The best river, stream, or creek glamping near North Buena Vista, Iowa

Looking to camp in style by the river near North Buena Vista, Iowa? Hipcamp has over 270 options for glamping by the river in this area. With options as low as $23 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors in comfort. Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland (239 reviews), Windy Goat Acres (208 reviews), and Linden Campground (190 reviews) are some of the top-rated campsites in the area. Popular amenities include campfires, potable water, and showers, while popular activities include wildlife watching, snow sports, and hiking.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to camp in style by the river near North Buena Vista, Iowa? Hipcamp has over 270 options for glamping by the river in this area. With options as low as $23 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors in comfort. Gilles Family Dairy & Woodland (239 reviews), Windy Goat Acres (208 reviews), and Linden Campground (190 reviews) are some of the top-rated campsites in the area. Popular amenities include campfires, potable water, and showers, while popular activities include wildlife watching, snow sports, and hiking.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

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(115)

47mi from North Buena Vista · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Oxford Junction, IA

Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax. Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people? Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site. We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing! Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully. We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available. Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill.

2. RWH Farm

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47mi from North Buena Vista · 24 sites · Tents, Lodging · Apple Canyon Lake, IL

This property is a 150 year old working farm, which has seen six generations. We are happy to share a piece of land with you. Whether you are a first time or experienced camper wanting to sleep outdoors. We have the perfect spot for you to rest, relax, and recharge while camping under the stars surrounded by trees in a four acre wooded area located on a quiet country road within a vast working farm in the heart of Jo Daviess, County. Listen to the sounds of nature white spotting a variety of wildlife. Watch the sunrises, sunsets, comets, meteor showers, sometimes the northern lights, and the full moon rising over the hills. Watch the leaves turn color in autumn. We offer three types of sites: basic Glamping, preset tent, and rustic. Check out the descriptions of the sites to see which site is for you. Limited sites - first come basis. We try to make each site as secluded as possible.. There are firewood stations throughout the sites with attached fire extinguisher. We are creating a gravel trek around the sites with two entrances and gravel parking planned be completed by 2028. We are working on flushable outhouses and possible showers. Children’s play area by 2027. There isn’t any swimming or fishing available on the farm property. There is a private lake three miles from the sites - see details under extras. We are located ten miles from the Wisconsin border and villages with their unique shops and museums. 20 minutes from Galena, 45 minutes from the Mississippi River and Dubuque. Iowa. Three hours from Chicago. DNR - department of natural resources have properties a mile north of the farm with nice trails to walk near the Apple river, which is stocked twice a year for fishing tournaments. As well as the Boy Scout campgrounds located nearby. Locals have caught crayfish and swam in the Apple river, we are unfamiliar with current spots. People have tubed and canoed down the Apple river. There are numerous state parks within driving distance for hiking, sight seeing, eagle watching etc. Immerse yourself in the vast history of the area. Again we encourage you to come rest relax and recharge in this peaceful spot.

3. Wooded Retreat Tiny House

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26mi from North Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · La Motte, IA

Imagine this: a wooded creekside. Bird song and wildflowers. Campfire and starlight. Our 8' x 16' tiny house offers the essentials for a back-to-nature getaway without the trouble. We provide a full bed, cookstove, basic cooking and eating utensils, 2 gallons drinking water, outdoor eating area, firepit, and hammock. Bath facilities are on the rustic side including a shower bag and port-a-potty. Short hiking path into the woods and up to the meadow are marked. Creek stomping and fossil hunting are encouraged. Caves, state and county nature areas, canoeing and kayaking are all nearby.

4. The Prairie Lodge

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33mi from North Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Elkader, IA

Welcome to The Prairie Lodge — A Rustic Retreat on Historic Land Nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, The Prairie Lodge sits on 200 acres of native prairie and timber as part of the Cook Heritage Farm Estate. This cherished family property has been passed down through generations for over 173 years. The property borders the scenic Turkey River and is surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle bluffs that lead toward the mighty Mississippi River. Rich in natural beauty, the Driftless Area is geologically unique—never touched by glaciers—and is known for its caves, underground streams, blind valleys, sinkholes, and cold spring-fed creeks. The Prairie Lodge, once the main “corn crib” used for drying and storing harvested corn, has been thoughtfully renovated into a comfortable and charming retreat. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a cozy living room, and an open loft with four queen beds. The loft comfortably sleeps eight and can accommodate up to ten guests with a blow-up mattress if needed. Step onto the east-facing patio deck with your morning beverage and watch the sunrise over fields of blooming prairie flowers. Wildlife is abundant—deer, rabbits, songbirds, pheasants, and even eagles are frequent visitors. As night falls, the second-floor deck becomes the perfect spot for stargazing and listening to the calls of coyotes echoing across the land. Next door to the Lodge, you’ll find the Bin Bar—a once-abandoned grain bin transformed in 2017 into a unique gathering space ideal for late-night storytelling and nightcaps under the stars. For those traveling with a larger group, RV campsites with full water, sewer, and electrical hookups are available near the Lodge. If additional accommodations are needed beyond the Prairie Lodge, please contact your Hipcamp host for details and availability. Activities nearby: Iowa towns including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each town boasts its own fun for day and evening entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining spots.

