The best campgrounds near Ottumwa, Iowa with wildlife watching

Looking for a camping experience near Ottumwa, Iowa that offers prime wildlife watching opportunities? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 279 options specifically tailored to wildlife watching in the Ottumwa area, you'll be sure to find the perfect spot to observe nature's wonders. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or cabin rentals, Hipcamp has got you covered. Plus, with options starting as low as $15 per night and an average price of $60 per night, you can find a budget-friendly option that suits your needs. Want to know which campsites are top-rated? Check out Windy Goat Acres (208 reviews), Draco Hill Farm (192 reviews), and Come Enjoy the Beauty (160 reviews). With popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and toilets, and activities such as fishing, paddling, and snow sports, your camping trip near Ottumwa is bound to be a wild success!

98% (287) • 26 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ottumwa

Looking for a camping experience near Ottumwa, Iowa that offers prime wildlife watching opportunities? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 279 options specifically tailored to wildlife watching in the Ottumwa area, you'll be sure to find the perfect spot to observe nature's wonders. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or cabin rentals, Hipcamp has got you covered. Plus, with options starting as low as $15 per night and an average price of $60 per night, you can find a budget-friendly option that suits your needs. Want to know which campsites are top-rated? Check out Windy Goat Acres (208 reviews), Draco Hill Farm (192 reviews), and Come Enjoy the Beauty (160 reviews). With popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and toilets, and activities such as fishing, paddling, and snow sports, your camping trip near Ottumwa is bound to be a wild success!

98% (287) • 26 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ottumwa

1. Nature Heaven by lake red rock

96%

(315)

39mi from Ottumwa · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We open year-round!! The winter camping is on the way! We believe each season has its special nature-beauty, so we open year-round. This secluded, beautiful, pet-friendly 40 acres of fenced camping site is on hilly land and is rare in Iowa, with a view of 3.5 private fishing ponds and a far view of the Red Rock Lake. There are 10 acres nature timber area that keep you away from the other campers and the 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 natural features, you may see deer, rabbits, and other game birds by your campsite. Each camping sites have good distance to keep privacy from each other. A recently built 20ft diameter geodesic glamping dome tent is for those who want a more climate-controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent gifts. For surrounding areas, the nearby White Breast Beach is open from May 23 to September 3, 2026, with boating, hunting, and hiking activities in Lake Red Rock. For our campers' safety, any hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come 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 top of a hill. You will have a fantastic sunset view of ponds and a lake view while enjoying the great nature and having 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 were 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 environmental health backgrounds, 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 Google Maps shows now.

2. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

99%

(85)

48mi from Ottumwa · 2 sites · Lodging

We offer one private site on four acres, including a small pond, beach, treehouse, trails and peace and quiet. In addition to the tipi, there are kayaks, canoe, fire ring, wood supply, cooking equipment, dutch ovens, hammock, and tables and chairs. Campers will need to bring sleeping bags and food. Dogs are welcome. There is a rustic restroom (outhouse), with an outdoor shower. Water and electricity are available at the restroom and campsite. In addition, Navigation Play-Williamsburg, provides outdoor play opportunities at the farm on a seasonal basis. If interested, find her on her facebook page. Our dream was to restore an old farmstead to prairie and woods, grow our own food, make some wine and create a wonderland for grandchildren. The tipi and pond campsite is our way of sharing our place. We love meeting new people, especially those that are looking for a new camping experience.

3. Whitetail Tent Camping

100%

(10)

34mi from Ottumwa · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Camping, (Fishinfg at 2 of our sights) Enjoying a campfire and sometimes even petting Pedro the donkey! Learn more about this land: Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people)  You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing.  You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on.  If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite.  If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.

