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48 campgrounds and RV Parks near Independence, IA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
48 campgrounds
3725 campsites
25 RVs available for delivery
From $15/night
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
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Best campgrounds near Independence, IA
Morwood Campground and Resort
Hazleton, IA (7 miles away)
$$$$$
(114 sites)
+6
Lakeshore RV Resort and Campground
Oelwein, IA (12 miles away)
$$$$$
(100 sites)
+8
Unhitched Lazy Acres RV Park
Center Point, IA (16 miles away)
(103 sites)
BEYONDER Getaway at Lazy Acres
Center Point, IA (16 miles away)
$$$$$
(46 sites)
+12
South Lake - Backbone State Park
Iowa (20 miles away)
$$$$$
(98 sites)
+5
Waterloo/Lost Island KOA Resort
Waterloo, IA (22 miles away)
$$$$$
(148 sites)
+6
Pleasant Creek State Recreational Area
Palo, IA (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(70 sites)
+5
George Wyth State Park
Waterloo, IA (27 miles away)
$$$$$
(69 sites)
+5
Volga River State Recreation Area - Lakeview
Fayette, IA (30 miles away)
$$$$$
(41 sites)
Tri-State Raceway and RV Park
Earlville, IA (31 miles away)
$$$$$
(25 sites)
Deer Run Resort
Elkader, IA (36 miles away)
$$$$$
(80 sites)
+3
Skip-A-Way Resort
Clermont, IA (38 miles away)
$$$$$
(198 sites)
+7
Most common amenities
Showers Tables Pet friendly Grills Toilets Dump station Playground Firewood Hiking Trails
Campgrounds near Independence, Iowa
Independence sits in Buchanan County in northeast Iowa, on the Wapsipinicon River between Waterloo and Dubuque. It works as a base for RV travelers exploring the wooded uplands, Amish country, and the trout streams and state parks of the surrounding counties. The nearest full-hookup private parks are within a short drive, while the largest public campgrounds sit within roughly an hour.
Morwood Campground and Resort is the closest private RV park, operating as a full-hookup facility in Hazleton with electric, water, and sewer connections and pull-through sites that accommodate big rigs. Lakeshore RV Resort and Campground lies nearby in Oelwein, and BEYONDER Getaway at Lazy Acres is farther south near Center Point off I-380.
For state-park camping, Pleasant Creek State Recreational Area sits southwest near Palo, and South Lake at Backbone State Park lies east near Dundee. Backbone State Park was dedicated in 1920. It was Iowa's first state park and remains one of the most geologically unique.
Things to do near Independence
Water and trails drive most trips. Backbone is well known for its exceptional trout fishing, with a cold, clear, quick-flowing stream fed by Richmond Springs, which pumps more than 2,000 gallons per minute. Only electric trolling motors are allowed on Backbone Lake, which keeps paddling calm for families.
At Pleasant Creek State Recreational Area, a 410-acre lake, 1,517 acres of public hunting grounds, a swimming beach, and multi-use trails anchor the day-use options. The lake is no-wake, so kayaks, sailboats, and pontoons share the water at slow speeds.
In town, Independence offers restaurants, a historic downtown, and access to Amish shops along the gravel roads north toward Hazleton for bakeries, bulk groceries, and furniture.
Camping spots and RV parks near Independence, IA
When to visit and seasonal patterns
- spring
March - May
61° / 37°F 90 mmParks reopen in April; trout streams active.
- summer
June - August
82° / 63°F 115 mmPeak demand; holiday weekends book out early.
- fall
September - November
63° / 39°F 70 mmFoliage color; state park sites close by December.
- winter
December - February
30° / 12°F 28 mmCold and snowy; state park campgrounds closed.
The practical RV season in this part of Iowa runs from mid-spring through mid-fall. Morwood Campground and Resort operates roughly April through October, and most private parks in the region follow a similar window. Pleasant Creek operates seasonally from April through mid-November, with the campground closed from November 16 through March 31, and peak-season rates in effect May 1 through October 15.
At Backbone, the campgrounds close December 1 through March 31, so water service and shower buildings are typically off during that period. A concession is available near the beach during summer, so early- and late-season visitors should plan for reduced services.
Summer weekends fill first, driven by holiday demand and family programming. Spring brings trout activity and greening trails; fall delivers oak and maple color across the wooded state parks, with cooler nights that suit furnace-equipped RVs.
How to book campsites
Iowa state parks use a single reservation system. The campgrounds are 100 percent reservable and a reservation is required. Bookings for South Lake at Backbone State Park and Pleasant Creek State Recreational Area go through the Iowa State Parks portal at iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com, with cabins and shelters also listed online.
