Iowa’s state parks and nature areas that allow tent camping are becoming increasingly crowded. Fueled by COVID-19, the “camping surge” is making it increasingly difficult to reserve a camping spot in many popular camping areas throughout the state.

Tent camping has gained popularity over the years as an affordable way to enjoy a family getaway.

Make A Camp Site Reservation Early!

When it comes to camping in Iowa, the early bird gets the worm! When you decide to go on a camping trip, you must make your reservations ahead of time. This is especially important now with Iowa parks seeing huge increases in visitor traffic.

COVID-19 lockdowns have really gotten on people’s nerves and practically everyone is looking to spend time outdoors!

If you forget to make your reservation or book too early, you may find that your spot in the campground is taken by someone else. To avoid this, you should make your camping reservations at least three weeks before you intend to go. The sooner you make your plans, the less stress you will experience when you visit the park.

Tent camping doesn’t require a huge investment or a giant RV or camper trailer. Just a trunk or hitch haul type cargo carrier is all most families need to hit the road on a family camping trip.

Today tent camping is enjoyed by millions of Americans and is growing in popularity each year.

The family tent has become an essential part of many families’ camping tent camping experience. In recent years, the family tent has evolved into a versatile piece of equipment.

Modern tents are super fast and easy to erect and are very roomy.

Many modern tents feature fabric “section” dividers to make rooms inside the tent for privacy. And with the new breed of the plug-and-go king, queen, and double-size air mattresses, it’s now fast and easy to convert any tent to a bedroom in a matter of minutes.

Gone are the days of struggling with awkward metal poles to set up the family tent!

Some of the new “instant tents” can literally be erected in 3 minutes. They utilize flexible rods that are bent into place to support the tent fabric. Campers can check out camping gear reviews online to decide how much they wish to spend on a tent. “Instant” tents do cost a bit more but the ease of setup is worth the price for many campers.

Camping Safety Tips

Whether you’re planning a summer camping trip or an autumn hiking trip, it’s important to take the necessary precautions. Camping is meant to be safe and fun, but there are still certain safety tips that every camper should follow.

• Avoid setting up camp under large trees. Storms can break off limbs that can fall and crush tents.
• Avoid setting up on tree roots. If lightning hits a tree the electricity can travel down and through exposed roots.
• Always wear bug repellant. Lymes disease is on the rise so protection from ticks is crucial.
• Bring a first aid kit. Boo-boo’s can happen anywhere and you want to be prepared!

Camping can be great fun for all ages, but it’s important to exercise caution when it comes to planning trips and equipment. By learning more about the safety tips that have stood the test of time, campers can ensure that they provide themselves and their friends or family with the experience of a lifetime.

Once you have your camping and campground reservations, you can enjoy your trip at any of Iowas parks that allow camping. There are many activities that you can partake in, such as hiking, boating, swimming, mountain biking, fishing, and the likes.

Don’t Worry If You Forgot Some Things At Home

When you are at the campground, you can make your reservations and purchase other items at the park store. There are also stores located inside many of Iowas parks so that you don’t have to go too far from your vehicle to buy the items that you need.

Camping is all about fun outdoors with friends and family. As the popularity of camping continues to grow, Iowa campers need to learn to always plan their trips in advance and call to make a reservation.

The days of just pulling into a camp ground and getting a camping spot are fading fast but the fun of camping is here to stay!