Bend River Farms

100%

128 reviews

· Runnells, Polk, Iowa

50 acres hosted by Amy B.

1 lodging site · 2 RV/tent sites · 1 RV site

Big rig-friendly

Spacious, level camping well-suited for travel trailers over 40 ft long.

Family-friendly

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.

Best in Iowa: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.

Amy is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Bend River Farms is just a short drive from Interstate 80/35. The farm is nestled in the gently rolling hills of central Iowa. Little Camp Creek flows through the property and continues on towards the mighty Des Moines river. Cool woodland meadows provide a comforting back drop to your tent site or glamping experience. All our sites come with complimentary firewood, we offer reduced prices during the summer and a 15% discount on weekday bookings. Our property offers private restrooms, showers, complimentary towels and firewood, 24/7 laundry room, Wi-Fi, a dish washing station, play area with jungle gym, hiking trails, hands on farm animal activities, a communal outdoor dinning area and a saltwater hot tub await your arrival! Bend River Farms was a former junk yard that has now been transformed into a cottage core dream. The farm is operated much like family farms of the 1920's. The focus is on small scale, multi system agriculture, we have fresh eggs, produce and honey for sale. Bend River Farms is not a resort or public camp ground. It is a place to enjoy wild spaces and recharge. Agri-tourism at it's best. Learn about native prairie restoration, regenerative agriculture and sustainable ranching from owners, Amy Buckendahl and Dave Breese. Please understand that our property is a working farm, and our staff are often busy working on projects and have full careers, outside of farming. We do not have the same amenities as a public campground or "all inclusive" camp resort. Instead, we offer your wandering heart a place to rest. All travel to the farm is on paved roads, with no confusing dirt roads to navigate. The property is located near the small community of Runnells, Iowa in rural Camp Township. Enjoy a cold beer or hot food at one of the two local taverns, or check out the local ice cream shop or our local farmer's market on Tuesday evenings during the summer. Don't worry if you forget something! We have a nearby gas station and a general store. Don't forget, we have smores kits, farm fresh honey and eggs available for purchase, check out the EXTRAS option during checkout! Amy, our own resident biologist, will give you an opportunity to learn about livestock husbandry and the local wildlife. The farms orchard boasts several wild bird feeding stations, with edible landscaping! A stay on our farm will provide you with an opportunity to learn about Land Management in an agricultural setting. Learn about carpentry and welding from a master fabricator, or book an adventure to learn about gardening, poultry care, horsemanship, beekeeping and even falconry! These are also available in the EXTRAS option during checkout. Fancy a fireside meal or homestyle dinner? Dave is a trained chef and loves to cook for our guests. Select a meal during checkout. Off-site, but nearby opportunities: miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, kayaking and fishing. The Iowa State Fair Grounds and Adventureland Waterpark is only 20 minutes away, along with big city fine dining, music and art museums are all less than a thirty miles drive; when you need a break from camping and nature. Fee based transportation is available for guests flying in or needing a break from driving, or whenever you need a quick trip into town. Our philosophy: "Here at Bend River Farms we are passionate about regenerative agriculture. We strive to push ourselves and our partners to think of the future and the longevity of our agricultural practices. " Regenerative Agriculture is an agricultural philosophy that both acknowledges the degenerative impact of poor land stewardship, and the positive use of agricultural practices that foster restoration and productivity." Local conditions determine which practices are most appropriate. A well managed food system should improve the long-term health and function of the agricultural system and the communities that depend upon them, physically, culturally, spiritually, and economically. Regeneratively managed businesses protect and improve the natural function of our water, nutrient, and carbon cycles by taking steps to increase biodiversity in the agricultural system, and works to minimize reliance on external inputs, and avoid the use of synthetic chemicals whenever possible.”

