97% (615) • 92 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Jefferson
Greenhouse Camping
1. Greenhouse Camping
97%
(151)
44mi from Jefferson · 2 sites · RVs
We love this beautiful land that has been in our family since 1917, and think you will too!
We are located 1/2 mile off I-35 at the north border of the City of Ankeny.
Here you'll find the best of both worlds just fifteen minutes away from your quiet campsite - Boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing at Saylorville Lake.
Canoe,
kayak
and paddleboat rental at Big Creek State Park.
Swimming & waterplay for all ages at the Ankeny Aquatic Center.
Upscale shopping and dining at the District.
Or venture out
a bit further to concert venues in Ames & Des Moines, local farmers markets, Des Moines' beautiful riverwalk and exciting nightlife, or
the Iowa State Fair.
It's the best of country and suburban living!
End your day with a quiet stroll along the mowed walking path that overlooks one of the most beautiful areas of
Four Mile Creek in Iowa, which circles right back to your cozy campfire.
Learn more about this land:
You'll love this relaxing space to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors! Very easy access, we are just 1/2 mile off of Interstate-35. Our farm is bordered by nature on three sides and the city of Ankeny on the south. This is a single campsite, private and quiet. Your campsite has an adjoining mowed private walking trail overlooking Four Mile Creek, and is also within walking distance of Ankeny sidewalks for biking, walking, jogging. It’s the best of both worlds - town and country!
We're a 15 minute drive from Big Creek and Ledges State Parks, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake where you can enjoy fishing, skiing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and the beach life. You'll find unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, a good movie, a thriving live music scene just 15 minutes away in downtown Des Moines, downtown and campus town Ames, and at The District in Ankeny.
Upon your arrival you'll find the greenhouse mini-fridge is stocked with 4 complimentary bottles of water and everything you'll need for making S'mores.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$31
/ night
The Waypoint
2. The Waypoint
99%
(55)
35mi from Jefferson · 5 sites · RVs
A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35.
18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community.
If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.
Pets
from
$35
/ night
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
3. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
96%
(492)
38mi from Jefferson · 61 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
from
$29
/ night
Springbrook State Park
4. Springbrook State Park
111 sites · Lake Panorama, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ledges State Park
5. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
94 sites · Luther, Iowa
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tent camping on the Raccoon River
6. Tent camping on the Raccoon River
99%
(67)
24mi from Jefferson · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: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.
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
from
$15
/ night
Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
7. Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
98%
(209)
30mi from Jefferson · 14 sites · Lodging
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
from
$15
/ night
Rooted Timbers
8. Rooted Timbers
100%
(20)
30mi from Jefferson · 4 sites · Tents
We're Ben, Trinh, Camille, and Sage.
We purchased this 12 acres in Fall '20 as a way to share our love of the outdoors with our friends and family. As time went on, we noticed a need in making outdoor activities more accessible and inclusive to those outside our network. Rooted Timbers was created with the intention of making it easier for you to disconnect from business and connect with stillness.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Firefly Creek Ranch
9. Firefly Creek Ranch
92%
(13)
24mi from Jefferson · 10 sites
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
24 sites · Lehigh, Iowa
Discover the rugged beauty of Dolliver Memorial State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
11. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
252 sites · Lehigh, Iowa
Discover the rugged beauty of Brushy Creek State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Black Hawk State Park
12. Black Hawk State Park
128 sites · Lake View, Iowa
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Black Hawk State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Saylorville Lake
13. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
446 sites · Polk City, Iowa
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Delaware Beaches
14. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Delaware Beaches
1021mi from Jefferson · 12 sites
Discover the unique charm of the Jellystone Park™ campground in Milford, Delaware, where discerning RV campers find an exceptional blend of upscale amenities and family-friendly activities. Nestled just minutes away from the stunning Atlantic Ocean and the serene Delaware Bay beaches, this park is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Opened in 2009, Delaware Beaches Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for guests of all ages. Enjoy a refreshing swim in our inviting pool, participate in engaging activities, or simply unwind in a peaceful environment. With beloved characters like Yogi Bear™ and Boo Boo™ around, families can create unforgettable memories while indulging in good, clean, healthy fun.
In addition to our extensive recreational facilities, we provide a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Guests can savor delicious snacks at our Snack Bar, gather in our Group Meeting Room, or browse unique items at our Gift Shop/Souvenirs. For added enjoyment, we offer Picnic Table Umbrella Rentals, Building Blox, Hopscotch, an Outdoor Theatre, and an Arcade. With so much to explore, Delaware Beaches Jellystone Park™ is the perfect spot for your next vacation adventure.
Lake Anita State Park
15. Lake Anita State Park
100%
(2)
160 sites · Anita, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Anita State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Walnut Woods State Park
16. Walnut Woods State Park
100%
(3)
22 sites · West Des Moines, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Walnut Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
97% (615) • 92 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Jefferson
Greenhouse Camping
1. Greenhouse Camping
97%
(151)
44mi from Jefferson · 2 sites · RVs
We love this beautiful land that has been in our family since 1917, and think you will too!
