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Lake Anita State Park

The best camping in Lake Anita State Park, IA

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Discover the serene beauty of Lake Anita State Park.

The best camping in Lake Anita State Park, IA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Lake Anita Campground

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160 sites · Tents, RVs · In Lake Anita State Park

Oh Lake Anita, you sassy gal

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

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Camper favorites near Lake Anita State Park

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Stories from the community

Robin

2 weeks ago

1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

Beautiful property, lots of trails to explore, pond and complete relaxation. Hunters Havin sleeping cabin was awesome. Great for cooler weather and beautiful surroundings for campfire. We can’t wait to return in the summer with the grandkids.

RV Spots have electric at the site, water to fill your tanks with and we have a dump station on the way out.

Xavier

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

Great roadside stop. Safe and comfortable. Would reccomend.

Michael A

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Timberline Cabins, Waukee

Rented one of the cabins by the pond. From the moment arriving we were greeted with such great customer service. We enjoyed every moment of our stay especially sitting by the pond having a fire and just enjoying the stars and all the deer that were roaming bye. We will definitely be back again.

Katie

October 2025

1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

Gorgeous property. Booked the sight above the pond which was beautiful and peaceful. Great sunset spot.

Holly

October 2025

1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

The host was super friendly and flexible, even when we got in around midnight. The space was safe and views were lovely the next morning. I'd recommend staying!

Josh

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Waypoint

Emma and her husband Jason always go above and beyond to make any visit to the Waypoint awesome! The stay was perfect as usual and I will definitely be back again

Eric

October 2025

2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

Absolutely love the cute little cottage and the fun playground areas.

Rayven

October 2025

2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

We had a great stay! The cabin was cozy and clean, tucked on the outskirts of Des Moines in a quiet little RV park and campground. The host was super friendly and helpful, and we appreciated that it wasn’t crowded at all. There were fun swings to discover around the property, and we enjoyed a perfect evening campfire—firewood was conveniently available on-site. Would definitely stay again!

Todd

October 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Vines of Grace LLC

Great Hipcamp! Easy to find, easy access, quiet and great view of the Heartland. We will stay again.

Arjan

October 2025

4 nights at Timberline Cabins, Waukee

We stayed a few nights in this cabin. It was nicely situated with view on the small lake. Liked the firepit. Staff was very helpful.

Anna

September 2025

With kids

1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

My kids and I stayed here while just passing though the area on a road trip. We ended up staying in “The Loft” and we loved it! Perfect for kids. The little cabin was clean, cozy and the host was so kind and accommodating with our late arrival. The surrounding property is beautiful and it was the perfect place to stop after a long day of driving. We only wish we could have stayed longer. Will for sure be back!

James

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

The facilities were good, the site was nice (trees, nearby creek), and the staff were friendly and helpful. The only potential downside to this campsite is that there was fairly continual traffic noise from an interstate highway that was about a half mile to the north of the site; the noise eventually faded into the background of our awareness and didn't impact our ability to sleep at night

Patricia

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

Hostess was friendly and helpful. The site was large and shady. The facilities were clean. Directions, actually coordinates, were for a location about a mile away. I had to call to find the campground. Site T3 was very close to I-80 so it became noisy at times. The brook had an area of extremely slow moving water which seemed to attract mosquitoes. Perhaps that was seasonal. I would highly recommend for RVs and camper vans. Only can rate a maybe for tent camping..

Laura

September 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Vines of Grace LLC

What a lovely, serene and picturesque Hipcamp!! We enjoyed the sweet quiet town. Gazed at the night sky with fire going….acres and acres of cornfields in the distance. Beautiful sunset and Beautiful vineyard warmly wrapping around us as we enjoyed the night sky. Enjoyed a lovely walk around the church and down the street. Definitely we’d come again. 💕. Hosts were very kind and quick to respond !!

Kyra

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

I was only able to stay one night on my road trip, and I wish I had alloted another for this site! Linda was so so sweet and set me up with her favorite spot and it didnt disapoint <3

Lloyd

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Timberline Campground, Waukee

Courteous, helpful, quiet clean, Comfortable. Really a slower pkace

Dave

August 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Waypoint

We had a wonderful, relaxing weekend at Waypoint. We enjoyed walking the nature trails and fishing in the pond. We even visited the alpacas. Emma kindly gave us an educational tour of all of their animal friends including dogs, cats, chickens, goats, and alpacas. Emma was very patient with our kid's many questions. The land is kept wild except for the camping spots and trails. We will definitely return.

