Hinterland Music Festival is located in St. Charles, Iowa. We're about 30 miles south of Des Moines and just west of I-35. More specific directions and route information will be added here soon.

If you need to pick up wristbands, parking/camping window stickers, replace wristbands, or any other ticketing questions you’ll want to head to one of our Box Office locations. Please bring a photo ID (or picture of the photo ID) of the original purchaser. Head here for info on wristband shipping.

If you are able, heading to Val Air Ballroom on Tuesday is highly recommended.

On-Site
Temporary parking is available in the Box Office Parking Lot. Located next to the 4-Day General Parking Lot and Shuttle Drop-Off.
- Wed., July 29 - 9am-9pm
– Thurs., July 30 – 9am-9pm
– Fri. July 31 – 9am-9pm
– Sat., Aug. 1 – 9am-9pm
– Sun., Aug. 2 – 9am-9pm

Off-Site
Val Air Ballroom, 301 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50265
– Tuesday, July 28 – 10am-8pm

‍

*Orders may be subject to $25 replacement fee per wristband*

‍

Tent Camping and Shuttle Passes are mobile tickets. Single day parking purchased after July 12 are also mobile tickets. Login to the AXS app to access.

‍

Charging lockers at Hinterland provide a place for you and your friends to store your freshly scored merchandise, jackets, bags and more - while also providing a charging place for phones, battery banks, and other devices. Each locker is internally equipped with a 3-in-1 USB charging cable that features USB-C, Lightning (Apple) and Micro USB connectors to charge devices securely within your locker.

Reserve a charging locker HERE.

Basecamp is the new central hub in the campgrounds. Located just west of Dollar General.



‍24/7 Food Vendors‍
Space Fruit, Pizza Nova, Iowah Noodz, Big Acai Bowl, Tropical Sno


Full-Service Bar
Open Wednesday 4pm-Midnight; Thursday-Saturday 9am-1pm, 9pm-1am; Sunday 9am-1pm, 9pm-Midnight

Vinyl DJ Sets
Plus playlists curated by Billy B. Well Weathers.
‍
Vinyl Cup Record Store
Shop records & more from Vinyl Cup.
‍
Hinterland Throwback Merch
Gear up with a wide assortment of merch from Hinterland’s past year stock. Open Wednesday 12pm-11pm, Thursday-Sunday 10am-4pm, 9pm-1am.
‍
HinterMarket Vendors
Shop cool finds from Wander & Co., Then Now Always, and Sunny Life Hats. Open Wednesday 12pm-11pm, Thursday-Sunday 9am-Midnight.
‍
SolFarm Organic Farm Stand

A sustainable, beyond-organic produce farm and homestead located just east of the Hinterland festival grounds. Their Basecamp farm stand will be selling fresh produce including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, potatoes, onions, garlic, zucchini and more. Open Thursday-Sunday 10am-2pm.

Subaru Outpost‍
Check out the new Outback Wilderness, often-forgotten camp items, games, and giveaways. Open Wednesday 1pm-6pm and Thursday-Sunday 9am-3pm.
‍
B.WELL Foundation

A Des Moines non-profit with a mission to develop and expand young minds and lift them to a place of prosperity through mentorship and education.
‍
Disc Golf Course
Play a round at our mini disc golf course just west of Basecamp. Discs will be available for rent from the Freak Disc Golf tent, along with other goodies to buy. Open Wednesday 12pm-Midnight, Thursday-Sunday 10am-Midnight. 

‍‍Water and Ice Stations

Bring your refillable containers to stock up.

‍

‍

‍

Take a stroll to our beautiful new sunflower field for a great photo opp or just some relaxing vibes. Located just west of Car Camping.

Explore our new hiking trails throughout the campgrounds. With nearly 3.5 miles of beautifully wooded paths, the trails are more than just a way to get where you’re going they’re a destination all their own.

Along the way, you’ll find plenty of surprises, including covered bridges, art installations, lemonade stands, a silent disco, a disc golf course and more. The trails will be lit at night, making them easy to enjoy throughout the festival weekend. After Hinterland, the trails will remain open year-round for locals and visitors to enjoy.

We recommend wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes so you’re ready to explore!

