The best dog-friendly camping near Grundy Center

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In Grundy Center, camping with your pet is simple, with over 580 pet-friendly sites to choose from—many with campfires allowed and showers on site. Average nightly rates hover around $52, but you’ll find options starting at just $15. Wildlife-watching, swimming, and even snow sports fill your days, while sites like Windy Goat Acres (444 reviews), Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC (30 reviews), and DILLON TREE FARM (4 reviews) offer everything from quiet pasture walks to hands-on animal experiences. Expect spacious sites, easy access to trails, and a friendly crowd of fellow campers and their dogs. If your idea of a solid camping trip means your pet tags along, Grundy Center has you covered.

100% (588)

Top-rated campgrounds

Windy Goat Acres

1. Windy Goat Acres

99%
(725)
30mi from Grundy Center · 7 sites · Lodging · Chelsea, IA
We love animals, plants, art, and outdoor recreation and love sharing these things with people! We found the perfect little plot for all of these things we love. Nature, art, animals, and lots of space! The hilly, lush land is also known as the Bohemie Alps and it's quite a beautiful area tucked away in Iowa. Visit with the llamas, goats, peacocks, potbelly pigs and the horses and hike around the property or stay in for a quiet stay with a good book and enjoy all the sights and sounds. Lots of extra 'add ons' to enhance the experience, like a waffle bar kit, smore's package, hikes, and more! Semi wooded property with hiking trails, hammocks, aerial silks, campfire pit. 5 mi away is Otter Creek Lake, a recreational park for fishing, kayaking, swimming, etc. We have 2 kayaks available. So much to do! Also perfect to just relax, meditate, yoga, sleep...
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$68
 / night
Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

2. Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

98%
(41)
30mi from Grundy Center · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Zearing, IA
Threshold Learning Center is 28 acres of prairie, creek, woods, and our barn dormitory.  Threshold is first, an outdoor learning center for schools during the school year, and a summer camp offering several day camps, family camps, and trips.  As a non-profit, however, we are constantly trying to find a way to  offer our programs to everyone regardless of whether they are able to pay our fees while still making enough money to stay open.  We started renting TLC to the public 5 years ago for weddings, reunions, or just families who are looking to connect to the world around them.  Our motto is "No Child Left Inside" and we want every inner child to enjoy what we have at TLC.  We have 7 bedrooms in our dormitory, 5 camp sites, a large camp fire ring, a mini-golf course, and we are always willing to lead your group in an educational experience or take you on a hayrack ride.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa

6. Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa

48mi from Grundy Center · 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!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$111
 / night
Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey

7. Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey

100%
(2)
48mi from Grundy Center · 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!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Hound Dog

9. Prairie Horizon

100%
(3)
23mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · RV · Waterloo, IA
Acreage on a gravel road with many shade trees surrounded by farm land. Easy access from Highway 20, Interstate 380, and Avenue of the Saints making it great for an overnight stop from your travels. Wake up to a symphony of song birds (check your Merlin app to see who is singing) and enjoy morning views with your coffee. Beautiful sunrise and sunset views and clear stargazing. You would never guess that within 10 miles you will find hiking and biking trails, municipal golf course, water park, amusement park, casino, shopping (grocery, gas, Target, Walmart, restaurants), Cedar Valley Arboretum, and John Deer tractor museum and factory tours. Our Hound Dog will alert us of your arrival. Not to worry though, he is restrained. We are happy to share garden produce, herbs and flowers that are grown in our gardens. The acreage is also home to several antique tractors. We can accommodate travel trailor, fifth wheel, popup campers (with toilet) and RV's. 1 site, back in. Accommodates slide outs. Surface type - gravel, grass Surface levelness - fairly level Electrical hookup - 30 amp Water hookup - hose for tank fill available Generators allowed - no Sewage hookup - no TV hookup - no Toilets available - no Campfire allowed in fire pit as weather permits. Firewood provided. Pets allowed on leash. Must follow safety and sanitation rules. Pet on leash and pick up poop. Trash bin - yes Picnic table - yes Wifi - no Laundry - no Hot tub - no Check in - after 2:00 pm Check out - before 12:00 pm Cancellation - flexible Minimum nights - 1 Accepts bookings - 4 months out
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$30
 / night
Big Woods Lake Campground

17. Big Woods Lake Campground

22mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · Cedar Falls, IA
Big Woods Lake Campground stands out as a unique destination that combines the charm of rural nature with the convenience of urban amenities. Nestled within the city limits of Cedar Falls, this picturesque area is owned by the City and expertly managed by Black Hawk County Conservation. The centerpiece of the campground is the stunning 86-acre lake, which reaches depths of up to 32 feet. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including no-wake boating and exceptional fishing opportunities. Anglers can cast their lines for a chance to catch largemouth bass, panfish, walleye, and northern pike, making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. Surrounding the lake is the Cedar Valley Trail System, providing easy access to downtown Cedar Falls. This network of trails invites visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. With its blend of scenic landscapes and recreational options, Big Woods Lake Campground is an ideal getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Toilets
Dakins Lake County Park

18. Dakins Lake County Park

30mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · Zearing, IA
Dakins Lake stands out as a remarkable destination in northeast Story County, thanks to its recent expansion into a sprawling 103-acre park. Nestled just north of Zearing, this park features a stunning 20-acre lake that is home to a variety of fish species, including large-mouth bass, bluegill, walleye, channel catfish, crappie, and perch, making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. In addition to its fishing opportunities, Dakins Lake offers a serene environment for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park's natural beauty and tranquil setting provide visitors with a chance to unwind and connect with nature. Nearby, you can explore local attractions, including charming restaurants and shops that enhance your experience in the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled day, Dakins Lake is an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and discover the unique charm of this newly expanded park, where recreation and relaxation go hand in hand.
0
Kellogg RV Park

19. Kellogg RV Park

45mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · Kellogg, IA
Discover the charm of Kellogg RV Park, a unique camping destination in Iowa that combines convenience with a serene country atmosphere. Located just a quarter mile off Interstate 80 at Exit 173, our beautiful 8 ½ acre campground offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by blue skies, lush green grass, and picturesque shade trees, all set against the backdrop of tall Iowa cornfields. We cater to all types of campers, whether you have a tear-drop trailer, a 5th wheel, or a large rig. Our 38 level, pull-thru campsites are designed for easy access and comfort. To enhance your stay, we provide newly refurbished shower house restrooms and laundry facilities, making it perfect for a night, a week, or even longer. Convenience is at your fingertips with an AMOCO gas station and a well-stocked convenience store just steps away. Don’t miss out on dining at Iowa’s Best Burger Café, where we proudly serve what many consider “the best burger around!” After a long day on the road, unwind in one of our cozy Adirondack chairs while roasting marshmallows over the fire ring. Alternatively, enjoy a delicious burger meal and a double scoop of our hand-dipped ice cream as you mingle with fellow travelers at The Café.
0
Rock-n-Row Adventures Iowa River Tubing

20. Rock-n-Row Adventures Iowa River Tubing

16mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · Eldora, IA
Experience the charm of Rock-n-Row Campground, a unique destination that combines the beauty of nature with the thrill of outdoor activities. Nestled on 8 acres of open space, our campground offers both tent and RV camping options, complete with 30 amp and 50 amp electric hook-ups. While we do not provide sewer or water hook-ups, we are happy to fill your water tank from our well upon registration. To enhance your camping experience, we offer two outdoor rinse showers to wash off the sand and mud, as well as two indoor showers featuring instant hot water. Our facilities also include flush toilets and conveniently placed port-a-potties. Each group is provided with a picnic table and a fire ring, so don’t forget to bring along your BBQ grill! Firewood is available for purchase on-site, and we encourage you to use our dumpsters for trash disposal instead of the fire rings. We also provide complimentary trash bags and can bags for your convenience. Don’t forget your fishing pole, as the Iowa River is just steps away, perfect for a day of fishing. At Rock-n-Row, we offer a special camping package for those who want to enjoy tubing on the river. Please note that camping is only available to those who are tubing at least one day
Toilets

In Grundy Center, camping with your pet is simple, with over 580 pet-friendly sites to choose from—many with campfires allowed and showers on site. Average nightly rates hover around $52, but you’ll find options starting at just $15. Wildlife-watching, swimming, and even snow sports fill your days, while sites like Windy Goat Acres (444 reviews), Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC (30 reviews), and DILLON TREE FARM (4 reviews) offer everything from quiet pasture walks to hands-on animal experiences. Expect spacious sites, easy access to trails, and a friendly crowd of fellow campers and their dogs. If your idea of a solid camping trip means your pet tags along, Grundy Center has you covered.

