Does Bend River Farms have toilets?

Yes — toilets are available at every site at Bend River Farms.

Is drinking water available at Bend River Farms?

Yes — potable water is available at every site at Bend River Farms.

Does Bend River Farms have showers?

Showers are available at 3 of 4 sites at Bend River Farms.

Does Bend River Farms have picnic tables?

Picnic tables are available at 3 of 4 sites at Bend River Farms.

Does Bend River Farms have cooking equipment?

Cooking equipment is available at 1 of 4 sites at Bend River Farms.

Does Bend River Farms have a hot tub?

Yes — a hot tub is available at every site at Bend River Farms.

Does Bend River Farms have laundry?

Yes — laundry is available at every site at Bend River Farms.

Does Bend River Farms have a playground?

Yes — a playground is available at every site at Bend River Farms.

Does Bend River Farms have wifi?

Yes — wifi is available at every site at Bend River Farms.

Does Bend River Farms have trash disposal?

Yes — trash disposal is available at every site at Bend River Farms. Trash is located on site. Compost bin is up at the main house.

How do you get to the sites at Bend River Farms?

4WD required at some sites. Park at your site. Wheelchair accessible at some sites.

Are pets allowed at Bend River Farms?

Yes — Bend River Farms is pet-friendly. On leash.

Are campfires allowed at Bend River Farms?

Yes — campfires are allowed at Bend River Farms. Always review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.

What is the check-in process at Bend River Farms?

You'll meet and greet with your host Amy upon arrival.

What is the cancellation policy at Bend River Farms?

Full refund 3 days before check in time starts.

What time is check-in and check-out at Bend River Farms?

Check-in at 4pm. Check-out times vary by site. Flexible check-in available at some sites. Late check-out available at some sites.

How far in advance can you book, and how long can you stay at Bend River Farms?

Book up to 12 months ahead. Same-day bookings at some sites; the others need 12 hours' notice. Minimum stay 1–2 nights depending on the site. Stay up to 14 nights.

Explore
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United States
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Iowa
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Runnells

Guest bathroom located in the main house. Complimentary fresh towels for the shower and hot tub.

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Bend River Farms

Hosted by Amy · Runnells, Iowa

4 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging · 50 acres

99%

196 reviews

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.

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 Farmsis 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.”

Select a site

RV/tent sites

2 sites

Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)

98%

(91)

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.

4WD recommended

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite)

100%

(25)

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

RV-only sites

1 site

RV Slip

99%

(69)

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

Lodging

1 site

Galaxy Glampsite

98%

(28)

Dome · Sleeps 4 · 1 bed · 1 toilet

Love camping but don't want to pack all the gear? Just pack your bags and roll up to our site. Discover the calming elements of nature while you listen to the sounds of leaves rustling and birds singing. When you’re surrounded by fresh, crisp air and native greenery, your body is replenished and revitalized from the many soothing benefits of nature. Soak in the Swedish Wood fired hot tub under the stars! 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, cozy wood stove, hammocks, outdoor seating, and a fire ring. The Galaxy Dome is best suited for 2 people. We have camp cots available for overflow upon request. We offer catering, for an extra fee. The Dome has battery powered camp fans to help keep you cool and a jackery electric power pack. Complimentary firewood is standard, (Please note that we do not allow off-site firewood. This protects our farm from introduced pests and disease). It should be noted that the trail to this site does share a travel path with other campsites, so you might encounter other campers while traveling to the site. The main house has shared guest areas that include WIFI, 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. Don't forget to book a nature hike or Fireside meal in your trip extras to make it a very memorable stay.

4WD required

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

Reviews

99%· 228 reviews

Themes

Review summary
Generated from real Hipcamper reviews
Camping at Amy and Dave's site offers a cozy and welcoming escape with a real touch of nature. Guests praise the hosts for their exceptional hospitality, going above and beyond to ensure comfort and ease. The farm setting provides a unique experience, complete with farm animals and amenities such as a hot tub and firewood. The location is also convenient, allowing campers to explore nearby attractions while enjoying a peaceful retreat.
Will P.
Camped in a 25 ft travel trailer at RV Slip, Sept 2026.
Recommends
Amy was an excellent host and her site was exactly what we were looking for. She guides us through a tornado watch, welcomed us when we arrived, and the site was perfect for our trailer and dogs. She went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and we’d definitely stay here again!
Erik S.
Tent camped at Prairie Pasture (Group Campsite) with friends, Sept 2026.
Recommends
We absolutely, loved this place. Amy is an amazing and very accommodating host. I highly recommend staying here. Thank you, Amy, for having us. I look forward to staying again.
Renee K.
Camped in a 26 ft travel trailer at RV Slip, Sept 2026.
Recommends
We spent the night here as a stop on our way to Badlands. Very welcoming host with good amenities, beautiful sunrises. It was fast and easy to hook up our rv on a level slip. Would def recommend!

