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The best camping in Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area, IA
50% (1)
Discover the allure of Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area.
50% (1)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area
Pleasant Creek Campground
1. Pleasant Creek Campground
If you’re looking for a pleasant camping experience, why not give Pleasant Creek Campground a shot? You can explore the 410 acre lake via canoe, kayak, or pontoon boat, and you can even SCUBA dive
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area
n*Everland Barnyard Camping
1. n*Everland Barnyard Camping
99%
(253)
28mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
We live outside the Matrix and march to the beat of our own drummer! We love sharing our space with those seeking true connection to nature and themselves. Privacy or community connection, whichever you prefer, we have 20 acres in Anamosa, Iowa at the end of a cul-de-sac just 5 blocks from Main Street. We think it's a slice of heaven and we bet you agree!
NOTE: We don't have number/names of sites, just book and move through that portion as you are able. All the sites have ample privacy.
Do you want to hike into a site? We have a few sites in the woods that are not easily accessible by car, if you want that kind of experience just mention it when booking.
Follow us on Facebook to stay abreast of our current events! We are not very active on FB though, so we may miss your message if you reach out to us that way.
FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN: Please reach out to us in messaging to determine if this is the right fit for your family vacation as we feel there are better options in the area for kids, but we do make exceptions for the well-behaved and respectful older children. Thank you for your understanding.
ABOUT THE BARNYARD:
n*Everland Barnyard is an eccentric art installation space created from found, recycled, and repurposed building materials in the heart of Grant Wood Country in Jones County, Iowa. We are not a commercial campground. We focus on Zen, mindfulness, peace, and tranquility. Firmly in the realm of Outsider Art, Gothic and rustic, Bob Kellogg has created a place unlike anywhere else in the world that represents freedom and inspires endless creativity. The land provides multiple camp sites for easy access to bike and walking trails taking visitors into town or through the Wapsipinicon State Park across the river from the property. Anamosa offers several restaurants, grocery stores and other businesses all within a 1-mile walking distance from your campsite.
We also offer #ProjectCreatePeace, an initiative to create more peace in the world through creativity as an art project. Check out the extras listings to get your art on while you are here!
There is a beautiful spring-fed water hole ideal for swimming in the state park, as well as access to the river from our property (although we do not recommend swimming in the river.)
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Toilets
Campfires
Blueberry Farm on a Hill
2. Blueberry Farm on a Hill
100%
(22)
31mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
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 9-year-old daughter, 2 llamas, 4 chickens, 2 babydoll sheep, 3 housecats, and 5 barn cats. In June and July, we open our farm to the public for U-pick organic blueberries.
Campers have access to a private firepit with 4 chairs, a bathroom shed with a composting toilet, a campfire coffee percolator, a prairie trail, a hammock, a free little library, and a beanbags lawn game. We're looking for Hipcampers who are respectful and clean.
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Campfires
Potable water
Windy Goat Acres
3. Windy Goat Acres
99%
(876)
34mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 5 sites
We love animals, plants, art, and outdoor recreation and love sharing these things with people! We found the perfect little plot for all of these things we love. Nature, art, animals, and lots of space! The hilly, lush land is also known as the Bohemie Alps and it's quite a beautiful area tucked away in Iowa.
Visit with the llamas, goats, peacocks, potbelly pigs and the horses and hike around the property or stay in for a quiet stay with a good book and enjoy all the sights and sounds. Lots of extra 'add ons' to enhance the experience, like a waffle bar kit, smore's package, hikes, and more!
Semi wooded property with hiking trails, hammocks, aerial silks, campfire pit. 5 mi away is Otter Creek Lake, a recreational park for fishing, kayaking, swimming, etc. We have 2 kayaks available. So much to do! Also perfect to just relax, meditate, yoga, sleep...
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Showers
Folk School Farm Stay
4. Folk School Farm Stay
99%
(297)
34mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 land 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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Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
5. Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
99%
(88)
34mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 1 site
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 Catch and release fishing is allowed. 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.
