Luxury glamping in Iowa

Explore lakes, rivers, wide-open expanses, and hilly countryside in the heart of the American Midwest.

98% (927 reviews)

United States
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Iowa

98% (927 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Iowa

Community favorites in Iowa

Stories from the community

Denise

3 weeks ago

1 night at Windy Goat Acres

Peaceful. Serene. Beautiful. Magical. Unique. An experience I wont forget! I saw Windy Goat Acre’s hobbit house in the 2025 Travel Iowa magazine and knew I had to explore this place. It didn’t disappoint. It is inviting, cozy, clean and comfy and has an amazing view of the farm, all while still being secluded. The sounds of the animals - many of whom roam the farm - cozy sitting areas throughout the farm, walking trails, add-on’s such as wood for campfires and a morning waffle bar, all make this stay unique. The cabins and yurts are really cool too. Jessica is a great host. I would love to return and see how the farm changes with the seasons.

Amber

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Windy Goat Acres! This was our 3rd time staying at the retreat cabin. The weather was a little on the colder side, so we didn't get to enjoy the farm as much as we would've liked, but otherwise we both left feeling completely serene. I highly recommend Windy Goat Acres!

Sarah

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Windy Goat Acres is my happy place. The cabin was super cozy. If you're interested in going in colder months, this is the perfect cabin. The fireplace is so warm! As always, Jess was an amazing host, and we had a wonderful time hanging out with her and her critters. If you are an animal lover, Windy Goat Acres is a must-see! This was my husband and I'd second time visiting, and we are making it an at-least yearly ritual to come.

2 nights at Windy Goat Acres

Such a great family destination! Loved the animals, the yurt, and the peacefulness. Bed was comfy, hosts a delight, waffles yummy, and goat social made everyone happy.

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

The Hobbit House was so cozy! We loved staying there. One thing I didn’t think about is that the cabins are pretty close to each other. I still felt like we had privacy though and we felt very relaxed during our stay. We also appreciated that they allowed pets so we could stay with the furry members of our family.

Autumn

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

What a great trip! I loved the cabin and all the opportunities for interaction with the animals, even other people staying. I wanted a quiet retreat and I got it! Am definitely coming again!

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

It's so naturally pretty out at Windy Goat, even in early spring, that we didn't feel the need to bring extra decorations for our wedding. Our guests were easily entertained with the chess, playhouse, croquet and animals right near the garden bar pergola where we had our ceremony. It truly made for a carefree and wonderful setting for our day. All of our guests felt safe, including the lgbtq+ guests and the kids had a blast! The cabin was very clean and stayed warm and the bed was pretty comfy.

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

This truly was an experience that my family and I will remember forever. If you book with Windy Goat Acres, you will not be disappointed. Highly recommend staying in the Yurt.

1 night at Windy Goat Acres

Windy Goat Acres is a relaxing weekend away. The hosts were very accommodating and it was fun to interact with the animals. The yurt was well equipped with everything we needed. We are already planning a return trip!

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Great place! Super charming and the animals were delightful.

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Jess is the most wonderful host. She is extremely interactive with her guests but only when engaged with. She also gave us a special goat pajama party for my friend as we were celebrating her birthday! I cannot recommend anyone more than Jess as a host and her wonderful property full of Easter eggs.

Tim

March 2025

1 night at Windy Goat Acres

Felt like a home away from home. The views from the cabin were spectacular. You feel almost like royalty staying there. The host were both friendly and informative and shared their wonderful knowledge of Hipcamp and ideas. Would recommend this place to anyone that enjoys the great outdoors and relaxing day or two away!

Katelyn

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

The cabin was very quaint and charming. There was adequate heat for the weather! Jessica was very helpful setting out wood chips over some fresh mud so we could get into the cabin easily. The cabin was beautiful and had gorgeous views of the farm, but it should be noted that this particular cabin has a lot of windows and there were no window treatments.

Angel

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

I really enjoyed the Llama Llama cabin. Wonderful view, clean space, and (of course) there are animals right by you! I went when the Garden pub was closed, so I think this place in spring- early fall is probably popping. The trail is smaller than I was expecting. Maybe a 15-30 min walk depending on how slow you wanna go. I'd recommend getting all of your extras ordered before arriving to the site. I'd also recommend bringing knives if you are gonna eat meat, maybe your own drinking water if you don't want the spigot water, clamps for moving things about the fire and tinfoil. It's a really nice place. Lots of games, books and movies are available so if you forget to bring something you won't be bored! Really enjoyed hanging by the goats and having peacocks say hello in the morning.

Nikki

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Windy Goat Acres is a magical place to stay and a place my husband and I plan to return as soon as we are able. Beautiful place, amazing atmosphere, and just the perfect getaway. We love it here!