Nolan

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

Great place to have a camping trip close to Omaha. Plenty of open space, fishing, hiking, and the sights are awesome. We were blown away at the brightness of the stars. Thanks Linda!

Neal

August 2025

39 ft Class A

Weekend Trip to Vines of Grace LLC

Communication is their best quality. From booking to set up, they were there for questions and info. They were busy picking grapes and at the same time, setting up for a wedding for the morning on their picturesque vineyard property. The evening was so quiet and peaceful sitting outside enjoying the MilkyWay.The owner of the Grit (the local bar) even stopped by and welcomed us to this tiny hamlet and invited us for a drink. Made us feel even more welcome. The church next door was beautiful. We are a 39' Class A pulling a Jeep and had no problem navigating the turn or steep grade to the camp site. However, I would recommend at least some rock where you would drive because we sunk in a little with our weight. 30A and water, but no dump station at this time. Thank you for a wonderful overnight and wish you success as you add to your property.

Allie

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

I love Rock N Ranch! The property is beautiful & well taken care of. I appreciate the quiet and feel of isolation. Linda is easy to reach and so helpful. My family and I have camped here multiple times and we’ll keep coming back!

Top-rated campgrounds

Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

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23mi from Lake Anita State Park · 14 sites · Lodging · Menlo, IA

Our retirement dream is to share our beautiful property with people who love the outdoors. We started with our rustic tent sites and slowly added cabins. We go from primitive to sites with heat and air conditioning. We are not far from the Interstate but sure seems like we are as you travel the 4.6 miles of gravel road to step back in time.

Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

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36mi from Lake Anita State Park · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Earlham, IA

This property has a year round running creek called Bear Creek. They also mined the stone off the property for the State Capital in Des Moines, Iowa. Abundant wildlife and mature beautiful trees. Hiking trails, playground equipment, dog park, shelterhouse, showerhouse/restrooms, community fire pit, all sites have fire pits and picnic tables, laundry area, rec room, and welcoming staff!

Timberline Campground, Waukee

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48mi from Lake Anita State Park · 128 sites · Tents, RVs · Waukee, IA

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.

Other options near Lake Anita State Park

Firefly Creek Ranch

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25mi from Lake Anita State Park · 10 sites · Guthrie Center, IA

Our property was once the County Home until it was closed due to regulatory changes to the mental health industry. The property sat vacant for 2 years as a deficit for the county and its taxpayers. We had a plan to breathe new life into this property by re-opening as a non-profit Art, Community, and Retreat Center. We are in the heart of the rolling hills surrounding Guthrie Center & Lake Panorama. It is simply an amazing place. Please come and see what makes this experience unique. Learn more about this land:Peaceful farm setting in the rolling hills of Guthrie County, Iowa. Outdoor rustic camping and indoor simple Bed & Breakfast rooms. 10 Rustic Campsites or 1 with water and electric hook-ups for additional $5 night. Self contained campers welcome. Ask about our Gathering & Retreat Center with 8 indoor overnight accommodations available. Sleeps 8-15.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Lake Icaria County Park - Timber Ridge

30mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Corning, IA

Lake Icaria stands out as a unique camping destination, offering two peaceful campgrounds—Lake View and Timber Ridge—that are open year-round. With a total of 153 well-maintained graveled campsites, including 63 full-service sites, 23 water/electric sites, 43 electric sites, and 24 tent sites, there is a perfect spot for every type of camper. Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit and picnic table, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience. Families will appreciate the playgrounds located in each campground, while modern bathroom and shower facilities, along with handicap accessibility, enhance convenience for all visitors. At the entrance of both campgrounds, you'll find an RV dump station and water hydrants for your use. Please note that check-out time for the campgrounds is before 3 PM. For more detailed information about our accommodations, including cottages, cabins, campgrounds, and picnic shelters, click on the ‘Facilities’ section. Additionally, explore the ‘Activities’ section for insights into boating, disc golf, fishing, hunting, and other exciting pursuits available at Lake Icaria. The Timber Ridge campground offers a serene and shaded environment, surrounded by mature trees. It features 39 full-service sites, 23 electric/water sites, and 4 tent

