RVezyRV rental marketplace
List your RVCampgrounds and RV parks near Washington, IA
39 campgrounds and RV Parks near Washington, IA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
39 campgrounds
3592 campsites
15 RVs available for delivery
From $15/night
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Best campgrounds near Washington, IA
Lake Darling State Park
Brighton, IA (13 miles away)
$$$$$
(118 sites)
+6
Keokuk County Izaak Walton League
Sigourney, IA (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(11 sites)
+5
Updog RV and Camping
Mount Pleasant, IA (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(45 sites)
+3
Crossroads RV Park
Mount Pleasant, IA (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(34 sites)
+6
Midwest Old Threshers Campground
Mount Pleasant, IA (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(1200 sites)
BEYONDER Getaway at Sleepy Hollow
Oxford, IA (27 miles away)
$$$$$
(108 sites)
+9
Unhitched Sleepy Hollow RV Park
Oxford, IA (27 miles away)
Primitive - Lake Macbride State Park
Solon, IA (35 miles away)
$$$$$
(56 sites)
+3
Scales Pointe Camping and Boating
North Liberty, IA (35 miles away)
$$$$$
(92 sites)
+6
Cam lo-Dis-E-Ca
Solon, IA (35 miles away)
$$$$$
(10 sites)
Amana Colonies RV Park
Iowa (37 miles away)
$$$$$
(450 sites)
+10
Geode State Park
Danville, IA (37 miles away)
$$$$$
(90 sites)
+5
Most common amenities
Pet friendly Toilets Tables Grills Dump station Playground Showers Hiking Trails Internet
Camping near Washington, Iowa overview
Washington sits in southeast Iowa's rolling farmland, about fourteen miles northeast of Lake Darling State Park and within easy driving distance of the Mississippi River corridor. The area mixes public state-park camping with private RV parks that cater to travelers on Highway 1, Highway 92, and US-218.
The closest full-service public option is Lake Darling State Park, a 1,418-acre park in Washington County that anchors most RV trips in the region. The campground features full hook-up sites with sewer, water, and electric, along with electric-only and non-electric sites, modern shower and restroom facilities, a playground, and a conveniently located dump station. Private options nearby include Updog RV and Camping, Crossroads RV Park, and BEYONDER Getaway at Sleepy Hollow, plus Midwest Old Threshers Campground in Mount Pleasant to the south.
Washington itself provides grocery stores, propane, hardware, and medical services, making it a practical base for a multi-night stay while day-tripping to lakes, small towns, and rural attractions.
Things to do near Washington, Iowa
Lake Darling is the main outdoor draw. A 13.6 mile trail encircles the entire lake, taking hikers through wetland areas around the fringes of the lake, through successional woodlands and remnants of native prairie to a cemetery dating back to the 1800s. The trail is open to hikers, runners, mountain bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowmobilers.
On the water, Lake Darling is a popular boating lake for both power and non-power boats. Any size motor may be operated at no wake speeds, and two boat ramps provide convenient lake access. Paddle boats, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and a rowboat are available to rent at the Friends of Lake Darling Boat Rental Concession, which is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Anglers target catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, bullheads, bluegills, and carp at Lake Darling. Mount Pleasant, roughly 30 minutes south, hosts the Old Threshers Reunion each Labor Day weekend.
Camping spots and RV parks near Washington, IA
Seasonal information for camping near Washington
- spring
March - May
61° / 39°F 95 mmWet, muddy shoulder season; facilities reopen by May 1.
- summer
June - August
84° / 63°F 115 mmPeak season; humid with afternoon thunderstorms.
- fall
September - November
63° / 41°F 65 mmCool, dry days; water shuts off mid-October.
- winter
December - February
34° / 16°F 40 mmState-park campground closed; cabins stay open.
The public camping season is short and clearly bracketed. Lake Darling's campground is closed each year from November 1 through March 31, and the campground is 100 percent reservable, accepting reservations April 1 through October 31 until 10:00 pm CST the day of arrival. The peak window runs May 1 through October 15, with off-peak dates in April and late October.