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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River Camp
6. River Camp
99%
(51)
38mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Full hookups
Draco Hill Nature Farm
7. Draco Hill Nature Farm
98%
(738)
39mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
If you've never seen the tallgrass prairie, this is your chance! Right now, the prairie is in full bloom. Turkey tail, Indiangrass, partridge pea and many other beautiful native plants are at their best.
The orchard trees are also loaded with fruit and nuts. If you've never seen a chestnut burr, a bundle of heartnuts, or Asian pears book now. No picking please - they aren't ripe yet.
The weather is great and the campsites are mowed and ready for you! The river is low enough for you to walk down to it. You can only do that from Sun and Swimming and Shade and Swimming so be sure to book one of those if you want to dip your toes in the water.
We know everything's expensive these days. Camping is a cheap and easy way to get away. Don't own a tent? Rent one from us. Would rather use a gas stove than struggle with a fire? We've got those too. We've also reduced our Sycamore Site to a super low $20/night for those of you pinching pennies. We hope you can enjoy it at that rate. Remember, a load of firewood is included. Please don't reserve this site if you're towing a trailer.
Book over the October 17 weekend and catch our Chestnut Festival. Come any time for privacy at your site or a hike trails. Take a dip in the pond if you dare! Learn more and see map at our website.
A convenient 7 miles north of Interstate 80 but feels like an oasis away from it all. Enjoy nature in a private, wooded river valley setting. And check out our extras!
-- Fatwood for starting fires easily
-- Up to 3 extra bundles of firewood
-- A 7-person tent for rent
-- A Coleman stove, matches and tank of fuel
-- A personal tour of the exotic fruits and nuts and ecological restoration we're growing here.
NO generators or large RVs please. Campers like to go to sleep under the stars to the sound of frogs, cicadas, coyotes, deer and the rustling wind through the tallgrass prairie. Wake to an amazing sunrise over the river. Enjoy a hike through our 4 miles of trails on 75 acres of rolling woodlands and prairie, picking berries, finding mushrooms, scaring up a turkey or pheasant in the brush or listening to the birds. (Pull out your Merlin app to see who's singing!) Play in the river or upland pond, cut cattails and prairie grasses for souvenirs and enjoy being unplugged for a while. Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace.
This is "socks and shoes, jeans and boots" kind of camping. You're visiting wild places and a working perennial farm, so please dress appropriately for your optimal enjoyment. If you go off trails and other mowed places, you increase your chances of contact with poison ivy and ticks. Please research these ahead of time and be prepared. We live here and encounter them frequently without more than a slight inconvenience.
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#JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
8. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
99%
(152)
40mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
# About
Welcome to our private **15-acre clothing-optional sanctuary**, located at our personal residence in eastern Iowa. One of the state's few private clothing-optional destinations, JTRidge offers a peaceful, natural setting where you can experience the freedom of clothing-optional recreation surrounded by woods, river bluffs, and abundant wildlife.
Whether you're curious about your first clothing-optional experience or have enjoyed nudism for years, you'll find a welcoming, respectful environment where you can simply be yourself.
Many of our guests—especially women seeking a peaceful escape—appreciate the opportunity to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy body-positive freedom without judgment or unwanted attention. We proudly welcome LGBTQ+ guests, solo travelers, couples, friends, and people of every background, body type, gender identity, sexual orientation, and experience level. Come alone or with those you care about—you'll be welcomed exactly as you are.
Guests often tell us they appreciate the sanctuary's peaceful atmosphere and the chance to truly unwind without feeling watched, rushed, or judged. Here, you can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature at your own pace.
Unlike large commercial campgrounds, JTRidge offers only a handful of secluded campsites, a private primitive cabin, and Day Passes. With very few guests on the property at any given time, you'll enjoy exceptional privacy, tranquility, and plenty of room to breathe. This isn't a campground filled with organized activities or noisy neighbors—it's a quiet retreat created for rest, reflection, and genuine connection with the outdoors.
