Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe
100% (5)
Discover Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake with endless recreation and scenic beauty.
100% (5)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Red Rock adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Lake Red Rock
Howell Station
1. Howell Station
100%
(2)
Grab the kids, your buddies, or simply a few cold ones for a weekend of camping below Red Rock Dam on the Des Moines River
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
North Overlook Campground
2. North Overlook Campground
100%
(1)
Who knew you could camp in the dense forest while also having quick access to the beach? At North Overlook Campground on Lake Red Rock, your dreams will finally come true
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wallashuck Campground
3. Wallashuck Campground
100%
(1)
Picturesque camping less than an hour from Des Moines? Count us in
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Whitebreast Campground
4. Whitebreast Campground
100%
(1)
Perched right on Lake Red Rock, Whitebreast Campground is a gorgeous spot to spend a day (or two or three!)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Lake Red Rock
Nature Heaven by lake red rock
1. Nature Heaven by lake red rock
97%
(343)
2.4mi from Lake Red Rock · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We open year-round!! We believe each season has its special nature-beauty, so we open year-round. The property name is Tri-pond Farm. This secluded, beautiful, pet-friendly 40 acres of fenced farm camping site is on hilly-pond 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Red Rock Springs
2. Red Rock Springs
99%
(46)
3.5mi from Lake Red Rock · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Private secluded camping area near Lake Red Rock. There are several camp spots spread out over 6.5 wooded acres. 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. (depending on which site you select) 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)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bend River Farms
3. Bend River Farms
99%
(219)
17mi from Lake Red Rock · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.”
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Trail-Side Rural Retreat
4. Trail-Side Rural Retreat
100%
(14)
23mi from Lake Red Rock · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging
5. Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging
97%
(16)
35mi from Lake Red Rock · 3 sites
*NEW 2023*Prairie-Schooner Wagon*You are invited to stay where the buffalo roam in a beautiful Conestoga Wagon! These unique wagons have heat & a/c, a king bed, twin/twin bunk beds and locking front door. Enjoy the beauty of the sunset along the rolling hills. Stargaze while cuddled around your private fire pit. Wake up to our bison herd grazing near by. Private luxury shower house w/ heat & a/c. The wagons do NOT have a kitchen. They do have a coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, toaster and grill & more.
Toilets
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Campfires
Greenhouse Camping
6. Greenhouse Camping
96%
(175)
38mi from Lake Red Rock · 2 sites
We love this beautiful land that has been in our family since 1917, and think you will too!
We are located 1/2 mile off I-35 at the north border of the City of Ankeny.
Here you'll find the best of both worlds just fifteen minutes away from your quiet campsite - Boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing at Saylorville Lake.
Canoe,
kayak
and paddleboat rental at Big Creek State Park.
Swimming & waterplay for all ages at the Ankeny Aquatic Center.
Upscale shopping and dining at the District.
Or venture out
a bit further to concert venues in Ames & Des Moines, local farmers markets, Des Moines' beautiful riverwalk and exciting nightlife, or
the Iowa State Fair.
It's the best of country and suburban living!
End your day with a quiet stroll along the mowed walking path that overlooks one of the most beautiful areas of
Four Mile Creek in Iowa, which circles right back to your cozy campfire.
Learn more about this land:
You'll love this relaxing space to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors! Very easy access, we are just 1/2 mile off of Interstate-35. Our farm is bordered by nature on three sides and the city of Ankeny on the south. This is a single campsite, private and quiet. Your campsite has an adjoining mowed private walking trail overlooking Four Mile Creek, and is also within walking distance of Ankeny sidewalks for biking, walking, jogging. It’s the best of both worlds - town and country!
We're a 15 minute drive from Big Creek and Ledges State Parks, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake where you can enjoy fishing, skiing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and the beach life. You'll find unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, a good movie, a thriving live music scene just 15 minutes away in downtown Des Moines, downtown and campus town Ames, and at The District in Ankeny.
