Best Camping in and near Wildcat Den State Park

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Discover the rugged beauty of Wildcat Den State Park.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Wildcat Den State Park

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Folk School Farm Stay

8 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.

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n*Everland Barnyard Camping

24 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Anamosa, IA

We are hearing from potential campers that they are not able to book dates. We have never been at full occupancy. In order to resolve this issue, we would love to know if you have troubles. Reach out to us directly, or contact Hipcamp support to report the issue. Thank you and sorry for any inconvenience! We are working to solve the problem! Seeking an adventure that feels like somewhere completely different from the norms of society? This is what you will find at n*Everland Barnyard. We march to the beat of our own drummer and love sharing our space with those seeking true connection to nature and themselves. Privacy and community connection, whichever you prefer, we have 20 acres in Anamosa, Iowa at the end of a cul-de-sac just 5 blocks from Main Street. We think it's a slice of heaven and we bet you agree! Do you want to hike into a site? We have a few sites in the woods that are not easily accessible by car, if you want that kind of experience just mention it when booking. Follow us on Facebook to stay abreast of our current events! We are not very active on FB though, so we may miss your message if you reach out to us that way. https://www.facebook.com/Never... FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN: Please reach out to us in messaging to determine if this is the right fit for your family vacation as we feel there are better options in the area for kids, but we do make exceptions for the well-behaved and respectful older children. Thank you for your understanding. ABOUT THE BARNYARD: n*Everland Barnyard is an eccentric art installation space created from found, recycled, and repurposed building materials in the heart of Grant Wood Country in Jones County, Iowa. We are not a commercial campground. We focus on Zen, mindfulness, peace, and tranquility. Firmly in the realm of Outsider Art, Gothic and rustic, Bob Kellogg has created a place unlike anywhere else in the world that represents freedom and inspires endless creativity. The land provides multiple camp sites for easy access to bike and walking trails taking visitors into town or through the Wapsipinicon State Park across the river from the property. Anamosa offers several restaurants, grocery stores and other businesses all within walking distance and less than a mile from our land. Kayak the Wapsipinicon River, we recommend a put in at Matsell Bridge, and end only a mile away from your campsite at the Barnyard in Anamosa at the dam takeout. Visit the State Penitentiary Museum, hang out with the Barnyard chickens, hike our wooded trails, or simply unwind. This place is a magical retreat unlike anywhere else in the world. If you are seeking to disconnect from the world, find presence and live in the Now, this is the place for you. We also offer #ProjectCreatePeace, an initiative to create more peace in the world through art as an art project. Check out the extras listings to get your art on while you are here! There is a beautiful spring-fed water hole ideal for swimming in the state park, as well as access to the river from our property (although we do not recommend swimming in the river due to pollutants.) Watching the sunset at the river is one of our absolutely favorite ways to end the day. n*Everland Barnyard and the events we host are the perfect place to meet cool like-minded people, so even if you are single traveler, know that you will find an inviting, safe, and welcome site here for your getaway! We make some of the best pizza you have ever eaten (or so we keep being told) and we have a few special weekends a summer that highlight events such as sound baths that feature garden-fresh, oven-baked foods and pizza. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Never... to stay updated on our events!

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Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

49 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Geneseo, IL

Welcome to Whispering Pines, a family focused campground to help you get away from the daily grind. Surround yourself amongst tall pine trees as you hear the wind whisper tranquility all around you. We are a family owned campground with a heart to serve people and provide a peaceful environment where families and individuals can enjoy making new memories. Whispering Pines is an event and retreat center that offers lodging and camping amenities. We also have a chapel ready to host your ceremony. We have RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, a lodge, and an event center. We can help you create a package to fit your needs and budget.

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Geneseo Campground

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Geneseo, IL

Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests. If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi. Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground! For more camping options - including group reservations - please visit our website at https://roam.camp/geneseo-campground or call 309-442-2662.

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#JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

11 sites · Tents15 acres · Oxford Junction, IA

Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax. Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people? Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site. We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing! Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully. We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available. Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill. Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely. **Property Owner is certified in Massage, offering sessions at the property.

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SparrowSpell

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Rio, IL

Small farm property with lots of space. Within 20 mins of local fishing, hiking and biking. Pool available during the summer, shower house on the property and 30-amp hook up. Fires allowed depending on weather conditions, pets allowed. No sewer or water disposal available. We have multiple spots available, only 1 30-amp plug site for an RV.

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Ramsey Creek Natural Area

2 sites · Tents3 acres · Kalona, IA

3 acres that were converted from a cornfield 30 years ago to an area containing prairie, woods and creek. A great place to relax and enjoy rural Iowa, guests are welcome to roam the mowed areas and paths while respecting other guests. In the heart of the largest Amish community west of the Mississippi, only 2 miles from Kalona Historical Village. Groceries, gas and food available in Kalona, firewood available on site, kayak trips may be arranged.

