 7 sites · Lodging · Newton, IA

Discover the unique charm of our centrally located KOA, where you immerse yourself in the beauty of an open, rolling landscape. We offer spacious cabins and the cutest vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters in the popular series Golden Girls (we are lovingly referred to as the Silver Sisters). Take a refreshing dip in our pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or relax by our catch and release fishing pond, full of bluegill, bass, and channel catfish. We are close to many Central Iowa attractions and events, including Alta House Wedding and Event Center, the Iowa Speedway, Knoxville Nationals, Pella Tulip Time and downtown Des Moines Farmers Market. Our campground features spacious RV and tent sites too; check out the Newton/Des Moines East Campground listing on Hip Camp for more information. It's always a Great Day at Newton/Des Moines East KOA!

5. Trail-Side Rural Retreat

100%

(9)

30mi from Grinnell · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Oskaloosa, IA

Our 3-acre pasture borders a 13-mile recreational trail that encompasses our entire town. Super easy access to the trail via bike, golf cart, or on foot to the middle school, high school, community auditorium, William Penn University or Lacey Recreational Complex. We live approximately 150 yards from the city limits, but are on a gravel road. It is an easy 7-minute drive to the grocery store, 2 minutes to the local hospital, and the trail is accessible to walkers, golf carts and bicyclists. Our property does not have any hookups, but if needed, there is are a couple of spots where a 110 connection could be accommodated (for an additional $5/night) close to our home that we could have discussions about using. My husband and are I both retired and our property is LGBTQIA+ friendly. Please note on the three acres, we do have 15 laying hens who free-range during the day, but are confined at night. They typically do not have any desire to interact with humans unless you are feeding them and should not present any problems. IF you bring a pet, please insure it is kept controlled and not allowed to interact with our hens or the folks using the recreational trail. As a bonus, for $5 per person we would be happy to whip up a farm-fresh egg breakfast each morning you stay with us. During summer months, guests are welcome to use our above-ground fully-enclosed pool complete with outdoor shower (heated by the power of the sun shining on a garden hose which means hot water is VERY limited!). There is a tiki bar, small deck and lawn furniture inside the pool enclosure. Please stop by the main house to check in when you arrive. We look forward to hosting you!

6. Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging

100%

(14)

10mi from Grinnell · 7 sites · Lodging · Malcom, IA

*NEW 2023*Prairie-Schooner Wagon*You are invited to stay where the buffalo roam in a beautiful Conestoga Wagon! These unique wagons have heat & a/c, a king bed, twin/twin bunk beds and locking front door. Enjoy the beauty of the sunset along the rolling hills. Stargaze while cuddled around your private fire pit. Wake up to our bison herd grazing near by. Private luxury shower house w/ heat & a/c. The wagons do NOT have a kitchen. They do have a coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, toaster and grill & more.

7. Saylor Creek Hideaway

100%

(7)

47mi from Grinnell · 1 site · Lodging · Des Moines, IA

Escape to nature without sacrificing comfort! Experience a unique getaway with your friends or family. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, creating fun family memories or simply looking for a weekend getaway, our place is perfect for you! “There is nothing like hearing the owls at night and hanging out by the campfire all day.” - Christy Come and relax in the trees. Wake up to the beauty of nature and relax with a cup of espresso on the deck. During the day, explore all that Des Moines has to offer. From outdoor activities to shopping and dining, there is something for everyone. And when night falls, gather around the fire pit with your loved ones and share stories while roasting s'mores. You won't have to give up comfort while "camping". Our glamping tent offers all the amenities you need to feel comfortable while still being immersed in nature. With air conditioning and heat, you can adjust the temperature to suit your needs no matter what the Iowa weather throws your way. Get a good night's sleep in our king-size bed with cozy bedding. Enjoy the convenience of running water at the nearby sink and shower, which means you won't have to give up cleanliness while camping. Sticky hands from roasting s'mores? No problem! “This is the perfect getaway location without having to "rough it"... this was the absolute best place to try out camping without sacrificing some comforts.” - Gloria Inside the Tent: - King size bed. All bedding is provided. - Couch folds into a twin size bed. Bedding provided. - Towels, shampoo, conditioner body wash - Air conditioning & heat - Small refrigerator - Nespresso machine with pods, creamer & sugar - Dining table with two chairs - TV with Hulu, Disney+, Prime - WiFi - Board games “Extremely comfy bed with cozy warm bedding.” - Lindsey Outside the Tent: - Two deck chairs - Solo Stove smokeless fire pit - Two Adirondack chairs - Charcoal grill with charcoal - One large bundle of firewood - Fire starter and lighter - Outhouse with sink & composting toilet - Outdoor shower with rainfall shower head This tent is tucked into the trees on the 7 acre property where we live. Our house is out of sight when you're on the campsite. A short walk down a path and you will reach the tent where you will be immersed in the trees.