Cabins and campsites at Backbone book well in advance, particularly for summer weekends, and popular holiday weekends can require multi-night minimums.
Private parks book directly. Morwood Campground and Resort, Lakeshore RV Resort and Campground, and BEYONDER Getaway at Lazy Acres each take reservations by phone or through their own websites. Morwood has a strong seasonal following and busy summer weekends, so early booking is recommended.
What to expect at campgrounds near Independence
Private RV parks near Independence lean family-oriented with full hookups and structured amenities. Morwood offers pull-through, full-hookup sites with 30 and 50 amp service, a heated pool, laundry, a dump station, and theme weekends and activities geared to kids. BEYONDER Getaway at Lazy Acres is big-rig friendly with spacious sites, picnic tables, and fire pits.
State-park campgrounds trade hookups for setting and space. South Lake Campground at Backbone has electric and non-electric sites, two shower buildings, a playground, and a dump station. At Pleasant Creek, separate campground loops accommodate tents and RVs, with flush and vault toilets, showers, and a dump station.
Cell coverage varies in the wooded state parks; expect stronger signal at private parks along the highway corridors. Pack for mosquitoes near river bottoms in summer.
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Independence, IA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Independence, IA?
Good news: an RV rental in Independence, IA is one of the most affordable ways to explore eastern Iowa. On RVezy, you'll typically find travel trailers starting around $80-$130 per night, Class C motorhomes between $150-$250 per night, and larger Class A motorhomes from $250-$400 per night. Pricing depends on the season, RV size, and add-ons like generators or camp kits. For a cheap RV rental Independence travelers love, consider booking a travel trailer midweek in May or September when local rates dip. Pro tip: filter by Instant Book and message hosts about weekly discounts, since many Buchanan County owners offer 10-15% off for stays of five nights or more.
independenceia.gov/389/RV-Park-CampgroundDo I need a special license to rent an RV in Independence, Iowa?
Great news for first-timers: a regular driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Independence, Iowa. The State of Iowa does not require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or any special endorsement for personal-use motorhomes or travel trailers under standard weight limits. You'll need to be 25 or older to book on RVezy, and we'll confirm your ID through the platform during checkout, so there's no extra DMV paperwork. Visiting from abroad? Just bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home license. Most renters are surprised by how simple the process is, you can be booked, verified, and ready for your Iowa adventure in under an hour.
iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/license-classificationsIs my Independence, IA RV rental protected if something goes wrong?
Yes, every RV rental in Independence, IA booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan and 24/7 roadside assistance, so you are covered from pickup to drop-off. At checkout you choose from protection plan tiers based on the level of coverage you want, which helps shield you financially from most accidental damage to the RV. Coverage is provided through RVezy's protection program rather than a traditional policy, giving first-time renters real peace of mind. Pro tip: record a quick walk-around video with your host at pickup and drop-off, it makes resolving any post-trip questions fast and easy.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat happens if I need to cancel my Independence, IA RV trip?
Plans change, and booking your Independence RV rental on RVezy is low-risk. RVezy sets the cancellation policy (not individual hosts), and refund amounts depend on how far in advance of your trip start date you cancel. If a host cancels, RVezy refunds your booking or offers travel credits so you are not left without options. For severe Iowa weather events like tornadoes or major snowstorms in Buchanan County, contact RVezy support to review your options. Pro tip: book early to lock in the best Iowa rigs for summer weekends, you still have clear cancellation guidelines if plans shift.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on an RV rental in Independence, IA?
Yes, pet-friendly RV rental Independence options are easy to find on RVezy, just toggle the Pet-Friendly filter when searching. Many local hosts welcome dogs and cats, and some even include perks like pet beds or extra towels. Once you arrive, you'll love how dog-friendly the area is: the Wapsipinicon River trail running through town is perfect for morning walks, and Backbone State Park (about 25 minutes away) has leashed-pet trails through the limestone bluffs. Pro tip: message the host directly before booking to confirm pet fees (usually $25-$75 per stay) and mention your dog's size, Iowa hosts are friendly and quick to respond.
iowadnr.gov/places-to-go/state-parks/iowa-state-parks/backbone-state-parkCan the RV be delivered to my campsite or home in Independence?
Yes, RV delivery Independence is one of the most popular options on RVezy, especially for first-timers who'd rather skip towing or driving a big rig. Many local hosts deliver directly to Independence City RV Park on 8th Street SE, Fontana County Park, or even your driveway, then set up the RV, hook up water and power, and walk you through every feature. Delivery fees usually run $2-$4 per mile from the host's location, with many offering free delivery within 15 miles. Pro tip: ask about an 'all-inclusive' delivery package, several Buchanan County hosts bundle delivery, setup, and pickup so you literally just show up and start camping.
independenceia.gov/389/RV-Park-CampgroundHow far can I travel on an Independence, IA RV trip?
