Stephens Forest Campground

Open — Currently open for walk-in camping through December 31, 2025. The campground closes January 1, 2026, and will reopen April 1, 2026, with a new 100% reservation system accepting same-day reservations. Previously operated with a mix of first-come, first-served access during the winter season.

About

Stephens Forest Campground encompasses 70 campsites spread across Iowa's largest state forest system. The campground includes several distinct areas: Lucas Primitive Campground with 8 sites accommodating RVs up to 55 feet, Middle Campground with 9 sites including tent-only options, Mine Pond Campground with 5 sites near a fishing pond, Boy Scout Camp with a youth group site, and extensive equestrian facilities with 41 horse-friendly sites in the Whitebreast Unit. All sites are primitive with no hookups but feature fire rings and picnic tables. The forest was established in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and named for Dr. T.C. Stephens, a prominent Iowa conservationist. Today it spans over 15,000 acres across five counties, offering diverse habitat for wildlife including deer, turkey, and numerous songbirds. Two stocked ponds provide fishing for bluegill, largemouth bass, and catfish. Over 30 miles of multi-use trails accommodate hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The Woodburn Unit features six miles of backpacking trails with five pack-in campsites available first-come, first-served at no charge.

Directions

From the junction of Highway 34 and Highway 65 at Lucas, go south on Highway 65 for 2 miles, then west on 467th Street for 2 miles to enter the Whitebreast Unit. For the Lucas Unit, go south 2 miles on Highway 65, west on 467th Street 1 mile, then north on 137th Trail 1 mile.

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