Upon your arrival you'll find the greenhouse mini-fridge is stocked with 4 complimentary bottles of water and everything you'll need for making S'mores.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Tim Can
7. Tim Can
1.5mi from Lake Red Rock · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Private fifth-wheel camper located on a secluded dead-end road next to Rock Lake. The camper features one queen bedroom at the front, a queen-size pull-out bed in the living room, and a fold-out single bed.
Amenities include a stove, refrigerator, air conditioning, running water, and a bathroom with a shower. Outside, there is a deck with a picnic table, as well as a nearby fire pit with chairs.
A public boat launch and Elk Rock Horse Park are both approximately one mile from the campsite. Guests can also walk down to the lake to fish or launch a kayak.
Due to wildlife in the area, dogs must remain on a leash at all times.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Escape Cabin Retreat
8. Lake Escape Cabin Retreat
1.5mi from Lake Red Rock · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A small cabin facing Lake Red Rock and bordering government land offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Sit by the fire pit and enjoy evening sunsets overlooking the lake, or walk down and launch your kayak for an evening paddle around Whitebreast.
This cozy cabin is equipped with all your basic needs, including air conditioning, a microwave, refrigerator, rustic outdoor shower, outdoor bathroom, deck with picnic table, and BBQ grill.
In keeping with this tranquil setting on a dead-end road, there is no TV, radio, or internet provided. Instead, sit back, enjoy nature, and disconnect from everyday distractions.
The boat launch is located 1 mile from the cabin and offers ample parking space.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Double E Farm Retreat
9. Double E Farm Retreat
4.4mi from Lake Red Rock · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging
One mile north of Knoxville, Iowa, sits a peaceful farmstead on a dead-end road with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The property is set up for multiple rentals, including a farmhouse, a glamping garage, a bunkie for additional sleeping accommodations, an outdoor stage for small weddings or performances, and multiple campsites with water and electrical hookups.
Rent one unit or the entire property, depending on your needs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Fruits of Our Labor Vinyard
10. Fruits of Our Labor Vinyard
100%
(1)
8.4mi from Lake Red Rock · 1 site · Tent, RV
Within 3.7 miles of Knoxville Raceway, 20 minutes from Pella, and Lake Red Rock.
Partly Forested, partly vineyard, partly prairie - with a lake and a fire pit.
Enjoy a quiet Knoxville stay just minutes from Lake Red Rock, with easy access to trails, parks, and scenic outdoor adventures. Located in a peaceful neighborhood, this spot offers a relaxing base for hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring Iowa’s natural beauty.
Perfect for campers who want small-town charm with nearby lakes, wildlife, and wide-open skies.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Timberline East RV Campground, Cabins & Glamping Sites
11. Timberline East RV Campground, Cabins & Glamping Sites
20mi from Lake Red Rock · 7 sites
Discover the unique charm of our centrally located KOA, where you immerse yourself in the beauty of an open, rolling landscape. We offer spacious cabins and the cutest vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters in the popular series Golden Girls (we are lovingly referred to as the Silver Sisters).
Take a refreshing dip in our pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or relax by our catch and release fishing pond, full of bluegill, bass, and channel catfish.
We are close to many Central Iowa attractions and events, including Alta House Wedding and Event Center, the Iowa Speedway, Knoxville Nationals, Pella Tulip Time and downtown Des Moines Farmers Market. Our campground features spacious RV and tent sites too; check out the Newton/Des Moines East Campground listing on Hip Camp for more information.
It's always a Great Day at Newton/Des Moines East KOA!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay
12. Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay
100%
(3)
26mi from Lake Red Rock · 1 site
We invite you to turn off your phone and unwind on the front porch rocking chair as you watch one of our breathtaking sunsets or sunrises. Pasture and grassland with 7 ponds are accessible by a short hike along the cattle trails. A marked perimeter trail follows Wolfe Creek, home to wildlife and a shady cool spot during the hot days of summer.