Facilities follow the same rhythm. Park staff generally try to have the water on and shower buildings and dump stations open by May 1, and generally start closing down shower buildings and turning off water and dump stations around mid-October depending upon the weather. Frost-free hydrants may be available for off-season camping, but campers need to call the park to confirm hydrant availability, and if camping in April or later in October, there is no guarantee modern facilities will be available.
Cabins run year-round. The park offers winter activities, including snowmobiling and cross country skiing, and visitors are welcome to cozy up in a year-round cabin for a weekend getaway.
How to book campgrounds near Washington
State-park sites use Iowa's central reservation platform. Advanced campsite and cabin reservations can be made through the online reservation system for Lake Darling State Park, which is 100 percent reservable and requires a reservation. Reservations must be made 4 days ahead of arrival and can be made up to 12 months in advance. The reservation website is iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com and the reservation call center is 1-877-427-2757.
Cabin bookings have added steps. If the online reservation window has closed, call the park office at 319-694-2323 regarding cabin availability. All last minute cabin rentals must be a minimum of two nights, are handled by park staff, and must be done prior to arriving at the park.
Private parks in the area, including Updog RV and Camping, Crossroads RV Park, and BEYONDER Getaway at Sleepy Hollow, each use their own booking systems and typically allow shorter lead times. Midwest Old Threshers Campground fills quickly around the Labor Day reunion, so reserve early for that week.
What to expect at campgrounds near Washington
Expect a mix of open, sunny sites and shaded loops on gently rolling terrain. At Lake Darling, sites range from full hookup down to non-electric. Accessible modern restrooms are located at the beach and the campground, and accessible vault latrines are located at the campground boat ramp, main boat ramp, camping cabins, and east loop group camp area.
Rules mirror most Iowa state parks. Quiet hours typically run from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, campers should keep sites clean, store food securely, and use designated fire rings, making sure fires are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended. To help protect forests, buy firewood locally near the park and burn it all during the stay, since using local firewood is one of the best ways to slow the spread of forest pests.
Cell coverage is generally reliable in and around Washington but can weaken in wooded park loops.
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 Washington, IA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Washington, Iowa?
RV rental in Washington, Iowa is one of the most affordable ways to explore the Hawkeye State, with daily rates typically ranging from about $95 for a compact travel trailer to $275 for a fully loaded Class A motorhome. Travel trailers and pop-ups are the budget-friendly choice most families pick, especially for weekend trips to nearby Lake Darling State Park. To save more, book midweek (Sunday through Thursday) and aim for the shoulder seasons in May or September when host pricing tends to soften. Pro tip: filter for Instant Book listings on RVezy to lock in your dates fast, since Washington County's small but loyal host pool fills up quickly around the Washington County Fair in July.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Washington,IowaWhat license do I need to rent an RV in Washington, Iowa?
Great news: a regular driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Washington, Iowa. Iowa does not require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or any special endorsement for personal recreational vehicles, even larger Class A motorhomes. To be an approved driver on RVezy you generally need to be at least 25 years old with a valid driver's license, which RVezy verifies digitally during booking so there is no extra paperwork at pickup. Visiting from outside the U.S.? Bring your home-country license along with an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your local auto association. Most first-time renters are surprised how quickly the ID step is done, leaving you free to focus on planning your Iowa road trip.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs RV rental in Washington, Iowa covered by protection and roadside assistance?
Yes, every RV rental in Washington, Iowa booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can hit Highway 92 with real peace of mind. The protection plan covers accidental damage to the RV during your trip, and you choose your coverage level (not the host) during the booking process to fit your comfort and budget. While it isn't traditional auto insurance, it provides meaningful financial protection so a small mishap doesn't ruin your trip. Pro tip: take a quick walkaround video at pickup and drop-off in Washington. It's a 2-minute habit that keeps everything smooth from start to finish.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat if I need to cancel my Washington, Iowa RV trip?
