Campsites
Every overnight town, scouted: the official RAGBRAI campground (free with your wristband) plus the best public & private alternatives — prioritizing water features, power hookups, and sites under 5 miles from each day's end point. Researched July 8, 2026 — official campground locations verified against the town-map PDFs on the ragbrai.com day pages (posted July 2026; grab them for shuttle routes and shower locations too).
Day 0: OnawaDay 1: HarlanDay 2: Guthrie CenterDay 3: BooneDay 4: MarshalltownDay 5: IndependenceDay 6: DyersvilleDay 7: Dubuque
⏰ Booking reality check: it's 10 days out. Reservable sites (state parks, city campgrounds)
are probably sold out for ride nights, but cancellations pop constantly in the final week — watch
ReserveAmerica & mycountyparks.com daily. For first-come campgrounds, send the trailer ahead early
in the afternoon to claim ground.
Start town — expo, registration & first night camp
Packet pickup at Onawa Community Center (320 10th St), noon–9pm. Camp Saturday night, roll out Sunday morning.
Numbered markers match the cards below · black diamond = Onawa town center · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
RAGBRAI notes: RAGBRAI LIII runs Jul 18-25, 2026, starting in Onawa (theme: 'Onawa Rock and Roll Out'). Registration/packet pickup is at the Onawa Community Center, 320 10th St, noon-9pm Sat Jul 18. The official town map (ragbrai.com/route/day-0/) shows the RAGBRAI Main Campground in the city park on the north edge of town around Gaukel Drive and 10th Street, with a Family/Quiet Campground by West Monona High School on the southwest side; support/RV check-in is on County Hwy K42. Main-campground camping is included with rider registration; mobile showers cost $10 (towel rental $2). Four shuttle routes loop between campgrounds, parking, and downtown entertainment. Every reservable campground in town (state park, KOA, RV parks) should be assumed booked or nearly booked for this Saturday — call before showing up. Note: the Monona County Fairgrounds grandstand burned in Jan 2026 and is being rebuilt; it is not a rider campground on the official map.
0.8 mi from town💧 Water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Onawa Aquatic Center swimming pool adjacent (marked on official map); no lake |
| Power | No hookups for riders; RV/support vehicle parking is a separate check-in area on County Hwy K42 |
| Amenities | Mobile showers ($10, towels $2), restrooms, water stations, RAGBRAI info tent, baggage trucks, SAG drop, bike shop, shuttles to downtown; separate Family/Quiet Campground at West Monona High School |
| Price | Included with RAGBRAI registration wristband |
| Contact | (712) 433-1181 (City of Onawa RAGBRAI office) |
| Notes | This is where the mass of riders camps the night before Day 1. No reservations - first come, first served with wristband. Expect thousands of tents and pre-dawn departures. Coordinates estimated from the official RAGBRAI town map (moderate confidence, within ~2 blocks). |
3.7 mi from town💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | On Blue Lake (Missouri River oxbow): sandy swim beach (low water levels reported may affect swimming), double boat ramp, good bass/pike fishing |
| Power | Yes - 62 standard electric sites + 13 full hookup (water/sewer) sites |
| Amenities | Modern restrooms with showers, flush toilets, dump station, playground, shade trees, keelboat exhibit/visitor center |
| Price | $26/night electric, $38/night full hookup (peak season) |
| Contact | (712) 423-2829 |
| Notes | 100% reservable, bookable 3 months ahead - RAGBRAI start weekend almost certainly sold out the morning the window opened; check ReserveAmerica for cancellations. |
3.2 mi from town💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Lakefront on Blue Lake - fishing docks, boat launch, paddleboat rentals, plus seasonal outdoor pool (Memorial Day-Labor Day) |
| Power | Yes - 20/30/50 amp, full hookups available |
| Amenities | Free WiFi, showers, camp store, fish-cleaning station, playground, fun-cycle rentals, shaded grass sites, cabins, pull-thrus to 93 ft |
| Price | ~$40-50/night RV sites; tent sites with water/electric and lakefront no-hookup tent sites offered, rates not published |
| Contact | (712) 423-1633 (local); 1-800-562-4182 (reservations) |
| Notes | Independently operated KOA with strict no-refund holiday policies. Closest full-service private campground with both lake and pool; expect RAGBRAI-week sellout - call rather than relying on online availability. |
1.4 mi from townNo water feature⚡ Power hookupsRV only
| Water | None - no pool, not on the lake (showers only) |
| Power | Yes - 30 and 50 amp, all sites full hookup (electric/water/sewer) |
| Amenities | Free WiFi, very clean showers/restrooms (wheelchair accessible), laundry, propane, community building, rec area, pet friendly, 100-ft pull-thrus; rated 9.6/10 on RV LIFE |
| Price | $45/night (30A), $47.50 (50A), $49.50 (deluxe 100-ft pull-thru) |
| Contact | (712) 423-1387 |
| Notes | RV-only (no tent camping), so only relevant with a support RV. Closest hookups to downtown and the Main Campground (right off I-29). Books via Campspot. |
4 mi from town💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookupsRV only
| Water | Seasonal outdoor pool; sits on the west side of Blue Lake less than a mile from Lewis & Clark State Park (no advertised private beach) |
| Power | Yes - 100 full-hookup sites, 30 and 50 amp |
| Amenities | WiFi, community showers, laundry, general store, playground, dog park, campfire rings, picnic tables; three converted grain-silo rental units; big-rig friendly |
| Price | Not published online; book/quote via RoverPass |
| Contact | (712) 420-2871 |
| Notes | Newer park (opened ~2023) marketed to RVers; tent camping not advertised. Good overflow option for support vehicles if KOA and state park are full. |
3.2 mi from town💧 Water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | On Blue Lake - swimming and canoeing included, free life jackets |
| Power | No RV hookups advertised (church camp; tent and dorm lodging) |
| Amenities | Restrooms and hot showers, dorm rooms with twin beds (BYO bedding), evening campfire, bus/charter parking, optional Sat spaghetti supper and Sun pancake breakfast ($10/person) |
| Price | $30/night per tent; $30/person/night dorm bed |
| Contact | (712) 423-3313 |
| Notes | Church camp on Blue Lake running a dedicated RAGBRAI 2026 package (check-in from 5pm Fri Jul 17, checkout noon Sun Jul 19). One of the few places still openly taking rider reservations for start weekend; registration via nebowa.churchcenter.com. |
⭐ Our take: It is the only site within 5 miles that combines a real swim beach and boat ramp on Blue Lake with electric/full-hookup sites, hot showers, and flush toilets at $26-38/night, just 3.7 miles from the start-line festivities - grab a ReserveAmerica cancellation if you can, and fall back to the lakefront KOA (pool + lake + 50-amp + tent sites) if it is full.