Mulberry Cottage is at the northeast corner of a 200-acre cattle ranch where we practice rotational grazing on ten paddocks. The cabin, surrounded by Mulberry and Osage Orange (Hedge Trees) are host to berry eating birds and mammals. (And the occasional marsupial). Cattle are fenced outside the cabin area but may be close by where you hear them and see them. Deer and coyotes are common on the property as plenty of birdlife. The cabin is a farm-stay experience with farm fresh eggs, and Mulberry preserves for your baked goods in the morning.
You will need your muck boots and cowboy hat to hike our cattle trails and wade in the creeks. Try your hand at "frogging" in the marshes of one of our 7 ponds. Bottle-feeding a calf or collecting eggs are some of the chores you are welcome to participate in. You'll be amazed at the variety of wildflowers and birding opportunities. The head cowboy himself will invite you to chore time or have a farm tour of our grazing and regenerative practices. Our natural beef and tallow products are all for sale at the farm or grill up some "Ohnemusbeef" available at our farm store. Sourdough bread with Mulberry preserves are available. Campfires are permitted with a small firewood fee.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Cabin in the Woods
13. Cabin in the Woods
100%
(5)
34mi from Lake Red Rock · 1 site
Cabin in the Woods is located on 18 wooded acres. Small stocked pond right outside your front door! Enjoy the wildlife and peacefulness of nature all around. Secluded area, yet 15 minutes to restaurants, shopping, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Adventureland and more! The cabin is a small one room space, with a loft for extra storage or sleeping. There is electric, but no running water. Gallon of water will be available. There is an attached outhouse with toilet. Small fridge and microwave. TV with DVD player.
Please note that the cabin does share a driveway with our house, so there may be cars that drive by. We do have animals on our property, so you may encounter dogs, cats, chickens and goats (all friendly)!
Toilets
Campfires
Saylor Creek Hideaway
14. Saylor Creek Hideaway
100%
(8)
35mi from Lake Red Rock · 1 site
Escape to nature without sacrificing comfort!
Experience a unique getaway with your friends or family. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, creating fun family memories or simply looking for a weekend getaway, our place is perfect for you!
“There is nothing like hearing the owls at night and hanging out by the campfire all day.” - Christy
Come and relax in the trees. Wake up to the beauty of nature and relax with a cup of espresso on the deck. During the day, explore all that Des Moines has to offer. From outdoor activities to shopping and dining, there is something for everyone. And when night falls, gather around the fire pit with your loved ones and share stories while roasting s'mores.
You won't have to give up comfort while "camping". Our glamping tent offers all the amenities you need to feel comfortable while still being immersed in nature. With air conditioning and heat, you can adjust the temperature to suit your needs no matter what the Iowa weather throws your way. Get a good night's sleep in our king-size bed with cozy bedding.
Enjoy the convenience of running water at the nearby sink and shower, which means you won't have to give up cleanliness while camping. Sticky hands from roasting s'mores? No problem!
“This is the perfect getaway location without having to "rough it"... this was the absolute best place to try out camping without sacrificing some comforts.” - Gloria
Inside the Tent:
- King size bed. All bedding is provided.
- Couch folds into a twin size bed. Bedding provided.
- Towels, shampoo, conditioner body wash
- Air conditioning and heat
- Small refrigerator
- Nespresso machine with pods, creamer & sugar
- Dining table with two chairs
- TV
- WiFi
- Board games
“Extremely comfy bed with cozy warm bedding.” - Lindsey
Outside the Tent:
- Two deck chairs
- Solo Stove smokeless fire pit
- Two Adirondack chairs
- Charcoal grill with charcoal
- One large bundle of firewood
- Fire starter and lighter
- Outhouse with sink and composting toilet
- Outdoor shower with rainfall shower head
This tent is tucked into the trees on the 7 acre property where we live. Our house is out of sight when you're on the campsite. A short walk down a path and you will reach the tent where you will be immersed in the trees.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Chariton Valley Cabins And RV Sites
15. Chariton Valley Cabins And RV Sites
100%
(3)
36mi from Lake Red Rock · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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)
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Timberline West RV Campground
16. Timberline West RV Campground
100%
(4)
44mi from Lake Red Rock · 116 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the unique charm of Timberline Campground, where the tranquility of nature meets the convenience of urban life. Located on the outskirts of Waukee, Iowa, this gem offers a peaceful retreat while being easily accessible from Interstate 80, just a mile and a half away.
Timberline Campground features spacious, shaded campsites that provide a perfect blend of privacy and comfort. Guests consistently rave about the pristine facilities and pool, weekend youth activities and special entertainment like themed grill outs, band appearances and more. We offer cute cabins and "Yellowstone" inspired vintage sleeping campers for non-RV owners who wish to join you during your stay. Check out our cabin and Horseshoe Bend glamping listing on Hip Camp.
You must visit Myrtle the Turtle in the camp store; she was voted Waukee Best Mascot!
After a day of adventure, you can enjoy local restaurants and shops that are just a short drive away. Explore nearby hot spots, including Raccoon River Valley Trail, Vibrant Music Hall, Barn Town Brewery and Jordan Creek Mall to name a few. Let your hosts at Timberline Campground show you how to enjoy country camping with all the conveniences of city life.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Timberline West RV Campground, Cabins
17. Timberline West RV Campground, Cabins
100%
(5)
44mi from Lake Red Rock · 15 sites
Discover the unique charm of Timberline Campground, where the tranquility of nature meets the convenience of urban life. Located on the outskirts of Waukee, Iowa, this gem offers a peaceful retreat while being easily accessible from Interstate 80, just a mile and a half away.
Timberline Campground features a variety of spacious cabins and (New in 2025!) glamping area known as Horseshoe Bend. The newest section of our camp includes vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters from the iconic series Yellowstone. Horseshoe Bend campers each sleep up to 4 and make a fun and memorable spot for family gatherings, reunions or twinkling star getaways. Guests consistently rave about the pristine facilities and pool, weekend youth activities and special entertainment like themed grill outs, band appearances and more. You must check out Waukee Best Mascot Myrtle the Turtle in the camp store!
After a day of adventure, you can enjoy local restaurants and shops that are just a short drive away. Explore nearby hot spots, including Raccoon River Valley Trail, Vibrant Music Hall, Barn Town Brewery and Jordan Creek Mall to name a few. Let your hosts at Timberline Campground show you how to enjoy country camping with all the conveniences of city life!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Pinn Oak Bunk House
18. Pinn Oak Bunk House
100%
(2)
46mi from Lake Red Rock · 1 site
Welcome to summer camp at Pinn Oak! This traditional bunkhouse features five sets of bunk beds plus one Twin XL bed—perfect for group getaways, friends, or family adventures.
Just a short walk from your cabin, you’ll find our shower house and shared campfire areas (firewood included). During your stay, enjoy access to our swimming beach and complimentary use of our kayaks and canoes—outside watercraft are not permitted on the lake.
Our property also offers scenic walking trails, multiple cabins, and plenty of space to relax and reconnect with nature. A small charcoal grill is available near your cabin for easy camp-style cooking.
Come unplug, unwind, and experience camp life!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
SFG Campgrounds
19. SFG Campgrounds
5.9mi from Lake Red Rock
Discover the perfect camping experience this summer at SFG Campgrounds, uniquely situated just one block east of the iconic Knoxville Raceway. This prime location not only offers easy access to the thrilling events of the Knoxville Nationals but also provides a serene retreat for campers looking to unwind after a day of excitement.
At SFG Campgrounds, we cater to all your camping needs with both electric and non-electric hookup options available. Our spacious sites ensure you have the privacy and comfort you desire while enjoying the great outdoors.
In addition to the convenience of being close to the raceway, our campground is surrounded by a variety of attractions. Explore nearby natural features, take a refreshing dip in local swimming holes, or engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. After a day of adventure, you can also enjoy dining at local restaurants or shopping at nearby stores, making SFG Campgrounds the ideal base for your summer getaway.