We are located 1/2 mile off I-35 at the north border of the City of Ankeny.
Here you'll find the best of both worlds just fifteen minutes away from your quiet campsite - Boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing at Saylorville Lake.
Canoe,
kayak
and paddleboat rental at Big Creek State Park.
Swimming & waterplay for all ages at the Ankeny Aquatic Center.
Upscale shopping and dining at the District.
Or venture out
a bit further to concert venues in Ames & Des Moines, local farmers markets, Des Moines' beautiful riverwalk and exciting nightlife, or
the Iowa State Fair.
It's the best of country and suburban living!
End your day with a quiet stroll along the mowed walking path that overlooks one of the most beautiful areas of
Four Mile Creek in Iowa, which circles right back to your cozy campfire.
Learn more about this land:
You'll love this relaxing space to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors! Very easy access, we are just 1/2 mile off of Interstate-35. Our farm is bordered by nature on three sides and the city of Ankeny on the south. This is a single campsite, private and quiet. Your campsite has an adjoining mowed private walking trail overlooking Four Mile Creek, and is also within walking distance of Ankeny sidewalks for biking, walking, jogging. It’s the best of both worlds - town and country!
We're a 15 minute drive from Big Creek and Ledges State Parks, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake where you can enjoy fishing, skiing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and the beach life. You'll find unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, a good movie, a thriving live music scene just 15 minutes away in downtown Des Moines, downtown and campus town Ames, and at The District in Ankeny.
Upon your arrival you'll find the greenhouse mini-fridge is stocked with 4 complimentary bottles of water and everything you'll need for making S'mores.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$31
/ night
The Waypoint
2. The Waypoint
99%
(55)
35mi from Jefferson · 5 sites · RVs
A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35.
18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community.
If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.
Pets
from
$35
/ night
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
3. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
96%
(492)
38mi from Jefferson · 61 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
from
$29
/ night
Springbrook State Park
4. Springbrook State Park
111 sites · Lake Panorama, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ledges State Park
5. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
94 sites · Luther, Iowa
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tent camping on the Raccoon River
6. Tent camping on the Raccoon River
99%
(67)
24mi from Jefferson · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: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.
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
from
$15
/ night
Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
7. Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
98%
(209)
30mi from Jefferson · 14 sites · Lodging
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
from
$15
/ night
Rooted Timbers
8. Rooted Timbers
100%
(20)
30mi from Jefferson · 4 sites · Tents
We're Ben, Trinh, Camille, and Sage.
We purchased this 12 acres in Fall '20 as a way to share our love of the outdoors with our friends and family. As time went on, we noticed a need in making outdoor activities more accessible and inclusive to those outside our network. Rooted Timbers was created with the intention of making it easier for you to disconnect from business and connect with stillness.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Firefly Creek Ranch
9. Firefly Creek Ranch
92%
(13)
24mi from Jefferson · 10 sites
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
24 sites · Lehigh, Iowa
Discover the rugged beauty of Dolliver Memorial State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
11. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
252 sites · Lehigh, Iowa
Discover the rugged beauty of Brushy Creek State Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Black Hawk State Park
12. Black Hawk State Park
128 sites · Lake View, Iowa
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Black Hawk State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Saylorville Lake
13. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
446 sites · Polk City, Iowa
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Delaware Beaches
14. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Delaware Beaches
1021mi from Jefferson · 12 sites
Discover the unique charm of the Jellystone Park™ campground in Milford, Delaware, where discerning RV campers find an exceptional blend of upscale amenities and family-friendly activities. Nestled just minutes away from the stunning Atlantic Ocean and the serene Delaware Bay beaches, this park is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Opened in 2009, Delaware Beaches Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for guests of all ages. Enjoy a refreshing swim in our inviting pool, participate in engaging activities, or simply unwind in a peaceful environment. With beloved characters like Yogi Bear™ and Boo Boo™ around, families can create unforgettable memories while indulging in good, clean, healthy fun.
In addition to our extensive recreational facilities, we provide a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Guests can savor delicious snacks at our Snack Bar, gather in our Group Meeting Room, or browse unique items at our Gift Shop/Souvenirs. For added enjoyment, we offer Picnic Table Umbrella Rentals, Building Blox, Hopscotch, an Outdoor Theatre, and an Arcade. With so much to explore, Delaware Beaches Jellystone Park™ is the perfect spot for your next vacation adventure.
Lake Anita State Park
15. Lake Anita State Park
100%
(2)
160 sites · Anita, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Anita State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Walnut Woods State Park
16. Walnut Woods State Park
100%
(3)
22 sites · West Des Moines, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Walnut Woods State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Matt
3 weeks ago
Tent
Stephanie is very nice, the property is great, and the spot is conveniently located near a town that has last minute supplies. Highly recommend
See more
J
James
November 2025
With pets
After a long day of driving, this was the perfect place to stop. The only mistake I made was not arriving sooner to enjoy the property more. Linda was so responsive, incredibly accommodating, and just a joy to communicate and plan with. Having two large dogs is tough to travel with, and Linda made it so easy within our travel plans. I will be back with my fishing gear in the future. Thank you for the hospitality!
