Our state parks don’t fall short of offering beautiful and relaxing campgrounds — but sometimes it’s nice to really feel like you’re escaping civilization for a while. Here is a quick overview of the Iowa DNR’s top places to rough it in Iowa.
Paddle in Sites
Some sites are so secluded that you can only paddle up to them. No cars or trucks are allowed here, meaning everything you need to camp comes with you in the canoe or kayak (although some sites do have fire rings).
Wildlife Management Areas
You can get away from it all by camping primitively on state wildlife management areas. Camping in wildlife management areas can’t exceed 14 consecutive days, and is prohibited within 100 yards of parking lots, boat ramps, fishing jetties and other public use facilities.
Sandbars
Feel like an old-fashioned river traveler by stopping off for the night on a sandbar. Spend the night under the stars as you listen to the water as it moves by. Be sure to pay attention to water levels before you set up camp, and make sure you’re on a meandered river, where sandbar camping is usually allowed (unless specifically prohibited).
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Source Iowa DNR.