R&B's Riverview Campground, LLC
20. R&B's Riverview Campground, LLC
12mi from Lake Red Rock
Discover the unique charm of R&B's Riverview Campground, a hidden gem nestled along the picturesque Des Moines River in Mahaska County. This scenic riverside retreat offers an idyllic setting for campers and nature enthusiasts alike, featuring a range of amenities that enhance your outdoor experience. Enjoy fishing, family gatherings, and relaxation with our convenient boat ramp, docks, playground, and shower facilities.
Our spacious campsites cater to a variety of camping styles, accommodating everything from tents and pop-up campers to fifth wheels and motorhomes. Located just 10 miles from Oskaloosa, 15 miles from Knoxville, and 16 miles from Pella, R&B's Riverview Campground is perfectly situated for those seeking adventure or tranquility. Whether you're planning a fun-filled group fishing weekend, a memorable family reunion, or a peaceful getaway during the week, we invite you to experience the welcoming atmosphere of our campground. Come and find your escape with us!
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Abby
2 weeks ago
Tent
Lovely evening, came in for one night! Would return, absolutely
See moreE
Erica
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
This was such a beautiful and well kept area! It was very cozy and a great amount of space! Feels very secluded and tucked away but road access is right there. Will definitely camp here again!
See more
R
Rebekah
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Easy to get to and drive around! Host was responsive and had clear instructions. Beautiful spot.
See more
T
Trevor
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful location with easy access to all that Lake Red Rock offers. The hosts were readily available to handle any questions.
See more
Josh
August 2026
21 ft Class B
Easy location being right off the interstate. The location by the greenhouse was very quiet and safe.
See more
C
Carrie
July 2026
29 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is our second time at the greenhouse. We love it here. Lots of room for dog and kids to run and play. Easy in and out. Close to Ankeny, Robin is the nicest. I could go on and on! We’ll be back.
See more
T
Tara
July 2026
13 ft travel trailer
This was my second stay, and everything went smoothly. I bought some eggs and honey from the hosts.
See moreT
Tara
July 2026
13 ft travel trailer
Great place for an overnight or longer. Hosts are friendly, and the farm is beautiful.
See more
D
Debra
July 2026
40 ft Class A
With kids
they were so nice and accommodating... Pat came to the softball games to watch our girls which was very nice of him
See mored
dan
July 2026
26 ft Class C
Really lovely and quiet place to stay the night, Would stay again!
See moreB
Ben
July 2026
20 ft campervan
With pets
Awesome little stopover. We camped on the RV spot and it had wifi and access to the garden for showers/bathrooms. Would stay here again!
See moreJ
Jodi
July 2026
Tent
With pets
This is a beautiful little area tucked back in the trees. I stayed at Turkey Trot and it felt very private. Lots of shade. Lots of wildlife. And a nice bathroom with running water! Host is very considerate with great communication. Would definitely stay here again!
See moreU
Uschi
July 2026
18 ft travel trailer
We loved our stay with Amy and Dave. What a beautiful property with flush toilet and shower! Amy showed me around and let me feed the chickens. We will be back for sure 😄
See moreB
Bret
July 2026
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
Stopped for a quick overnight on the way down to Texas. Totally enjoyed the shared patio, ate dinner watching horses on the hillside, listened to the chickens and roosters as the sun set, and finally enjoyed an hour in the salt water hot tub. Our hosts were attentive but not overbearing.
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s
shawna
July 2026
Tent
With kids
We loved the camp! We got to meet the chickens and Zippo! Amy and Dave were very gracious and kind. I do recommend.
See mores
shannon
July 2026
24 ft campervan
I didn’t know what to expect, and at first I didn’t know if I was at the right place. The lots are spread out, unlike a typical campsite. You have your own private area, which is nice. The port-a-potty was ok- it didn’t smell bad, and it was clean. There was a lot of shade trees and a good view. Overall, we really enjoyed our stay. Would come back and stay again.
