Best Campgrounds in Iowa
Curated guides to help you find the perfect camping destination in Iowa. From RV resorts to backcountry wilderness.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
More Top Campgrounds in Iowa
Discover 9 additional top-rated campgrounds in Iowa
Sugar Bottom Campground
West Overlook Campground
Prairie Flower Recreation Area
Wallashuck
Cherry Glen Campground
Clarks Ferry
Whitebreast Camp
Tailwater East Campground
Island View (Rathbun Lake)
By Camping Style
Find campgrounds in Iowa that match how you love to camp
By Activity
Campgrounds in Iowa with the best access to your favorite outdoor activities
Explore All Iowa Campgrounds
Browse 105 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
About Camping in Iowa
Camping in Iowa reveals a surprising diversity of natural landscapes, from the mighty Mississippi River bluffs to expansive prairie restorations and pristine inland lakes. The state's campgrounds offer peaceful retreats where rolling hills meet tranquil waters, and restored tallgrass prairies showcase the region's ecological heritage.
Best Time
Late spring through early fall offers the best camping weather in Iowa, with May through September providing warm temperatures and the full range of water-based activities. May and early June bring wildflower blooms across prairie campgrounds and comfortable temperatures in the 70s, though occasional rain showers are common.
Why Camp Here
- Curated selection of top-rated campgrounds
- Verified reviews and sentiment analysis
- Diverse options for every camping style
- Local insights and seasonal recommendations
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular campgrounds like Tailwater West and Howell Station well in advance through Recreation.gov, especially for summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly.
- 2Bring insect repellent for mosquitoes and ticks, particularly in wooded areas during late spring and early summer.
- 3Pack layers for Iowa's variable weather—temperatures can swing 20-30 degrees between day and night, even in summer.
- 4If visiting Coralville Lake campgrounds, plan time to explore the Devonian Fossil Gorge, but check water levels first as the gorge is only accessible when lake levels are low.
Iowa Camping FAQ
Our rankings combine multiple factors including camper reviews, sentiment analysis, amenity quality, location accessibility, and natural setting. We analyze thousands of reviews to identify campgrounds that consistently deliver exceptional experiences across Iowa.
Iowa offers diverse camping options including RV camping with full hookups, traditional tent camping, and primitive backcountry experiences. Many campgrounds also provide excellent access to activities like fishing, hiking, swimming, and boating.
The ideal camping season in Iowa varies by region and elevation. Generally, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is popular but book early for prime locations. Check individual campground pages for specific seasonal recommendations.
Never Miss a Campsite in Iowa
Popular Iowa campgrounds book up fast. Set up free availability alerts and we'll notify you when spots open up.