Our Day Pass is perfect for a relaxing afternoon, a peaceful lunch break, or simply a few hours away from everyday life. Stretch out in a reclining lounge chair, explore wooded trails, relax in a hammock, read beneath the trees, practice yoga, meditate, or simply bask in the sunshine. If you need assistance with Hipcamp's Day Pass booking process, we're always happy to help.
For guests wishing to deepen their relaxation experience, **private bodywork sessions are available by appointment**. These personalized sessions are designed to complement your visit by encouraging relaxation, mindfulness, and greater body awareness. Sessions may incorporate guided stretching, relaxation techniques, energy-based practices, and intentional bodywork, always tailored to your comfort level. Clear communication, informed consent, and respect for personal boundaries are central to every session.
As stewards of this special property, we're honored to share it with those who appreciate privacy, nature, and the freedom of a clothing-optional environment. Clothing is optional throughout the property, but nudity is never required. Many first-time visitors quickly discover how natural and liberating the experience feels, while others choose to remain clothed throughout their stay. Both are equally welcome.
Everyone is encouraged to enjoy the sanctuary at their own comfort level while respecting one another's privacy, personal boundaries, and individuality. Our goal is to foster a body-positive, inclusive atmosphere where every guest feels safe, accepted, and comfortable.
As your hosts, we're committed to making every guest—especially first-time visitors—feel genuinely welcome and completely at ease. There is never any pressure or expectation beyond treating one another, the land, and the peaceful atmosphere with respect. Our hope is that you leave feeling refreshed, restored, and more connected to yourself and the natural world.
Nestled along the scenic Wapsipinicon River, the sanctuary features mature hardwood forests, dramatic limestone bluffs, scenic hiking trails, open sunny spaces, and abundant wildlife. Listen to birdsong (the Merlin Bird ID app is a favorite here), watch cattle grazing peacefully in the neighboring pasture, cast a fishing line into the river, or simply enjoy the quiet rhythm of nature.
As evening arrives, colorful sunsets give way to brilliant star-filled skies free from city light pollution. Gather around a campfire, listen to the gentle sounds of the river, read a favorite book, capture photographs of the landscape, or simply embrace the luxury of doing absolutely nothing.
Looking for a little adventure? Launch your canoe, kayak, or tube in Olin and enjoy a scenic 3- to 4-hour float directly to our riverfront. Several Iowa state parks, fascinating caves, Iowa's only Presidential Library and Museum, and the Great Jones County Fair are all within a short drive, making JTRidge an ideal base for exploring eastern Iowa.
Whether you're seeking peaceful solitude, quality time with someone special, or simply a place to unplug and recharge, we hope you'll discover that JTRidge is more than a place to camp—it's a place to breathe deeply, reconnect with yourself, and experience nature as it was meant to be enjoyed.
We're always available if you need us and enjoy getting to know our guests, but we equally respect your privacy and personal space. Whether you'd like local recommendations, have questions, or simply prefer quiet solitude, we're happy to accommodate your style of visit.
Many guests arrive expecting a one-time experience and leave already planning their return. We look forward to welcoming you to our peaceful corner of Iowa.
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Ramsey Creek Natural Area
9. Ramsey Creek Natural Area
100%
(16)
44mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
3 acres that were converted from a cornfield 30 years ago to an area containing prairie, woods and creek. A great place to relax and enjoy rural Iowa, guests are welcome to roam the mowed areas and paths while respecting other guests. In the heart of the largest Amish community west of the Mississippi, only 2 miles from Kalona Historical Village. Groceries, gas and food and dump station available in Kalona, firewood available on site, kayak trips may be arranged.
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Potable water
Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging
10. Sunset Hills Bison Ranch & Lodging
100%
(15)
46mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 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.
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Lazy Acres RV Park
11. Lazy Acres RV Park
7.9mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 95 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Beyonder Getaway Lazy Acres, a full-service campground that offers a serene escape surrounded by nature. Located near Cedar Rapids, Iowa, our park features a peaceful pond and a vibrant community of feathered friends, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and families alike.