8. Amana RV Park & Event Center

44mi from Grinnell · 31 sites · Amana, IA

Discover the unique charm of Amana RV Park & Event Center, nestled on 80 stunning acres in Iowa. This expansive campground features over 450 campsites, many equipped with full-hookup and 50 amp services, all set on spacious 75-foot sites that ensure privacy and comfort for every guest. In addition to its exceptional camping facilities, the park offers more than 20,000 square feet of versatile event space. It has successfully hosted a variety of gatherings, from large RV rallies with 300 units to prestigious dog shows, weddings, and much more. Whether you're planning a long-term stay or just a quick overnight visit, Amana RV Park is the perfect destination. Our dedicated staff is committed to meeting all your camping and event needs, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone who visits. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area, explore nearby attractions, and take advantage of the outdoor activities available to make your stay truly special.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites near Grinnell

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa

15mi from Grinnell · 7 sites · Lodging · Newton, IA

Discover the unique charm of our centrally located KOA, where you immerse yourself in the beauty of an open, rolling landscape. We offer spacious cabins and the cutest vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters in the popular series Golden Girls (we are lovingly referred to as the Silver Sisters). Take a refreshing dip in our pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or relax by our catch and release fishing pond, full of bluegill, bass, and channel catfish. We are close to many Central Iowa attractions and events, including Alta House Wedding and Event Center, the Iowa Speedway, Knoxville Nationals, Pella Tulip Time and downtown Des Moines Farmers Market. Our campground features spacious RV and tent sites too; check out the Newton/Des Moines East Campground listing on Hip Camp for more information. It's always a Great Day at Newton/Des Moines East KOA!

Trail-Side Rural Retreat

100%

(9)

30mi from Grinnell · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Oskaloosa, IA

Our 3-acre pasture borders a 13-mile recreational trail that encompasses our entire town. Super easy access to the trail via bike, golf cart, or on foot to the middle school, high school, community auditorium, William Penn University or Lacey Recreational Complex. We live approximately 150 yards from the city limits, but are on a gravel road. It is an easy 7-minute drive to the grocery store, 2 minutes to the local hospital, and the trail is accessible to walkers, golf carts and bicyclists. Our property does not have any hookups, but if needed, there is are a couple of spots where a 110 connection could be accommodated (for an additional $5/night) close to our home that we could have discussions about using. My husband and are I both retired and our property is LGBTQIA+ friendly. Please note on the three acres, we do have 15 laying hens who free-range during the day, but are confined at night. They typically do not have any desire to interact with humans unless you are feeding them and should not present any problems. IF you bring a pet, please insure it is kept controlled and not allowed to interact with our hens or the folks using the recreational trail. As a bonus, for $5 per person we would be happy to whip up a farm-fresh egg breakfast each morning you stay with us. During summer months, guests are welcome to use our above-ground fully-enclosed pool complete with outdoor shower (heated by the power of the sun shining on a garden hose which means hot water is VERY limited!). There is a tiki bar, small deck and lawn furniture inside the pool enclosure. Please stop by the main house to check in when you arrive. We look forward to hosting you!

Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging

100%

(14)

10mi from Grinnell · 7 sites · Lodging · Malcom, IA

*NEW 2023*Prairie-Schooner Wagon*You are invited to stay where the buffalo roam in a beautiful Conestoga Wagon! These unique wagons have heat & a/c, a king bed, twin/twin bunk beds and locking front door. Enjoy the beauty of the sunset along the rolling hills. Stargaze while cuddled around your private fire pit. Wake up to our bison herd grazing near by. Private luxury shower house w/ heat & a/c. The wagons do NOT have a kitchen. They do have a coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, toaster and grill & more.

Saylor Creek Hideaway

100%

(7)

47mi from Grinnell · 1 site · Lodging · Des Moines, IA

Escape to nature without sacrificing comfort! Experience a unique getaway with your friends or family. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, creating fun family memories or simply looking for a weekend getaway, our place is perfect for you! “There is nothing like hearing the owls at night and hanging out by the campfire all day.” - Christy Come and relax in the trees. Wake up to the beauty of nature and relax with a cup of espresso on the deck. During the day, explore all that Des Moines has to offer. From outdoor activities to shopping and dining, there is something for everyone. And when night falls, gather around the fire pit with your loved ones and share stories while roasting s'mores. You won't have to give up comfort while "camping". Our glamping tent offers all the amenities you need to feel comfortable while still being immersed in nature. With air conditioning and heat, you can adjust the temperature to suit your needs no matter what the Iowa weather throws your way. Get a good night's sleep in our king-size bed with cozy bedding. Enjoy the convenience of running water at the nearby sink and shower, which means you won't have to give up cleanliness while camping. Sticky hands from roasting s'mores? No problem! “This is the perfect getaway location without having to "rough it"... this was the absolute best place to try out camping without sacrificing some comforts.” - Gloria Inside the Tent: - King size bed. All bedding is provided. - Couch folds into a twin size bed. Bedding provided. - Towels, shampoo, conditioner body wash - Air conditioning & heat - Small refrigerator - Nespresso machine with pods, creamer & sugar - Dining table with two chairs - TV with Hulu, Disney+, Prime - WiFi - Board games “Extremely comfy bed with cozy warm bedding.” - Lindsey Outside the Tent: - Two deck chairs - Solo Stove smokeless fire pit - Two Adirondack chairs - Charcoal grill with charcoal - One large bundle of firewood - Fire starter and lighter - Outhouse with sink & composting toilet - Outdoor shower with rainfall shower head This tent is tucked into the trees on the 7 acre property where we live. Our house is out of sight when you're on the campsite. A short walk down a path and you will reach the tent where you will be immersed in the trees.

Amana RV Park & Event Center

44mi from Grinnell · 31 sites · Amana, IA

Discover the unique charm of Amana RV Park & Event Center, nestled on 80 stunning acres in Iowa. This expansive campground features over 450 campsites, many equipped with full-hookup and 50 amp services, all set on spacious 75-foot sites that ensure privacy and comfort for every guest. In addition to its exceptional camping facilities, the park offers more than 20,000 square feet of versatile event space. It has successfully hosted a variety of gatherings, from large RV rallies with 300 units to prestigious dog shows, weddings, and much more. Whether you're planning a long-term stay or just a quick overnight visit, Amana RV Park is the perfect destination. Our dedicated staff is committed to meeting all your camping and event needs, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone who visits. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area, explore nearby attractions, and take advantage of the outdoor activities available to make your stay truly special.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Stories from the community

N

Nathan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bend River Farms

I loved this campsite! Beautiful ravines on every side and very private. Plenty of firewood was provided by the host. I’m already planning my next visit!

S

Stephannie

October 2025

31 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Bend River Farms

My son and I and our 3 dogs had so much fun! This was our second time this year and with the cooler weather we got to walk on the paths and see what the farm had to offer and all the colors and findings. We will definitely be back next year!!! The host are truly amazing and so welcoming!!!

N

Nicole

October 2025

2 nights at Bend River Farms

Bend River Farm is just as it is described. Amy and Dave are amazing hosts. Accommodating, helpful, they go above and beyond. We were looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, peaceful surroundings and That was delivered. It is primitive, but with some comforts like a comfortable bed, solar lights, a wood stove. The trail to get to camp will get muddy with rain, as described and they will transport you back and forth in the side by side if needed. Be prepared to cook over the fire, bring all the supplies, if something is needed or forgotten Amy and Dave are super helpful and willing to help out. If you get a chance to relax in the salt water hot tub, I definitely recommend it! If you enjoy nature you will very much appreciate Bend River farm. We cannot wait to go back.