100% (588)

Top-rated campgrounds

Windy Goat Acres

1. Windy Goat Acres

99%
(725)
30mi from Grundy Center · 7 sites · Lodging · Chelsea, IA
We love animals, plants, art, and outdoor recreation and love sharing these things with people! We found the perfect little plot for all of these things we love. Nature, art, animals, and lots of space! The hilly, lush land is also known as the Bohemie Alps and it's quite a beautiful area tucked away in Iowa. Visit with the llamas, goats, peacocks, potbelly pigs and the horses and hike around the property or stay in for a quiet stay with a good book and enjoy all the sights and sounds. Lots of extra 'add ons' to enhance the experience, like a waffle bar kit, smore's package, hikes, and more! Semi wooded property with hiking trails, hammocks, aerial silks, campfire pit. 5 mi away is Otter Creek Lake, a recreational park for fishing, kayaking, swimming, etc. We have 2 kayaks available. So much to do! Also perfect to just relax, meditate, yoga, sleep...
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$68
 / night
Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

2. Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

98%
(41)
30mi from Grundy Center · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Zearing, IA
Threshold Learning Center is 28 acres of prairie, creek, woods, and our barn dormitory.  Threshold is first, an outdoor learning center for schools during the school year, and a summer camp offering several day camps, family camps, and trips.  As a non-profit, however, we are constantly trying to find a way to  offer our programs to everyone regardless of whether they are able to pay our fees while still making enough money to stay open.  We started renting TLC to the public 5 years ago for weddings, reunions, or just families who are looking to connect to the world around them.  Our motto is "No Child Left Inside" and we want every inner child to enjoy what we have at TLC.  We have 7 bedrooms in our dormitory, 5 camp sites, a large camp fire ring, a mini-golf course, and we are always willing to lead your group in an educational experience or take you on a hayrack ride.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa

6. Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa

48mi from Grundy Center · 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!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$111
 / night
Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey

7. Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey

100%
(2)
48mi from Grundy Center · 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!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Hound Dog

9. Prairie Horizon

100%
(3)
23mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · RV · Waterloo, IA
Acreage on a gravel road with many shade trees surrounded by farm land. Easy access from Highway 20, Interstate 380, and Avenue of the Saints making it great for an overnight stop from your travels. Wake up to a symphony of song birds (check your Merlin app to see who is singing) and enjoy morning views with your coffee. Beautiful sunrise and sunset views and clear stargazing. You would never guess that within 10 miles you will find hiking and biking trails, municipal golf course, water park, amusement park, casino, shopping (grocery, gas, Target, Walmart, restaurants), Cedar Valley Arboretum, and John Deer tractor museum and factory tours. Our Hound Dog will alert us of your arrival. Not to worry though, he is restrained. We are happy to share garden produce, herbs and flowers that are grown in our gardens. The acreage is also home to several antique tractors. We can accommodate travel trailor, fifth wheel, popup campers (with toilet) and RV's. 1 site, back in. Accommodates slide outs. Surface type - gravel, grass Surface levelness - fairly level Electrical hookup - 30 amp Water hookup - hose for tank fill available Generators allowed - no Sewage hookup - no TV hookup - no Toilets available - no Campfire allowed in fire pit as weather permits. Firewood provided. Pets allowed on leash. Must follow safety and sanitation rules. Pet on leash and pick up poop. Trash bin - yes Picnic table - yes Wifi - no Laundry - no Hot tub - no Check in - after 2:00 pm Check out - before 12:00 pm Cancellation - flexible Minimum nights - 1 Accepts bookings - 4 months out
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$30
 / night
Big Woods Lake Campground

