The best camping near Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Brushy Creek State Recreation Area adventure.

Discover the rugged beauty of Brushy Creek State Recreation Area.

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Community favorites near Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

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Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

2 sites · Lodging, Tents28 acres · Zearing, IA

Threshold Learning Center is 28 acres of prairie, creek, woods, and our barn dormitory. Threshold is first, an outdoor learning center for schools during the school year, and a summer camp offering several day camps, family camps, and trips. As a non-profit, however, we are constantly trying to find a way to offer our programs to everyone regardless of whether they are able to pay our fees while still making enough money to stay open. We started renting TLC to the public 5 years ago for weddings, reunions, or just families who are looking to connect to the world around them. Our motto is "No Child Left Inside" and we want every inner child to enjoy what we have at TLC. We have 7 bedrooms in our dormitory, 5 camp sites, a large camp fire ring, a mini-golf course, and we are always willing to lead your group in an educational experience or take you on a hayrack ride.

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Secluded riverside ranch

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Goldfield, IA

This property encompasses 15 acres featuring a mile of mowed trails that weave through wildflower prairies, along a meandering creek, peaceful woods along the river, and a 501(c)(3) animal rescue providing sanctuary to goats, a llama, a miniature cow, an ostrich and more! The perfect place to unwind, unplug, and connect with nature in a private setting, not on a gravel pad at a treeless, overcrowded campground.

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Greenhouse Camping

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Ankeny, IA

We love this beautiful land that has been in our family since 1917, and think you will too! We are located 1/2 mile off I-35 at the north border of the City of Ankeny. Here you'll find the best of both worlds just fifteen minutes away from your quiet campsite - Boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing at Saylorville Lake. Canoe, kayak and paddleboat rental at Big Creek State Park. Swimming & waterplay for all ages at the Ankeny Aquatic Center. Upscale shopping and dining at the District. Or venture out a bit further to concert venues in Ames & Des Moines, local farmers markets, Des Moines' beautiful riverwalk and exciting nightlife, or the Iowa State Fair. It's the best of country and suburban living! End your day with a quiet stroll along the mowed walking path that overlooks one of the most beautiful areas of Four Mile Creek in Iowa, which circles right back to your cozy campfire. Learn more about this land: You'll love this relaxing space to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors! Very easy access, we are just 1/2 mile off of Interstate-35. Our farm is bordered by nature on three sides and the city of Ankeny on the south. This is a single campsite, private and quiet. Your campsite has an adjoining mowed private walking trail overlooking Four Mile Creek, and is also within walking distance of Ankeny sidewalks for biking, walking, jogging. It’s the best of both worlds - town and country! We're a 15 minute drive from Big Creek and Ledges State Parks, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake where you can enjoy fishing, skiing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and the beach life. You'll find unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, a good movie, a thriving live music scene just 15 minutes away in downtown Des Moines, downtown and campus town Ames, and at The District in Ankeny. Upon your arrival you'll find the greenhouse mini-fridge is stocked with 4 complimentary bottles of water and everything you'll need for making S'mores.

The best camping near Brushy Creek State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Well what do we have here? An equestrian’s dream come true you say? That’s right, Brushy Creek State Park has one of the best equestrian camping facilities in the mid-west and 45 miles of multi-use trails ripe for exploring, all surrounding a sweet little lake. Trails are not just for the horse crowd though, hikers, bikers, and winter sport addicts will also want a piece of this pie. After hitting the trails, how about parking it on the sandy beach for a refreshing dip in the lake. Boaters and anglers will be happy about the multiple boat ramps and the no-wake status which means peace and quiet, and all the fish will be yours! Hunters, you are not left out of this picture either, hunting for deer, turkey, and pheasants among others is one of the most popular pursuits here. Something for everyone indeed!

When to go

The best time to visit Brushy 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 quite busy. Winters are cold and quiet, ideal for those seeking solitude amid the park's wintry charm.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Be aware of park alerts and closures, especially during severe weather conditions or maintenance periods.
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is accessible to visitors year-round, from dawn until dusk.
Remember to pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for a comfortable outing.
Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but it's wise to confirm their availability during off-peak seasons.