4. Lake Wapello State Park

100%

(1)

93 sites · Unionville, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Wapello State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

5. Lake Keomah State Park

61 sites · Keomah Village, Iowa

Discover the charm of Lake Keomah State Park with its serene lake and lush trails.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Crossroads RV Park

47mi from Ottumwa · 11 sites

Nestled at the intersection of two major highways in Southeast Iowa, our family-owned RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience and charm that sets it apart from the rest. With easy access to local attractions and natural wonders, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Spanning a generous acreage, our park provides ample space for relaxation and privacy, ensuring a peaceful retreat for all our guests. Enjoy the serene surroundings while taking advantage of our special amenities, which include well-maintained facilities and recreational areas designed for family fun. Nearby, you'll find a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking trails to swimming holes, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Additionally, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, allowing you to explore the vibrant community while enjoying your stay. Come experience the warmth of our family-run RV Park, where unforgettable memories await!

7. Rathbun Lake

100%

(1)

391 sites · Rathbun, Iowa

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

8. Honey Creek Resort

20 sites · Rathbun, Iowa

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

Electrical hookup

9. Lake Darling State Park

85 sites · Pleasant Plain, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Darling State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

10. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

82 sites · Keosauqua, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lacey-Keosauqua State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

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. 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

13. Red Haw State Park

80 sites · Chariton, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Red Haw State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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.

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

Michelle

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

Maria was a great host and we had a great time. They have everything you could need there and it’s great for kids too. Our kids loved the canoe and sand toys. They even brought us some homemade wine that was fantastic!

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.

E

Eric

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven

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

N

Nehemiah

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

It’s perfect. Clear view for the sunset & sunrise. The teepee was unexpectedly comfortable, being able light up the fire pit in the inside was a 10. It was 45 degrees last night and we slept like new born babies. Trails cut out to enjoy the colors and the life that the their prairie brings to the land. Great hospitality, I even got the chance to enjoy the taste of delicious fruit and drinks produced from the land.. if this place don’t Bless your camping needs, you’re not a camper. If I keep giving details it might seem too good to be true, I advise you to check it out. Overall it was a pleaser to meet them and enjoy this wonderful idea for us to enjoy nature and the peace that comes with it.. We will be back for sure.

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.

J

Jack

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

We had a great time. The hosts were friendly and shared some homemade wine and vegetables from their garden. The property was very well kept and all the amenities made it a very convenient and relaxing camp. Loved staying in the tipi and being able to take a hot outdoor shower. Can’t wait to come back.

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.

Jeremy

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

I've stayed at walking stick adventures multiple times. It's a private single camp site in a quite rural area. The hosts and campsite provide everything needed for a comfortable stay. Just bring your own bedding and food. Maria and ken are always pleasant and quickly reapond to anything that comes up. The pond and trails are enough to wear out the kids and dogs. This is my family's favorite place to camp.

J

Jager

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Whitetail Tent Camping

Me and my wife really enjoyed our stay at whitetail tent camping. It was a cool setup right next to a beautiful pond and nice and secluded from everything.

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.

Cassie

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

We had such a beautifully relaxing stay—truly one of the best camping experiences we’ve had as a family. Our hosts have literally thought of everything to make it comfortable, peaceful, and easy to enjoy. It’s clear they care deeply about creating a welcoming space, and it shows in all the thoughtful details. The site is super kid-friendly! Our daughter loved playing in the sand, swinging in the hammock, and just exploring the outdoors. We were able to slow down, be present, and really enjoy each other’s company. The weather was perfect during our visit, and our dog had the time of her life swimming in the pond and canoeing right along with us. It was such a joy to watch her have fun too. One of the sweetest touches was the hosts sharing some of their homemade wine—it was absolutely delicious and such a generous, personal gesture that made the experience feel even more special. We left feeling refreshed, reconnected, and full of gratitude. Highly recommend for anyone looking to unplug and make meaningful memories in a truly thoughtful and peaceful setting

T

Tyler

August 2025

1 night at Nature Heaven by lake red rock

Loved being perched on the hill . Great communication . Such a special kind of adventure . So comfortable !

C

Chet

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven

Great place to camp. It was a bit wet out the weekend we went and the spot we picked was in a low area. The owners met us out there and moved us to higher site with an awesome view. Great customer service. It is secluded but close to all the places you want to go.

E

Emily

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven by lake red rock

We had a wonderful time and thought the description was very accurate!

B

Brian

July 2025