The best camping near Springbrook State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Springbrook State Park adventure.

Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Springbrook State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • The Waypoint
  • The Waypoint
  • The Waypoint
100%
(36)

The Waypoint

5 sites · RVs18 acres · Earlham, IA
A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35. 18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community. If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
  • Burkhart Farm
  • 9 sites with Electric and water. Open yard with no utilities
  • Burkhart Farm
100%
(14)

Burkhart Farm

11 sites · RVs10 acres · Woodward, IA
Water at camp sites is turned off for winter but is still available in barn to fill tanks. We live in the country on a working grain farm (corn and soybeans). It can get noisy and dusty during harvest and grain hauling operations. You could wake up to deer eating grain around the bins. In the evenings, you can look down to the East by tree line for deer and turkey. We can handle any size RV. Please pick up after your dogs. We have guest children that play in yard. All spots are level. All electric sites are 30/50 and are for year-round use. We have 9 sites with electric and city water. 3 sites are gravel. 4 sites are grass. 2 are concrete. We also have a large primitive camping area west of the grain bins in open yard (no electric or water). Rv parking is available on grass when ground is hard or on the concrete and gravel driveway when soft. We have one picnic table for campers’ use. There is a trail we keep mowed North East of the hay barn alongside the crops, which is great for walking/dog run. Gray water may be dumped in the farm field; the crops love it. Sorry, we can no longer recommend black water dump stations as the local campgrounds are refusing non-customer use. Whistling Donkey in Woodward has a dump station; you can call them and ask if you can use it (515) 438-2669. You can be as private or engaged with us as you feel. Dumpster is by machine shed. There are 30+ local TV channels (no cable available). Open southern skies for satellite use. The lights automatically turn off at 10 PM. Fire pit is available for your use. Firewood is available East of the barn. Fire Pit light dims down to 15% after 10 PM. Yard lights also come on for one minute at Noon every day. Stargazing really pops at night on a clear night. You are welcome to turn lights back on and continue outdoor activities and use fire pit as long as you do not disturb other campers. Mouse and weather vane lights stay on all night for your convenience. Please do not put trash in fire pit. (I have to clean it out) We would prefer if guests arrive before dark; we like to settle down for the evening. WIFI is 250 Mbps depending on number of users. WIFI is Farm. Password is farmfarm (no caps) (Farm is 4 Miles North of Woodward).  1140 300th St Woodward Iowa Caution;   Google maps has a tendency to have you take extra gravel roads. Follow the instructions below to stay on paved roads untill last 1/3 mile. From Woodward: Head to North end of town turn left to the West onto North 3rd St.  Go 1/4 mile turn right at T intersection to the North onto R18 for two miles.  At stop sign turn left to the West on R18.  (stay on R18 do not go straight North onto the gravel) in 1 mile turn right to the North still on R18 for 3 miles turn right to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile.  Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot. From Ames: Head West on highway 30 to Highway 17 go South for 5 miles to Luther turn right on E57 to the West for 7 miles.   At stop sign turn left to the South on R18 for 3 miles turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile.  Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light.  Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot. From Ogden: Head South on Highway 169 for 5 miles to E57 turn left to the East for 4 miles.  At stop sign turn right to the South on to R18 for 3 miles.  Turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile.  Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse Pole Light. Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot. From East bound Interstate 80   Turn at exit 110    (Adel / Winterset) onto Highway 169 and go north 29 miles to E57.   (Google maps has a tendency to have you turn onto 300 street which is an extra 4 miles of gravel road go North to E57)  Turn right to the East for 4 miles.  At stop sign turn right to the South on R18 for 3 miles.   Turn left to the East on gravel 300th St for 1/3 mile.   Turn right at (Address 1140) Mickey Mouse pole Light.  Park at Woody the hoot owl and we will help you find a spot. From Des Moines take 141 to the North to Woodward (From Woodward see above). For questions about the route look at our host site at the photo map. Local Hospital Perry IA ---------------------515 465-3547 Boone IA--------------------515 432-3140 Local gas station: Casey’s General Store (gas, pizza, sub sandwiches, and groceries). Madrid (9 miles away) is the closest diesel fuel. Restaurants in Woodward: Cayennes Café Whistling Donkey Sports Bar and Grill Laundry: Uptown Laundry, 115 S Main St., Woodward Groceries: A J’s Grocery Store Picket Fence Creamery Banks: E-Bank, ATM 217 S Main St., Woodward Local Attractions: Picket Fence Creamery Woodward High Trestle Bridge & BikeTrail Also see: http://burkhartelectric.com/Burkhart%20Boondockers%20Site.html
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night
  • Greenhouse Camping
  • Your peaceful home away from home.
  • Greenhouse Camping
97%
(120)

