Campervan Sites Near Ottumwa, Iowa: Best Ottumwa Campervan Sites 2025

In Ottumwa, setting up with your campervan is straightforward—there are over 500 options tailored for van travelers, with prices ranging from $15 up to an average of $55 a night. Expect practical touches like showers, potable water, and cooking equipment at most stops. Terrain here means backroads rolling into farmland, with quick access to climbing spots, bike trails, and historic sites. Locals return to places like Windy Goat Acres (426 reviews), Draco Hill Nature Farm (302 reviews), and Folk School Farm Stay (221 reviews) for their quiet settings and responsive hosts. You’ll find campsites tucked among the bluffs, along stream edges, and on working farms. Pull in, plug in, and you’re ready to explore.

99% (249)

Top-rated campgrounds

Out side the dome portable fire pit. A perfect spot to watch sunsetting.
There is an additional sitting area behind the dome with another fire pit and picnic table. Additional spaces behind the dome for hammocks car parking etc.

In Ottumwa, setting up with your campervan is straightforward—there are over 500 options tailored for van travelers, with prices ranging from $15 up to an average of $55 a night. Expect practical touches like showers, potable water, and cooking equipment at most stops. Terrain here means backroads rolling into farmland, with quick access to climbing spots, bike trails, and historic sites. Locals return to places like Windy Goat Acres (426 reviews), Draco Hill Nature Farm (302 reviews), and Folk School Farm Stay (221 reviews) for their quiet settings and responsive hosts. You’ll find campsites tucked among the bluffs, along stream edges, and on working farms. Pull in, plug in, and you’re ready to explore.

99% (249)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Nature Heaven

96%

(315)

39mi from Ottumwa · 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.

2. Ramsey Creek Natural Area

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(9)

48mi from Ottumwa · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Kalona, IA

3 acres that were converted from a cornfield 30 years ago to an area containing prairie, woods and creek. A great place to relax and enjoy rural Iowa, guests are welcome to roam the mowed areas and paths while respecting other guests. In the heart of the largest Amish community west of the Mississippi, only 2 miles from Kalona Historical Village. Groceries, gas and food and dump station available in Kalona, firewood available on site, kayak trips may be arranged.

3. Red Rock Springs

100%

(32)

39mi from Ottumwa · 1 site · Tent, RV · Knoxville, IA

Private secluded camp spot Near Lake Red Rock. Enjoy your own private 6.5 wooded acres to explore. There is a Spring-fed stream that runs through this property. Spot Abundant wildlife including turkey, deer, owls and eagles. Several trails wind through this camp. Pull your camper or pitch a tent. The restroom has enough solar power to charge all your devices. This property Borders Army corps of engineers land. Competine Creek is only 1200 feet from this camp and feeds into Lake Red Rock. Great for canoes or kayaks. This camp is Less than a 5 min drive to Lake Red Rock boat ramp. 8 min to Knoxville, 10 min to Pella. This is an off grid property with a clean, simple bathroom featuring a composting toilet and hand-washing sink. (sink currently winterized but hand sanitizer provided)

4. Fruits of Our Labor Vinyard

43mi from Ottumwa · 1 site · Tent, RV · Knoxville, IA

Within 3.7 miles of Knoxville Raceway, 20 minutes from Pella, and Lake Red Rock. Partly Forested, Partly Vinyard, partly prairie - with lake and Fire pit.

5. Trail-Side Rural Retreat

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(9)

22mi from Ottumwa · 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. Chariton Valley Cabins And RV Sites

36mi from Ottumwa · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Melrose, IA

Our RV Sites sit on our secluded property that overlooks the beautiful Lake Rathbun in southern Iowa. We have 6 sites available. Enjoy the peaceful, starry night sky. We are not off of a main road/highway so it is very quiet and peaceful. Each RV site has full hook up (Electric, water, septic, wifi). PRICING: $30 a night plus tax $360 a month plus tax $3500 a year plus tax Laundry facilities available (if staying an extended period of time)

Public campgrounds near Ottumwa

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Lake Wapello Campground

17mi from Ottumwa · 93 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Wapello State Park

Lake Keomah Campground

19mi from Ottumwa · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Keomah State Park

Buck Creek Campground

26mi from Ottumwa · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

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Prairie Ridge Park Campground

26mi from Ottumwa · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Honey Creek Resort Campground

28mi from Ottumwa · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Honey Creek Resort

Island View Campground

29mi from Ottumwa · 188 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Honey Creek Campground

29mi from Ottumwa · 152 sites · Tents, RVs · in Honey Creek State Park

Lake Darling Campground

30mi from Ottumwa · 85 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Darling State Park