Activities

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Natural features

Forest

River, stream, or creek

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Lodging 1 site

Galaxy Glampsite

100% (18)

Canvas tent · Sleeps 4 · 1 bed · 1 toilet

The site listing will be updated as construction is finalized. Private outhouse and wood fired Swedish hot tub coming summer 2024. We offer a 15% discount for weekday bookings and during the hotter summer months. All our sites come with complimentary firewood. Love camping but don't want to pack? Enjoy our poly canvas glamping dome with plush king sized mattress (we can switch the king out into a 2 twin bed arrangement upon request), 400 thread count sheets, natural wool and down comforters, wood stove, outdoor seating, and a fire ring. This dome is best suited for 2 people, however it can sleep 4 guests in a pinch. We have 2 camp cots available for overflow upon request. We even offer catering, for an extra fee. The Galaxy Dome has battery powered camp fans to help keep you cool, but does not have electricity. Several outside chairs and a picnic table for dining. Please note* staff are available for check in from 4pm until 8pm most days. Just pack your bag and roll up to our site. Complimentary firewood is standard, (Please note that we do not allow off-site firewood. This protects our farm from introduced pests and disease). The goal of any camping trip is to explore nature and all it has to offer. Camping is a time to ditch the phones! Let us help you discover the calming elements of nature with activities such as forest bathing or plant walks while you listen to the sounds of leaves rustling and birds singing. Fresh air provides a cleansing refreshment, so you can practice deep breathing techniques to calm your nervous system – and even enjoy some outdoor yoga! When you’re surrounded by fresh, crisp air and greenery, your body is replenished and revitalized from the many benefits that nature offers. It should be noted that this site does share a travel path with other campsites, so you might encounter other campers while traveling to the campsite. The Galaxy Glampsite does not have "onsite" amenities. However, the Main House is only a 10 minute walk away. The main house has shared guest areas that include WIFI, electric outlets, dish washing station, flush toilets, hot showers, potable water, 24/HR laundry, a 6 person saltwater hot tub, jungle gym and swing set, storm shelter, trash/dumpster, large event style charcoal grill, an outdoor dining area and a communal fire pit with seating and firewood.

RV sites 1 site

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RV Slip

99% (41)

Vehicle site · Sleeps 11 · Vehicles under 45 ft

Our RV slip is a well maintained, packed 1/2 acre gravel lot located in the front parking area of the main house. The slip comes with access to rural water, power, and trash. The site is just off our black top highway, with no long gravel roads to navigate. It's convenient road access will help you enjoy easy parking and late/early arrival times as needed! Please note* staff are available for check in from 4pm until 8pm most days. Please note: the RV Slip is located in front of the main house, and campers will have access to our shared/communal guest areas that include WIFI, electric outlets, flush toilets, dish washing station, hot showers, potable water, 24/HR laundry with complimentary laundry soap, a 6 person saltwater hot tub, jungle gym and swing set, storm shelter, trash/dumpster, charcoal grill, communal outdoor dining in our garden patio area and a communal fire pit with seating and complimentary firewood, (Please note we do not allow off site firewood, this protects our farm from introduced pests and disease) It should be noted that this site does share a parking area with other guests, so you may encounter other campers during your stay. Please send us a message the day before your arrival to let us know your approximate ETA, your text will allow us to provide you with updated driving directions. To facilitate a smooth check-in, please send us a second message when you are ten miles out, as we are often busy working on the farm, this helps us to better prepare for your arrival. Whenever possible, please message us with updates to your estimated time of arrival. We are a working farm and are often busy fixing fences, tending our livestock or working in the garden. For insurance reasons and safety, PLEASE keep all pets leashed! (please note flexi-leashes are not allowed on our property, thanks to insurance).

RV/tent sites 2 sites

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Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)

100% (61)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 16 · Vehicles under 19 ft

The Trappers Hideout is a well maintained primitive campsite in a lush forest. Even in the heat of summer, the mature trees and babbling creek help to keep the site cool and comfortable with north westerly breezes. Please note* staff are available for check in from 4pm until 8pm most days. The Trappers Hideout is a primitive campsite, but the site comes with a picnic table, hammock, trash receptacle, patio chairs, a fire ring and complimentary firewood (Please note we do not allow off site firewood, this protects our Farm from introduced pests and disease). The campsite can accommodate several medium tents or two large two-room tents on dirt pads and has enough parking for two vehicles and a large camper van and smaller RVs or pull-behind campers. This campsite has about 500 square feet of cleared woodland space and is private and secluded. It should be noted that this site does share a travel path to another campsite, so you might encounter other campers while traveling to the site. PLEASE NOTE: Campers wishing to book our primitive sites must check in 30 minutes BEFORE SUNSET, this is for your safety! Bend River Farms is a working farm with livestock and wild spaces, so for your safety, a staff person will give you a brief safety tour and check you into your site. Pets are welcome, but must be leashed (Please note flexi-leashes are not allowed). Our primitive campsites do not have "onsite" amenities. However, many amenities are located up at the Main House, which is approximately a five minute walk, or a few minute drive on uneven terrain on a dirt lane. The main house has shared guest areas that include WIFI, electric outlets, flush toilets, hot showers, potable water, 24/HR laundry, a 6 person saltwater hot tub, jungle gym and swing set, storm shelter, trash/dumpster, charcoal grill, outdoor dining area and a communal fire pit with seating and firewood. Something to consider with our primitive campsites: Please note that during heavy rain our primitive sites may become difficult to access without 4X4 or wheel drive. However! We offer complimentary UTV transport in this situation for guests and campers. We cannot guarantee site access via personal vehicle during severely inclement weather and will offer alternative accommodations on the farm whenever possible in this rare event.