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(8)

Liberty Acres

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Monmouth, IL

Newly bulit private camp ground. Small and quite with only 5 spots. Farming Community off a paved road in the country. Close to railroad tracks so its perfect for train enthusiasts . Watch fainting goats and chickens on the farm. Sandbox for the kids. Far away from any big cities. 30 and 50 amp pull in spots. Outhouse bathroom. Potable water available. Dumping station and wifi. Pet friendly. Just minutes away from Monmouth IL, Burlington IA and Galesburg,IL.

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(22)

Miss Effie's Country Flowers

2 sites · Tents2 acres · Donahue, IA

Ms. Effie’s Flower Farm is a gated you pick flower farm located in beautiful rural countryside. Peace and tranquillity is what you will find when you are surrounded by amazing flowers and rolling farm fields. The cornzebo is a unique gathering spot with romantic lighting and comfortable seating. It’s a great place to watch the sun come up! The fire pit is also available for use.

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Draco Hill Nature Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · West Branch, IA

A convenient 7 miles north of Interstate 80 but feels like an oasis away from it all. Summer has begun! The prairie is starting to flower, the mulberries are just finishing up and black raspberries are coming on in the woods for you to forage. Please take a taste and leave the rest for others to enjoy. There have also been black bear sightings in Cedar County! If one decides to visit, please steer clear of it. They are NOT as cute as they look, especially if you get between them and their food or cubs! This year, Draco Hill Nature Farm is hosting free events you can join in on when you camp. Coming up is a night time bug show and talk July 12 and prairie walks in August and September. See Dracohill.org/events for details. Make it part of your camping experience or sign up for your own private sustainable agriculture tour under "Extras." Enjoy nature in a private, wooded river valley setting. Go to sleep under the stars to the sound of frogs, cicadas, coyotes, deer and the rustling wind through the tallgrass prairie. Wake to an amazing sunrise over the river. Enjoy a hike through our 4 miles of trails on 75 acres of rolling woodlands and prairie, picking berries, finding mushrooms, scaring up a turkey or pheasant in the brush or listening to the birds. (Pull out your Merlin app to see who's singing!) Play in the river or upland pond, cut cattails and prairie grasses for souvenirs and enjoy being unplugged for a while. Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. NOTE: It's raining more this summer than it has in 4 year so bring insect repellant. Poison ivy is also very prevalent. We spray chemicals as little as possible for your safety and the benefit of the environment so wear long pants in the woods and be vigilant around your campsite. We use TecNu - a product we scrub on and wash off if we get into poison ivy by mistake and it has kept us from any major outbreaks.

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Blueberry Hill

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Oxford, IA

Welcome to our idyllic 10-acre historic farmstead in rural Johnson County, Iowa (about 8 miles west of Iowa City). We are a bookish, quiet couple with a 7-year-old daughter, 2 llamas, 12 chickens, 2 babydoll sheep, 3 housecats, and 4 barn cats. In June and July, we open our farm to the public for U-pick organic blueberries. We're looking for Hipcampers who are respectful and clean.

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Froggy Bottom Hideaway

4 sites · Lodging1 acre · Princeton, IA

Learn more about this land: This property sits next to the 2200 acre Princeton Refuge and Wildlife Management System. It's approximately 1/2 mile away from the back-waters of the Mississippi River and just down river from the Wapsipinicon River and the Eco Center at Rock River Campground near Camanche, IA. Bring your water toys, there is plenty of on-site parking for trailers. You'll have easy access to Steamboat Island, and the shores of Princeton Beach. Six miles of walking trails next to the Mississippi backwaters is relaxing and full of wildlife and fauna in the warm months, and serene and peaceful in the cooler months. Beauty abounds! Things to do: Hiking - Mostly flat, lightly manicured trails. Biking - There are gravel roads and lightly manicured trails. Fishing - Full access to the nearby Mississippi River Boating- Public boat ramp is 1/2 mile away and has nearby parking Hunting - Public hunting areas are nearby. Guns are not allowed inside the cabin. Shooting - Public shooting range is nearby. Guns are not allowed inside the cabin. Eco Center at Rock River Campground - https://www.mycountyparks.com/county/clinton/content/Mississippi-River-Eco-Tourism-Center.aspx Kayak Rentals - Eco Center at Rock Creek Campground, and Princeton Outdoor Adventures Princeton Wildlife Management Area is considered an Iowa State Park and features year round activities.

The best camping near Wildcat Den State Park guide

Overview

About

Put together a cocktail of history, hiking, and a unique landscape, shake it up and pour yourself a nice tall glass of Wildcat Den State Park. This place is delicious with it’s stunning hikes; places like Fat Man's Squeeze show off the area's unique topography. Or explore the Pine Creek Grist Mill, this stone stunner isn’t to be missed. Bird watching and seasonal festivals in the park make this a year round winner, first-come, first-served camping means even last minute planners can squeak in on the fun no problem. Pack up your gear and head out to Wildcat Den, you’ll find this tasty slice of the wilderness utterly intoxicating!

When to go

The best time to visit Wildcat Den State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer months can be hot, and winter may bring closures due to snow, so plan accordingly for the most enjoyable experience.

Know before you go

Check the park's official website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking on rugged terrain.
Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
Day-use areas are available for picnics, with facilities to ensure a comfortable visit.