Things to do as an adult in Iowa that rival summer camp fun
Do you miss the feeling of going away to summer camp now that you’re an adult? Here are some things to do as an adult that rival that level of fun.
Who says that kids are the only ones who can have fun in the summer?
While the idea of being attacked by mosquitoes at sleepaway camp may be decidedly less appealing once you’re over the age of 12, that doesn’t mean you can’t replicate some of your fonder childhood memories. Now, you can do those arts & crafts at your own pace, or enjoy a simple canoe ride without worrying about whether the camp bully is going to tip the whole thing over and send you sprawling into the water.
Another bonus of being able to engage in activities as an adult that rival summer camp fun? You can pick and choose which ones you commit yourself to, and for how long. Plus, you don’t have to sleep in a tent or eat in a mess hall unless you really, really want to. (I’m not here to judge!).
Scroll through for some fun ways to liven up your June, July, and August.
*Sunscreen and bug spray not included.
Camping & hiking
We’re going to start by highlighting some of the places you can camp, hike, and explore the great outdoors in Iowa if you’re the type of person who most enjoyed these activities during your youthful adventures away from home. I picked one or two examples of each to give you a head start, but this list is by no means exhaustive. Think of it as more of a jumping off point/a way to get inspired to reignite your childlike sense of wonder
For additional campsite options, click here. More hiking trail suggestions can be found here.
Pikes Peak State Park (camping)
Located in McGregor, Pikes Peak State Park offers scenic views of the Mississippi River, 11 miles of trails, and several campsites dotted throughout the area. Modern facilities, including showers, are located on Pikes Peak’s campground. Reservations can be made here.
All the information you need for each campsite is listed on that reservations sheet. If you’re looking for a spot that can comfortably fit six or more people, or if you want to know whether you can bring your dog, browse the entire list to find the most suitable option for your trip.
Maquoketa Caves State Park (camping + hiking)
Another great option that captures the spirit of everything you loved most about summer camp as a kid is the Maquoketa Caves State Park. People have been hiking and picnicking here since the 1860s, and it’s easy to see why. The area is uniquely breathtaking, and it presents you with the chance to sleep under the stars and some staggering pine trees. (I, myself, am allergic to pine, so I’ll just have to live vicariously through you.)
Click here for campground details and reservations.
Wildcat Den Trail (hiking)
For those of you who want to be outside but don’t want to spend the night in a sleeping bag on the hard ground, going on a day hike at Wildcat Den Trail is a happy medium. There’s a 4.2-mile loop near Muscatine, which will take you a little less than two hours to complete. People tend to like it here because of the beautiful scenery, and because you can take your dog with you as long as you keep them on a leash.
Out on the water
Looking for a place to swim, sail, or something in between? Iowa’s got you covered there, too. TripAdvisor has some beaches you can take a look at here, but I’m going to go over two solid options with you that are well-reviewed on Google.
Raccoon River Swimming Beach
First of all, Raccoon River Park is a great name. Secondly, there’s a 500-foot-long beach located here that provides you with a gorgeous view of Blue Heron Lake. It’s important to note that swimming is only permitted in designated areas that have been roped off for the public. No lifeguards are on duty at Raccoon River Park, so please make sure you’re swimming safely and staying within the designated perimeters.
For more info, including details about the Beach Wheelchair Program, click here.
Lake Macbride State Park
Located in Solon, Lake Macbride State Park is a great place to fish or sail, or a little bit of both. Bring your own boat or call 319-624-2315 to rent a kayak, canoe, paddle board, pontoon, or motor boats for your visit. Please note that after Memorial Day, a 10 MPH motorboat limit will go into effect through Labor Day.
In terms of fishing, you can find muskie, walleye, channel catfish, and Kentucky spotted bass in the lake. More information on all of the things can be found here.
Arts & crafts
Finding arts & crafts classes near you is pretty easy peasy for the most part. All you need to do is type in “best craft classes near [city/town]” or “best art classes near [city/town]” into Google or Yelp and browse through the available options. Being more specific, like saying “ceramics classes” or “watercolor classes,” may make it easier to find exactly what you’re looking for on the first try.
To get you started, the Iowa Ceramics Center and Glass Studio in Cedar Rapids has a full calendar of events you can look through by clicking this link. Similarly, the Des Moines Art Center hosts a variety of workshops and classes which you can find here.
If you want to skip the class entirely and do some fun crafts at home or with a group of friends, YouTube is a valuable source of information. Teach yourself how to make a friendship bracelet, a collage, or a bullet journal. You can also learn how to crochet, do needlepoint, draw still lifes, or any number of other creative pursuits by typing what you’re looking for right into YouTube’s search bar.
Happy crafting!
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