Amenities

Fire pitsFirewood provided, Firepit, Communal, Wood burning fireplace
Flush toilets
Potable waterSpigot, Tap, Hose, Bottled water or jugs
ShowersAt some sites · Hot water
Picnic tablesAt some sites
Electricity hookupAt some sites · 30 amps
Water hookupAt some sites · On-site hookup
Wifi
Laundry
Trash disposalCompost bin, Trash bin
Cooking equipmentAt some sites · Private, Grill over firepit, BBQ
Hot tub
Playground

Things to know

4WD required at some sitesPark at your site. Wheelchair accessible at some sites.
Pet-friendlyOn leash.
Campfires allowedAlways review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.
Check-in processYou'll meet and greet with your host Amy upon arrival.
Cancellation policyFull refund 3 days before check in time starts.
Check-in and check-outCheck-in at 4pm. Check-out times vary by site. Flexible check-in available at some sites. Late check-out available at some sites.
Booking windowBook up to 12 months ahead. Same-day bookings at some sites; the others need 12 hours' notice. Minimum stay 1–2 nights depending on the site. Stay up to 14 nights.

Extras

Chicken Tender$8.00 per personCost is $5 per person. Learn all about poultry husbandry, chicken behavior, flock dynamics and egg development. Help a staff member collect eggs, feed and cuddle chickens. 30 minutes.
Hands on with Horses $25.00 per personCost is $10 per person. Learn about horse care, grooming, behavior and herd dynamics. Our five horses all have a story to tell. You'll learn how to groom and care for a horse with hands on activities and instruction. Class is 45 minutes. **Please note that we take every precaution for safety, however there is inherently some risk in working with horses. Close toed shoes are required for this activity. Children under 8 years of age must wear a provided helmet.
Dozen eggs$6.00 per itemEnjoy eggs from our Free range chickens! We care for our animals like pets. They have the best feed and enrichment we can provide them.
S'mores kit$5.00 per itemEach s'mores bag has enough ingredients to create several s'mores depending on sandwich size. We also provide roasting sticks to borrow for your stay.
Farm Fresh Honey (Squeeze Bear)$8.00 per item12 ounce Honey Bear Honey has natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties, and is great in your morning camp coffee! See our onsite apiary and learn about Bee Keeping in our camp adventures!
Fireside meal $40.00 per item**Note cost is $40 per person and must be booked 24 hours in advance** Hot curated meal, Fireside meals are limited to fair weather. However, homestead meals served in the main house and will be available during inclement weather.
Handcrafted bug repellent candle $7.00 per itemHandcrafted beeswax candle made with local wax and infused with organic essential oils like citronella, mint and tea tree, to provide excellent coverage to help keep away those pesky mosquitoes and flies.
Star Gazing Experience & Owl Chat$25.00 per personCost is $25 per person. Enjoy time with Amy, our resident naturalist, you'll head outdoors shortly after dark and chat with our resident owls and learn about the history and location of celestial groupings. The most famous are the stars of Ursa Major, the great bear. More easily recognized as the Big Dipper, this group now stands high in the northwestern sky after dark. To produce a more standardized system, in 1922, the International Astronomical Union, or IAU, formally divided the heavens into 88 separate regions of varying shapes and sizes, each a named “constellation.” Among these named constellations are represented as 29 objects, 42 animals, 16 people and one centaur. The night program is 45 minutes and is an "easy" level of difficulty, but warm clothing and sturdy shoes are suggested.
Late/Early Check in$35.00 per itemStaff are generally available for check in from 3pm until 8pm. However, our farm requires lots of work and most of our staff also work jobs off site. If you need to check in early or very late, you'll need to book the time. Please note that early/late check in might not always be available. In this case your fee will be refunded.
Creamed Cinnamon Honey (Jar)$12.00 per item12-14 ounce glass jar of creamed all natural cinnamon honey Honey has natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties, and is great in your morning cup of camp coffee! See our onsite apiary and learn about Bee Keeping in our camp adventures!
Guided Bird & Wildflower Walk $15.00 per personCost is $15 per person. Enjoy a 45 minute nature walk on on the farm, to hunt for mushrooms, bird watch or learn about native plants. *Not strenuous, but sturdy shoes are recommended.
Beginner Beekeeping $40.00 per personCost is $40 per person. Learn about beekeeping, honey harvest, pollination and even suit up and visit our on-farm apiary. This is a seasonal 2 hour class, participants should wear long sleeves, pants and closed toed shoes (required). *Please note* Ambient air temps for this class must be higher than 60 degrees.
Cold picnic lunch$24.00 per itemCost is $24 per person. In a rush with no time to stop? Enjoy a light meal curated from locally sourced meats, cheeses, nuts, fruit and vegetables (when available). Each package will contain two servings of animal based protein, options are cured beef, poultry or pork. Two servings of nuts and crackers, two servings of cheese, two servings of veggies and fruit. A sweet surprise is also included. Each package is curated from seasonally available items, however your camp hosts may need to make substitutions without notice, with more commercially available items whenever necessary. Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate for allergies and special diet restrictions at this time.
PortaPotty Rental (4 nights) $213.00 per itemAt select sitesPortaPotties are available for a fee, we charge for the delivery and service. This is excellent for a group retreat for a long weekend. This service requires 48 hour notice.