Plans change, and RVezy makes it low-risk to book your Washington, Iowa RV trip. RVezy (not individual hosts) sets the cancellation policy, which includes a money-back grace period right after booking so you can lock in your dates with confidence. Beyond that window, the refund amount depends on how far out you cancel relative to your trip start date. The RVezy support team is available to help walk you through your options if your plans shift. Pro tip: book early to grab the best rigs near Washington, knowing the grace period has your back if your schedule changes.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a pet-friendly RV rental in Washington, Iowa?
Absolutely, pet-friendly RV rentals in Washington, Iowa are easy to find on RVezy. Just toggle the Pet-Friendly filter on the listings page and you'll see rigs from hosts who welcome four-legged co-pilots, often with just a small cleaning charge. Once you're on the road, your pup will love Sockum Ridge County Park just southeast of town, which has shaded trails perfect for a leashed walk, and Lake Darling State Park (about 10 miles south near Brighton) allows leashed pets in the campground and on most trails. Pro tip: message the host before booking to mention your pet's size and breed. Iowa hosts are famously friendly, and a quick note usually gets a fast yes.
iowadnr.gov/places-to-go/state-parks/iowa-state-parks/lake-darling-state-parkCan the RV be delivered to my campsite in Washington, Iowa?
Yes, RV delivery in Washington, Iowa is one of the most popular options on RVezy, especially for first-timers who'd rather skip towing a trailer down Highway 1. Many local hosts will deliver and fully set up your rig at a campground like Lake Darling State Park, along the Kewash Nature Trail area, or even your family's driveway in town, then walk you through the water, power, and propane systems before they leave. Use the Delivery filter when searching listings and you'll see exactly which hosts offer it and their per-mile delivery rate. Pro tip: ask about a delivery-and-setup package for your first night. Waking up coffee-in-hand at a fully-prepped campsite is the easiest possible introduction to RV camping in Washington, Iowa.
iowadnr.gov/places-to-go/state-parks/iowa-state-parks/lake-darling-state-parkHow far can I drive on my Washington, Iowa RV trip?
You have plenty of range for a great Washington, Iowa RV trip. Most hosts include 100 to 150 free miles per night, and many offer unlimited-mileage add-ons or generous packages for longer adventures. From Washington you're well positioned: Iowa City is about 30 miles north, the Amana Colonies sit roughly 45 miles northwest, the Mississippi River town of Muscatine is about 35 miles east, and Des Moines is about 130 miles west. Heading further? Chicago is roughly 230 miles east, an easy two-day RV road trip from Washington, Iowa. Pro tip: check the host's mileage policy on the listing page before booking, and ask about a flat-rate weekly mileage bundle if you're plotting a bigger loop through the Driftless region.
iowadot.gov/mapsWhere are the best campgrounds near Washington, Iowa?
You're spoiled for choice when it comes to best campgrounds near Washington, Iowa. Lake Darling State Park (10 miles south in Brighton) is the local favorite, with 81 electric sites, a swimming beach, and great bass fishing. Marr Park, run by Washington County Conservation just west of town, offers quiet, wooded electric sites plus a nature center. Foster Woods County Park has rustic, peaceful sites tucked into hardwood forest. A bit further afield, Lake Macbride State Park near Solon (40 miles north) has full hookups and easy lake access. Pro tip: Iowa state parks book through the Iowa DNR reservation system, and summer weekends fill 3 months out, so reserve as soon as your dates are firm.
iowadnr.gov/places-to-go/state-parksWhen is the best time to rent an RV in Washington, Iowa?
The sweet spot for RV camping in Washington, Iowa is mid-May through early October, with late May, June, and September being the most comfortable. Summer highs typically sit in the low to mid 80s F, evenings cool into the 60s, and the rolling Iowa countryside is at its greenest. July and August can climb into the 90s F with humidity, so many travelers prefer the shoulder months. Fall brings spectacular color along the Skunk and English Rivers through mid-October. Spring (April to mid-May) is lovely but watch for thunderstorms. Pro tip: time your visit for the Washington County Fair in mid-July, or check the RAGBRAI route. Both turn a simple Iowa RV trip into a true Hawkeye State experience.
weather.gov/dmx/I'm renting an RV for the first time. Will I be okay in Washington, Iowa?