Pets

Sunny Acres Campground

36mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Earlham, IA

Discover the unique charm of Sunny Acres Campground, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of a family-owned farm nestled in the heart of Madison County, Iowa. This picturesque location is not only home to the legendary John Wayne but also features the iconic Bridges of Madison County, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. For over 30 years, Verlan has dreamed of owning a campground, and in 2013, that dream became a reality with the purchase of our farm. Sunny Acres Campground offers a distinctive experience, allowing guests to witness the seasonal rhythms of farm life, from planting in the spring to harvesting in the fall. We are dedicated to providing you and your family with a memorable camping experience, complete with ample privacy and beautiful natural surroundings. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby swimming holes. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at local restaurants and shops that showcase the best of Madison County. We look forward to welcoming you to Sunny Acres Campground for years of unforgettable memories!

Pets

Spring Lake County Park

46mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Jefferson, IA

Experience the charm of Spring Lake Park in Jefferson, a unique destination that combines natural beauty with a wealth of outdoor activities. Spanning 240 acres, this park features a stunning 50-acre lake surrounded by well-maintained campsites, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and families alike. With 120 electrical campsites and two convenient shower houses, Spring Lake Park caters to all your camping needs. The lake's shoreline is nearly level with the water, providing easy access for campers, fishermen, and anyone looking to enjoy the serene waterside atmosphere. A concessionaire on-site offers roller skating, boat rentals, and a selection of food and beverages, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a fun-filled day. The park's wooded areas, covering 120 acres, serve as a habitat for diverse wildlife, including deer, turkeys, small mammals, and various bird species. For those who enjoy staying active, Spring Lake Park boasts over two miles of asphalt roads perfect for biking, jogging, and walking. Additionally, several hiking trails wind through the wooded sections, inviting exploration and adventure. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed day outdoors, Spring Lake Park in Jefferson is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone.

Pets

Squirrel Hollow County Park

46mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Jefferson, IA

Squirrel Hollow Park stands out as a unique destination in Iowa, being the second oldest county park in the state, established in 1934. Spanning 56 acres, this picturesque park is flanked on two sides by a 147-acre wildlife management area, providing visitors with a serene and natural environment. The park features stunning structures crafted from fieldstone by Civil Works Administration crews during the mid-1930s. At the heart of Squirrel Hollow Park is a charming shelter house perched on a bluff, offering breathtaking views of the North Raccoon River and the surrounding river valley. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy at Squirrel Hollow Park, which offers a variety of activities including camping, river fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. For those looking to explore the waterways, the Henderson Park boat ramp is conveniently located just 8.1 miles upstream, while the Adkins Bridge boat ramp is a short 3.8 miles downstream. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Squirrel Hollow Park is an ideal spot to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

Pets

Pammel County Park

40mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Winterset, IA

Pammel Park stands out as a hidden gem just 4 miles southwest of Winterset, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and modern camping amenities. Nestled along the scenic Backbone, this campground provides visitors with a serene escape into nature, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. To reach Pammel Park, simply head west on State Highway 92 from Winterset for 1 mile, then turn south onto County Highway P68 and continue for 3 miles. The park features well-maintained camping facilities that ensure a comfortable stay while allowing guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding landscape. In addition to its excellent camping options, Pammel Park is surrounded by a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore nearby natural features, enjoy refreshing swimming holes, and partake in numerous outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. After a day of adventure, you can find delightful restaurants and charming shops in Winterset, making it easy to unwind and savor the local culture. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Pammel Park is the perfect destination for your next getaway.

Pets

Cold Springs Park

18mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Lewis, IA

Experience the charm of Cold Springs Park, a unique 104-acre oasis nestled just south of Lewis, IA. This park stands out for its diverse recreational offerings, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As you enter Cold Springs Park via Lewis Rd, you'll immediately notice the inviting lake area to your right, complete with a boat ramp and dock for easy access to water activities. The swimming area is perfect for a refreshing dip on warm days, while the picnic area provides a scenic spot for family gatherings or a relaxing lunch amidst nature. To your left, you'll find the offices of Cass County Conservation, which oversee the park's natural resources. Just a short drive further is the regional IDNR Fisheries Station, where you can learn more about local aquatic life. If you venture up the hill, you'll discover well-maintained campgrounds and a shelter, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. With its combination of natural beauty and recreational amenities, Cold Springs Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure or tranquility in the heart of Iowa.

