After hours of watching the white lines of the interstate blur by, there’s a certain kind of exhaustion that sets in. The constant drone of the tires on the pavement, the endless parade of semi-trucks, the hunt for the next fuel stop, it can all start to feel like a grind. Sometimes, you just want to get off the highway and find a place that’s quiet, a place where you can hear birds instead of air brakes. If that’s the kind of experience you’re looking for, then let me tell you about a little spot called Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow, tucked away in the rolling cornfields just a few miles west of Iowa City. This isn’t your typical highway-side dump station. This is a full-fledged campground, a family-focused resort that offers a much-needed dose of tranquility for the weary road warrior. It’s the kind of place you pull into and immediately feel your shoulders relax. The pace is slower, the air feels cleaner, and the whole vibe is just more… human.
Finding Sleepy Hollow is part of the charm. It’s located near the small town of Oxford, right along the historic U.S. Route 6. Getting there means leaving the frantic energy of I-80 behind and taking a scenic drive through the heart of the Iowa countryside. It’s a journey that feels like a transition, taking you from the world of long-haul trucking to the world of weekend camping. The campground itself is nestled among wooded ponds and open fields, offering beautiful sunset views that you just can’t get at an interstate rest stop. Now, this is a private campground, not a public facility, so you can’t just roll in at 2 a.m. and expect to find the dump station open. Access is primarily for registered guests, but here’s a little insider tip: they are often willing to let transiting RVers use their facilities for a small fee, provided you call ahead. A quick, friendly phone call can make all the difference. It allows you to check their hours, confirm availability, and get clear instructions on where to go when you arrive. This simple act of courtesy is key when dealing with private parks, and it almost always pays off.
When you arrive, you’ll likely find a gated entry, which adds a nice sense of security. The first step is to check in at the main office. This is where you’ll pay your fee and get the lay of the land. Don’t be surprised if a friendly staff member offers to escort you to the dump station. It’s all part of the resort-style experience. The pace here is much calmer than what you’d find at a truck plaza. You won’t feel rushed or pressured by a line of other rigs waiting behind you. The dump pad itself is well-designed. Many campgrounds have a single, awkwardly placed drain, but Sleepy Hollow often features dual sewer drops. This is a thoughtful touch that accommodates rigs with different drain positions, whether yours is on the side or at the rear. It’s a small detail, but it shows they understand the needs of RVers. And, most importantly, you’ll find both a non-potable rinse hose and a separate, clearly marked potable water spigot. This means you can do a thorough black tank flush and then safely top off your freshwater tank before hitting the road again. For anyone who enjoys boondocking, having access to fresh, clean water is a massive advantage.
The amenities here go far beyond just a hole in the ground. Because it’s a full-service campground, you have access to facilities that can make your stop so much more productive and refreshing. There are clean showers and laundry rooms, allowing you to get yourself and your clothes clean while your tanks are draining. It’s a great way to hit the reset button after a few days on the road. The park is very pet-friendly, with a dedicated dog run and plenty of walking trails around the fishing pond. It’s the perfect place for your dog to burn off some energy and enjoy a good run in a safe, open space. You’ll also find large dumpsters for trash disposal, so you can finally get rid of that bag of garbage you’ve been carrying around for two days. Most of the campsites here are full hookup sites with 30 and 50 amp service, but if you’re just there to dump, the staff will likely direct you to an easy-access overflow lane. The only thing you won’t find on-site is gas or propane, so it’s a good idea to plan a fuel stop before you arrive. The exits along I-80 near Coralville have plenty of options.
The cost for a drop-in dump can vary by season, but fellow travelers have reported paying a modest fee, often under ten dollars. Sometimes, if you pop into the camp store and buy some ice cream for the kids or a bundle of firewood, they might even waive the fee altogether. It’s all part of that friendly, small-business charm. The real value, however, isn’t just in the price. It’s in the experience. It’s about choosing a moment of peace over chaotic convenience. It’s about giving yourself a break. Before you go, be sure to check the local calendar. This is Hawkeye country, and on Iowa football home game weekends, every campground within a fifteen-mile radius gets booked solid. If you’re planning an overnight stay, you’ll want to reserve your spot well in advance. And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit. The swimming pool at Sleepy Hollow is a fantastic perk, especially after a long, hot day of driving. A quick dip can wash away the road grime and leave you feeling completely rejuvenated. So, if you find yourself cruising through Iowa and feeling the need for more than just an empty tank, consider taking the exit for Oxford. A stop at Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow is a chance to turn a chore into a mini-retreat. It’s a mellow, family-friendly alternative to the hustle of the highway, and a perfect reminder that sometimes the best parts of a journey are the quiet moments you find just off the main road.
3340 Black Hawk Ave NW, Oxford, IA 52322
(319) 628-6900
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
beyondercamp.com/sleepy-hollow-oxford-ia