At Lazy Acres, we provide a diverse camping experience with a variety of distinctive sites, each offering its own unique atmosphere and features. Our family-friendly environment is complemented by a wide range of amenities and activities designed to cater to campers of all levels. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water, explore nearby hiking trails, or enjoy outdoor games, we ensure that every visit creates cherished memories.
With our commitment to privacy and tranquility, you can unwind and connect with nature while enjoying the comforts of our well-maintained facilities. Explore the nearby attractions, including natural swimming holes, local restaurants, and charming shops, all within easy reach. Join us at Lazy Acres for an unforgettable camping adventure that promises relaxation and fun for everyone!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Gooseberry Grove
12. Gooseberry Grove
18mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 1 site
Welcome to Gooseberry Grove, a peaceful countryside retreat where guests can slow down, explore, and enjoy the simple beauty of nature.
Nestled on our family property, this private grass RV site offers a quiet place to relax white surrounded by open skies, greenery, and country charm. Guests are welcome to explore the average, enjoy a round of disc golf on our 12-hole course, wander along the small creek, relax by the koi pond, and experience the little moments that make country living special.
During your stay, you may meet our friendly cats, visit our chickens, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life on the farm. Where you're traveling through, looking for an outdoor getaway, or simply want a place to unplug, Gooseberry Grove offers a cozy escape filled with nature, adventure, and quiet mornings.
Come for the stay, stay for the memories.
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Unhitched Sleepy Hollow
13. Unhitched Sleepy Hollow
30mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 136 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Unhitched Sleepy Hollow has found its way into the Unhitched family, and we think Oxford, Iowa, just got a little more exciting. Tucked away just 20 minutes from Iowa City, Sleepy Hollow has been a beloved escape for families seeking the kind of Midwest peace that’s getting harder to find. Unhitched Management is stepping in to lead the way forward, bringing our Safe, Clean, and Friendly promise to every corner of this scenic property. We’re investing in improvements, refreshing the experience, and building something worth coming back to.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Prairie Horizon
14. Prairie Horizon
100%
(7)
31mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 1 site
Acreage on a gravel road with many shade trees surrounded by farm land. Easy access from Highway 20, Interstate 380, and Avenue of the Saints making it great for an overnight stop from your travels. Wake up to a symphony of song birds (check your Merlin app to see who is singing) and enjoy morning views with your coffee. Beautiful sunrise and sunset views and clear stargazing.
You would never guess that within 10 miles you will find hiking and biking trails, municipal golf course, water park, amusement park, casino, shopping (grocery, gas, Target, Walmart, restaurants), Cedar Valley Arboretum, and John Deer tractor museum and factory tours.
Although our Hound Dog is no longer here to alert us of your arrival, we will still keep a lookout and personally greet you when you come on the yard. We are happy to share garden produce, herbs and flowers that are grown in our gardens when in season. The acreage is also home to several antique tractors which Dave is always happy to show!
Sue and Dave
We can accommodate travel trailor, fifth wheel, popup campers (with toilet) and RV's.
1 site, back in. Accommodates slide outs.
Surface type - gravel, grass
Surface levelness - fairly level
Electrical hookup - 30 amp
Water hookup - hose for tank fill available
Generators allowed - no
Sewage hookup - no
TV hookup - no
Toilets available - no
Campfire allowed in fire pit as weather permits. Firewood provided.
Pets allowed on leash. Must follow safety and sanitation rules. Pet on leash and pick up poop.
Trash bin - yes
Picnic table - yes
Wifi - no
Laundry - no
Hot tub - no
Check in - after 2:00 pm
Check out - before 12:00 pm
Cancellation - flexible
Minimum nights - 1
Accepts bookings - 7 months out
Electrical hookup
Pets
Lucky Star Farm
15. Lucky Star Farm
100%
(8)
37mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 1 site
Located on a 20-acre stretch of land between Iowa City and Kalona, Lucky Star Farm is a working farm raising dairy goats, llamas, chickens, turkeys & ducks. We are dedicated to sharing local food, education and lodging with the community. Come visit our diverse, sustainable and entertaining farm!
