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Bend River Farms

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· Runnells, Polk, Iowa

50 acres hosted by Amy B.

1 lodging site · 2 RV/tent sites · 1 RV site

Big rig-friendly

Spacious, level camping well-suited for travel trailers over 40 ft long.

Family-friendly

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.

Best in Iowa: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.

Amy is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Bend River Farms is just a short drive from Interstate 80/35. The farm is nestled in the gently rolling hills of central Iowa. Little Camp Creek flows through the property and continues on towards the mighty Des Moines river. Cool woodland meadows provide a comforting back drop to your tent site or glamping experience. All our sites come with complimentary firewood, we offer reduced prices during the summer and a 15% discount on weekday bookings. Our property offers private restrooms, showers, complimentary towels and firewood, 24/7 laundry room, Wi-Fi, a dish washing station, play area with jungle gym, hiking trails, hands on farm animal activities, a communal outdoor dinning area and a saltwater hot tub await your arrival! Bend River Farms was a former junk yard that has now been transformed into a cottage core dream. The farm is operated much like family farms of the 1920's. The focus is on small scale, multi system agriculture, we have fresh eggs, produce and honey for sale. Bend River Farms is not a resort or public camp ground. It is a place to enjoy wild spaces and recharge. Agri-tourism at it's best. Learn about native prairie restoration, regenerative agriculture and sustainable ranching from owners, Amy Buckendahl and Dave Breese. Please understand that our property is a working farm, and our staff are often busy working on projects and have full careers, outside of farming. We do not have the same amenities as a public campground or "all inclusive" camp resort. Instead, we offer your wandering heart a place to rest. All travel to the farm is on paved roads, with no confusing dirt roads to navigate. The property is located near the small community of Runnells, Iowa in rural Camp Township. Enjoy a cold beer or hot food at one of the two local taverns, or check out the local ice cream shop or our local farmer's market on Tuesday evenings during the summer. Don't worry if you forget something! We have a nearby gas station and a general store. Don't forget, we have smores kits, farm fresh honey and eggs available for purchase, check out the EXTRAS option during checkout! Amy, our own resident biologist, will give you an opportunity to learn about livestock husbandry and the local wildlife. The farms orchard boasts several wild bird feeding stations, with edible landscaping! A stay on our farm will provide you with an opportunity to learn about Land Management in an agricultural setting. Learn about carpentry and welding from a master fabricator, or book an adventure to learn about gardening, poultry care, horsemanship, beekeeping and even falconry! These are also available in the EXTRAS option during checkout. Fancy a fireside meal or homestyle dinner? Dave is a trained chef and loves to cook for our guests. Select a meal during checkout. Off-site, but nearby opportunities: miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, kayaking and fishing. The Iowa State Fair Grounds and Adventureland Waterpark is only 20 minutes away, along with big city fine dining, music and art museums are all less than a thirty miles drive; when you need a break from camping and nature. Fee based transportation is available for guests flying in or needing a break from driving, or whenever you need a quick trip into town. Our philosophy: "Here at Bend River Farms we are passionate about regenerative agriculture. We strive to push ourselves and our partners to think of the future and the longevity of our agricultural practices. " Regenerative Agriculture is an agricultural philosophy that both acknowledges the degenerative impact of poor land stewardship, and the positive use of agricultural practices that foster restoration and productivity." Local conditions determine which practices are most appropriate. A well managed food system should improve the long-term health and function of the agricultural system and the communities that depend upon them, physically, culturally, spiritually, and economically. Regeneratively managed businesses protect and improve the natural function of our water, nutrient, and carbon cycles by taking steps to increase biodiversity in the agricultural system, and works to minimize reliance on external inputs, and avoid the use of synthetic chemicals whenever possible.”

Activities

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137 ratings · 119 reviews

Maddie R.recommends

November 12, 2024

Trappers Hideout (Primitive Site)

AMAZING!

We had a very relaxing and peaceful time camping here! Our car got stuck and the hosts personally drove us to our spot, along with all of our stuff! We had privacy but we knew we could reach the hosts at any time, it made us feel very safe. The hot tub was amazing. Great trails and great views. Plus adorable fluffy cows and chickens!! I highly recommend staying here!

Steven G.recommends

October 31, 2024

RV Slip

Joni and I enjoyed our stay here and extended by one day, Amy and Dave were there to help us get set up and show us the area. They were helpful in giving us alternate routes to keep us off busy highways, and to see historical landmarks in the area. The chickens and roosters were always curious and wanting to help when needed. The hot tub was a great bonus as was laundry facilities, we would highly recommend this place to friends

Jake P.recommends

October 29, 2024

Galaxy Glampsite

Exceeded expectations!

The camp was beautiful and both Dave and Amy were very helpful and knowledgeable. Our favorite part was feeding the chickens, and going for a mid day hot tub. If you want to get closer to nature while also having an educational experience, this is the place for you!

Diane G.recommends

October 24, 2024

RV Slip

Wonderful camping experience, and wonderful hosts! We were able to feed the chickens and pet the horses! Hosts were very responsive and directions were spot on!

Chelsae V.recommends

October 20, 2024

Galaxy Glampsite

This is an absolutely beautiful spot conveniently close to Des Moines. We had a lot of fun as a family here, and the hosts were extremely kind and accommodating. We plan to stay here again on our next trip out this way!

Andrew A.recommends

October 17, 2024

Galaxy Glampsite

We had a great time staying in the geodesic dome tent! It was very remote, but so close to town. The salt water hot tub was on point, and shower room was key! We didn't do any laundry, but the fact that it was an option is stellar! For their first yr in operation they have it goin on! We were told of the plans to come, and can't wait to see this gem evolve! If we don't make it back this year, we'll definitely be checking in next spring/summer! Oh, I didn't even mention the dogs! Are two pups loved it as well! A wonderful alternative to a motel, particularly when you have pet friends along for the journey!!!

Location

Runnells, Polk, Iowa, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Báxoje Máyaⁿ (Ioway), oθaakiiwaki‧hina‧ki (Sauk) & Meškwahki·aša·hina (Fox), Jíwere–Ñút’achi Máyaⁿ (Otoe-Missouria), and Očhéthi Šakówiŋ First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking