Deer Ridge Campground

For us Iowans, the call of the outdoors is a familiar tune, especially when the weather is just right for camping. When it comes to finding a truly enjoyable and well-maintained spot to set up camp, Deer Ridge Campground in Hinton, Iowa, consistently comes up as a top choice. Nestled within the beautiful Hillview Recreation Area, this campground offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it a favorite among local outdoor enthusiasts. It's the kind of place where you can truly unwind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

What makes Deer Ridge Campground so appealing to us locals is its welcoming environment and the quality of its facilities. Reviews frequently praise the "open wide open spots," providing ample space for RVs and tents alike, a welcome change from some more cramped camping experiences. This spaciousness contributes significantly to the sense of privacy and tranquility, allowing campers to enjoy their surroundings without feeling overcrowded. Whether you're a seasoned RVer or new to the camping scene, the ease of setting up and the comfortable feeling of your site are immediately noticeable.

Beyond just the individual sites, Deer Ridge Campground is part of the larger Hillview Recreation Area, which means access to a wealth of activities and natural wonders. This expansive parkland ensures that there's always something to do, from exploring miles of trails to enjoying the park's various recreational offerings. It’s a testament to the efforts of the Plymouth County Conservation Board, which manages the area, in providing high-quality outdoor spaces for the community.

While some visitors note a small fee to enter the gate, many find the overall experience and the quality of the park well worth it, with options for yearly passes for frequent visitors. This minor detail doesn't detract from the overwhelmingly positive feedback about the campground's cleanliness, tranquility, and the dedicated efforts of the management, often highlighting the owner, Mike, for his meticulous maintenance and helpful local insights. Deer Ridge Campground truly embodies the spirit of Iowa's natural beauty and hospitality, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to embrace the outdoors close to home.

Deer Ridge Campground is conveniently located within the Hillview Recreation Area at JMVF+JJ, Hinton, IA 51024, USA. Hinton is a charming town in Plymouth County, Iowa, situated in the northwestern part of the state. This location places the campground within the picturesque Loess Hills, a unique geological formation known for its scenic beauty, rolling hills, and diverse ecosystems.

For Iowans, reaching Deer Ridge Campground is generally straightforward. It's located just one mile west of Hinton on County Road C60, and accessible from Wren Road. Its proximity to major population centers in Northwest Iowa makes it an ideal destination for short weekend trips or longer vacations. For instance, it's approximately a 16-minute drive from Sioux City, a key urban center, making it highly accessible for many residents.

The access roads within Hillview Recreation Area and leading to Deer Ridge Campground are well-maintained, ensuring easy navigation for vehicles of all sizes, including large RVs and fifth-wheel trailers, as confirmed by visitor reviews. The open, wide-open spots within the campground itself further simplify parking and setup. This ease of access, combined with the tranquil natural surroundings, makes Deer Ridge Campground a highly convenient and appealing choice for Iowans seeking a peaceful outdoor escape without venturing too far from home. The drive itself offers scenic views, preparing visitors for the natural beauty that awaits within the campground.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: All sites are equipped with 50, 35, and 20 amp electric service, filtered and softened water, and sewer hookups.
• Bathhouse: Modern bathhouse with clean restrooms and hot showers available.
• Laundry Room: On-site laundry facilities for guest convenience.
• WiFi: Available for staying connected during your stay.
• Seasonal Sites: Offers seasonal sites for extended stays, in addition to daily, weekly, and monthly rates.
• Camping Cabins: Two camping cabins (Hickory and Birch Cabins) are available overlooking the pond, offering a more comfortable camping experience.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area for children.
• Fishing Pond: A well-maintained fishing pond for catch-and-release fishing.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome, though specific rules may apply.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes these essential amenities.
• ADA Accessible Site: Site 15 in Deer Ridge is designed for campers with ADA parking placards.

• Spacious and Private Sites: Features "open wide open spots" that offer a sense of privacy and ease of maneuverability for all types of rigs.
• Part of Hillview Recreation Area: Access to a larger 580-acre park with diverse landscapes including grasslands, reconstructed prairie, oak woodlands, and wildlife habitat.
• Extensive Trail System: Miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Some parts of the park are open to hunting during specific seasons (Oct 15 - Jan 10), with recommendations for wearing blaze orange.
• Elk Herd: Visitors can observe an elk herd within Hillview Recreation Area.
• Winter Activities: Features a tubing hill open on weekends in winter and offers snowshoeing programs.
• Disc Golf Course: A 9-hole disc golf course added in 2019.
• Outdoor Learning Center: The Center for Outdoor Learning is available for educational programs and events.
• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Multiple picnic areas and a large picnic shelter available for gatherings, with the option to reserve the shelter for a fee.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Consistently praised for meticulously maintained grounds and clean facilities.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Generally a quiet campground, ideal for relaxation, although occasional noise from pavilion rentals may occur.

Address: JMVF+JJ, Hinton, IA 51024, USA (located within Hillview Recreation Area)

Phone: (712) 947-4270 (Plymouth County Conservation Board, managing Hillview Recreation Area)

Email: conservation@co.plymouth.ia.us

For general inquiries, reservations for the camping cabins or the Halloween at Hillview event (which can be reserved on the Tuesday after Labor Day), or to inquire about annual passes, it is best to contact the Plymouth County Conservation Board directly via phone or email. Daily and weekly campsite reservations for Deer Ridge are generally first-come, first-served, with the exception of the special Halloween weekend. Please note that there is a gate fee to enter the recreation area.

For us Iowans, Deer Ridge Campground is more than just a place to park an RV; it's a prime example of the accessible natural beauty and recreational opportunities available right here in our state. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, combining comfort, convenience, and a genuine connection to Iowa's landscapes.

Firstly, the "open wide open spots" are a significant draw. In a state where outdoor adventures are cherished, having a spacious, private campsite—even for larger rigs—makes all the difference. This allows for comfortable setup, room for kids to play, and a feeling of seclusion that’s hard to find in more crowded parks. For Iowans seeking a peaceful escape from daily life, this generosity of space is a huge plus, fostering true relaxation.

Secondly, being a part of the larger Hillview Recreation Area amplifies its appeal. This means that a stay at Deer Ridge comes with immediate access to miles of well-maintained trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding through the scenic Loess Hills. The presence of a fishing pond, a well-equipped playground, and unique features like an elk herd ensures there's always something to engage every member of the family, from avid outdoor enthusiasts to those just looking for a leisurely stroll. This variety of activities, all within a short drive from many Iowa communities, makes it an ideal local destination for both short getaways and longer stays.

Finally, the consistent praise for the campground's cleanliness and the responsive management by the Plymouth County Conservation Board underscores its commitment to providing a high-quality experience. The availability of full hookups, modern bathhouses, and even on-site laundry facilities adds a layer of comfort and convenience that makes camping accessible and enjoyable for everyone. While there's a nominal gate fee, many locals find the value provided—from the well-maintained grounds to the array of activities—far outweighs this small cost, especially with the option for annual passes. Deer Ridge Campground truly offers an enriching and accessible outdoor experience that celebrates the natural charm of Iowa, making it a beloved spot for residents year after year.

Deer Ridge Campground

JMVF+JJ, Hinton, IA 51024, USA