Hinterland Festival
With indie gems, a fun and family-friendly vibe, and peaceful surroundings, find out why you should pack up your camper and head to Hinterland Music Festival.
Event information
Hinterland Music Festival offers exceptional RV camping at the Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater in Saint Charles, Iowa, just 30 minutes south of Des Moines. The three-day festival (August 1-3, 2025) features two onsite RV options: non-powered sites starting at $250 for Silver level (20'x40' spaces with generators allowed) and powered sites with 50-amp hookups for $550 (Gold with Power). Each site accommodates one RV with no water or sewage hookups, but provides access to showers ($10), restrooms, the late-night Campfire Stage, and a Dollar General store on-site. Festival wristbands cost an additional $35-50 per person and are required for campground entry. With first-come, first-served site selection and no RV deliveries permitted, early arrival is essential for securing prime shaded spots. Des Moines serves as the ideal RV rental hub, offering extensive inventory and convenient shuttle service to the festival grounds for those preferring off-site accommodations.
What is Hinterland Music Festival?
Hinterland Music Festival transforms Iowa's countryside into a magical musical escape every August, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025 with an impressive lineup including Tyler, the Creator, Kacey Musgraves, and Lana Del Rey. Set against rolling hills at the naturally formed Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater, this three-day festival creates an intimate single-stage experience where you'll never miss a set.
The festival's unique charm lies in its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere that attracts both die-hard music fans and outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond the main stage performances, Hinterland features the beloved Campfire Stage for late-night acoustic sets, a HinterKids tent with family activities, morning yoga sessions, and local artisan vendors showcasing Iowa craftsmanship.
What sets Hinterland apart from other festivals is its genuine commitment to creating memorable experiences in beautiful natural settings. The festival draws about 15,000 attendees annually, maintaining an intimate feel that allows for meaningful connections between artists and fans while showcasing both established and emerging talent across indie, folk, Americana, and alternative genres.
For your Iowa countryside adventure, explore Des Moines RV rentals for the largest selection and convenient festival shuttle access, or discover Indianola RV rentals for a quieter base camp just 20 minutes from the festival grounds.
When and Where is Hinterland Music Festival Held?
Dates: August 1-3, 2025 (Friday-Sunday)
Location: Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater, 3357 St Charles Rd, St Charles, IA 50240 Distance: 30 minutes south of Des Moines via Interstate 35
Daily Schedule: Gates typically open 4-6 hours before the first acts
Attendance: Approximately 15,000 music lovers annually
Tickets
How Much Does Hinterland Festival RV Camping Cost?
Hinterland offers tiered RV camping options designed to accommodate different comfort levels and budgets, with all pricing requiring separate festival admission tickets.
RV Camping Options:
- Silver RV (Non-Powered): $250 per site, includes 2 camping wristbands
- Gold RV (Non-Powered): $350 per site, closer to festival action
- Gold RV with Power: $550 per site, includes 50-amp electrical hookups
Additional Costs:
- Camping wristbands: $35-50 per additional person beyond included wristbands
- Festival tickets: $75-300+, depending on single-day vs. 3-day passes and tier level
- Showers: $10 per use (credit card only)
- Companion vehicle permits: Required if bringing additional cars
Money-Saving Tips:
- Book RV camping early—Gold with Power sells out fastest
- Bring generators for non-powered sites instead of upgrading
- Pack plenty of water since no hookups are available
- Consider Des Moines West KOA for full hookups and a shuttle to the festival
How Do I Rent an RV Near Hinterland for the Festival?
Central Iowa provides excellent RV rental access that puts you within easy reach of Hinterland while offering opportunities to explore the Hawkeye State's natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Des Moines serves as the optimal RV rental hub, offering the largest selection of festival-ready rigs and direct shuttle service to the festival grounds. Located 30 minutes from Saint Charles, Des Moines provides everything from compact campervan rentals perfect for couples to spacious Class A motorhomes ideal for larger festival crews.
Indianola offers a quieter alternative just 20 minutes from the festival venue, with competitive rental rates and easy access to nearby Lake Ahquabi State Park for pre-festival camping if onsite spots sell out.
Both locations provide excellent access to travel trailer rentals that handle Iowa's country roads with ease while offering the space and amenities needed for a comfortable festival weekend.
Explore Hinterland Festival RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Camping in St. Charles might feel like you’ve left all of civilization behind, but the Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater is only around half an hour away from Des Moines, two hours from Omaha and around two-and-a-half hours from Kansas City. The interstate serves the area well, and the festival grounds themselves are just off I-35. Travelers can stay updated on road and weather information for Iowa through 511 by phone or online.
Parking areas
Once you get off the Interstate, festival staff will direct you to the parking lots. You can park, but not camp, in the general area, but in the dedicated RV camping area.
Public Transportation
Unfortunately, there’s no public transit route directly to the festival grounds. However, the festival does offer a $20 shuttle service from the Southridge Mall in downtown Des Moines, which is fairly accessible by bus from both Omaha and Kansas City. This is also a great option if you’re watching the pennies when it comes to parking since parking at the mall is free.
Where to stay
Onsite
Hinterland provides dedicated RV camping areas within walking distance of the festival grounds, offering the full immersive experience with 24/7 access to late-night Campfire Stage performances.
Powered RV Sites (Gold with Power):
- 50-amp electrical hookups with 30-amp adapters available for purchase
- 20'x40' spacious sites accommodate most RV sizes
- Closest proximity to festival entrance
- Premium pricing reflects convenience and power access
Non-Powered RV Sites (Silver & Gold):
- Generator use permitted during designated hours
- Same 20'x40' site dimensions as powered options
- Gold level offers closer proximity than Silver
- Self-sufficient setup required for extended comfort
Important RV Guidelines:
- No water or sewage hookups available at any level
- No RV deliveries permitted—drive your own or arrange pickup
- No re-entry once your RV exits the campground
- Vehicle credentials (window stickers) required and shipped prior to the festival
- First-come, first-served site selection within the purchased level
Nearby
If onsite camping sells out, Ledges State Park offers a scenic backup option with full hookups just 45 minutes north, while Saylorville Lake campgrounds provide water recreation opportunities 30 minutes northeast of the festival.
Getting around
Golf carts, bikes, and ATVs are all banned at Hinterland, so the only real way to get around is on foot (in keeping with the festival’s family-friendly policies, strollers are welcome). Thankfully, the area is relatively compact, so you won’t need to do too much walking. In terms of accessibility, the festival grounds are relatively flat, and there’s enough space that you shouldn’t find it too difficult to maneuver a wheelchair or mobility scooter. However, not all of the area is served by walkways, and the ground can get pretty muddy.
What to pack
Clothing
Whatever else you do, pack for heat and humidity. August in Iowa sees high temperatures and a lot of cloud cover. Breathable fabrics, such as cotton, can make all the difference. There’s also a decent chance of rainfall this time of year, so be sure to bring a light waterproof jacket (look for one with vents or some other design that makes it more breathable than the average trash bag). Of course, you could also be treated to blazing sunshine, so be sure to pack a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses. You’re probably going to be standing in line a lot, so bring sturdy, comfortable shoes and moisture-wicking socks.
Gear
Chairs aren’t permitted in the amphitheater, but you’ll definitely want to bring at least a tarp. Not all sites at the campgrounds are shaded, so it’s a good idea to bring a shade structure of some sort if you’re planning on hanging out during the day at your campsite.
Health & Safety
Two words: bug spray. A heavy-duty insect repellent can make all the difference between a good Hinterland experience and less than wonderful one, as the humid conditions and nearby lake attract all sorts of buzzing critters. As always, sunscreen is a must, and while there is a first-aid tent at Hinterland, it never hurts to carry your own kit in case of minor cuts and scrapes.
Where to eat
Cooking
Campfires are allowed at Hinterland as long as they’re kept to designated grills or rings, so you can cook away to your heart’s content. However, keep in mind that fire regulations can change with the weather. Ensure that none of your food is stored in a glass container. There’s a general store at the campground, but prices are a bit steep, and there’s not much in the way of groceries in St. Charles, either. You’re better off making a pitstop in Des Moines or in the nearby town of Winterset to pick up supplies.
Restaurants
The community of St. Charles, Iowa is not known for having a long list of restaurant choices. In Winterset, a couple of miles away, you’ll find some pretty good classic American fare and pub grub, as well as some Mexican options. You’ll have to head up to Des Moines if you’re looking for variety or to find something gluten-free or vegan. Travelers can also look for meal options along I-35 in both directions.
Vendors
Hinterland is home to a variety of food vendors, mostly serving up BBQ, grilled cheese, and other quick and tasty food options, though there are some healthier options as well. The festival makes a point to ensure that all dietary requirements are catered for according to guest requests. You may also want to check out the craft stalls, which stock creations from local independent artists.
Safety
Security
Hinterland’s organizers are very security conscious, and unfortunately, that does make for long lines. Expect everything you bring to be searched thoroughly. Unlike many other music festivals, backpacks are permitted, but you’ll save yourself a lot of time if you bring a clear bag. Outside food and drink, glass and sun tents are strictly banned. The festival grounds are patrolled by private security, and you can generally expect a police presence as well.
Weather
Your primary weather concern is going to be the humidity. Braving the outdoors in an Iowan August can feel like breathing soup, so be careful to stay hydrated. Summer storms are possible, and you may want to review the weather ahead when packing for your trip. The bands at Hinterland play on come rain or shine, so if you feel unsafe, leave or inquire with staff while there.
Medical
You’ll find a first-aid tent on the festival grounds, as well as a medical and security RV at the campground. Both are staffed by EMTs. There’s a small general medical practice in St. Charles, as well as a pharmacy, but the nearest emergency care centers are a few miles away in either Winterset or Oscola.