Dragonfly Trail
Bluegill Bend
Junebug Drive
Cedar Tree Path
Doe Drive
Wild Turkey Way
Goldfinch Trail
Firefly Pass
Raccoon Run

Stay tuned for the updated festival grounds map to see the location of the hiking trails.

Visit the Subaru Recharge Zone near the West Entrance for car karaoke, interactive art, and a place to cool down and recharge.

Do a little shopping at the fest! We have an amazing lineup for the 2026 HinterMarket.

‍

American Dance Party | Lakeland, FL

We use vintage clothing along with repurposed materials to create nostalgic yet fashion-forward products. All products are made in central Florida.

‍

Azapaza | Sioux City, IA

India imports, tapestries, festival garments, djembe drums, scarves, bags, jewelry, and incense.

‍

Baraka | Cincinnati, OH

At Baraka, our small team travels to Asia every year in search of unique and handmade jewelry, clothing, and textiles to share at festivals. All items are handmade or hand-assembled, sourced from dozens of makers across Asia. Inventory includes brass and sterling silver jewelry, clothing including tanks, tees, dresses, skirts, and pants, and accessories including bags, wall hangings, and notebooks. Plastic-free booth; post-purchase bags are made from upcycled silk from used sarees.

‍

Brim|Stone Hat Bar | Humboldt/Algona, IA

Custom hat boutique and studio specializing in personalized headwear where you can have your hat custom-burned and embellished.

‍

Iowa Henna | Des Moines, IA

Henna, glitter, face/body painting, clothes, fans, and light-up toys.

‍

KIN DSM | Des Moines, IA

Sterling silver jewelry, crystals and crystal jewelry, intentional items, and great festival additions like cute travel pouches and lip balm.

‍

Larissa Loden | Twin Cities, MN

Jewelry, hair claws, hats, socks, and permanent jewelry.

‍

Lucid Wood | Columbus, NE

Hand-carved jewelry using wood, antler, bone, and stone — pendants, bracelets, and earrings, all one of a kind. Also sells hand-carved animal skulls inlaid with crystals, moss, mushrooms, and LED lights, and driftwood lamps inlaid with quartz crystals. All sustainable and natural materials.

‍

Maddy Fusco Illustration | Des Moines, IA

Various forms of original art, including originals, prints, T-shirts, and stickers.

‍

Matt Meyung | Alexandria, KY

Handmade and CNC-engraved mixed media woodwork. Paintings on wood with fractal burning. Bourbon barrel decor.

‍

NVision Guitars | Ankeny, IA

Handmade guitars, picks, art, apparel, and music accessories.

‍

Permanent Collection | Des Moines, IA

Vintage letterpress art prints, cards, pennants, tote bags, coasters, and sweatshirts.

‍

Pepper Harrow | Winterset, IA

Flower crowns, wearable florals, lavender self-care products.

‍

Roadie Rack

Vintage band tees.

‍

Sad Girls Club | Seattle, WA

Latina-owned, Seattle-based slow fashion festival wear brand. Creates clothes inspired by culture, femininity, and original oil paintings translated into handmade lino-cut printed and crochet clothing/accessories including tops, purses, leg warmers, sweaters, dresses, and skirts. Available in sizes XS–4X. Uses thrifted yarn and reworked fabrics; every piece is one of a kind.

‍

Sunny Life Hats | Lake Helen, FL

Family-run, hand-crafted hemp sun hats, satchels, organic cotton bandanas, and small-batch shea-based sunblock. All items are hand-loomed/crocheted using eco-textiles and hand screen-printed from original art. Donates a portion of proceeds to service projects including tree planting, disaster relief, ocean plastic removal, and rural health clinics.

‍

The Dust Collective | Des Moines, IA

Vintage clothing and accessories, plus handmade goods.

‍

Then Now Always | Orlando, FL

Engraved wooden sunglasses and leather bracelets, hand-woven blankets, original design tees, tanks, sweats, and headwear.

‍

To Write Love on Her Arms | Melbourne, FL

Merchandise and apparel that directly funds the mental health nonprofit To Write Love on Her Arms, dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for those struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide.

