The best campgrounds near Osceola, Iowa with swimming

If you’re looking for camping with swimming spots in Osceola, you’ve got over 1800 options to sift through. Most sites sit near creeks or small lakes, so you can cool off after a day hiking or casting a line. Average nightly prices hover around $45, but you can snag a site for as low as $25. Top picks with plenty of reviews include Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure (206 reviews), Nature Heaven (192 reviews), and The Waypoint (34 reviews). Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly sites are easy to find. If you’re after more than a swim, plenty of campsites offer fishing and even winter snow sports. Keep your gear simple—most sites have the basics covered.

97% (473)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you’re looking for camping with swimming spots in Osceola, you’ve got over 1800 options to sift through. Most sites sit near creeks or small lakes, so you can cool off after a day hiking or casting a line. Average nightly prices hover around $45, but you can snag a site for as low as $25. Top picks with plenty of reviews include Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure (206 reviews), Nature Heaven (192 reviews), and The Waypoint (34 reviews). Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly sites are easy to find. If you’re after more than a swim, plenty of campsites offer fishing and even winter snow sports. Keep your gear simple—most sites have the basics covered.

97% (473)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

96%

(492)

37mi from Osceola · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Earlham, IA

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!

2. Nature Heaven

96%

(315)

46mi from Osceola · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Knoxville, IA

The winter camping is on the way! We believe each season has it’s special nature-beauty, so we open year around. This seclude, beautiful pet friendly 40 acres of fenced camping site is on hilly land and is rare in Iowa with view of 3.5 private fishing ponds and far view of the Red Rock Lake. There are 10 acres nature timber area that keep you away from the other campers and rest of the world. Each site has a firepit, picnic table and a solar light. The drinking water is at the entrance, but no electricity on. There are tons of nature features, you may see deer, rabbits and other game birds by your campsite. Each camping sites have good distances to keep privacy from each other. A recently built a 20ft diameter geodesic glamping dome tent is for those who want more climate-controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent nature's gifts. For surrounding areas, the close by White Breast Beach is open from May 23-September 3, 2024, boating, hunting and hiking activities in the lake red rock. For our camper's safety, any hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come for hunting with Iowa hunting tags, a couple of public hunting grounds are near our camping ground. The recently built glamping geodesic Dome tent is located on a top of hill. You will have a fantastic sunset view of ponds and lake view while enjoy the great nature and have a comfortable stay. The cell phone signals are good from most providers; you may use your cell phone hotspot work remotely at this astonishing Lake Red Rock Oasis ^_^. Hope you will find joy, peace and happiness in this wonderful piece of natural land and the Red Rock Lake areas. A little history of this land: These 40 acres of land was a surface mining site. The reclamation works done during the 1970s. But over the years, the soil was seriously eroded. Anna and Peilin, who have Master's and PhD in soil and environment health background, bought this land several years ago and started to restore the vegetation. Now the site looks beautiful and ready for the nature lovers and campers to enjoy the fantastic view of the lake, ponds, hills and tall grass, Butterflys... The site is totally different from what the Google map shows now.

3. The Waypoint

99%

(55)

40mi from Osceola · 5 sites · RVs · Earlham, IA

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.

4. Lake Ahquabi State Park

100%

(3)

104 sites · Indianola, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Ahquabi State Park.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Red Haw State Park

80 sites · Chariton, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Red Haw State Park.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

6. Adventureland Resort Campground

46mi from Osceola · 21 sites · Altoona, IA

Experience the magic of Adventureland Campground, where your family can enjoy a unique blend of outdoor fun and proximity to Adventureland Resort. Nestled just steps away from the excitement of the park, this campground offers an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike. Spend your days exploring thrilling rides and attractions, and unwind in the evenings around a cozy campfire, gazing up at the twinkling stars. Adventureland Resort Campground is a full-service facility designed to cater to all your camping needs. With amenities such as electric hookups, modern showers, and restrooms, you can enjoy the comforts of home while immersed in nature. The campground also features RV facilities, tent camping options, a refreshing swimming pool, and recreational areas for family fun. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Adventureland Campground is the perfect base for your family getaway. Don't miss out on creating lasting memories—your ultimate family adventure is just around the corner!

7. Nine Eagles State Park

61 sites · Pleasanton, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Nine Eagles State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

8. Green Valley State Park

67%

(4)

83 sites · Creston, Iowa

Discover the allure of Green Valley State Park's outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

9. Rathbun Lake

100%

(1)

391 sites · Rathbun, Iowa

Discover Rathbun Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

10. Elk Rock State Park

100%

(1)

85 sites · Knoxville, Iowa

Elk Rock State Park: A Haven for Campers and Nature Enthusiasts.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

11. Lake Red Rock

100%

(5)

390 sites · Pella, Iowa

Discover Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake with endless recreation and scenic beauty.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

12. Honey Creek State Park

152 sites · Rathbun, Iowa

Discover the natural charm of Honey Creek State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

13. Honey Creek Resort

20 sites · Rathbun, Iowa

If this is camping, sign us up! Resort amenities abound at this cushy state park.