17. Big Woods Lake Campground

22mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · Cedar Falls, IA
Big Woods Lake Campground stands out as a unique destination that combines the charm of rural nature with the convenience of urban amenities. Nestled within the city limits of Cedar Falls, this picturesque area is owned by the City and expertly managed by Black Hawk County Conservation. The centerpiece of the campground is the stunning 86-acre lake, which reaches depths of up to 32 feet. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including no-wake boating and exceptional fishing opportunities. Anglers can cast their lines for a chance to catch largemouth bass, panfish, walleye, and northern pike, making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. Surrounding the lake is the Cedar Valley Trail System, providing easy access to downtown Cedar Falls. This network of trails invites visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. With its blend of scenic landscapes and recreational options, Big Woods Lake Campground is an ideal getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Toilets
Dakins Lake County Park

18. Dakins Lake County Park

30mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · Zearing, IA
Dakins Lake stands out as a remarkable destination in northeast Story County, thanks to its recent expansion into a sprawling 103-acre park. Nestled just north of Zearing, this park features a stunning 20-acre lake that is home to a variety of fish species, including large-mouth bass, bluegill, walleye, channel catfish, crappie, and perch, making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. In addition to its fishing opportunities, Dakins Lake offers a serene environment for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park's natural beauty and tranquil setting provide visitors with a chance to unwind and connect with nature. Nearby, you can explore local attractions, including charming restaurants and shops that enhance your experience in the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled day, Dakins Lake is an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and discover the unique charm of this newly expanded park, where recreation and relaxation go hand in hand.
0
Kellogg RV Park

19. Kellogg RV Park

45mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · Kellogg, IA
Discover the charm of Kellogg RV Park, a unique camping destination in Iowa that combines convenience with a serene country atmosphere. Located just a quarter mile off Interstate 80 at Exit 173, our beautiful 8 ½ acre campground offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by blue skies, lush green grass, and picturesque shade trees, all set against the backdrop of tall Iowa cornfields. We cater to all types of campers, whether you have a tear-drop trailer, a 5th wheel, or a large rig. Our 38 level, pull-thru campsites are designed for easy access and comfort. To enhance your stay, we provide newly refurbished shower house restrooms and laundry facilities, making it perfect for a night, a week, or even longer. Convenience is at your fingertips with an AMOCO gas station and a well-stocked convenience store just steps away. Don’t miss out on dining at Iowa’s Best Burger Café, where we proudly serve what many consider “the best burger around!” After a long day on the road, unwind in one of our cozy Adirondack chairs while roasting marshmallows over the fire ring. Alternatively, enjoy a delicious burger meal and a double scoop of our hand-dipped ice cream as you mingle with fellow travelers at The Café.
0
Rock-n-Row Adventures Iowa River Tubing

20. Rock-n-Row Adventures Iowa River Tubing

16mi from Grundy Center · 1 site · Eldora, IA
Experience the charm of Rock-n-Row Campground, a unique destination that combines the beauty of nature with the thrill of outdoor activities. Nestled on 8 acres of open space, our campground offers both tent and RV camping options, complete with 30 amp and 50 amp electric hook-ups. While we do not provide sewer or water hook-ups, we are happy to fill your water tank from our well upon registration. To enhance your camping experience, we offer two outdoor rinse showers to wash off the sand and mud, as well as two indoor showers featuring instant hot water. Our facilities also include flush toilets and conveniently placed port-a-potties. Each group is provided with a picnic table and a fire ring, so don’t forget to bring along your BBQ grill! Firewood is available for purchase on-site, and we encourage you to use our dumpsters for trash disposal instead of the fire rings. We also provide complimentary trash bags and can bags for your convenience. Don’t forget your fishing pole, as the Iowa River is just steps away, perfect for a day of fishing. At Rock-n-Row, we offer a special camping package for those who want to enjoy tubing on the river. Please note that camping is only available to those who are tubing at least one day
Toilets

Camper favorites near Grundy Center

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Grundy Center

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field