‍

Wander & Co. | Milwaukee, WI‍

Social cause shop where every product benefits a nonprofit or cause. Apparel and camping accessories.

‍

Being a welcoming community for all Hinterlanders is one of our primary goals. As a guest at Hinterland, we ask you to actively work with us to create an enjoyable and accepting atmosphere for everyone. This includes speaking up when you witness unacceptable behavior.

We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or discrimination of any kind, including but not limited to: race, color, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, and disability status.

Offensive behavior includes, but is not limited to:

- Acts of physical assault or battery
- Verbal abuse
- Racial or ethnic slurs
- Groping, sexual assault, or unwanted sexual remarks
- Stalking
- Threatening language

Any individuals or groups found in violation of this policy may have their Hinterland pass revoked.

If you feel you've been harassed, or feel unsafe, please visit Guest Services or talk to Hinterland staff or security.

We are committed to ensuring all Hinterlanders have an inclusive and accessible experience. Please review the accommodations available below and feel free to reach out to us at access@hinterlandiowa.com with any questions.

Requesting Accommodations and Accessibility Wristbands
Guests with disabilities or a special medical need, can request these accommodations by emailing access@hinterlandiowa.com. Advance request by July 10th is recommended to ensure availability. Once you arrive, please visit the ADA check-in tent just outside of the South Entrance to finish registering and receive your Accessibility Wristband - this wristband will allow access to our available accommodations. One companion wristband is also available. Children under the age of 18 will be allowed as additional companions. There is not an accessibility ticket that needs to be purchased to utilize accommodations.

We accept requests for any of the following services:

- ASL Interpretation

- Other forms of Effective Communication (such as:  live captioning, large format print/braille literature, guided tours for guests with visual disabilities, assistive listening devices, or any other accommodation not listed)

To ensure adequate time for planning, requests for these services should be made by July 10th. While we will strive to accommodate requests, we cannot guarantee fulfillment after the cutoff date. To submit a request, please fill out the 2026 Effective Communication Request Form.

Once you arrive, please check-in at the Accessibility Services Hub to be connected with our interpreting team.

Parking
A separate accessibility parking lot is available for attendees with a valid government-issued persons with disability parking placard, permit, or license plate. For ADA parking, purchase an ADA Parking Pass at hinterlandiowa.com/tickets.

Viewing Area
An accessible viewing area with shade, small bar, folding chairs, accessible restrooms, and a water filling station is located inside the festival grounds.

Sensory Supportive Space
A tented space where sensory stimuli is more controlled for folks that may need a break or an opportunity to regulate.

Chairs
Chairs with legs are not allowed in festival grounds. However, if you have a medical need, you may bring your own from home. All chairs must have a tag from ADA Services.

Portable Toilets and Showers
Accessible portable toilets are located throughout the festival. Accessible showers are also offered (showers are available to all guests for a fee).

Charging Medical Devices
You are welcome to bring your powered medical device to ADA Services for recharging. Please note that staff are not responsible for devices left charging.

First Aid
First Aid tents are located in the festival grounds & campgrounds and staffed by trained personnel to provide any medical aid needed.

Food & Drink
Outside food or drink are not allowed in festival grounds. However, if you require special accommodation for dietary restrictions, please visit ADA Services for assistance.

Coolers
If you have medical related items or breastmilk that requires a cooler within the festival concourse, please visit the ADA Services tent for an accessibility tag.

Shuttles
The Des Moines Shuttle will have buses in rotation that have ADA accommodations and will drop off at the ADA Parking Lot.

Service Animals

Service animals are permitted throughout the venue. However, this does not include emotional support animals, therapy animals, or companion animals. Only legitimate service animals that are properly trained and under the proper care of their owners will be provided with the appropriate credentials.

The following guidelines must be followed:

• All service animals must be registered with the ADA department upon entry into the event. Please ask a security guard to call ADA upon entry.
• All service animals must remain by the handler's side at all times and must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered. If these devices interfere with the service animal's work or if the handler's disability prevents the use of these devices, the handler must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls
• Service animals must be housebroken
• Anyone bringing an animal will be responsible for and liable for any damage or injury caused by the animal
• All service animals should have legally required vaccinations (which ADA staff may ask to see for verification)

Escaping to rural Iowa's scenic landscape for 4 days of music is bound to be unforgettable, but in the anticipation of catching your favorite acts and making new friends, don't forget to make a game plan for your comfort and well-being throughout the weekend. Here's some sage advice from seasoned festival aficionados to help you make the most of your time at Hinterland.