Electrical Hookup

14. Saylorville Lake

100%

(9)

446 sites · Polk City, Iowa

Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Osceola

100%

(3)

Lake Ahquabi Campground

20mi from Osceola · 104 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Ahquabi State Park

Red Haw Campground

26mi from Osceola · 80 sites · Tents, RVs · in Red Haw State Park

Nine Eagles Campground

30mi from Osceola · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nine Eagles State Park

67%

(4)

Green Valley Campground

32mi from Osceola · 83 sites · Tents, RVs · in Green Valley State Park

Bridgeview Park Campground

41mi from Osceola · 106 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Elk Rock Campground

45mi from Osceola · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Elk Rock State Park

100%

(1)

Equestrian Campground

45mi from Osceola · 55 sites · in Elk Rock State Park

100%

(1)

Whitebreast Campground

46mi from Osceola · 111 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Red Rock

Honey Creek Campground

46mi from Osceola · 152 sites · Tents, RVs · in Honey Creek State Park

Honey Creek Resort Campground

46mi from Osceola · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Honey Creek Resort

Bob Shetler Recreation Area and Campground

47mi from Osceola · 67 sites · Tents, RVs · in Saylorville Lake

Island View Campground

47mi from Osceola · 188 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Stories from the community

RV Spots have electric at the site, water to fill your tanks with and we have a dump station on the way out.

Xavier

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

Great roadside stop. Safe and comfortable. Would reccomend.

C

Cristian

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Nature Heaven

Great location, and accommodating host. Great directs and signs as you go through. Defined trailed with class 2 base gravel for easy 2wd access. Saw multiple deer both day for short time I was there. Well maintained.

J

Josh

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Waypoint

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

Site 3. is on a hill top. One part of the site is in the shade and another part is on a limited open spaces. This site have beautiful view of pond, hills and lake. very nice sunset view if weather permit.

G

Georgia

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Nature Heaven

Wow this place is just so gorgeous. We fit one 2 person tent and one 4 person tent very comfortably next to each other. When you’re in or around your tent, or sitting at the bonfire it’s incredibly private, but you can still walk out just 30 feet and see the beautiful wide open view. Definitely will be back soon a recommending this site to all of my friends!!!

Cristian

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven

10/10 returning soon again beautiful area quiet away from everyone perfect spot

J

James

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

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

Patricia

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

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..

E

Eric

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven

Loved the location, the view. And the fun setup. Had a great time!

Kit

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Nature Heaven

My friend and I had a lovely time camping on Anna’s land! When we arrived there was someone already in our spot but Anna quickly sorted out another spot for us that we think was even nicer than what we had planned. We had a great view with a gentle breeze. All the spots offer lots of privacy.

C

Cody

September 2025

30 ft toy hauler

With kids

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven

Anna’s Hipcamp spot near Lake Red Rock is beautiful-lovely prairie with peaceful sunsets and sunrises. It’s great for stargazing and telescope use, with private access, a water fill, fire pits, and good campsites. The hosts are great, and it’s boondocking on restored land that feels truly serene.

E

Erin

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven

Loved the land and the campsite. Everything was exactly as it was described and pictured. Very friendly couple that owns the land- only 12 mins from Pella. Beautiful views of the lake and sunset from this spot.

D

Dave

August 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Waypoint

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.

K

Karl

August 2025

16 ft campervan

1 night at The Waypoint

Nice little place. We didn’t get to stay very long, but it is very peaceful and quiet.

M

Michelle

August 2025

With kids

1 night at Nature Heaven

We enjoyed the unique dome experience with breath taking views! Our stay was during the middle of the week, so we enjoyed the peace & quiet with no campers around us. Taking a peaceful walk while watching the sunset & sunrise was beautiful.

Dudley

August 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Waypoint

This is a wonderfully quiet place with gorgeous trees! It was a little too hot for pups and I to explore much but our camping area was very secluded and private. Emma is an incredibly responsive and kind hostess!

Ronda

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

I enjoyed the privacy and shade that site #T3 offered. The other tent sites in the loop were in full sun. I set up a tail gate tent and appreciated that there was enough grass at the end of the parking gravel for the tent. The large site could easily fit a couple of more tents. Very relaxing to listen to the accessable babbling creek on the back of the site. Only negative would be if there are other tenters you could be bothered by the close port-a-potty. I definitely heard the white noise of the interstate but it didn't drown out the sounds of the owls at night. Few lights in the campground allow for stargazing. So surprised to find the cleanest shower house ever! The private shower included a sink and toilet. Host was quick to answer any questions I had. I will definitely visit again.

J

Jj

August 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Waypoint

This place was very secluded with private campsites. Our dogs loved it also. Obviously certain months bring bug spray lol. Had it not been overcast I'm sure we would have been able to enjoy millions of stars. If you e joy outdoors and seclusion 100% recommend!

B

Barbara

August 2025

20 ft Class B

1 night at The Waypoint

Our first night in our new camper van was spent in this very private peaceful location! Nice walk to beautiful pond - enjoyed the stay!

Bethany

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven

Very beautiful space. It's secluded but not too far from Knoxville or Pella. The beach was nice and close as well as one of our favorite hiking spots, the Stu Kuyper trail.

M

Mariya

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven

We loved tent camping at Anna’s property. Site 4 is so secluded and peaceful. The vibe was super chill. The instructions were very clear and it was very easy to find. The toilet was clean. It was a very nice private experience. Saw some deer in the bushes too. So cool.