Iowa may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of waterfront camping, but don’t let its reputation as a landlocked state fool you. The Hawkeye State is home to some of the most picturesque lakes and rivers in the Midwest, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
From scenic lakeshores to tranquil riverbanks, here are some of Iowa’s best waterfront camping spots.
Lake Darling State Park
If you love adventure on the water, Lake Darling State Park has it all – from campsites on the shoreline to on-site rental facilities for paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and paddleboats. Depending on how you plan to camp – tent, RV or cabin rental will determine your distance from the water, but it’s never more than a short walk away.
Spend a day fishing for bluegill or walleye on the lake, or cool off with a refreshing swim during the summer. For land activities, hike along the 4.5-mile Lakeshore Trail or the shorter Lost Lake Trail, an easy one-mile loop where eagles, ospreys, and other birds are commonly spotted. The park is also home to deer and wild turkeys.
With over 100 camping areas (electric and non-electric) to choose from, this location should definitely be at the top of your list.
Backbone State Park
Backbone State Park, Iowa’s first state park, is a place where the Maquoketa River weaves through the lush wilderness, providing ample opportunities for waterfront camping. Pitch your tent on the riverfront, or rent a cabin directly on the shoreline where you might catch a glimpse of playful river otters.
The river and Backbone Lake provide the perfect setting for water activities such as fishing and kayaking. There’s also a 21-mile trail system that’ll take you to caves and natural rock formations–keep an eye out for bald eagles during the hike. The park is also the perfect jump-off point for visiting the Effigy Mounds National Monument. The site protects over 200 Native American mounds built by tribes around 1,000 years ago.
Prairie Rose State Park
Head to Prairie Rose State Park in Western Iowa for campsites with electric and full hookups and wonderful views of the Prairie Rose Lake–a 218-acre reservoir. Boats of any size are welcome in the water, and the park has become a popular spot to reel in largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Then, back on land, try a round of disc golf or explore the hiking trails through woodlands, prairies and along the peaceful lakeshore. Bring a camera with you because you never know when wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, eagles, and waterfowl will come to say hello.
If you’re looking for a daytime excursion outside the park, check out the historical windmill in Elk Horn, just 15 minutes away. The windmill was built in Denmark and brought to Elk Horn in 1976. You can take a guided tour through the structure and visit the museum gift shop to learn about the windmill’s history and the town’s Danish heritage.
Volga River State Recreation Area
From rocky outcroppings to lush forests, the Volga River State Recreation Area in Northeastern Iowa offers a much different landscape from the rolling hills and plains in the rest of the state. You’ll find two campgrounds here – one by the river and another by the lake, so be sure to book in advance.
Of course, there are plenty of outdoor activities to partake in after you’ve pitched your tent. Kayak or swim at Frog Hollow Lake and cast a line for catfish and bass in the channels of the Volga River. There are 22 miles worth of trails throughout the recreation area, perfect for hiking and biking. Watch for the local wildlife, such as deer, red foxes and beavers.
Viking Lake State Park
Viking Lake State Park is in the southwestern corner of Iowa, known for stunning wildflowers and wildlife, such as muskrats, turkeys, eagles and white-tailed deer. The campground has 100 sites, many with direct lake access – perfect for an afternoon fishing for bass and catfish. You can even rent a kayak or paddle boat for a fun day sightseeing for beavers.
Immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty with an easy hike on the one-mile Burr Oak Trail or the six-mile loop around the lake. Be prepared for incredible views of the 140-acre lake. The trail is particularly beautiful in the fall as the leaves change to yellows, reds and oranges.
Rathbun Lake
Over 700 campsites at Rathbun Lake offer multiple ways to explore Iowa’s great outdoors and unwind. Located in Southern Iowa, these sites are split between Island View, Buck Creek and Prairie Ridge campgrounds.
After you’ve set up your tent, spend your days fishing, boating and swimming on the lake. You can even go tubing for a relaxing day on the water. Golfers will be happy to know there’s a great course near the campsites called The Preserve on Rathbun Lake. But if golfing isn’t your thing, there are more than enough hiking trails, geocaching areas, and bald eagle sightings to keep you busy.
Stopping by the Appanoose Historical and Coal Mining Museum is a must during your camping trip. The museum is 20 minutes south of the lake and a great place to learn about the ins and outs of coal mining.