Onawa → Harlan
Turin → Soldier → Dunlap (meeting town) → Earling → Westphalia. Rolling Loess Hills — the hardest opening day in years.
Numbered markers match the cards below · black diamond = Harlan town center · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
RAGBRAI notes: Harlan is the Day 1 overnight town (Sun Jul 19) after ~59 mi and ~3,500 ft from Onawa; ~20,000 riders expected (first Harlan host since 2013). The official town map is now posted on the Day 1 page: Main Campground at Harlan Community Middle/High School (west edge, off Cyclone Ave), Family/Quiet Campground at Pioneer Park, support/RV check-in at Fareway on 23rd St, vendor/entertainment downtown around Market St. Main-camp tent space is included with registration (shower trucks ~$10); shuttles loop camp <-> downtown. Non-official campgrounds nearby fill extremely fast RAGBRAI week — Nishna Bend is first-come-first-served and Prairie Rose is reservation-only (likely already full; watch for cancellations).
0.7 mi from town💧 Water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | No natural water; shower trucks (Joe's Wet Shack etc., ~$10) plus school/aquatic-center showers typically offered; Norman D. Stamp Aquatic Center is in town |
| Power | No hookups for individual riders (generator/charter power only) |
| Amenities | RAGBRAI HQ: baggage trucks, SAG drop, info tent, portable toilets, hand-wash stations, med/bike pickup, shuttles to downtown expo and around town |
| Price | Included with RAGBRAI registration wristband |
| Contact | 712-755-5137 |
| Notes | CONFIRMED on the official RAGBRAI town map (posted July 2026): Main Campground on the Middle/High School grounds off Cyclone Ave, with baggage trucks, showers, restrooms and shuttle stops on site. Family/Quiet Campground at Pioneer Park (SE side). Support-vehicle/RV check-in at the Fareway lot on 23rd St. Town map PDF: ragbrai.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Harlan_T.pdf |
5.9 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | West Nishnabotna River frontage plus 5 sandpit fishing ponds (bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill); modern shower house; no swim beach |
| Power | Yes - 24 electric sites, 50-amp (some sources list 30-amp) |
| Amenities | Modern shower building, water, dump station, 2 camping cabins, trails, river/pond fishing, on-site camp host |
| Price | $20/night |
| Contact | 712-744-3403 |
| Notes | First-come, first-served - NO advance reservations, so it will fill very fast RAGBRAI weekend; pets prohibited; straight-line ~5.9 mi (signed as 5 mi south of Harlan), a short flat ride from the route |
6.6 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | 218-acre lake with swimming beach, two boat ramps, lake fishing; modern restrooms and showers |
| Power | Yes - 69 standard-electric sites + 8 full-hookup (30/50-amp) |
| Amenities | Beach, playground, ~7 mi hiking/biking trails, fish cleaning stations, dump station, camping cabins ($50/night) |
| Price | $16 tent-only, $24 standard electric, $36 full hookup (peak season 2026) |
| Contact | 712-773-2701 |
| Notes | Flagged: beyond the 5-mile radius (~6.6 mi straight-line, ~8 by road) but best water amenities in the county; campground is 100% reservation-required, bookable 12 months ahead - RAGBRAI night is likely sold out, monitor for cancellations |
5.6 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Showers/restrooms; chamber listing notes swimming available; no lake or beach on site |
| Power | Yes - 30/50-amp; 12 full-hookup + 6 electric-only sites |
| Amenities | WiFi, laundry, RV dump, pull-thrus, fire rings, picnic tables, firewood, horseshoe pit, pets welcome |
| Price | ~$12-20/night per directory listings (call to confirm current rate) |
| Contact | 712-627-4640 |
| Notes | Flagged: just beyond 5 mi (~5.6 mi straight-line north, opposite direction from the Day 2 route); only 18 sites total - phone reservations, will book out for RAGBRAI |
⭐ Our take: It is the only campground at roughly the 5-mile mark combining real water features (Nishnabotna River plus five fishing ponds) with 50-amp electric sites, modern showers, and a $20 tent-friendly rate - but it is first-come-first-served, so a rider must arrive early Sunday to claim a site.
Harlan → Guthrie Center
Elk Horn (Danish windmill) → Exira (meeting town). Biggest climbing day of the week.
Numbered markers match the cards below · black diamond = Guthrie Center town center · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
RAGBRAI notes: Guthrie Center is the Day 2 overnight town (Mon Jul 20; 56.3 mi, 3,590 ft from Harlan — biggest climbing day). Official town map now posted: Main Campground at Guthrie Center High School (SE side), Family/Quiet Campground at the Elementary School (north edge), charters at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds, vendor/entertainment on State St downtown. Host committee: 641-332-2190, guthriecenterragbrai.com. County parks (Lenon Mill, Nations Bridge) are first-come/first-served; Springbrook State Park is reservation-only and likely full — watch ReserveAmerica for cancellations.
0.6 mi from townNo water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None on site; South Raccoon River ~1 mi south of town |
| Power | None for riders (school-grounds tent camping); charter blocks with power are at the fairgrounds |
| Amenities | Open grass camping on the High School grounds; baggage truck, restrooms, showers, info on site; short walk/shuttle to State St entertainment |
| Price | Included with RAGBRAI registration wristband |
| Contact | 641-332-2190 (RAGBRAI committee); 641-755-2457 (fairgrounds) |
| Notes | CONFIRMED on the official RAGBRAI town map (posted July 2026): Main Campground on the High School grounds (SE side, off School St), with baggage truck, restrooms, showers and info on site. Family/Quiet Campground at Guthrie Center Elementary School (north edge, off Grand St). Charter team areas are at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds — NOT the main rider camp. Support/RV check-in south of downtown on Hwy 25. Town map PDF: ragbrai.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/GuthrieCenter_T.pdf |
7.2 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | 17-acre lake with sandy swim beach, boat ramp, 3 fishing jetties, 2 docks; Middle Raccoon River access |
| Power | 77 standard electric sites (20/30-amp, some 20/30/50-amp) |
| Amenities | Modern showers and restrooms (ADA), dump station, 14 non-electric + 14 tent-only sites, multifamily cabin, 930 acres of trails |
| Price | $14/night non-electric or tent-only; $22/night electric |
| Contact | 641-747-3591 |
| Notes | FLAGGED: 7.2 mi NE of downtown (beyond 5-mi radius) but the best amenity package in the area. 100% reservable, window opens 3 months ahead — the Jul 20 RAGBRAI night books out almost immediately; watch for cancellations. |
7 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Middle Raccoon River frontage below Lake Panorama dam; canoe/kayak access (Water Trail access point #1); good bass/walleye/catfish fishing |
| Power | RV sites with electric hookups (count not published) |
| Amenities | Water spigot, restrooms (no showers), shelter house, picnic tables, playground, horseshoe pit |
| Price | $20/night per camping unit (flat, RV or tent) |
| Contact | 641-755-3061 |
| Notes | FLAGGED: ~7 mi east in Panora, the closest camping to Lake Panorama (the lake itself is private with no public campground — Lake Panorama National Resort is lodging only). First-come/first-served, no reservations; no showers. |
11.4 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | South Raccoon River through the park; kayaking and catfishing (swimming not permitted) |
| Power | 45-60 electric hookup sites (sources vary; 20/30/50-amp service reported) |
| Amenities | Modern showers, flush toilets, water, dump station, disc golf, playground, Wi-Fi, 81 acres |
| Price | $20/night per camping unit |
| Contact | 641-755-3061 (Guthrie County Conservation); 515-523-1789 (park) |
| Notes | FLAGGED: 11.4 mi SE of Guthrie Center — well beyond the 5-mi radius, listed because it is the county's best-equipped conservation campground (showers + 50-amp). First-come/first-served only. |
13.7 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Middle Raccoon River corridor through 5,500-acre conservancy; river camping, paddling and fishing access |
| Power | Limited; most sites are primitive/riverside (a few sites and historic farmhouses have utilities) |
| Amenities | Backcountry and riverfront campsites, 40+ mi of trails, historic house rentals, star field campsite |
| Price | Approx $15-30/night for campsites (varies by site; lodging more) |
| Contact | 712-790-8221 |
| Notes | FLAGGED: ~14 mi north near Coon Rapids, beyond the radius; listed by Guthrie County Tourism as the area's main private camping alternative. Coordinates approximate (moderate confidence); call to confirm site availability RAGBRAI week. |
⭐ Our take: Nothing else near Guthrie Center combines a swimmable lake with a sandy beach, 77 electric (up to 50-amp) sites, and modern showers only 7.2 miles from the overnight town — the fairgrounds is closer but has no water features, and the county parks lack either showers or reservability.
Guthrie Center → Boone
Panora → Yale → Perry (meeting town) → Ogden. Flatter day; scenic railroad and Ledges in Boone.
Numbered markers match the cards below · black diamond = Boone town center · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
RAGBRAI notes: Boone is the Day 3 (Tue Jul 21, 2026) overnight town of RAGBRAI LIII (Jul 19-25, Onawa to Dubuque; 60.6 mi / 1,583 ft from Guthrie Center, arriving via Ogden). Fifth time hosting. Per local reporting, the official main campground for tents and RVs is the greenspace on DMACC's Boone campus (west of the building), with quiet camping at Gutteridge Park, open camping at the north circle of McHose Park, and possible overflow at Boone Middle School and Ledges Elementary (moderate confidence — final town map posts on ragbrai.com/route/day-3 and visitboonecounty.com closer to the ride). Entertainment stage planned along S Story St near Kate Shelley Dr, a few hundred yards from the McHose/DMACC campsites. Housing/camping requests go through Visit Boone County. Note: 'Whispering Oaks' RV Park is actually in Story City (~20 mi NE), and no 'Bass Point Creek' campground exists — Boone County Conservation runs no campground by that name.
1 mi from townNo water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None on site; Boone municipal pool ~0.5 mi at McHose Park (RAGBRAI shower site in past hostings); Des Moines River ~3 mi west |
| Power | No hookups for individual riders; charter/RV generator area — plan on battery packs |
| Amenities | Open greenspace west of campus, portables/showers trucked in for RAGBRAI, shuttle to downtown entertainment, quiet-camp alternative at Gutteridge Park |
| Price | Included with RAGBRAI registration wristband; no separate reservation |
| Contact | 515-432-1420 (Visit Boone County; verify) |
| Notes | CONFIRMED on the official RAGBRAI town map (posted July 2026): Main Campground on the DMACC Boone Campus (Hancock Dr at Park Ave), baggage truck on site, additional open camping through McHose Park and north amenities near Boone Middle School. Support/RV check-in near Boone Speedway off 220th St (south of town). One-night pop-up for Jul 21; RVs need a RAGBRAI vehicle pass. Town map PDF: ragbrai.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Boone_T.pdf |
1.4 mi from town💧 Water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Honey Creek runs through the park; Boone municipal swimming pool inside the park (best in-town water feature) |
| Power | None — no hookups; it is a picnic/pool park, not a developed campground |
| Amenities | Pool, shelters, restrooms, playgrounds, disc golf, trails, likely RV overflow area per RAGBRAI reporting |
| Price | Free/included for RAGBRAI riders during the event; no camping rest of year |
| Contact | 515-432-4211 (Boone City Hall/Parks; verify) |
| Notes | Closest camping to the Day 3 entertainment stage; open (non-quiet) camping, expect noise |
1.4 mi from townNo water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None on site |
| Power | 15/20/30/50-amp electric; full-hookup (water+sewer) and partial sites plus primitive |
| Amenities | Modern restrooms/washrooms, recreation hall, WiFi, fire pits, big-rig friendly, cable at some sites, pet friendly |
| Price | Not published on booking page; book online (no-refund policy) |
| Contact | 515-432-5899 |
| Notes | The only reservable powered campground actually inside Boone — the smart RAGBRAI backup if you want guaranteed 30/50-amp near the route; the county fair typically runs mid-July, so confirm availability for Jul 21 |
4.3 mi from town💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Des Moines River on the park's west boundary (boat ramp, paddling, fishing); Peas Creek canyon stream crossings; Lost Lake |
| Power | 53 electric sites (20/30/50-amp) + 16 full-hookup sites |
| Amenities | Modern restrooms, showers, dump station, playground, 13 non-electric + 12 walk-in tent sites, hiking in the sandstone canyon |
| Price | $18 non-electric / $26 electric / $38 full hookup per night (peak 2026) |
| Contact | 515-432-1852 |
| Notes | 4.3 mi straight-line but ~6 road miles south of downtown Boone (the '~6 miles' figure is road distance); 100% reservable and will sell out far ahead for RAGBRAI week — open in July (closes Aug 2 for resurfacing) |
10.7 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | ~150-acre no-wake lake with swimming beach, fishing, boat rentals |
| Power | 150 electric sites, 50/30/110-amp breakers (Campgrounds A/B/C) |
| Amenities | Beach, golf course, bait shop, hiking trails, playgrounds, cabins, dump stations |
| Price | $20/night 50-amp electric, $12 non-electric |
| Contact | 515-353-4237 |
| Notes | FLAG: ~10.7 mi straight-line NNW of downtown Boone (well outside the 5-mile radius) — good lake camping but you'd need a shuttle/drive into town |
12.2 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Near Des Moines River valley and High Trestle Trail bridge; no lake or swimming on site |
| Power | 14 electric sites + 2 electric ground sites, 30-amp |
| Amenities | 10 non-electric tent areas, hiking trails, playground, enclosed shelter, youth group camping |
| Price | $18/night electric (30-amp), $12 tent |
| Contact | 515-795-2809 / 515-353-4237 |
| Notes | FLAG: ~12.2 mi straight-line south of downtown Boone (outside the 5-mile radius); listed only because it is a named Boone County campground |
⭐ Our take: Ledges is the only campground near Boone that pairs real water features (Des Moines River frontage, Peas Creek canyon wading, Lost Lake) with 20/30/50-amp electric, showers, and full hookups, just ~4.3 mi from downtown — the fairgrounds is closer with power but has zero water, and the official DMACC/McHose RAGBRAI camps have no hookups at all.
Boone → Marshalltown
Gilbert → Nevada (meeting town) → Colo → State Center along the Lincoln Highway; optional gravel sector.
Numbered markers match the cards below · black diamond = Marshalltown town center · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
RAGBRAI notes: RAGBRAI LIII Day 4 (Boone to Marshalltown, 67.9 mi, 1,819 ft climb, Lincoln Highway heritage route) overnights in Marshalltown Wed Jul 22, 2026. Per Marshalltown RAGBRAI organizers (Times-Republican, April 2026): main public campground in the Linn Creek District near Mega-10 Park and the YMCA-YWCA; quiet campground at Lenihan Intermediate School; RV area around Marshalltown High School. Official host site marshalltownragbrai.com ('All Wheels Welcome'); the official town map (now posted on the Day 4 page) confirms these locations. Note: Three Bridges County Park is often assumed close but is actually ~6.5 mi EAST of town near LeGrand/Quarry and has NO camping (day-use only). Green Castle is ~8.7 mi straight-line (not within 5 mi as often listed). Expect city and county campgrounds to fill or be reserved for RAGBRAI support that week — book Riverview online early and confirm RAGBRAI-week policies by phone; county sites are first-come only.
0.5 mi from town💧 Water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Linn Creek runs through the district; Linn Creek Recreational Trail connects to the Iowa River at Riverview Park |
| Power | None for riders (event tent camping); RV area designated around Marshalltown High School |
| Amenities | Rider services, entertainment, food vendors downtown; shower/facility locations distributed across the city per host committee; quiet campground option at Lenihan Intermediate School |
| Price | Included with RAGBRAI registration |
| Contact | 641-753-6645 |
| Notes | CONFIRMED on the official RAGBRAI town map (posted July 2026): Main Campground at the YMCA-YWCA / Mega-10 Park area in the Linn Creek District, Family/Quiet Campground at Lenihan Intermediate School just east, charter areas at the Central Iowa Fairgrounds (north side). Support/RV check-in off Governor Rd/US-30 on the NE side. Town map PDF: ragbrai.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Marshalltown_T.pdf |
1.5 mi from town💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Directly adjacent to the Iowa River on the city's north edge (Hwy 14); Linn Creek/Iowa River's Edge Trail access |
| Power | 10 full-hookup sites (water/sewer/50-amp) + 30 electric sites (20/30/50-amp); ~17 additional camper pads |
| Amenities | Shower house with hot water and flush toilets, dump station, picnic shelters, fire rings, mature shade trees, disc golf, dog park, playground, drive-through big-rig sites |
| Price | $25/night electric; $35/night full hookup (2026 city rates) |
| Contact | 641-754-5715 |
| Notes | Open Apr 18 - Nov 4, 2026. Reservable online, by phone, or in person (10 W State St). Closest reservable riverfront camping to the RAGBRAI festivities — expect it to sell out or be claimed by support vehicles for Jul 22; book immediately and confirm RAGBRAI-week rules with Parks & Rec. |
1.4 mi from townNo water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None on site |
| Power | Electric hookups for campers/RVs |
| Amenities | Open fairground camping area, restrooms, event buildings; dedicated camping page on fairgrounds site |
| Price | $15/day (per Visit Central Iowa listing; verify — may be outdated) |
| Contact | 641-753-3671 |
| Notes | Southeast side of town, ~1.4 mi from downtown. Reservations recommended during busy event periods; fairgrounds are a common RAGBRAI charter/support staging area, so call ahead for Jul 22 availability (cifa@heartofiowa.net). |
3.9 mi from townNo water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None significant (no pond/pool documented); Lincoln Highway interpretive site next to the Big Treehouse attraction |
| Power | 13 full-hookup sites (all 30-amp, 5 with 50-amp) + 2 electric-only; ~30 total sites, rigs to 40 ft |
| Amenities | Water/sewer at full-hookup sites, showers, toilets, picnic tables, pet friendly, historic grounds (one of Iowa's oldest private campgrounds, roots to 1850) |
| Price | ~$21-30/night (Allstays tier; confirm by phone) |
| Contact | 641-752-2946 |
| Notes | Still operating per 2026-updated Campendium/Allstays listings and Travel Iowa, season April-October, but its own website has an expired SSL cert and listings warn info is stale — call 641-752-2946 to confirm before relying on it. Southeast of town off US-30, right on the likely RAGBRAI approach corridor. |
5.3 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Iowa River splits the 205-acre park; boat ramp on the river; Iowa River Greenbelt frontage |
| Power | 18 electric sites (25-30 amp) |
| Amenities | Showerhouse with restrooms (seasonal), shelter house, hiking trails, boat ramp, playground, heavy timber shade |
| Price | $22/night with electric |
| Contact | 641-752-5490 |
| Notes | First-come, first-served only — no reservations, self-registration. Flag: ~5.3 mi straight-line but county lists it 7 mi NW of Marshalltown by road, so it is at/over the 5-mile edge and awkward for ride-back access after evening entertainment. |
8.7 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | 16-acre stocked lake (bluegill, bass, catfish, crappie), fishing jetties, canoe/kayak ramp |
| Power | 16 electric hookup sites with water access, incl. ADA sites (campground new in 2025) |
| Amenities | Three shelter houses, hiking trails, astronomy observatory, bison wildlife exhibit, playground, restrooms, picnic areas |
| Price | $22/night |
| Contact | 641-752-5490 |
| Notes | Flag: ~8.7 mi straight-line SE of downtown (near Gilman/Ferguson), well beyond the 5-mile radius despite frequently being lumped with 'near Marshalltown' — a real drive from RAGBRAI festivities. First-come, first-served self-registration; brand-new sites and the lake make it the quietest fallback if in-town camps fill. |
⭐ Our take: It is the only reservable campground that combines true water frontage (directly on the Iowa River) with real power (40 sites at 20/30/50-amp including 10 full hookups) and hot showers just 1.5 miles from downtown Marshalltown and the RAGBRAI main-stage area via the Linn Creek trail.