You're going to do great, and Washington, Iowa is one of the most beginner-friendly places to start. Roads here are flat, well-maintained, and refreshingly uncongested compared to big-city driving. Every RVezy host provides a hands-on orientation at pickup, walking you through the generator, slide-outs, water hookups, and dump procedures so nothing feels mysterious. You can also message the host with questions before you book, and RVezy support is available throughout your trip. Pro tip: book a smaller Class C motorhome or a travel trailer for your first trip, then do a short shakedown night at Marr Park (just a few miles from town) before heading further. By night two, you'll feel like a pro.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsWhat happens if I have a breakdown during my Washington, Iowa RV trip?
You're covered around the clock. Every RVezy booking in Washington, Iowa includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the protection plan, so a flat tire on Highway 92 or a dead battery at Lake Darling is just a phone call away from being fixed. Roadside service handles common issues like tire changes, jump-starts, lockouts, fuel delivery, and towing to the nearest qualified service center. Your host is also typically just a text away and knows their rig better than anyone. Pro tip: save the RVezy support number in your phone before pickup and snap a photo of the RV's VIN and license plate. Having those details handy makes any roadside call quick and stress-free.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my Washington, Iowa RV rental on a multi-state road trip?
Yes, and that's exactly what most travelers love about an RV road trip from Washington, Iowa. You're free to cross state lines anywhere in the continental U.S., which opens up incredible routes: head west to the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota (about 600 miles), south to the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri (about 300 miles), or east to Chicago and the Indiana Dunes (230 to 280 miles). Travel into Mexico is not permitted on RVezy rentals because insurance coverage doesn't extend there. Pro tip: confirm your mileage allowance with the host before booking a longer loop, and ask about their weekly rate. Many Washington-area hosts will discount multi-week bookings, making cross-country adventures genuinely affordable.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityWhat's the fuel budget for renting an RV in Washington, Iowa?
Fuel is one of the most predictable parts of your Washington, Iowa RV budget. Gas prices in southeast Iowa typically run a bit below the national average, and Washington has several convenient stations along Highway 1 and Highway 92. Expect roughly 8 to 10 MPG for a Class A, 10 to 14 MPG for a Class C motorhome rental Washington Iowa, 16 to 20 MPG for a Class B campervan, and 12 to 18 MPG for a truck pulling a travel trailer. For a 300-mile weekend loop, most travelers budget $90 to $150 in fuel. Pro tip: fill up in Washington or Mt. Pleasant before heading into smaller towns where prices climb. The GasBuddy app makes finding the cheapest local pump effortless.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campground near Washington, Iowa?
For peace of mind, book your campground 3 to 4 months ahead for any summer weekend, and 6 months or more out for major holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. Iowa State Parks (including Lake Darling and Lake Macbride) use the Iowa DNR online reservation system, which opens bookings exactly 3 months in advance. Washington County Conservation parks like Marr Park and Foster Woods take reservations through their county system and tend to have more last-minute availability. Pro tip: midweek nights almost always have openings, even in peak July. Pairing a Tuesday-to-Thursday Lake Darling stay with your RVezy booking is the local insider move for a stress-free Iowa getaway.
iowadnr.gov/places-to-go/state-parks/reservationsWhat are driving conditions like around Washington, Iowa?
Honestly, Washington, Iowa offers some of the easiest RV driving you'll find anywhere. The terrain is gently rolling with no mountain passes, and the main routes (Highway 1, Highway 92, and Highway 218) are wide, well-maintained, and rarely congested. Watch for occasional farm equipment on rural roads in spring and fall planting/harvest season, and be aware that severe summer thunderstorms can roll through quickly. Winter (December to February) brings ice and snow, so most renters stick to mid-spring through fall. Pro tip: if you're nervous about backing into a site, take the bypass around Iowa City rather than driving downtown, and use the wide pull-through sites at Lake Darling for your first night. Easy wins build confidence fast.
hb.511ia.org/What amenities do campgrounds near Washington, Iowa have?