The farm is full of outdoor opportunities. Guests can stroll over to the pond and swim, explore, or relax on the sandy beach and dock. Guests are also welcome to fish (catch and release) or use the stand-up paddleboard (lifejackets provided). There is a fire pit, complimentary firewood, and roasting sticks for your use. At the barn you can visit the goats and see their kids playing in the spring. There is a half mile trail around the property that takes you past the restored prairie and llama pasture. Guests can see what's growing in the edible forest and circle through the mandala garden. Visit the chicken coop and see how farm fresh eggs are made!
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Pinn Oak Bunk House
16. Pinn Oak Bunk House
100%
(2)
45mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 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!
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Dodge Family Farm
17. Dodge Family Farm
100%
(1)
50mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Pitch your tent or park your camper for a peaceful overnight stay on our spacious front acre. This area is set away from the main house, giving you plenty of privacy and quiet. Surrounded by several trees, it’s a simple, natural spot where you can unwind under the stars.
There are no on-site amenities such as water, power, or restrooms, so please come prepared to camp off-grid. A fire ring is provided so you can enjoy a cozy campfire in the evenings. Firewood is available for a free-will donation, able to be paid at our roadside farm stand (cash or digital options).
This is a great spot for travelers passing through, weekend adventurers, or anyone looking for an easy, rustic place to stay close to nature while still being conveniently located.
To enhance your small-town vibe, right to the north of us is New Hartford (out the driveway to the left, and quick right). They've got a creamery, the Royal Blue bar & grill, a Caseys, and a Dollar General. Dike is to the south of us about 10 min and has the Joyful Java coffee shop and The Slice sports bar & restaurant. Or check out downtown Cedar Falls for all of their great shops, bars, and restaurants...they're to the east about 10 min.
Thanks for booking with us, and we hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Campfires
Hoefle-Dulin Recreation Area
18. Hoefle-Dulin Recreation Area
8.1mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area
Discover the charm of Hoefle-Dulin Recreation Area, a serene river campground nestled along the picturesque Cedar River, just minutes from downtown Vinton. This unique 46-acre retreat offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, making it an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, and tubing.
The Cedar River is a haven for anglers, providing ample opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including black crappie, channel catfish, freshwater drum, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, rock bass, walleye, yellow bullhead, and shovelnose sturgeon. As you cast your line or paddle downstream to the Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area, don’t miss the stunning views of the East Bluff that enhance your outdoor experience.
Hoefle-Dulin Recreation Area is equipped with essential amenities, including an open-air shelter, pit restroom, river access, and a playground for families. Additionally, this area is open for hunting from September 15 to May 15, providing even more opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway or an action-packed day, this campground is the perfect destination for your next outdoor excursion.
Minne Estema Park
19. Minne Estema Park
11mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area
Minne Estema, meaning "sleeping waters," stands out as a historic resort nestled along the picturesque Cedar River. Established in 1901 by George R. Knapp, this charming destination began with a family cottage and expanded to include a second cottage and a hotel resort featuring 15 inviting rooms, perfect for accommodating family and friends.
The resort was designed with guest comfort in mind, offering stables for horses and carriages, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors. Guests could enjoy a variety of water activities, including a steam launch named the “White Plume,” sailboats, rowboats, and canoes, all set against the backdrop of a sandy beach ideal for swimming. The ship “Export” provided convenient transportation, making stops at Minne Estema while traveling between Waterloo and Cedar Rapids.
Affordability was a hallmark of this resort, with a weeklong stay, including room and board, priced at just $5.00, while a single day’s visit cost only $1.00. For those spending Sundays at the resort, a delicious dinner was served for a mere 50 cents. Minne Estema remains a unique destination, blending rich history with natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a memorable getaway for all.
Benton City-Fry Recreation Area
20. Benton City-Fry Recreation Area
11mi from Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area
Nestled along the stunning banks of the Columbia River, this lakeside park stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and relaxation. With a variety of RV and tent campsites, visitors can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying breathtaking waterfront views.