Crystal

February 2025

2 nights at Windy Goat Acres

I absolutely love the magic and serenity at Windy Goat Acres. This was the second time we stayed and again, we can't wait to go back. We added a hike with llamas, the waffle bar, and s'mores bar. Those were all incredible experiences. The waffle batter is homemade and delicious! The cabin was stocked with games and books to stay busy on such cold days. The hosts are easy to communicate with and make sure every need is met.

Sarah

February 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

Absolutley stunning land with the coziest well packed full of amenities Yurt. Definitely coming back again! So far my favorite place to stay at WGA.

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

We stayed at Windy Goat Acres in January for my birthday and had an amazing time. Jim and Jess were great. Jim told us all about the animals and was very knowledgeable. He was an awesome host. The hot chocolate bar and waffle breakfast were thoughtfully prepared and delicious. The yurt was cozy and warm. I loved having our family of five in one room all together. It got a little cool at night so I would recommend bringing heavy blankets if you go in the wintertime and also your own pillows as theirs are a bit thin. The bedding for the pull out couch is behind the curtain in the kitchen area. We didn’t discover it until we were leaving. Loved the add-ons! They were all worth it—food to feed the animals, the llama hike, piggy popsicles, bunny time, hot chocolate, coffee, waffles, eggs—I highly recommend them. The llama hike, piggy popsicles, and bunny time are a must! We loved interacting with the animals. There was a friendly cat following us everywhere. There were minor inconveniences that go along with glamping such as no running water (there is a spigot behind the yurt) and the bathroom is a little ways away (it was warm and nice though). The porta potty was close just cold in the wintertime. The little kitchen was nicely appointed and the hot plate was a lifesaver as we couldn’t get a fire going. Loved interacting with the animals which were all so sweet. I can’t wait to go back when it’s warmer! It was a magical experience.

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

I spent two nights here, just me and my dog. The cabin was SO cozy and stayed warm even with the -22 wind chills! I had everything I needed inside and felt completely at home. The books and movies in the loft were a great touch, as well as the tea! My only disappointment was that the weather was too cold to fully appreciate the rest of the property, but I did make a few trips out just to walk around the lodgings areas and see a few animals that also braved the temps! I’m definitely looking forward to a return visit and maybe I’ll even let the family come with me next time :)

Carolyn

January 2025

Weekend Trip to Windy Goat Acres

This is my second time at the farm, and I love it even more. An amazing cozy cabin for a winter getaway!!! The hosts are very accommodating and wonderful. The animals are fabulous. The cabin was warm and spacious with plenty of books, games and things to keep us entertained if we needed. There were clear paths for walking and great scenic views!

6 top glamping sites in Iowa

99%

(572)

Windy Goat Acres

7 sites · Lodging15 acres · Chelsea, IA

We love animals, plants, art, and outdoor recreation and love sharing these things with people! We found the perfect little plot for all of these things we love. Nature, art, animals, and lots of space! The hilly, lush land is also known as the Bohemie Alps and it's quite a beautiful area tucked away in Iowa.Visit with the llamas, goats, peacocks, potbelly pigs and the horses and hike around the property or stay in for a quiet stay with a good book and enjoy all the sights and sounds. Lots of extra 'add ons' to enhance the experience!Semi wooded property with hiking trails, hammocks, aerial silks, campfire pit. 5 mi away is Otter Creek Lake, a recreational park for fishing, kayaking, swimming, etc. We have 2 kayaks available. So much to do! Also perfect to just relax, meditate, yoga, sleep...

99%

(265)

Folk School Farm Stay

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Oxford, IA

Come enjoy the natural beauty of a working farm! In our transition to agroforestry, wetland restoration and perennial ag, you'll find some great spaces to walk your dog, let your children run and learn about ecological conservation. The farm is also home to a flower cutting garden, a food forest garden, and a folk school. Guests are welcome to cut flowers for a donation, and enjoy the sheep, chickens and resident cat. The setting is also great for taking in sunrises, sunsets and star gazing. Come explore the landscape, book a farm tour or enjoy some studio space at Land Alliance Folk School.

96%

(465)

Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

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. Hiking trails, playground equipment, dog park, shelterhouse, showerhouse/restrooms, community fire pit, all sites have fire pits and picnic tables, laundry area, rec room, and welcoming staff!

100%

(37)

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.

97%

(45)

Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Council Bluffs, IA

This custom designed glamping lodge was a dream of mine for a long time. I wanted a place to go to unwind and be with one with nature. But! wanted it close to town so I do not have to travel far and still be close to the city attractions. The lodge backs up to a large hill--called the Loess Hills. Many deer, raccoon, possum and turkey call it home and so does a few pets of mine to include a mini horse and goat. They just love being adorned by new people. I think you will find this a perfect place for a good nights sleep. Learn more about this land: --Enjoy the deer setting amongst the tree's and nature. Hiking trails close by. Come enjoy a relaxing experience close to the city, the zoo and other attractions. MOST dogs are welcomed -- BUT need to be approved first! before booking. ADDITIONAL FEE REQUIRED> Walking trails close by! and restaurants. Verify with host before booking please. The bathroom/shower is located across the yard in the lower level of the main house. Thank you!