You've got serious range from Independence, IA, the town's central location in northeast Iowa makes it a perfect launchpad. From here you're about 30 miles to Waterloo, 60 miles to Cedar Rapids, 95 miles to Dubuque on the Mississippi River, 150 miles to Des Moines, and roughly 230 miles to the Wisconsin Dells. Many RVezy hosts offer 100-150 free miles per night, with extra miles at $0.30-$0.45 each, and some even offer RV rental with unlimited mileage for longer road trips. Pro tip: if you're planning a road trip from Independence to the Driftless Area or Field of Dreams in Dyersville (just 45 minutes east), ask the host about a flat weekly mileage package to save money.
traveliowa.com/cities/independence-iowa/78/Where are the best campgrounds near Independence, IA?
You have great options for RV camping in Independence and the surrounding area. Top picks include Independence City RV Park & Campground on Highway 150 with full-hookup sites along the Wapsipinicon River, Fontana Park near Hazleton with wooded sites and a fishing pond, Backbone State Park's campgrounds about 25 minutes east (Iowa's oldest state park, known for limestone bluffs and trails), and George Wyth State Park near Waterloo with lakeside sites and paved bike trails. Pro tip: the Independence City RV Park is seasonal and keeps some sites first-come, first-served, which is perfect for spontaneous weekend escapes, and Iowa State Park sites can be reserved through the reserveiowa.com system.
iowadnr.gov/places-to-go/state-parks/iowa-state-parks/backbone-state-parkWhen is the best time to rent an RV in Independence, Iowa?
The sweet spot for an Independence RV trip is mid-May through mid-October, when daytime highs run 70-85°F and Iowa's countryside is at its lush green peak. July is the warmest month (average highs around 84°F) and best for swimming the Wapsi, while late September into early October delivers gorgeous fall colors along Backbone State Park's bluffs with cooler 60-65°F days. Winters are genuinely cold (January averages 13-28°F) and most local campgrounds close November 1, but some hosts offer winterized RVs for ice-fishing trips or stationary stays. Pro tip: book Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends 3-4 months out, those are Iowa's biggest camping holidays and the best rigs go fast.
weather.gov/dmx/I've never driven an RV before, will I be okay in Independence?
You'll do great, Independence, IA is one of the friendliest places in the Midwest to try your first time renting an RV. The streets around town are wide and flat, traffic is light, and the rural highways like US-20 and IA-150 are easy to navigate even in a Class C motorhome. Every RVezy host gives you a hands-on orientation at pickup, walking you through the generator, slide-outs, water systems, and dump procedures so you're never guessing. If you're nervous, book delivery and let the host park and level the RV for you. Pro tip: take a 15-minute practice loop around the Buchanan County Fairgrounds parking lot before heading out, it's huge, empty most days, and great for getting comfortable.
iowadot.gov/mapsWhat if my RV breaks down during my Independence trip?
You are never stranded: every RVezy booking includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the renter protection plan. One call connects you to dispatch for towing, tire changes, jump-starts, lockouts, or fuel delivery anywhere across Buchanan County and beyond. Repair shops in Independence and nearby Waterloo can handle most RV-specific issues, and your host is a message away in the RVezy app for quick troubleshooting (often it is something simple like a tripped breaker or a closed propane valve). Pro tip: save the roadside assistance number in your phone before leaving the host's driveway and snap a photo of your RV's VIN, it speeds things up if you need help along a quiet stretch of Highway 150.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my Independence, IA RV rental across state lines or to Canada?
Yes, interstate travel is welcome on most RV rentals in Independence, IA. You can typically cross into Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota with your host's standard rental agreement. Popular routes include the Mississippi River drive to La Crosse, WI (about 2.5 hours), heading north to the Twin Cities (about 4 hours), or chasing the Black Hills in South Dakota (about 8 hours). Travel into Canada may be allowed depending on the host and protection plan, so message your host before booking to confirm and arrange the right coverage. Travel to Mexico is not permitted on any RVezy rental. Pro tip: the Great River Road east toward Dubuque is one of the most scenic RV road trips from Independence.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityWhat kind of fuel mileage and gas costs should I budget for?