Pets

Quail Hollow RV Park

49mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Bedford, IA

Quail Hollow RV Park stands out as a serene oasis just 4 miles north of Bedford, Iowa, offering a tranquil escape surrounded by nature. This campground is designed for those seeking a peaceful retreat, featuring ample shaded areas that enhance your outdoor experience. Guests can enjoy modern RV amenities, including 20/30/50 amp service and select full hookup sites equipped with durable concrete pads. For those who appreciate scenic views, the park also offers waterfront options that create a picturesque backdrop for relaxation. Located near Deer Ridge at Lexington, Quail Hollow RV Park is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. Visitors can partake in various outdoor activities, discover nearby swimming holes, and enjoy local dining and shopping options. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled trip, Quail Hollow RV Park provides the perfect setting for your next vacation.

Pets

Toilets

Morman Trail County Park

15mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Bridgewater, IA

Nestled just one and a half miles southeast of Bridgewater, Iowa, at 2828 Delta Avenue, Mormon Trail Lake stands out as a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive 35-acre lake is situated within a sprawling 170-acre park, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Mormon Trail Lake is an ideal spot for fishing and camping, featuring sites equipped with electricity for added convenience. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, including a well-maintained showerhouse and restroom facilities. The park also boasts a shelter house, a playground for children, and ample space for sailing, kayaking, and swimming—though swimming is unsupervised. In addition to its recreational offerings, the park is rich in history, marked by a National Park Service historical marker that commemorates the Mormon migration through the area. Named after the historic Mormon Trail, this park provides a serene escape for families and individuals looking to connect with nature while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're fishing, camping, or simply soaking in the scenery, Mormon Trail Lake and Park is a must-visit destination.

Pets

Elk Horn Creek Recreation Area

19mi from Lake Anita State Park · 1 site · Elk Horn, IA

The Elkhorn Creek Recreation Area stands out as a versatile destination, perfect for families seeking adventure or individuals in search of tranquility. With its well-maintained trails and diverse wildlife, this area offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. One of the highlights of the park is the upper picnic area, believed to be the original site of the pioneer village of Elk Horn. Visitors can still see remnants of building foundation blocks that mark this historic location. Additionally, the Petersen Preserve, encompassing approximately 32 acres, features numerous grassy walking trails, making it an excellent spot for leisurely strolls. The campground is equipped with several amenities to enhance your stay. There are seven electrical sites with 30-amp hookups, as well as multiple tent camping options. Picnic sites come with grills, rural water access, and sanitary facilities, including both pit and flush toilets, all of which are ADA accessible. A picnic shelter is also available for gatherings, along with hiking trails and two playground areas for children. Camping rates are affordable, with electric sites priced at $16.00 and non-electric/tent sites at $14.00. Please note that while firearms are prohibited in both areas, archery hunting is permitted, adding another layer of outdoor activity for enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to connect with nature

Pets

The best camping in Lake Anita State Park, IA guide

Overview

About

If spending your days relaxing by a beautiful blue lake sounds like your cup of tea, Lake Anita State Park is without a question worth visiting. With grassy fields, blooming wildflowers, and more trees than you can count, this is one perfectly picturesque spot in central Iowa. Grab a boat, canoe, or kayak—it’s totally your call—and get ready to hit the lake for hours of adventuring. As one of the county's most popular parks, Lake Anita’s got tons of campgrounds to suit just about everyone. Get ready to let the good times roll�!

Notable campgrounds

Lake Anita Campground - A favorite among families for its scenic lake views and modern facilities.
Oak Grove Campground - Offers a serene setting and close proximity to hiking trails.
Sunset Ridge Campground - Known for its stunning sunset panoramas and spacious sites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your preferred spot, especially during peak season.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up.
Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a site.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Anita State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be quite busy. Winters are quiet but can be cold, making it less ideal for camping and outdoor activities.

Know before you go

Check the park's official website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
Be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack accordingly.
Ensure you have a valid fishing or boating license if you plan to engage in these activities.
Take note of park hours, typically from 6am to 10:30pm, to plan your activities within this timeframe.
Remember to respect wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's natural beauty.

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