See moreB
Ben
July 2026
Tent
Group trip
Nice a private sites. Host is great. Sites tend to get muddy after heavy rain so book accordingly. We knew what we were getting into. My jeep got stuck one time and they pulled us out no problem. After she pulled my jeep out, she shuttled us back and forth as needed. Then took us on a tour to the other sites. Fun time. Jeep loved it! Definitely recommend.
See moreK
Kristen
July 2026
16 ft travel trailer
The host, Amy, is super friendly and accommodating! It was a really nice stay for us in their RV slip!
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Faith
July 2026
38 ft travel trailer
We stayed 3 nights here on our cross country trip, because it was convenient to access the High Trestle Rail Trail and explore Des Moines.
Robin met us when we arrived and showed us a few options for parking (it was really hot so we parked near the big tree to maximize the shade). Other than that we had total privacy up there behind the shop. Another HipCamper came the second night but they were plenty far from us.
The view from the site is lovely, across a swale to distant trees. And there is often a nice breeze blowing through. It was nice to sit under the big tree on a hot afternoon. At night, there’s a string of party lights, and we enjoyed seeing fireflies too!
We appreciated the large stone gravel driveway and parking area our last night when a huge storm came over, and dumped several inches of rain overnight. It was still easy to walk around and drive out without any mud!
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A
Alison
June 2026
Tent
With kids
Great spot! Cabin is gorgeous, and has all the amenities to get you through!
Fishing was great, and even found some four leaf clovers!!
See moreLake Red Rock camping guide
Overview
About
Bigger doesn’t always mean better… except when it does! Lake Red Rock is the largest lake in all of Iowa, boasting an impressive 15,000 acres of water and 35,000 acres of land. Lucky for us, Lake Red Rock has outdoor recreation covered! From camping to hunting, you can do it all over here. Of course, we can’t forget about all of the water activities. There’s a beach for swimming and lounging, and plenty of boat ramps to get your watercraft where it belongs. And, this massive lake and recreation area is a mere 45 miles southeast and downriver from Des Moines, so getting to this lovely spot won’t have to take up the better part of your weekend.
Notable campgrounds
- The North Overlook Campground boasts a new family-style restroom, playground, and access to the 17-mile Volksweg paved bike trail.
- Whitebreast Campground invites campers to enjoy its proximity to the lake, offering a perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early through www.recreation.gov or call toll-free at 1-877-444-6777 to secure your preferred campsite.
- Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
- Keep an eye on cancellations, as last-minute openings can provide unexpected opportunities.
- Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a spot during busy times.
When to go
The best time to visit Lake Red Rock is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the migrating white pelicans grace the skies. Summer offers full recreational activities but can be busy. Winters are quiet but cold, with limited services.
Know before you go
- Always wear a life jacket when on the water, as safety is a top priority at Lake Red Rock.
- Check the latest road closure updates to ensure accessibility to different parts of the park.
- Be mindful of the wildlife; observe from a distance and do not feed the animals.
- Visitor Center hours are from 7:30am to 4pm on weekdays, and 12pm to 4pm on weekends.
- Stay informed about the water quality advisories, especially if you plan to swim in the lake.
Reviews for Lake Red Rock Campgrounds
100%
5 ratings · 3 reviews
October 2020
Really pretty and nice station. Only issue, saw some creepy guy in the trees. But besides that it was beautiful.
Recommends
· November 2017
Beautiful lake
October 2017
North Overlook Campground is a comfortable place to camp, though it's not as private as I usually like (most Iowa campgrounds aren't). It's across the road from Lake Red Rock, which offers a beautiful view and beach super close to the campground—yaas! We (me + two buddies) had a great spot—spacious and tree covered. DNR was pretty tight, and asked us to leave the beach when we went for a late-night walk, so we sat around our campfire. There is a trail off of the campground, and one friend explored at night. He said he came upon a tepee. ...he was also on that peace pipe, though. ;) <3
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