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Bend River Farms

Hosted by Amy · Runnells, Iowa
4 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging · 50 acres
99%
·
166 reviews
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Best Hipcamps in Iowa
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.
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.
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.”
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RV/tent sites

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Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)

99%
(79)
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.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
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Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)

100%
(19)
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 as it's close to the main house, and is just off the driveway. 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 a fire ring, fire grate, 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 grass tenting sites and vehicle 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).
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
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RV-only sites

1 site
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RV Slip

99%
(52)
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).
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
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Lodging

1 site
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Galaxy Glampsite

100%
(25)
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.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
from
$98
/ night
for NaN guests
from
$28
/ night
4 sites

Reviews

99% Recommend189 ratings · 166 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
31 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
RV Slip
My son and I and our 3 dogs had so much fun! This was our second time this year and with the cooler weather we got to walk on the paths and see what the farm had to offer and all the colors and findings. We will definitely be back next year!!! The host are truly amazing and so welcoming!!!
S
Stephannie S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Amazing and Private Camping
Tent · With pets ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
I loved this campsite! Beautiful ravines on every side and very private. Plenty of firewood was provided by the host. I’m already planning my next visit!
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Nathan R.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Peaceful break from it all
Galaxy Glampsite
Bend River Farm is just as it is described. Amy and Dave are amazing hosts. Accommodating, helpful, they go above and beyond. We were looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, peaceful surroundings and That was delivered. It is primitive, but with some comforts like a comfortable bed, solar lights, a wood stove. The trail to get to camp will get muddy with rain, as described and they will transport you back and forth in the side by side if needed. Be prepared to cook over the fire, bring all the supplies, if something is needed or forgotten Amy and Dave are super helpful and willing to help out. If you get a chance to relax in the salt water hot tub, I definitely recommend it! If you enjoy nature you will very much appreciate Bend River farm. We cannot wait to go back.
N
Nicole S.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Beautiful private dome glamping
Galaxy Glampsite
We had a great time at the private space for the dome glamping. The dome was really nice and comfortable. It was also very clean both inside and out.
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Tara L.
4 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
16 ft car ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
Was our second trip out and will continue to maintain this is our favorite central Iowa place to camp. Hosts are great, site is great, whole thing was great, we’ll be back again.
C
Cole D.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Perfect over night en route.
19 ft campervan ·
RV Slip
We were only there for one night but were welcomed warmly despite a torrential rain. We needed no hook ups so site #1 in their driveway suited our needs. Roosters crow early but we were up to use toilet and take off. Would have liked to explore but no time. The chickens are gorgeous!
C
Cindy M.
3 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
We had a great time relaxing at Trapper's Hideout. Listening to barred owls, great horned owls, and coyotes at night was amazing. The boys (8 & 4) lived being able to visit the chickens and horses.
A
Abigail F.
3 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Galaxy Dome was amazing!
Galaxy Glampsite
Super beautiful site. We loved the galaxy dome! It was so homey and such a fun cool experience. We enjoyed using the salt water hot tub and also having access to the shower area by the main house. It was great that we could drive over to the main house to have running water but have plenty of privacy at the globe! Amy had so many good suggestions for restaurants and activities. We loved being only 15 min away from Neil Smith wildlife refuge. It was crazy how in the middle of nowhere our site felt but in like 20 min we could be eating ice cream in Runnels. Amy also sent us home with some eggs and apples which was such a fun treat!
O
Olivia W.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
23 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
RV Slip
Amy and Dave were lovely, we really enjoyed our stay! Their farm is beautiful and the dinner they cooked us was amazing.
J
Jessica J.
3 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Lovely farm camping experience!
37 ft fifth wheel ·
RV Slip
We had a great time camping at Bend River Farms. Amy and Dave were outstanding hosts, they clearly have a love of what they're doing and made us feel at home. Their land is beautiful and relaxing. We got great recommendations for local things to do and were close enough to Des Moines to be able to add the city's attractions to our trip. We are looking forward to being back there!
M
Matt M.
5 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Outstanding Visit!
19 ft Class B · With pets ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
Amy and Dave are the most wonderful and welcoming hosts! The site is level and private. I am going to be a repeat visitor!!
W
William M.
12 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
16 ft car ·
Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)
It was a nice getaway. We felt like we on our little piece of land.
J
John B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
10/10 highly recommend
Tent · With pets ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