Tara

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Bend River Farms

We had a great time at the private space for the dome glamping. The dome was really nice and comfortable. It was also very clean both inside and out.

C

Cole

September 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Bend River Farms

Was our second trip out and will continue to maintain this is our favorite central Iowa place to camp. Hosts are great, site is great, whole thing was great, we’ll be back again.

RV Parking slip, power, trash and rural water available

C

Cindy

September 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Bend River Farms

We were only there for one night but were welcomed warmly despite a torrential rain. We needed no hook ups so site #1 in their driveway suited our needs. Roosters crow early but we were up to use toilet and take off. Would have liked to explore but no time. The chickens are gorgeous!

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!

O

Olivia

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Bend River Farms

Super beautiful site. We loved the galaxy dome! It was so homey and such a fun cool experience. We enjoyed using the salt water hot tub and also having access to the shower area by the main house. It was great that we could drive over to the main house to have running water but have plenty of privacy at the globe! Amy had so many good suggestions for restaurants and activities. We loved being only 15 min away from Neil Smith wildlife refuge. It was crazy how in the middle of nowhere our site felt but in like 20 min we could be eating ice cream in Runnels. Amy also sent us home with some eggs and apples which was such a fun treat!

Jessica

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging

We loved staying in the wagon — it was a dream come true. It was serene and you could tell this property is prayed over and seasoned in love and care. Everything was as described or BETTER! It was cozy and clean! We loved the two cats on the property and seeing the bison in the morning. The beds were very comfortable and the amenities are too numerous to detail. We went out of our way to stay here and it was WORTH IT! Thank you so much to our hosts for their hospitality, faith, patriotism, hard work, and care that is displayed even in their absence!

A

Adam

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Trail-Side Rural Retreat

I stayed one night on Sandi and Pat's beautiful property on my way across the country. Sandi and Pat greeted me on arrival and gave me a walkthrough of all of the fun amenities they have available on their land, and provided a fire ring to set up at my site. Sandi's chickens even popped out of the coop to say hi too! The fantastic grass lawn provided an extra comfortable place to set my tent up, I enjoyed a lovely evening by the fire as the sun set, and fell asleep to a cool breeze blowing through the trees. A very peaceful and comfortable site!

j

jessica

September 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Bend River Farms

Amy and Dave were lovely, we really enjoyed our stay! Their farm is beautiful and the dinner they cooked us was amazing.

M

Matt

September 2025

37 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to Bend River Farms

We had a great time camping at Bend River Farms. Amy and Dave were outstanding hosts, they clearly have a love of what they're doing and made us feel at home. Their land is beautiful and relaxing. We got great recommendations for local things to do and were close enough to Des Moines to be able to add the city's attractions to our trip. We are looking forward to being back there!

W

William

September 2025

19 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Bend River Farms

Amy and Dave are the most wonderful and welcoming hosts! The site is level and private. I am going to be a repeat visitor!!

J

John

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Bend River Farms

It was a nice getaway. We felt like we on our little piece of land.

A

Abigail

August 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Bend River Farms

We had a great time relaxing at Trapper's Hideout. Listening to barred owls, great horned owls, and coyotes at night was amazing. The boys (8 & 4) lived being able to visit the chickens and horses.

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.

T

Tyler

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Bend River Farms

A beautiful little farm that is well maintained and fun to explore. We brought our 2 dogs with us and they absolutely loved running around. The hosts Amy and Dave are incredible. At one point our car battery died and Dave came down to our campsite and gave us a jump. I can't speak highly enough of them or their hospitality. It was really a great experience.

E

Eleanor

August 2025

45 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Bend River Farms

Super nice people. Comfortable and quiet spot. Would stay again!

R

Rhonda

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bend River Farms

Hospitality is wonderful. You couldn't ask for nicer people.

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.