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Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)

100% (13)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 35 · Vehicles under 15 ft

Our Prairie Point group campsite is a well maintained 2 acre creek side primitive campsite. This site is perfect for LATE arrivals. Please note* staff are available for check in from 4pm until 8pm most days. The area is comprised of a large mowed meadow that includes two fire rings with log seating, benches, trash receptacles, and plenty of complementary firewood (Please note we do not allow off site firewood, this protects our farm from introduced pests and disease). This site has ample tenting sites and a grass parking area as well. Perfect for scout troops or small events. It should be noted that this site does share a travel path with the farm and other campsites, so you might encounter other people while traveling to the prairie point group campsite. The Prairie Point group campsite does not have "onsite" amenities. However, many extra amenities are located up at the Main House, which is only a 2-minute walk, or a short drive on uneven terrain. The main house has several shared guest areas that include WI-FI, electric outlets, flush toilets, hot showers, potable water, dish washing station, 24/HR laundry, a 6 person saltwater hot tub, jungle gym and swing set, storm shelter, trash/dumpster, charcoal grill, outdoor dining area and a communal fire pit with seating and complimentary firewood. PLEASE NOTE: Campers wishing to book our primitive sites must check in 30 minutes BEFORE SUNSET, this is for your safety! Bend River Farms is a working farm with livestock and wild spaces, so it's imperative that a staff person give you (and everyone in your group) a brief safety tour and check you into your site. Pets are always welcome, but must be leashed (please note flexi-leashes are not allowed on our property, thanks to insurance).

300 ft

Reviews

100% Recommend147 ratings · 128 reviews

Bend River Farms offers a warm and welcoming environment for campers, with hosts that make you feel right at home. The site is noted for its beautiful and relaxing setting, with a hot tub being a popular feature after a long drive. Visitors appreciate the privacy of the camping areas, while still having access to amenities like showers and laundry. The presence of animals, such as chickens and horses, adds to the charm of the location, making it a memorable stop for many travelers.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Joshua Y.

2 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

Trappers paradise

Tent ·

Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)

Hosts were very friendly. Site was beautiful and relaxing. The hosts and I talked about future plans for the site, really excited to see what this site will become

Annie S.

11 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2025

The Perfect Stop!

16 ft car ·

Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)

I make the trip from CO to CT via car twice a year and Bend River Farms is an ESSENTIAL stop along the way. Dave and Amy are incredibly friendly, welcoming and make you feel right at home! They have continuously taken such great care of me to avoid nasty weather~ going great lengths to make sure I am comfortable! Such a beautiful, lively oasis if you’re looking to seek refuge from I-80! Love love love! 100000% RECOMMEND!

Brenda J.

7 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

32 ft Class A · With pets ·

RV Slip

This was everything it said and more. It was so fun, the back yard was a huge bonus with the hot tub and shower. It rained most of the weekend but still had a great time..

Tabitha T.

13 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

15 ft pop-up camper · With kids ·

Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)

Amazing camping spot as usual! All of the privacy you want in a perfect location!

Stephanie S.

13 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

25 ft Class C · With pets ·

RV Slip

Amy's land was beautiful. She had animals too. She had an RV spot that is available for full hookup (water and electric). We opted to take a more primitive, remote site in the woods. It was very peaceful. There was firewood, a fire ring and chairs available. Near the house, she had a salt water hot tub, laundry, a shower and bathroom available for guests. We would stay here again and highly recommend Amy's land!

Gary T.

6 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

16 ft car ·

Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)

Amy and Dave were kind and thorough. More amenities than I expected for the price

Location

Runnells, Polk, Iowa, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking