Ottumwa Stories: Camping or Glamping? We've Got Both!

Published June 21, 2019

Camping means different things to different people. It might be pitching a tent and spending the night on the ground. Or it could be a trailer or RV with all the hookups. And now glamping makes having all the comforts of home available on the road. There are just so many options to choose from, and Ottumwa has them all.

The Ottumwa Campground is located in 340 acres of park space near the Des Moines River and the Wapello County Trail System. Greater Ottumwa Park provides access to picnic tables, shelters, fireplaces, tennis courts, playground equipment, and other great natural features. Tent camping and RV parking are both available for a daily fee. The campgrounds are open from March 30 through October 31. Contact Ottumwa Parks & Recreation for more information.

But what if you’re looking for a little luxury in your camping adventure? Try glamping – you know, glamorous camping. You can stay in the great outdoors but in a less rustic setting. The two modern cabins at Pioneer Ridge Nature Area, Burr Oak Cabin and White Oak Cabin, offer guests the opportunity to connect to the natural world with some modern luxuries. The cabins have full bathrooms and sleep six. The modern cabins are 4-season cabins with geothermal heating and cooling. Contact Wapello County Conservation to make your reservations today.

So, are you a happy camper or a happy glamper? Would you rather rough it outdoors, or is your idea of roughing it not having room service? Let the Greater Ottumwa Convention & Visitors Bureau help you plan your best camping trip ever – campers and glampers are all welcome!