See more
R
Robin
November 2025
1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
Beautiful property, lots of trails to explore, pond and complete relaxation. Hunters Havin sleeping cabin was awesome. Great for cooler weather and beautiful surroundings for campfire. We can’t wait to return in the summer with the grandkids.
See more
Xavier
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
Great roadside stop. Safe and comfortable. Would reccomend.
See more
J
Jennifer
October 2025
19 ft campervan
With pets
My dogs and I loved our stay on Robin’s land. He is very kind and had everything we needed. Peaceful location and close to everywhere we were going. Will definitely stay again.
See more
K
Katie
October 2025
1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
Gorgeous property. Booked the sight above the pond which was beautiful and peaceful. Great sunset spot.
See more
Holly
October 2025
1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
The host was super friendly and flexible, even when we got in around midnight. The space was safe and views were lovely the next morning. I'd recommend staying!
See more
Laura
October 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
Perfect location, beautiful sunset (picture included) nice grassy trail for an anytime still by yourself or with your dog. Speaking of dogs, Robin has installed a HUGE and I mean HUGE Dog Park. Water, electric and convenient extras if you want them🫶🏼 I’ll be back!
See more
J
Josh
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
Emma and her husband Jason always go above and beyond to make any visit to the Waypoint awesome! The stay was perfect as usual and I will definitely be back again
See moreD
Dan
October 2025
Tent
Experienced camper or newbie, this is a great spot! Very quiet. River just a few feet away for water-based activities (fishing, kayaking, etc.) and some floofy cows that for the most part were quiet at night. Hosts were available and helpful, but left you to your devices. Town of Lake City is nearby for quick supply run and a Casey's pizza. Public camping spot also just down the road. Highlight of the trip was farm dog Fergus who dropped by to check on us in the morning and keep the critters away.
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B
Brandy
October 2025
14 ft travel trailer
Stephanie was a very kind and welcoming host! The camping spot was very serene and peaceful. We were able to relax and soak up all the beautiful sights. We highly recommend Rainbow Raccoon Ranch!!
See more
J
James
September 2025
Tent
The facilities were good, the site was nice (trees, nearby creek), and the staff were friendly and helpful.
The only potential downside to this campsite is that there was fairly continual traffic noise from an interstate highway that was about a half mile to the north of the site; the noise eventually faded into the background of our awareness and didn't impact our ability to sleep at night
See moreD
Dale
September 2025
Tent
This spot is the quietest I’ve experienced yet. The sound of the river is very faint and the cows are quite as well 🙂. The host is very hospitable. Their livestock watchdog and a few donkeys to add to the livestock protection make for a wonderful experience.
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Patricia
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Hostess was friendly and helpful. The site was large and shady. The facilities were clean. Directions, actually coordinates, were for a location about a mile away. I had to call to find the campground. Site T3 was very close to I-80 so it became noisy at times. The brook had an area of extremely slow moving water which seemed to attract mosquitoes. Perhaps that was seasonal. I would highly recommend for RVs and camper vans. Only can rate a maybe for tent camping..
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Amanda
September 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Convenient metro location with easy access to food and nature areas. Loved the location and didn’t mind the minor road/interstate noise. Clean. Great basic campsite with some extra touches.
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M
Michael
September 2025
Tent
With kids
I tried out my new RTT and annex and there was plenty of places to set up. Great firewood and fire pit. It was far enough away from the farm to have privacy. I packed in water, toilet, electricity and didn’t need to rely on the site. We had family and small children visit and it was great for that as well.
See moreE
Executive
September 2025
33 ft travel trailer
This so calm and relaxing. Lots of space and quiet. Right now there is a lot of construction going on in the area, but it was still quiet during our three night stay. Robin stopped by the first night to make sure we were settled in and had what we needed. Very friendly. Met the other camper there who was taking their two dogs to the dog run. Nice fenced in area that is quite large. We don't have dogs, but that was a nice area to take them to play. We will definitely try to stay again if we are in the area.
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Kyra
September 2025
With pets
I was only able to stay one night on my road trip, and I wish I had alloted another for this site! Linda was so so sweet and set me up with her favorite spot and it didnt disapoint <3
See moreM
Maria
August 2025
16 ft car
Nice little spot. Could use some updated pictures showing the housing development and construction going on across the road. Well-kept yard and very nice dog park. I wasn’t sure where the walking paths were and I didn’t get much information about the property when I checked in with the host. Could use a new bench and fire pit, as well as empty the port-a-pot. It was good for an impromptu night away.
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D
Dave
August 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With kids
We had a wonderful, relaxing weekend at Waypoint. We enjoyed walking the nature trails and fishing in the pond. We even visited the alpacas. Emma kindly gave us an educational tour of all of their animal friends including dogs, cats, chickens, goats, and alpacas. Emma was very patient with our kid's many questions. The land is kept wild except for the camping spots and trails. We will definitely return.
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