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.  
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30.40
 / night
  • Friendly farm animals!
  • Our event center (where you'll check in).
  • Friendly farm animals!
99%
(78)

J.V. Vineyard & Retreat

7 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Scranton, IA
Nestled in the heart of farm country, you'll find a gem hidden near the Raccoon River. Find yourself by getting lost in nature! Our property includes over 40 acres of timber with hiking trails throughout. The main property located near by, includes our vineyard and farm. Come meet some of the farm critters, use the modern bathroom/showers, charge devices and relax at the pond. We have several group camp sites as well as remote hike in options (contact us for more info on these!). Learn more about this land: Choose to stay in one of our private tent sites, with only views of nature surrounding you. The listed sites here are accessible by car, but if remote/hike in is more your style, we have those, too - just ask! Or try out our tree house camp experience: a platform built into the trees with provided 8 person tent secured to the base (contact us to reserve/book the tree house. Rental is $45/night). We also have a large group site. Firewood is provided on site - please do not bring in your own. The campgrounds are a short jaunt from our vineyard. At the vineyard is our event center with lodging. Campers are welcome to use the modern facilities at the event center. Guests are welcome to enjoy the pond (kayaks provided, catch & release fishing), 9 hole disc golf course and play area. There are acres of woodlands to explore with ample opportunity for wildlife watching. We are a short drive to a boat launch river access. Firewood and non potable water is provided for campers.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
  • Firefly Creek Ranch
  • Firefly Creek Ranch
  • Firefly Creek Ranch
92%
(13)

Firefly Creek Ranch

10 sites · RVs, Tents31 acres · Guthrie Center, IA
Our property was once the County Home until it was closed due to regulatory changes to the mental health industry. The property sat vacant for 2 years as a deficit for the county and its taxpayers. We had a plan to breathe new life into this property by re-opening as a non-profit Art, Community, and Retreat Center.  We are in the heart of the rolling hills surrounding Guthrie Center & Lake Panorama.  It is simply an amazing place.  Please come and see what makes this experience unique.  Learn more about this land:Peaceful farm setting in the rolling hills of Guthrie County, Iowa. Outdoor rustic camping and indoor simple Bed & Breakfast rooms.  10 Rustic Campsites or 1 with water and electric hook-ups for additional $5 night.  Self contained campers welcome.  Ask about our Gathering & Retreat Center with 8 indoor overnight accommodations available.  Sleeps 8-15.  
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$22.50
 / night
  • Rooted Timbers
  • Rooted Timbers
  • Rooted Timbers
100%
(20)

Rooted Timbers

4 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Stuart, IA
We're Ben, Trinh, Camille, and Sage. We purchased this 12 acres in Fall '20 as a way to share our love of the outdoors with our friends and family. As time went on, we noticed a need in making outdoor activities more accessible and inclusive to those outside our network. Rooted Timbers was created with the intention of making it easier for you to disconnect from business and connect with stillness.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
  • Outdoor shower surrounded by trees
  • Saylor Creek Hideaway
  • Outdoor shower surrounded by trees
100%
(4)

