The best camping near Lake Darling State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Darling State Park adventure.

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Darling State Park.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Lake Darling State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Darling State Park

99%
(258)

Folk School Farm Stay

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Oxford, IA
Come enjoy the natural beauty of a working farm! In our transition to agroforestry, wetland restoration and perennial ag, you'll find some great spaces to walk your dog, let your children run and learn about ecological conservation. The farm is also home to a flower cutting garden, a food forest garden, and a folk school. Guests are welcome to cut flowers for a donation, and enjoy the sheep, chickens and resident cat. The setting is also great for taking in sunrises, sunsets and star gazing. Come explore the landscape, book a farm tour or enjoy some studio space at Land Alliance Folk School.
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$40
 / night
100%
(5)

Whitetail Tent Camping

1 site · Tent104 acres · Keosauqua, IA
camping Learn more about this land:Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people) You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing. You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on. If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite. If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.
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$44.10
 / night
99%
(39)

River Camp

3 sites · RVs28 acres · Iowa City, IA
Learn more about this land: Private 28 acre parcel with scattering of cabins and houses. Includes many feet of river frontage with private road along river that makes for good biking or walking. Some trails in forest. Lots of birds and wildlife. Large 100 year old oak trees, giant sycamores and cottonwood trees on the property. Short trail to river provides access for kayaking or fishing. Put in at Sturgis Ferry Park by airport in Iowa City and kayak to campsite or go further to Hills Access at Hills, Iowa. Camp site is close to Iowa City, but the quiet site seems 100's of miles away. River Camp is close to Ryerson's Woods State Forest Preserve, Johnson County Fairgrounds, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area and a 10 minute drive to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
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$49
 / night
100%
(78)

Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp

2 sites · Lodging4 acres · Williamsburg, IA
We offer one private site on four acres, including a small pond, beach, treehouse, trails and peace and quiet. In addition to the tipi, there are kayaks, canoe, fire ring, wood supply, cooking equipment, dutch ovens, hammock, and tables and chairs. Campers will need to bring sleeping bags and food. Dogs are welcome. There is a rustic restroom (outhouse), with an outdoor shower. Water and electricity are available at the restroom and campsite. In addition, Navigation Play-Williamsburg, provides outdoor play opportunities at the farm on a seasonal basis. If interested, find her on her facebook page or find her link on my website www.walkingstickadventurescom.com Our dream was to restore an old farmstead to prairie and woods, grow our own food, make some wine and create a wonderland for grandchildren. The tipi and pond campsite is our way of sharing our place. We love meeting new people, especially those that are looking for a new camping experience.
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$104.40
 / night
100%
(6)

Trail-Side Rural Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Oskaloosa, IA
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. 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!
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$20
 / night
100%
(16)

Blueberry Hill

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Oxford, IA
Welcome to our idyllic 10-acre historic farmstead in rural Johnson County, Iowa (about 8 miles west of Iowa City). We are a bookish, quiet couple with a 7-year-old daughter, 2 llamas, 12 chickens, 2 babydoll sheep, 3 housecats, and 4 barn cats. In June and July, we open our farm to the public for U-pick organic blueberries. We're looking for Hipcampers who are respectful and clean.
Potable water
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$45
 / night

The best camping near Lake Darling State Park guide

Overview

About

Rolling hills, forests full of trees, and a big blue lake. Sounds pretty good, hey? We think so, too. Lake Darling State Park is one of southeastern Iowa’s most gorgeous spots to pitch a tent, and there’s more than one reason why. The ample shade and lake shore breeze makes this one heck of a place to spend a few days cooling off from the hot, summer heat. What’s more, if you’re looking for some adventuring, Lake Darling State Park has for sure got you covered. With swimming, boating, and tons of fishing, you’ll no doubt find plenty to do while you’re not admiring the picture-perfect view.

Notable campgrounds

  • Lake Darling State Park Campground - A favorite for families with its playgrounds and close proximity to the lake.
  • Brighton Campground - Offers a peaceful camping experience with scenic views and modern facilities.
  • Lakeside Campground - Ideal for anglers and boaters, with easy access to the lake's boat ramps.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak season weekends, to secure your preferred spot.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options if Lake Darling is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Darling State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters can be harsh, with some facilities closed, so check ahead for accessibility.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
  • Remember to pack insect repellent and sunscreen for protection.
  • Be aware of local wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
  • Accessible facilities are available; contact the park office for specific details.
  • Don't forget to bring your own water bottles to stay hydrated during your adventures.

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