5. New Hope Farm

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26mi from North Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · La Motte, IA

This farm is ancestral land of the Sauk and Fox peoples and has been our home since 2001. It offers diverse natural beauty including fresh springs and the Tetes des Morts Creek, quiet woods on sloping bluffs, various songbirds and other wildlife. We tend a few sheep and a flock of 20 laying hens, a small orchard and large vegetable gardens. Our black Labrador retriever wanders around here freely. The tiny house is equipped with a camp cookstove with an extra propane bottle, cooking and eating utensils, press coffee pot, 2 gallons drinking water, full bed, rocking chair, writing table, woodstove for winter heat. It has a back porch and front deck with patio furniture. There’s a firepit with two Adirondack chairs. Firewood provided for $5/bundle.

6. RidgeRiverView Acres

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3.6mi from North Buena Vista · 4 sites · Lodging · Sherrill, IA

160 y/o six generation farm that has been documented and illustrated in both National Geographic and Picture magazines. Site of original log cabin. 20' deep spring fed pond excavated in 2010. 50 acres of trails,trees and wildlife.

Stories from the community

Full size bed with featherbed and down comforter.

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Lucille

November 2025

Weekend Trip to New Hope Farm

This was a perfect, off the grid cozy stay. It was pretty chilly while we there, but we were still able to see a variety of birds and wildlife!

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Lee

October 2025

3 nights at Wooded Retreat Tiny House

The tiny house was so cozy, with everything we needed. We loved being able to dabble in the creek, and watch the sunset over the meadow. It was a great spot to stay while we visited the many awesome local parks.

Eagles Nest overlook allows you to see all the birds soaring high and watch the wildlife walking the woods below. Quiet and peaceful spot to relax!

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Karma

October 2025

4 nights at #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

If there was a doctor to prescribe spiritual isolation, this cabin is the perfect answer! No ayauasca needed! I couldn't get back here fast enough. My spirit needed more, more time experiencing this woodland magickal place. I needed time and a place to gather my thoughts, and let my thoughts roam. The Eagle's Nest was perfect. I can't thank you enough for hosting me again and sharing your property with me. <3

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Karma

September 2025

Weekend Trip to #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

What started as booking one night turned into three! The cabin was perfect for this beginner. Scott and Kimberly were great hosts, and I felt very comfortable. I couldn't have picked a better place to start my camping adventures.

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Carissa

August 2025

Weekend Trip to #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

Scott and Kimberly were super accommodating. I rented a tent site that I couldn’t get to and they suggested a small cabin which worked out better. Absolutely beautiful property by the river. If your in the area make sure to go to this place.

Brenda

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to RWH Farm

We really enjoyed staying at Joan’s and jean’s! The farmhouse has everything you need games, basketball, a full stocked kitchen! We enjoyed being in a rural area and looking at the stars. Joan and Jean were super nice and helpful with everything. We enjoyed seeing the cows so close! And teddy the dog who hanged out with us and was super friendly and adorable 🥰

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Scott

August 2025

3 nights at #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

There were some nice updates to the cabin since my last visit. Steps were added going down to the cabin rather than just a path. Other additions included a new magnetic screen door, a cabinet hung on the wall to hold your gear/food stuffs etc., some reading materials and a guest book, a love seat and table inside and a hand sink on the deck. There was a solar light added to the W.C. but im not sure it gets enough sunlight to charge because it didn't go on. There is also a new cloth fence heading down to the river sites blocking the neighbors view and an outdoor shower is now available for $5/5gal. All very nice additions to an already beautiful, quiet piece of property! And don't forget to book a massage! It is next level! I will definately be back...I think this is my new "Happy Place"!!

New parking pad and side walk for your convenience

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Antoine

August 2025

Group trip

1 night at RWH Farm

We loved our stay at this peaceful countryside ranch! The setting was absolutely gorgeous, with rolling fields and farm animals adding to the charm. The fully renovated ranch was cozy, comfortable, and beautifully maintained, blending modern amenities with a quaint, rustic feel. We came to stargaze for the Perseid meteor shower, and the clear, dark skies made for an unforgettable night under the stars. It was the perfect spot to relax, unplug, and enjoy the quiet. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a serene getaway.