Saylor Creek Hideaway

1 site · Lodging7 acres · Des Moines, IA
We are in between Des Moines and Ankeny. We are surrounded by fields to the East and West. We have neighbors to the North and South but they are separated by space and trees. It feels like you are in the country but you are close to all that the Des Moines metro has to offer. Learn more about this land: Be in nature and have all the comforts. Surprise your friends or family with a unique experience. Our place is perfect for celebrating anniversaries, creating fun family memories or just taking a weekend to get away. Come and relax in the trees. Wake up to nature all around you and enjoy a slow morning as you sip on a cup of espresso while hanging out on the deck. During the day you can go explore all that the Des Moines area has to offer as we are located just minutes from downtown Des Moines. At night share stories around the fire. You won't have to give up comfort while "camping". Get a good night's rest in the king size bed. Stay comfortable in the various Iowa seasons by adjusting the heat or air conditioning. Running water at the nearby sink and shower means you don't have to give up cleanliness while camping. Sticky hands from roasting s'mores, no problem! Inside the Tent: - King size bed. All bedding is provided. - Couch folds into twin size bed. Bedding provided. - Air conditioning and heat - Towels, Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash - Small refrigerator - Nespresso machine with pods - Dining table with two chairs - TV with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime - WiFi - Board games Outside the Tent: - Two deck chairs - Solo Stove smokeless fire pit - Two adirondack chairs - Two large foldable camping chairs - Charcoal grill with charcoal - One large bundle of firewood - Firestarter and lighter - Outhouse with sink & composting toilet - Outdoor shower with rainfall shower head Other things to note: Wifi and TV are amenities in the tent. If you want to unplug, let us know before check in and we can turn off the wifi and remove the TV. This tent is tucked into the trees on the 7 acre property where we live. Our house is out of sight when you're on the campsite. A short walk down a path and you will reach the tent where you will be immersed in the trees. Since you are in the trees there will always be bugs. Bringing bug spray is a good idea.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$150
 / night
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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Springbrook State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Springbrook State Park

  • Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
  • Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
  • Rock N Ranch Events & Campground
99%
(174)

Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

13 sites · Lodging40 acres · Menlo, IA
Our retirement dream is to share our beautiful property with people who love the outdoors.  We started with our rustic tent sites and slowly added cabins.  We go from primitive to sites with heat and air conditioning.  We are not far from the Interstate but sure seems like we are as you travel the 4.6 miles of gravel road to step back in time.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
  • Come Enjoy the Beauty
  • RV Spots have electric at the site, water to fill your tanks with and we have a dump station on the way out.
  • Come Enjoy the Beauty
96%
(465)

Come Enjoy the Beauty

61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Earlham, IA
This property has a year round running creek called Bear Creek. They also mined the stone off the property for the State Capital in Des Moines, Iowa. Abundant wildlife and mature beautiful trees.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
  • Tent camping on the Raccoon River
  • Tent camping on the Raccoon River
  • Tent camping on the Raccoon River
99%
(51)

Tent camping on the Raccoon River

1 site · RV, Tent42 acres · Lake City, IA
Learn more about this land:Come relax at Rainbow Raccoon Ranch on the Raccoon River. The river offers floating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The nearby Rainbow Bend park and other local conservation areas offer hiking opportunities. As a working ranch, we have friendly Scottish Highland cattle onsite for great photos and selfies.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

The best camping near Springbrook State Park guide

Overview

About

Springbrook State Park knows how to keep it classy! Only an hour west of Des Moines, outdoor lovers will enjoy the sandy swimming beach, well maintained trails, and picture perfect views. A hot spot for cyclists, the 91 mile Central State Park Bike Route runs through springbrook for an afternoon of riding or several days; it’s all about those options! Camp in green grass meadows and catch a sunset over the lake after a day of fishing and cracking jokes with your buddies (you know, the one that only catched seaweed), Springbrooks is the perfect spot to beat the crowds and explore the stunning scenery of central Iowa.

When to go

The best time to visit Springbrook State Park 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 busy. Winters are quiet but can be harsh, so ensure you're prepared for cold conditions if you visit during this season.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season to ensure a comfortable visit.
  • Be aware of park hours, typically from 6am to 10pm, and plan your activities within this timeframe.
  • Stay on designated trails to protect the park's natural habitats and your own safety.
  • Remember to pack out all your trash and leave no trace to help preserve the park's beauty.
  • For any inquiries or assistance, the park office is open from 8:30am to 5pm.

Top parks near Springbrook State Park

Rock Creek State Park
Ponca State Park
Clear Lake State Park Iowa
Black Hawk State Park
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Frontenac State Park
Buckhorn State Park
Scott State Park

Top cities near Springbrook State Park

Omaha
Lincoln
Marshalltown
Chillicothe
Kansas City
St Paul
Olathe
Minneapolis

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