Ocheyedan Pits Recreation Area

How does a serene mix of open landscapes and tranquil waters sound for your next camping trip? The Ocheyedan Pits Recreation Area, just two miles south of Ocheyedan, Iowa, combines peaceful natural beauty with diverse outdoor activities. This 33-acre campground features a blend of grassy open spaces and scattered trees, offering a relaxing yet spacious environment for campers of all kinds.

The campground provides essential amenities, including electricity, drinking water, and well-maintained pit toilets. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, such as fishing in the 25 acres of surface water, hiking scenic nature trails, or swimming at the on-site beach. Sheltered picnic areas and accessible shorelines make it a practical spot for day trips or extended vacations. During the appropriate season, the adjacent Wildlife Management Area also allows public hunting.

Ocheyedan’s rich surroundings add to the appeal. The Ocheyedan Mound, formed by glaciers 13,000 years ago, and the nearby Willow Creek Wildlife Management Area—perfect for birding, photography, and nature study—are both within a short drive. This campground is a gateway to northern Iowa’s unique geological features and outdoor experiences.