Booked 1 time

Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay

2 sites · Lodging200 acres · Lacona, IA

We invite you to turn off your phone and unwind on the front porch rocking chair as you watch one of our breathtaking sunsets or sunrises. Pasture and grassland with 7 ponds are accessible by a short hike along the cattle trails. A marked perimeter trail follows Wolfe Creek, home to wildlife and a shady cool spot during the hot days of summer. Mulberry Cottage is at the northeast corner of a 200-acre cattle ranch where we practice rotational grazing on ten paddocks. The cabin, surrounded by Mulberry and Osage Orange (Hedge Trees) are host to berry eating birds and mammals. (And the occasional marsupial). Cattle are fenced outside the cabin area but may be close by where you hear them and see them. Deer and coyotes are common on the property as plenty of birdlife. The cabin is a farm-stay experience with farm fresh eggs, and Mulberry preserves for your baked goods in the morning. You will need your muck boots and cowboy hat to hike our cattle trails and wade in the creeks. Try your hand at "frogging" in the marshes of one of our 7 ponds. Bottle-feeding a calf or collecting eggs are some of the chores you are welcome to participate in. You'll be amazed at the variety of wildflowers and birding opportunities. The head cowboy himself will invite you to chore time or have a farm tour of our grazing and regenerative practices. Our natural beef and tallow products are all for sale at the farm or grill up some "Ohnemusbeef" available at our farm store.

Other options in Iowa

Lazy H Campground

40 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · Akron, IA

Discover the unique charm of our campground, nestled within 235 acres of stunning natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Little Pearle Lake, a 50-acre paradise for anglers, is teeming with a variety of fish, including Walleye, Perch, Crappie, Bluegill, Bass, three types of Catfish, and even Rainbow Trout, making it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts. In addition to fishing, our campground offers a picturesque beach for swimming, where you can relax and soak up the sun. For those looking to explore the water, we provide rentals for boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards, allowing you to fully enjoy the serene beauty of our 50+ acre lake. Venture into the heart of our campground, where over three miles of scenic trails wind through 100 acres of lush forest. These trails are perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, geese, and a variety of birds, including Heron, Osprey, and majestic Bald Eagles. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking moments!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Luxury glamping in Iowa guide

Overview

Sandwiched between the Mississippi, Missouri, and Big Sioux Rivers, Iowa is characterized by a mix of plains and hilly countryside, farmlands, lakes, and rivers. This Midwestern state is full of spots to get out and adventure, with about 83 state parks and nearly 6,000 campsites spread among them. The state also has an extensive river system—with numerous lakes and reservoirs—and boating and angling are among the most popular summer activities here. Like elsewhere in the Midwest, the winter months often bring with them plenty of snow, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Where to go

Northwest Iowa

Northwest Iowa has lots of parks and camping opportunities along the Des Moines River, including the massive Brushy Creek State Recreation Area and Dolliver Memorial State Park. The Lakes Region—home to West and East Okoboji Lakes and Big Spirit Lake—is particularly popular among boaters, anglers, and birders, with a number of state parks and wildlife preserves across the region. Camping is available at Gull Point State Park.

Southwest Iowa

Southwest Iowa is characterized by wide-open farmland and pretty woodlands. Cyclists can take a tour of this region on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, which stretches for 63 miles from the Missouri border up to Council Bluffs near the Nebraska border. The region's Loess Hills State Forest is one of the more popular areas for outdoor recreation, offering a fishing lake and more than 60 miles of trails.

Northeast Iowa

Iowa's Northeast is ideal for getting outside, with miles of recreation opportunities, from trout fishing to canoeing, on the Mississippi River and its Upper Iowa River tributary. Popular spots in the region include Backbone State Park, which offers camping, fishing, and cycling and hiking trails. The Effigy Mounds National Monument, which preserves hundreds of ancient effigy mounds built by Indigenous people during the first millennium, is also worth a visit.

Southeast Iowa

There's no shortage of lakes in Iowa's southeastern region, including Lake Keomah, Indian Lake, and Lake Bonnefield, in the charming town of Fairfield. This region is home to Lake Red Rock—the largest lake in the state—and the lakefront Elk Rock State Park offers camping, boat ramps, and 13 miles of trails. Other lake areas worth checking out include Geode State Park on the banks of Lake Geode and Lacey-Keosauqua State Park, which has camping, cabin rentals, and easy access to Lake Seguma.