Marshalltown → Independence
The monster day: Grundy Center, Reinbeck (meeting town), Gilbertville, Jesup — plus optional Karras Loop / America 250 Double Loop for century chasers.
Numbered markers match the cards below · black diamond = Independence town center · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
RAGBRAI notes: Independence is the Day 5 overnight town (Thu Jul 23), 86.2 mi from Marshalltown with an 'America 250' red-white-and-blue theme. Official town map now posted: Main Campground at Independence Jr/Sr High School (west side), Family/Quiet Campground on the SE side by the Wapsipinicon near the aquatic center, vendor/entertainment downtown at 1st St E. Host committee: independenceragbrai.com, 319-334-7178. No private RV parks within 5 mi of downtown; expect the city RV campground and fairgrounds to be fully claimed for RAGBRAI week — call ahead.
1.3 mi from townNo water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None at the school grounds; the Family/Quiet camp on the SE side sits by the Wapsipinicon River and aquatic center |
| Power | None for riders (typical); charging via charters/vendors only |
| Amenities | Baggage trucks, SAG drop, Info tent, portable toilets, pay shower trailers (standard RAGBRAI main-camp setup) |
| Price | Included with RAGBRAI registration |
| Contact | 319-334-7178 |
| Notes | CONFIRMED on the official RAGBRAI town map (posted July 2026): Main Campground on the Jr/Sr High School grounds (west side), with the RAGBRAI baggage truck at the adjacent Middle School green space; camping, restrooms, showers and shuttles on site. A separate Family/Quiet Campground sits on the southeast side near 6th St SE by the Wapsipinicon — essentially next to the city RV campground and aquatic center. Support/RV check-in on 20th Ave SW south of town. Town map PDF: ragbrai.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Independence_T.pdf |
0.5 mi from town💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Wapsipinicon River access (canoe/kayak/fishing) nearby; adjacent to Independence Aquatic Center pool |
| Power | All 42 sites 50-amp, full hookups (water, sewer, electric, garbage) |
| Amenities | Showers/restrooms, WiFi, picnic shelter with electricity, concrete walking/biking trail, playground, fire rings and picnic tables at each site |
| Price | $35/day 50-amp ($30 senior 60+); tent $10/day |
| Contact | 319-440-0472 (in-season host); 319-334-6711 (Parks & Rec) |
| Notes | Season Mar 1-Nov 15; some first-come-first-serve sites, but assume RAGBRAI week is booked out or reserved for event support — call the host far in advance |
0.8 mi from townNo water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None on-site; Wapsipinicon River about a half mile west |
| Power | Full hookups with 20/30/50-amp electric, water, sewer, cable |
| Amenities | Fire rings in designated areas, dumpsters, walking distance to fairgrounds and Independence Motor Speedway; quiet hours 10:30pm-7am |
| Price | $25/day full hookup ($125/week); tent $10/day (4-day max) |
| Contact | 319-332-8409 (camp host Ashley Johnson) |
| Notes | Fairgrounds are a classic RAGBRAI overflow/charter venue — likely reserved for event use Jul 23; confirm with camp host |
8.4 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Fontana Lake (fishing) and Otter Creek dam |
| Power | Electric sites with 50/30/20-amp plug-ins; 7 reservable sites on 65'x10' gravel pads plus first-come sites |
| Amenities | Shower house, nature center with live animal display, trails, picnic areas, cabins ($95/night) |
| Price | $15-$30/night; reservable electric sites $23/night plus reservation fee |
| Contact | 319-636-2617 (Conservation); 319-332-1765 (reservations) |
| Notes | Beyond the 5-mi radius but the nearest reservable lake campground with showers; straight up Hwy 150 from town, and online-reservable so you can actually lock in a RAGBRAI-week site |
⭐ Our take: Only site combining guaranteed 50-amp full hookups with real water features — adjacent aquatic center pool plus Wapsipinicon River paddle/fishing access — a half mile walk from downtown RAGBRAI festivities.
Independence → Dyersville
Recovery day: Winthrop → Manchester (meeting town) → Earlville. Field of Dreams + farm toy capital.
Numbered markers match the cards below · black diamond = Dyersville town center · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
RAGBRAI notes: Dyersville is the Day 6 overnight town of RAGBRAI LIII (Jul 18-25, 2026), a 42.5-mi ride from Independence; theme is 'If you bike it, they will come.' Per dyersvilleragbrai.com/housing, the official main rider campground is Candy Cane Park (all host homes are filled and all charters placed — unmatched riders camp at Candy Cane Park). Entertainment/vendors center on Legacy Square downtown. The Field of Dreams Movie Site (28995 Lansing Rd, ~3.5 mi NE) is the Day 7 breakfast stop as riders leave town — no public RAGBRAI camping at the movie site has been announced. Book New Wine Park's reservable sites (75% of 36 sites, mycountyparks.com, 4+ days ahead) immediately.
0.5 mi from town💧 Water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Borders the North Fork Maquoketa River corridor; 105-ft pedestrian bridge links to Westside Park across the river/Bear Creek; Dyersville Family Aquatic Center (pool) a short walk at Commercial Club Park |
| Power | None for campers (event tent camping) |
| Amenities | Ball fields, tennis courts, open shelter, playground, dog park, restrooms; RAGBRAI event showers/water expected on-site; walk to downtown Legacy Square entertainment |
| Price | Included with RAGBRAI registration (unregistered vehicle passes historically ~$25 car / $50 RV) |
| Contact | 563-875-7724 (Dyersville Parks) |
| Notes | Default camp for all riders not placed with host families; expect dense tent city Jul 24. Confidence high — named on the host-town housing page. |
3.4 mi from town💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Campground sits directly along the North Fork Maquoketa River; fishing; 2+ mi of riverside nature trails |
| Power | 50-amp electric + pressurized water hookups (upgraded from 30-amp for 2026); dump station |
| Amenities | Modern accessible showers (free), restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, disc golf, playgrounds, volleyball, firewood, year-round park attendant, pet friendly |
| Price | $30/night (verified for reservable 50-amp riverside sites, e.g. Campsite 04) |
| Contact | 563-556-6745 |
| Notes | 36 sites; 75% reservable online up to 1 yr ahead (book 4+ days out, non-refundable), 25% first-come. ~3.4-5 mi N of town off Hwy 136 — easy morning rejoin to the Day 7 route past Field of Dreams. Will fill fast for RAGBRAI Friday. |
1.3 mi from townNo water feature⚡ Power hookupsRV only
| Water | None on property (restaurant/winery grounds); ~1.5 mi to North Fork Maquoketa River in town |
| Power | 15/20/30/50-amp electric + water hookups, first-come first-served |
| Amenities | On-site restaurant (BBQ ribs, pizza, breakfast buffet), 40+ house wines, spirits and beer tastings, live music/trivia, level paved and grass parking for rigs over 45 ft, 10 spaces |
| Price | Free stay with Harvest Hosts membership (~$99/yr); patronage expected; cash discount on purchases |
| Contact | 563-599-1262 |
| Notes | Self-contained RVs only (Harvest Hosts rule) — no tents. Minutes from downtown and the Field of Dreams site; the closest private hookup option to the route. Match of HH listing to O So Good: high confidence. |
7.9 mi from town — beyond 5-mi targetNo water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None (rural raceway grounds); Plum Creek ~2 mi west in Earlville |
| Power | 50-amp full hookups (electric, water, sewer) |
| Amenities | 25 pull-through big-rig sites (to 60 ft), showers, toilets, dump; open May 1-Oct 31 |
| Price | $50/night full hookup ($300/wk) |
| Contact | 563-923-3724 |
| Notes | Beyond the 5-mi radius but the nearest true full-hookup private RV park, right off US-20 Exit 285 near Earlville (the Day 6 pass-through town) — good support-driver base. |
6.1 mi from town — beyond 5-mi targetNo water featureNo hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None significant; small-town park |
| Power | Unverified — likely a handful of basic electric sites at most |
| Amenities | Pavilion, playground, ball field, restrooms, picnic tables |
| Price | Unverified — small-town rate, likely $10-20/night; call ahead |
| Contact | 563-580-3819 |
| Notes | Camping listed in Dubuque County's parks/recreation resource guide but details are thin (confidence low) — verify by phone. ~6 mi S of Dyersville off the route; overflow option only. |
⭐ Our take: It is the only campground near town that pairs true water features with real power — sites directly on the North Fork Maquoketa River with newly upgraded 50-amp electric, water hookups, and free modern showers for $30/night, a few miles north of the RAGBRAI festivities and positioned perfectly for the Day 7 Field of Dreams breakfast stop.
Dyersville → Dubuque (finish!)
Field of Dreams breakfast stop at mile 5.3, then Farley → Epworth → Centralia → tire dip in the Mississippi at A.Y. McDonald Park.
Numbered markers match the cards below · black diamond = Dubuque town center · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
RAGBRAI notes: RAGBRAI LIII (Jul 18-25, 2026) finishes in Dubuque: riders dip tires at A.Y. McDonald Park on the Mississippi; route officially closes 4pm Sat Jul 25 and the finish park is closed to the public Jul 24-26 for the event. Official end-town camping per TravelDubuque: complimentary tent camping at McAleece Park (Chaplain Schmitt Island) opens Fri Jul 17 at 10am (registration required; no electricity/fires/alcohol; showers via $10 shuttle to Sutton Pool) — primarily pre-ride staging, so confirm availability for the Jul 25 finish night. Fee RV camping is directed to city-run Miller Riverview Park (plus Swiss Valley, Creek Valley, and Rustic Barn as listed area options). Finish-day vehicle staging: four free first-come day lots incl. 1800 Admiral Sheehy Dr (IMON Arena) and 2150/2040 Kerper Blvd; long-term parking Jul 17-26 at 799 E 16th St, register at DubuqueRAGBRAI.ticketspice.com. Book early — Miller Riverview opens reservations 240 days out and support crews will grab riverfront sites.
1.7 mi from town💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | On the Mississippi River (Chaplain Schmitt Island backwater/Lake Peosta Channel); shoreline fishing access; 0.95-mi riverside trail |
| Power | 97 full-electric sites, 20/30/50-amp, pull-through and back-in |
| Amenities | Accessible restrooms and showers, city water, dump station, picnic tables, fire grills, 3 pavilions, pet-friendly; adjacent to Q Casino |
| Price | $25/night electric; $18/night primitive |
| Contact | 563-599-2852 |
| Notes | The city's designated fee RV camping for RAGBRAI; on the same island as the McAleece Park official tent camp and the IMON Arena finish-day parking lot, ~1 mile ride to the A.Y. McDonald Park tire-dip. Reservations up to 240 days ahead — expect RAGBRAI-week sellout. Season runs mid-April through late October, so Jul 25 is in season. |
6.2 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Spring-fed Catfish Creek (stocked trout stream) runs within ~50 ft of several campsites; no river or pool |
| Power | Electric sites incl. 20/30/50-amp; some water+electric; dump station |
| Amenities | Showers, flush toilets, water, fire rings, picnic tables, firewood, playground, nature center and hiking trails; ~52 sites, RVs to ~40 ft |
| Price | ~$15 non-electric / ~$23 electric (county rates; verify at booking) |
| Contact | 563-556-6745 |
| Notes | Named by TravelDubuque as a RAGBRAI-week camping option. Only ~30% of sites reservable online (4+ days ahead), rest first-come. Quiet valley setting good for a car-staged departure Sunday; note the valley is prone to flash flooding in heavy rain. |
8.6 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | Directly on Mississippi River Pool 11 and Mud Lake backwater; boat ramp; marina with fuel/food/slips; fishing |
| Power | Electric sites (30-amp with water hookup on premium sites); dump station |
| Amenities | Accessible showers and restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, Wi-Fi, resident park ranger, osprey nesting program |
| Price | ~$15 non-electric; ~$23-30 electric/water-electric (Campsite 24 listed at $30/night) |
| Contact | 563-556-6745 |
| Notes | Small riverfront county park; only ~30% of sites reservable online (must book 4+ days ahead), remainder first-come — arriving Sat afternoon of the finish is risky without a reservation. |
6.3 mi from town — beyond 5-mi targetNo water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | None — no pool, river, or creek |
| Power | 58 full-hookup sites, 30-amp ($50) and 50-amp ($52-55) back-in/pull-through, level concrete patios; EV charging $15 |
| Amenities | Showers, laundry, rec barn, chapel, camp store; ~25 tent sites |
| Price | $50 30A / $52 50A back-in / $55 50A pull-through per night (2026); tent rate not published |
| Contact | 608-568-7797 |
| Notes | Listed by TravelDubuque as an area RAGBRAI camping option; ~10-min drive across the river into WI via US-151, easy for support vehicles avoiding downtown closures. Full payment at booking; 14-day cancellation policy. |
13.3 mi from town — beyond 5-mi target💧 Water feature⚡ Power hookups⛺ Tents OK
| Water | On Mississippi River Pool 11 with a sandy swimming beach, boat ramp, and marina slips |
| Power | 24 electric sites, 20/30-amp (some sites listed with 50-amp); dump station |
| Amenities | Modern showers and restrooms, reservable pavilion, picnic areas, hiking trails, beach |
| Price | From ~$12 non-electric; ~$23/night electric (Campsite 01 listed at $23) |
| Contact | 563-556-6745 |
| Notes | Beyond the 8-mi radius (~13 mi straight-line, ~20-min drive NW) but the only nearby campground with a true river swimming beach; 70% of sites first-come, so weak fit for a Saturday-night finish arrival without an advance reservation. |
⭐ Our take: It is the official RAGBRAI RV campground sitting directly on the Mississippi about a mile from the tire-dip finish, with 97 full-electric 20/30/50-amp sites, showers, river fishing access, and finish-day parking lots on the same island — unmatched water-plus-power proximity for $25/night.
Good to know
- Main campgrounds: no reservations, first-come, free with wristband. Shower trucks ~$10 — bring cash and a pack towel.
- Power at official camps is effectively zero for riders — big power bank (20k mAh+) or grab a powered site above.
- Quiet/family camps: Onawa (West Monona HS), Boone (Gutteridge Park), Marshalltown (Lenihan Intermediate).
- Support vehicles need a RAGBRAI vehicle pass for official campgrounds — order via your registration account.
- Late-July Iowa: 85–90°F, humid, real thunderstorm risk. Stake well; know each camp's severe-weather shelter.
- Official town-map PDFs (campground pins, shuttle routes, showers) are on each ragbrai.com day page — download before you lose cell service.