The park features a convenient boat launch, making it easy for boating aficionados to explore the river's expansive waters. Families will appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and picnic shelters, perfect for gatherings and enjoying meals outdoors. For those looking to cool off, the designated swimming areas provide a refreshing escape during the warm summer months.
Nature lovers will find plenty to do here, from birdwatching to hiking along scenic trails. The park's serene environment is ideal for unwinding and soaking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its combination of recreational opportunities and picturesque views, this lakeside park is the perfect spot for a memorable getaway.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
R
Ryan
1 week ago
Tent
The hosts were incredibly warm and welcoming! The property is beautifully laid out with lots on amenities! Clean walking trails with benches along the way. There is a wall of bluffs along one trail that was especially cool to walk along. I attended this property for quiet wildlife photography and it didn't disappoint! No public traffic! I would highly recommend this as a place to visit!
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J
Joseph
1 week ago
Tent
I'm not sure what I could say about Scott and Kimberly that hasn't been said before. My wife and I have been to their place camping several times now and will be back again. Easily our favorite place to go.
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D
David
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
James was an excellent host. He has a beautiful property, we look forward to enjoying it again!
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Z
Zander Ostrovsky
1 week ago
Tent
Stayed at Jenna & Eric’s farmstead on my way across country and it was an absolutely perfect night under the stars! They were welcoming and accommodating given our late arrival time. The animals were very very adorable and the fire was a great way to end a long day of driving. We hope to be back again when the blueberries are in season. Must stay if in the area!
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R
Robert
1 week ago
Tent
There were two groups at the river area where I camped. We all got along very well and hung out. Pretty awesome when a bunch of strangers can get together and just laugh and tell stories. Scott and Kimberly came down Sunday morning and we all had a great time visiting with them as well. I love that I found this little slice of heaven.
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N
Nicklaus
1 week ago
Tent
We had another great time at Scott and Kimberly’s place. Three nights was the perfect amount of time. There were lots of laughs, good food, love, and fun. It’s so nice that Scott and Kimberly share this place with others where you’re able to shed your worries and just enjoy nature and the company you’re with. Speaking of company, it was a full camp this weekend and it was a lot of fun to meet new people and share an evening just enjoying each other’s company. We are already planning next year’s trip! Thanks Scott and Kimberly!!
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K
Kyle
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Excellent experience! Suzan was an excellent host. Her land is a little oasis near home and we can’t wait to visit again.
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D
Dana
1 week ago
10 ft campervan
Very cool sites for primitive camping. The Sun site offered a great view of the sunset, sunrise and the night sky.
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A
Austin
1 week ago
1 night at #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
Nice and peaceful place to stay. Scott was nice to talk to and very helpful during my stay. I enjoyed my time there and look forward to coming back.
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D
Dan
1 week ago
Tent
This is a nice property very close to Kalona yet feels remote. A variety of trees and a tall grass prairie combined with mowed walkways made for an interesting walk. James was wonderful about communication.
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F
Fritz
1 week ago
1 night at Walking Stick Adventures Tipi Camp
The private space is really nice. The camp is very well equipped with everything you would need for camping, pond time and sitting areas.
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Ward
2 weeks ago
16 ft travel trailer
We had a very comfortable stay at Prairie Horizon. The grounds were beautiful, the RV site was level, we enjoyed the peaceful environment. We also had exceptional communications with our hosts. We’ll book this site again when we venture back up into Minnesota.
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T
Trisha
3 weeks ago
1 night at Windy Goat Acres
The animals are delightful. The first time all the goats and ducks noisily came to say hello was a favorite moment from our trip. The yurt is beautiful. Air conditioned which was needed in humid August. The space is lovely and very well equipped with electricity, a kitchenette with full sink and a tv and dvd player. The bathrooms near the house are less than a 5 minute walk, being a flashlight for late nights early morning trips! There is a standard porta potty right near the yurt, also need a flashlight.
Take time to just wander the grounds. Cannot recommend the waffle breakfast enough. So delicious!
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M
Margo
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Overall, unreal experience at n*Everland! Here’s a bit of a breakdown to convince more people to check out this awesome location.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the very friendly Bob, who showed us around the property, explained a bit about the history of the place, and walked us through the many campsites we could choose from. We chose a spot close to all the unique buildings. It was flat and large enough for our group of 6 to spread out. Our large yurt fit right in with the property! We spent our time there exploring the buildings, showering off in the solar shower, walking down to the river (one highlight for sure) and having the most amazing conversations with our lovely hosts. We purchased the pizza oven experience, expecting to fiddle with the process to create amateur pizzas, but were surprised with Xenes offer to graciously cook many different pizzas for us to try! It was the highlight of the trip for sure. Bob and Xenes other residents were also a treat to chat with. We engaged in amazing conversations, and the energy completely won us over. The drive to the Maquoketa caves was for sure worth it as well- super close by and an incredible experience! I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a beautiful and incredibly fruitful experience. We hope to come back soon!
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Jeanette
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
We loved the space and the convenience of the Folk School building. It was great to see the sheep and cows. We had good shade which was needed to keep cool while camping.
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Tracie
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Our family had a great time camping on Anna’s land. We loved being near so much beautiful landscaping and the flock of sheep. It was convenient to have bathrooms and showers so near our campsite too.
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Cassie
3 weeks ago
With pets
We had such a wonderful stay at Windy Goat Acres! There is truly so much to do that you never even need to leave the farm. Our stay was the perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and quality family time.
We loved getting to spend time with the llamas, snuggling the sweetest kittens, watching the dog and emu races, making magically giant bubbles, wandering the grounds, and slowing down to play games together as a family. There was always something fun to discover, but it also never felt rushed or like we had to be doing something every minute.
Jess and Jim were incredibly welcoming and so easy to communicate with from start to finish. Jim took the time to share so much with us about the animals, the land, and the farm itself, which made the experience even more special. You can tell how much love, thought, and care they have poured into the property and the animals who call it home. It really feels like they enjoy sharing this little piece of their world with the people who stay there.
Windy Goat Acres was such a unique and memorable getaway, the kind of place where you can unplug, slow down, explore, laugh a lot, and just enjoy being together. We left with some really special family memories and would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, peaceful, and truly one-of-a-kind escape. We would happily come back!
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Phyllis
3 weeks ago
With kids
Loved camping at Walking Stick tee pee. The hosts were very kind and helpful. The land is absolutely beautiful, we really enjoyed our time there🩵
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Emily
3 weeks ago
18 ft pop-up camper
With pets
We enjoyed staying right by the river, with an easy drive into town! Great, peaceful stop on our road trip.
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Megan
3 weeks ago
With kids
I think this was our 5th time visiting…each time we visit, we fall more in love with the space and the animals. This place is truly special and we look forward to visiting again.
See morePleasant Creek State Recreation Area camping guide
Overview
About
It’s pretty easy to tell what kind of time you’re going to have with a name like Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area. Water and adventure, all with a happy go lucky attitude? You betcha! Make it a weekend by staying in one of the parks shady campsites or cabins; amenities are modern and will make you feel right at home. Hike, bike or giddyup pony style on over ten miles of trails. Anglers and those who just love to cool off, will find a day of kayaking or fishing in the lake the perfect way to beat the summer heat! Scenic bluffs and rockin’ playgrounds make this the perfect spot for families and hardcore outdoor enthusiasts alike. We’re sure you’ll explore nothing but the best of Iowa’s outdoor beauty here, and have a pleasant time doing it!
When to go
The best time to visit Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be crowded. Winters are less ideal due to cold temperatures and limited access to some park areas.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for seasonal changes.
- Be aware of park hours, typically from 6am to 10pm, and plan your visit accordingly.
- Stay informed about any trail closures or area restrictions before your trip.
- Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
- Take advantage of available facilities, including restrooms and picnic areas, for a comfortable visit.
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