A beautiful little farm that is well maintained and fun to explore. We brought our 2 dogs with us and they absolutely loved running around. The hosts Amy and Dave are incredible. At one point our car battery died and Dave came down to our campsite and gave us a jump. I can't speak highly enough of them or their hospitality. It was really a great experience.
T
Tyler H.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
45 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
RV Slip
Super nice people. Comfortable and quiet spot. Would stay again!
E
Eleanor D.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Hospitality
Tent ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
Hospitality is wonderful. You couldn't ask for nicer people.
R
Rhonda L.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Love it!!!
Tent ·
Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)
We loved staying here. Amy and Dave were super nice and welcoming! We didn’t get to stay for long but the site was perfect and we loved being out with the sounds of nature. Would stay here again!
K
Kaylee J.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
FAVORITE PLACE TO CAMP!!!
Galaxy Glampsite
This is our 3rd stay at Bend River Farms. Amy and Dave are the best! The Galaxy Dome is beautiful and the peaceful atmosphere makes for a relaxing stay. We enjoyed having the outhouse on-site. The dome is one of the more remote sites, and in our welcome messages they did warn us about inclement weather making the roads difficult without four wheel drive. With the crazy amount of rain we had, we totally took advantage of our host’s offer to drive us to our campsite. They even came and carted us around to shower and enjoy the saltwater hot tub. They definitely know how to make us feel welcome and we’d recommend staying here if you’re a novice camper or seasoned travelers. Amy gave us all kinds of advice on places to go and things to do during our stay.
R
Rosie C.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Great hosts at Bend River Farms
Tent · With kids ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
Amy was communicative, welcoming, and super accommodating. When we were en route, she helped us identify good places to stop for food and sent links (very helpful!). When we arrived, she gave a nice tour, indicating all the amenities we could use in the main house. She even accommodated a last-minute request to switch sites.
M
Marc F.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Bend River Farms Camping
Tent · With kids ·
Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)
My family and I loved our camping experience at Amy's farm, Bend River Farms! Her and her husband go above and beyond to make sure you are taken care of the whole time and always make sure you have what you need. On top of that they have so many amenities that not a lot of places offer. We did the chicken tenders activity with Amy and our daughter loved it and it was so fun to see life on the farm. We also got some yummy fresh farm eggs! Our site was well taken care of and so beautiful. So much space and privacy to spend a weekend away with the family. Not to mention to get to see all of the cool things the farm has to offer. Thank you again for such a wonderful experience! We will definitely be going again!
J
Jamie S.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
A working farm.
18 ft Class B ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
A beautiful property with chickens, horses and flowers a plenty. Amy greets you gives a brief tour of the property. She offered the use of her laundry which we appreciated.
P
Patricia B.
5 reviews
Mixed feelings
· July 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
The hosts were great! BUT It rained and it's a ways back in a two track. We got super stuck. They pulled us out with a tractor. It was quite the adventure. I wish they would have suggested we park our car up by the house for the night and they could help us pack our stuff out with the ATV if the road became impassable.
P
Peter D.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Quiet secluded farm.
16 ft car ·
Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)
Amy did a very nice showing us around the property and all the amenities.
G
G D.
3 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Galaxy Glampsite
Awesome stay at the bubble tent! So peaceful and secluded, definitely would stay again.
C
Carly M.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Quick getaway
With pets ·
Galaxy Glampsite
Great setting, for this glamping site! First experience with a composting toilet and were pleasantly surprised with the lack of smell! Loved being amongst the beautiful wildflowers!
K
Ken C.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Great spot
18 ft campervan · Group trip ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
Absolutely fun working farm. The hosts were inviting and attentive.
M
Montie D.
3 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
18 ft campervan · Group trip ·
Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)
Amy met us at the entrance and gave us a quick tour. We were escorted to our site and it was perfect! Amy is an incredible host and she goes above and beyond to make sure her guests feel welcomed and that needs are met. We fell asleep listening to barn owls and woke up to horses in the field. It was the perfect place to end our 17 day road trip.
R
Robin C.
18 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)
We had a great time staying here, Amy was very friendly and welcoming, as were the Horses! Definitely recommend you bring extra bug spray but it is a beautiful Farm.
B
Bobby P.
4 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Wonderful
26 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
RV Slip
We had our camper here and it was absolutely amazing. The host Amie was so kind. My son absolutely loved playing with the chickens and feeding them. We hiked all throughout the acreage available and it’s very dog friendly. I would definitely say this is a must go check it out if you’re ever in the area.
W
Whitney C.
3 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
26 ft Class C · With pets ·
RV Slip
Amy and Dave are amazing hosts. They’re friendly, knowledgeable and lot of fun. The site was beautiful and an easy turn off the main road. We loved hearing the roosters in the morning especially the babies who were learning to crow. The stargazing from the flat water hot tub was so romantic and relaxing. Our dogs had a great time on the long hiking trails where we greeted the horses. We will definitely be stopping back by sometime!
M
Megan S.
5 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
25 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
RV Slip
Amy was an excellent host, very nice and helpful. Great rv spot, with plenty of room. We loved the chickens and the hot tub.
S
Stephannie S.
2 reviews

Location

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

Joined in June 2023
Response rate: 100%

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