Budgeting fuel for your Independence RV trip is pretty straightforward. Expect roughly 8-10 MPG for Class A motorhomes, 10-14 MPG for Class C motorhomes, 18-22 MPG for Class B campervans, and your tow vehicle's normal MPG minus 30-40% when pulling a travel trailer. Iowa gas prices typically run a bit below the national average (recent statewide averages have been around $3.00-$3.30 per gallon for regular). For a typical 300-mile weekend loop in a Class C, plan on roughly $90-$110 in fuel. Pro tip: fill up in Independence or Waterloo before heading into smaller towns like Strawberry Point or Elkader, prices climb the deeper you go into the Driftless Area.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campground near Independence?
For an Independence RV trip, booking campgrounds 2-4 months ahead is the sweet spot for summer weekends, and 6 months ahead for holiday weekends like the Fourth of July. Iowa State Parks like Backbone, Pleasant Creek, and Volga River use the reserveiowa.com system and open reservations 3 months in advance to the day, so set a calendar reminder. Independence City RV Park takes phone reservations directly at 319-440-0472 and keeps walk-up sites available. County parks like Fontana book through Buchanan County Conservation. Pro tip: weekdays are wide open almost all summer, if you can swing a Tuesday-Thursday trip, you'll often snag premium riverside sites with zero stress.
iowadnr.gov/places-to-go/state-parksWhat are driving conditions like around Independence, Iowa?
Driving an RV around Independence is refreshingly easy, the terrain is gently rolling, roads are well-maintained, and traffic in Buchanan County is light outside of rush hour in nearby Waterloo. US-20 (a four-lane expressway just south of town) is the main east-west route and handles big rigs comfortably, while IA-150 north-south is two-lane but wide. Watch for occasional farm equipment on rural roads in spring and fall, plus deer crossings at dawn and dusk. Winter (December-March) can bring ice and blowing snow, which is why most rentals run April-October. Pro tip: avoid downtown 1st Street's older bridge in larger Class A motorhomes, take 5th Avenue across the Wapsi River instead for more clearance and easier turns.
hb.511ia.org/What amenities do campgrounds near Independence offer?
Local campgrounds make RV camping Independence super convenient. Independence City RV Park has 42 full-hookup sites (water, sewer, 30-amp electric, cable TV), shower facilities, picnic tables, fire pits, and a free dump station for guests. Backbone State Park offers electric sites, modern restrooms with showers, a dump station, and potable water fill stations near the campground entrance. Most county parks like Fontana have electric-only sites plus a centralized dump and water fill. Pro tip: if you need to dump or fill water between trips, the Independence City RV Park dump station is open seasonally to non-guests for a small fee, and Casey's General Store on 1st Street West is a reliable propane refill stop.
independenceia.gov/389/RV-Park-CampgroundWhat features and amenities come with Independence RV rentals?
Independence RV rentals are surprisingly well-equipped, even at the budget end. Expect a full kitchen (fridge, stove, microwave), a bathroom with shower and toilet, sleeping for 4-8 depending on floor plan, roof AC, furnace heat, and seatbelted travel seats. Many motorhome rental Independence options include a generator for boondocking, while travel trailers typically need shore power. Higher-end rigs add solar panels, outdoor kitchens, TVs, Bluetooth speakers, and even Starlink Wi-Fi. Pro tip: cell coverage is solid in town but spotty around Backbone State Park and the Driftless Area, so if remote work matters on your trip, filter for listings with Wi-Fi or a mobile hotspot included.
fcc.gov/BroadbandDataWhat add-ons and pickup options should I expect?
RVezy hosts in Independence offer practical add-ons to make your trip smoother. Common extras include linen and towel packages ($25-$50), camp kits with chairs and a grill ($30-$75), generator use ($15-$30/day), bike racks, kayak racks, and pet packages. Mileage policies vary, most hosts include 100-150 free miles per night, with overage at $0.30-$0.45 per mile, and some travel trailers offer unlimited mileage. Pickup is usually at the host's home, often within 10 miles of downtown Independence, though delivery to local campgrounds like Independence City RV Park is widely available. Pro tip: bundle linens, camp kit, and a generator into one booking, hosts often discount the package and you arrive with everything ready to roll.
independenceia.gov/389/RV-Park-CampgroundHow does payment and the security deposit work on an Independence, IA RV rental?
Payment on RVezy is simple and secure: you pay through the platform with a credit or debit card, never directly to the host. Typically you pay a portion at booking and the balance closer to your trip start date. A refundable security deposit is pre-authorized on your card before pickup and released after the host confirms the RV is returned in good condition, separate from your booking payment. To avoid issues, complete the pickup walk-around video with your host, return the RV with the fuel and propane levels noted at pickup, and empty the black and grey tanks if your rental agreement requires it. Pro tip: leave time for a quick dump-and-rinse at Independence City RV Park before drop-off to help your deposit release promptly.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksNearby cities with campgrounds
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