Lacey-Keosauqua Campground

32mi from Ottumwa · 82 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

Bridgeview Park Campground

33mi from Ottumwa · 106 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

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Howell Station

37mi from Ottumwa · 143 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Red Rock

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North Overlook Campground

38mi from Ottumwa · 54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Red Rock

Stories from the community

J

Judy

3 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

1 night at Red Rock Springs

We loved this very private and roomy campsite! We heard owls, cranes, and coyotes, and we saw geese and trumpeter swans fly overhead. The stars were amazing! We also found the solar lighted bathroom with the composting toilet to be quite a luxury for boondocking. I would highly recommend this site. My only advice…the ground is very rocky, so wear boots or good solid shoes. Enjoy!

d

dave

3 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

1 night at Red Rock Springs

We loved this spot. The restroom was well lit and clean. Beautiful spot with actual owls we heard at night.

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Carrie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

Nice little getaway! I loved that it was secluded enough but you could still drive to town if need be. I like to use this app because of my fear reactive dog. She needs space from humans and dogs, and we both enjoy getting away and relaxing in nature. The neighbors did have dogs that barked through out the night and she found it very hard to settle with the barking. That was my only complaint! The weather did change on us while we were there so we did pack up and leave a little early, but I would definitely come back and give it another go in the future.

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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

Jenny

October 2025

14 ft travel trailer

1 night at Red Rock Springs

We loved our first experience taking out our little Falcon camper and we are so happy it was here. This is a private site with a lighted composting toilet area, with TP and a hand washing station 😊. It has a fire pit and an option to purchase firewood. The view of the trees is stunning, especially this time of year and we enjoyed walking around the grounds. Also there are many paved trails close by within a short drive. Joshua is kind and helpful. Thanks Joshua. We plan on returning and telling our friends and family about your little gem.🌳🐿🦌

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Sara

October 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

We loved camping here, and our dogs had so much fun exploring. The tripod to cook over the fire was handy as well as being able to venmo for firewood. We plan to return!

A

Aaron

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ramsey Creek Natural Area

James was awesome! We just happened to pull up when he was outside. He came over and said hi. He was very welcoming! We stayed at the camper site. Site #3 The spot was great! Very secluded. About 25 minutes from University of Iowa. It was very close to many farms. It was flat. It was freshly mowed and very well maintained. Couple things to know: 1) When you get there, back in. We thought we would pull in and then back into the spot. Nope. You will just back straight in from the main road. 2) I was able to use James' hose to fill up my fresh water tank. 3) Dumping is super simple. Just google Kalona City Park Campground. About 5 minutes from where you camp. At the entrance to the campground there is water and a sewer dump. It was $10 to dump and you just put the cash in an envelope. 4) There were many flies but very few mosquitos.

Z

Zach

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

Joshua was very helpful and the stay was great! The property was very nice and private, all in all a great experience!

L

Luke

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Red Rock Springs

Great host, calm grounds and beautiful scenery would definitely camp again

alicia

October 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

Incredible spot! Wish we had more time here. Directions via Google maps were perfect, look for the cones. Fire wood available restroom available. The site is magical, had an amazing time, my dogs loved being able to explore and relax. Area was well tended too, enjoyed finding old machinery on the lot and so many cute frogs. Some traffic during day but absolute silence in the evening. If you're looking for off grid, peace and quiet with wonderful walking trails and beautiful scape, this is the place!

K

Kat

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Red Rock Springs

My pup and I had a great stay! We spent most of the daytime on the lower part of the property in the shade, which was such a beautiful area with its own picnic table and even a fire pit. The property trails were well maintained. I got two firewood bundles, which were hefty and worth the price: you can see in the attached photo just one bundle and how much wood it supplied. Outhouse was well maintained and didn’t stink. Beautiful open sky at night and peaceful nature sounds. Loved the nearby paved biking trails and recreational areas. Would definitely visit 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.

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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

R

Rob

September 2025

14 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

Great spot! Clean, private, and quiet! Host had fantastic communication. Can’t wait to go back!

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.

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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.

Jacob

August 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Red Rock Springs

This place is amazing, I can tell you that much. It's a great spot for anyone who appreciates a bit of peace and quiet. The private atmosphere really sets it apart from other places I've been to. Our dogs loved the trails and stream down at the lower level! Would love to visit again soon!

K

Kim

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Red Rock Springs

Loved the peace & quiet and space for my dogs to romp! The creek was great to cool them down during our hot summer stay!

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Elly

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Red Rock Springs

Me and my partner had a wonderful overnight stay at Owl’s Perch. We were able to cook using the fire pit and provided, along with the suspended rack. The trails connected to the campsite are beautiful, lush, and well cared for. We had a very pleasant experience, and Joshua is a kind and accommodating host. If you’re looking for a cute, private camping spot, this is your place!