Starting in 2026, most campsites in the Iowa state park system will be reservable through the DNR’s Online Reservation System. The switch will complete a process that started in 2021, when a successful pilot project for 100 percent reservable sites at Maquoketa Caves State Park garnered positive camper feedback. 

In the last five years, an additional 16 campgrounds have transitioned to 100-percent reservable sites and the remaining state park campgrounds will make the switch for the 2026 camping season.*

Benefits of 100-percent reservability:

• Reservations can be made online or by phone using a credit card.
• Availability is known immediately and can be made the same day.
• If a cancellation occurs, the site is available for reservation within minutes.
• Increase in convenience and reduction in uncertainty for campers who previously may have traveled to a campground not knowing if sites were open.
• More site availability in every campground . 
• Customers can change a reservation until 10 pm on the day of arrival - some limitations apply. Additionally, campers can change a reservation to a different park allowing for more flexibility.
• Ability for staff to spend more time caring for the park, programming and natural resource upkeep, instead of handling cash or check-ins at the campground. 

A kiosk in each campground will provide online reservation information for those who come to the park looking for a site. Campers will no longer need to complete paper registration forms or pay with cash; all reservations will be through the Online Reservation System or by calling (877) 427-2757. 

*Two rustic campgrounds will remain walk-in only, which are Preparation Canyon and Fort Defiance.

First Day Hikes: Kick off the New Year by joining a First Day Hike in an Iowa State Park. More than 40 parks are hosting either a guided group hike or suggesting a self-guided hike. Hikers can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter, and experience spectacular views, beautiful settings and the cultural treasures offered by Iowa’s state parks. Find a complete list on the First Day Hike page.

Volunteer Day: Mark your calendar for September 26, 2026, when Iowans are invited to lend a hand at several state parks and forests hosting volunteer events. Join park staff to help care for Iowa’s natural areas, freshen up campgrounds and facilities, and spend time outdoors. Find volunteer opportunities on the DNR’s Volunteer web page.

Iowa state parks have been renovating several campgrounds and facilities to modernize and improve visitor experiences. Be sure to check out the Park Alerts and Closures page when planning your trip in case the construction projects impact a park you plan to visit in 2026.

2026 Project Updates:

Brushy Creek – campgrounds will re-open July 15, 2026. Improvements include upgraded campsites to full hook ups; new parking lots, roads, grills and picnic tables; new ADA sites and improved utilities (water, electric, sewer).

Clear Lake – the campground will fully re-open for the 2026 recreation season after upgrades to electrical, roads, campsite renovations and updated shower buildings. The lodge will be closed in 2026 for renovations.

Lake Keomah – the lake is tentatively scheduled to begin refilling in February 2026 after a restoration project. A new south boat ramp, bathroom and trail connecting boat ramps around the lake will open later in 2026.

Ledges – the east shower building in the campground has been renovated and will re-open for the 2026 recreation season. The Oakwood Shelter will be closed to reservations in 2026 as it is renovated.

Lewis and Clark  – the entire park is currently closed to visitors for hazardous tree removal, with completion in the summer of 2026. 

McIntosh Woods – the campground will be closed for the 2026 recreation season. Renovations will include: upgrading all sites to full hook up, reconfiguring sites for better traffic movement and increased green space, adding ADA sites, constructing a new shower building, upgrading utilities (water, sewer, electricity), paving and adding parking, and installing new fire rings. 

Pleasant Creek  – the campground is scheduled to re-open July 4, 2026. Improvements include upgrading nine sites to electric, installing new ADA sites, and adding new gravel camppads and a new dump station. The beach restroom also is being renovated and is scheduled to open Memorial Day 2026. 

Waubonsie  – the campground will re-open May 15, 2026 after completion of a waterline project. The cabins will be closed through 2026 for waterline upgrades to those facilities.

Additional small projects that may impact your visit:

• Maquoketa Caves – Visitor Center bathroom will re-open in May 2026 after septic system updates.
• Pine Lake State Park – cabin parking lot improvements will be completed mid-May 2026. Cabins will remain open.
• Templar (Great Lakes Area) – the bathroom will be closed for improvements in 2026.
• Wapsipinicon  – the playground bathroom will re-open Memorial Day 2026 after septic system updates.