Jay

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Wooded Retreat Tiny House

I can’t say enough good about this place, I had a phenomenal experience, from the hospitality to the general upkeep of the cabin. I was lucky enough to catch two amazing moonrises that lit up the entire valley. Visits from various birds including hummingbirds to the feeder near the deck. Cool, clear and calming evenings. Mary and Rick were extremely kind and responsive to questions along the way. Highly recommended.

Wood bridge you walk over to go toward the woods.

Beth

August 2025

3 nights at New Hope Farm

For me it was a time to see all types of wildlife. I saw small birds as the harry woodpeckers and large as the great blue heron. A mink even came to visit from the stream. Two lovely dogs also came for a short visit as well. I place catch with one of them. The cabin is immaculate and ready to meet your needs. The hosts communicate with you and willing to help in anyway possible. There is a small library and my favorite were the Flannery O’Conner stories. I sat in the hammock outside as I read. At night I sat by a fire and watched the half moon rise. The cabin is private and looks out on a meadow on the front and the back screened in porch has a view of the stream gently flowing. You can walk the land and find a path leading into the woods then to a huge meadow. It is a wonderful get away from it all place just to Be.

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Bruce

July 2025

Weekend Trip to #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

Stayed in the eagles nest cabin , good thing because it rained ! Great property, river side camping , hammocks, sunning lawn , fire pits. Great camping experience. Oh and Owls , Screech and Hoot .

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Analog

July 2025

2 nights at Wooded Retreat Tiny House

Need a little private getaway?Give this tiny house a stay

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Jeff

July 2025

1 night at #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

The Eagles Nest was a A+! 16 foot room had plenty of room for my freestanding hammock stand. Great view off the balcony, over looking the cattle pond, over the fence line. The sound of Bull frogs was nice to hear over night. Scott is a Great Host! Spent one night at the cabin, then moved to a campsite along the Wapsi River. Maybe he will build a Eaglse Nest 2 above the other Bluff. ;-). You have to bring your own sleep system. A step up from a tent, with screen windows

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Tim

July 2025

Weekend Trip to #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

Scott the host was genuinely friendly and very hospitable. We rented the eagles nest and it was just as advertised. He gave us a tour of the entire grounds place beforehand and then helped us get situated in the cabin. We would highly recommend this place and the description is thorough and accurate. .

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C J

July 2025

Tent

3 nights at #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

I stayed at the Eagle’s Nest. I loved the little cabin especially since no tent was needed. The front deck was perfect for cooking and the view was spectacular. Scott was extremely attentive to my every need. He met me and helped load my gear in his trailer which was pulled by his 4-wheeler. As much as I loved the Eagle’s nest, the riverfront campsites looked very inviting. Scott has engineered a rain water shower, so I used my solar camp shower to heat the water. Perfect! Give this place a try!

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Nicole

June 2025

3 nights at New Hope Farm

My cabin stay on New Hope Farm was everything I was hoping for and more! Private and serene, with plenty of land to wander. The cabin is quaint, with thoughtful details and supplies for renters. Many birds and wildlife. Location is perfect for those who want to explore the country and also be close to Dubuque for quick runs.

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Anna

June 2025

2 nights at New Hope Farm

We loved our stay at the cabin. It is in a beautiful and private setting. Mary was very responsive and helpful. We hope to visit again!

Anita

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Wooded Retreat Tiny House

Mary hosted a great spot! Quiet and clean a great place to relax. Easy spot to find. Mary was very responsive and pleasant when messaging.

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Scott

May 2025

Tent

2 nights at #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

Scott & Kimberly were wonderful hosts. Upon arrival Scott offered to help cart my gear to the site with their 4x4 & wagon. The "cabin" was simple but perfect in every way. A nice balcony with a table & chairs and your own personal WC. The grounds are very large and easily walked with benches along the way to stop and take in the scenery of the rock cliffs, the Mother Tree, the pond and pasture, and several river vantage points. I spent hours lying in a hammock by the river with the sun and breeze blowing over me - it was glorious. I wish the weather had been nicer but it afforded me time to explore the local area with many state parks and sites of interest within an hours drive. A highlight of the trip was my massage. Truly a one-of-a-kind experience! I will certainly make it a goal to come visit again soon! Thank you for sharing your lovely property!

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Claire

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Wooded Retreat Tiny House

We had such a nice stay at Mary and Rick’s, we enjoyed some time relaxing by the fire and having our morning coffee. Their land is a hidden gem! Tiny home was stocked with the essentials and very cozy.