Camping Parks Near Waterloo

Discover 8 parks for camping within driving distance of Waterloo

Union Grove State Park

Gladbrook, Iowa
34 miles away

"Waterloo residents can reach the park in under an hour for a quiet outdoor outing. It is a good option for families looking for camping and picnic space away from the city."

A small, peaceful lake park in central Iowa known for fishing, camping, and picnicking.

FishingCampingPicnickingBoatingBirdwatching
View park details

Pine Lake State Park

Eldora, Iowa
36 miles away

"Waterloo is a major nearby city with plenty of visitors looking for easy outdoor getaways. Pine Lake’s beach, trails, and campground make it a strong choice for family outings."

A wooded lake park in north-central Iowa known for camping, fishing, boating, swimming, and scenic outdoor recreation.

CampingFishingHikingSwimmingBoating
View park details

Volga River State Recreation Area

Fayette, Iowa
55 miles away

"Waterloo visitors often come for a day trip to hike, camp, or enjoy a quieter natural setting than the city offers. It is one of the larger population centers within driving distance."

A scenic northeast Iowa recreation area with bluffs, woods, river access, and camping.

HikingFishingCampingBirdwatchingPicnicking
View park details

Cold Springs State Park

Dundee, Iowa
56 miles away

"Waterloo travelers can reach the park for fishing, picnicking, and a low-key weekend outdoors. It appeals to those seeking a scenic drive and a less crowded campground."

A peaceful wooded park in northeast Iowa with camping, fishing, and scenic river valley views.

CampingFishingPicnickingWildlife ViewingHiking
View park details

Backbone State Park

Dundee, Iowa
58 miles away

"Waterloo residents visit for weekend camping, family picnics, and outdoor recreation in a more natural setting. The park’s trails and lake make it a strong choice for a short getaway."

Iowa’s oldest state park, featuring a dramatic limestone ridge, trout stream, and scenic outdoor recreation.

HikingCampingFishingPicnickingBirdwatching
View park details

Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area

Marion, Iowa
58 miles away

"Waterloo travelers may visit for fishing, camping, and a scenic reservoir experience in eastern Iowa. It is a practical weekend destination for families and anglers."

A reservoir-based recreation area in eastern Iowa known for boating, fishing, camping, and scenic shoreline.

BoatingFishingCampingSwimmingPicnicking
View park details

McIntosh Woods State Park

Clear Lake, Iowa
59 miles away

"Waterloo residents often come for fishing, boating, and a relaxing lakeside camping trip. The park is close enough for a full-day outing or a short weekend getaway."

A peaceful lakeside park on Clear Lake with camping, boating, fishing, and picnic areas.

CampingFishingBoatingBirdwatchingPicnicking
View park details

Wapsipinicon State Park

Anamosa, Iowa
60 miles away

"Waterloo residents visit for fishing, camping, and a peaceful river valley setting. It is a manageable drive for a full-day outing or overnight stay."

A wooded river park with bluffs, fishing, camping, and a historic lodge.

HikingFishingCampingPicnickingBirdwatching
View park details