You'll find a solid mix of amenities at campgrounds near Washington, Iowa. Lake Darling State Park offers electric sites, modern shower buildings, a dump station, and potable water fill stations, though sites do not have individual sewer hookups. Marr Park has electric hookups, restrooms, and a dump station on site. Lake Macbride State Park (about 40 miles north) has some full-hookup sites along with electric-only options. Most county parks include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water. Pro tip: top off your fresh water tank before leaving the campground and plan a dump stop on your way out. Iowa's state park dump stations are well-maintained and clearly marked, making the process refreshingly stress-free for new RVers.
iowadnr.gov/places-to-go/state-parks/iowa-state-parks/lake-darling-state-parkWhat's included in a typical RV rental in Washington, Iowa?
You'll be impressed by how turnkey RV rentals in Washington, Iowa really are. Most rigs come fully equipped with a queen or king bed, dinette and sofa sleepers, a full kitchen (stove, microwave, fridge, sink, basic cookware), a wet or dry bathroom with toilet and shower, roof A/C, furnace heat, and seatbelts for safe travel. Many hosts include linens, towels, camp chairs, and outdoor mats. TVs are common, and some include a generator for boondocking, though Wi-Fi typically depends on your phone's hotspot in rural Iowa. Pro tip: scan the listing's amenities checklist carefully and message the host about anything missing you need. Iowa hosts are known for going the extra mile and often throw in extras like grills or bikes.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Washington,IowaWhat add-ons and options are available for my Washington, Iowa RV rental?
Hosts in Washington, Iowa offer a great range of add-ons to make your trip easier. Popular options include delivery and setup (commonly $2 to $4 per mile from the host's location), generator use packages, bedding and kitchen kits, outdoor gear like camp chairs and grills, bike racks, and sometimes kayak or paddleboard rentals for Lake Darling. Mileage policies vary by host but commonly include 100 to 150 free miles per night with extra miles at around $0.30 to $0.45 each, and unlimited-mileage upgrades are often available. Pickup is usually at the host's home in or near Washington, with flexible afternoon pickup and morning drop-off windows. Pro tip: bundle delivery with a generator add-on for boondocking weekends. It's the smoothest way to experience Iowa's quieter county parks.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Washington,IowaHow do payment and the security deposit work for an RV rental in Washington, Iowa?
Payment is simple and fully handled through the secure RVezy platform, never directly with the host, which protects everyone involved. You'll pay your rental total (nightly rate, service fee, and any add-ons) when you book, using a credit or debit card. A refundable security deposit is also placed as a hold on your card before pickup, typically $500 to $1,500 depending on the RV's size and value. As long as the rig comes back in the same condition with a clean tank and full fuel, that hold is released after the trip end. Pro tip: take time-stamped photos and a quick video at pickup and drop-off in Washington. It's the single best habit for ensuring your deposit comes back fast and in full.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksCan I rent an RV in Washington, Iowa during winter?
Yes, winter RV rental in Washington, Iowa is possible, and it can be a genuinely magical way to experience the quieter side of Iowa. Some hosts offer four-season rigs with heated holding tanks, enclosed underbellies, and strong furnaces designed for cold Iowa winter days, where highs often range from the mid 20s F to mid 30s F from December through February. Use the listing filters and message hosts directly to confirm winter readiness before booking. Most winter renters either park at a friend's place with shore power or stay at the handful of Iowa parks with year-round electric sites like Lake Macbride. Pro tip: winter is fantastic for ice fishing at Lake Darling or visiting the Amana Colonies for their German Christmas markets in early December, all from the warmth of a properly winterized motorhome.
weather.gov/dmx/Nearby cities with campgrounds
Madison, WIKansas City, MODes Moines, IACedar Rapids, IAAlbia, IAChenoa, ILKearney, MOSigourney, IAHiawatha, IAJohnston, IAVan Meter, IAGridley, ILPleasant Hill, IASmithville, MOFairfax, IAMason City, ILNewton, IAWaterloo, IAMonona, WINew Milford, ILWest Baraboo, WIRockton, ILIndependence, MOGladstone, MO