1. Pace Yourself
It's tempting to try and do it all, but going full speed all four days is just not humanly possible. No one likes that FOMO feeling, but it's important to prioritize listening to your body if you push too hard you might have to miss a lot more than one set!

2. Recharge with Rest
While sleep might not be the first thing on your mind when you're surrounded by the festival buzz, resting once in a while goes a long way. Find a spot to take a load off for a little bit during the day or retreat to your campsite for a power nap. Earplugs and a cozy sleeping mat come in clutch for uninterrupted rest.

3. Fuel Your Adventure
Just as your car needs fuel to get you to St. Charles, your body will need nourishment to keep the good vibes flowing. Be sure to check out all the delicious eats from our food vendors. You've gotta recharge your batteries for the next dance session!

4. Dress to Impress AND for Comfort
Sprinkle in some practicality when selecting your festival styles. Think breathable fabrics, comfortable footwear, and versatile layers for adapting to changing temperatures and activities. A collapsible statement hat or funky sunglasses can elevate your look while shielding you from the sun. Stay prepared for unexpected weather changes with waterproof gear the fun doesn't stop, rain or shine!

5. Get Ready to Go the Distance
The festival grounds span about 1.5 miles, so be prepared to walk if you are parking or camping. There are designated walking trails between campgrounds and parking lots. You may also want to bypass all that by buying a Des Moines shuttle pass.

6. Drink Water and Chill
Hydration is paramount for keeping your energy levels up and your spirits high, so take advantage of our new improved free water refill stations scattered throughout the festival grounds, as well as shade tents and misting stations.

7. Arrive Early, Go With the Flow
Whether you want to set up shop in the front row or you're hoping to snag a particular spot in the grounds, everyone is excited to get into the festival as soon as possible. Because of this, plan to review the maps before you leave, arrive early and be patient. Go with the flow of the line as we make sure everyone gets in safely.

8. Asking for Help is Cool
Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply need a helping hand, don't hesitate to reach out to festival staff or fellow attendees for assistance. From first aid stations to friendly faces offering directions, the Hinterland community is here to ensure everyone has a good and safe time. We're always here for you at realperson@hinterlandiowa.com.

Please review our FAQs. If you can't find an answer, send us an email at realperson@hinterlandiowa.com.

There is a lost and found tent inside the festival grounds near the south entrance (see map).

All items turned into lost and found will be posted on Hinterland Lost and Found, where you can search for and claim your missing items.

If you do not see your lost item, you can create a Loss Report to notify the Guest Services team. If the item gets turned in, you will be notified.

Any lost and found items not claimed during the festival will be held for a year at the Liff storage facility and can be claimed during this time at Hinterland Lost and Found; Liff will then ship the item back to you.

We want to send a big thank you to all the St. Charles residents and businesses for greeting our crew and attendees with such open arms! As you visit us, please remember to be respectful of the people that call this friendly town home. Only park in designated Hinterland parking lots and not on city streets or business lots.

A few places in St. Charles you may want to visit while you are here include:

- SolFarm - sustainable & beyond organic produce, located on the SW side of I-35 and G50

- Tiger Lily Cafe- serving light bites and beverages on Main Street, open Thursday 4pm-7pm, Friday 6:30am-1:30pm and 5pm-9pm, Saturday 7:30am-1:30pm and 5pm-9pm, Sunday closed

- Talk Shop Lounge - restaurant and bar with food (closest restaurant to festival grounds), open Thursday 11am-12am, Friday-Saturday 11am-2am, Sunday 11am-10pm

- Jo's Dough - a micro sourdough bakery
‍
- Dollar General - if you need supplies, near South Entrance, open 8am-10pm

- Casey's - gas station just west of grounds, open 4am-10pm

- Post Office - if you need to mail something, on Main Street

‍

And nearby:

Northside Bar & Grill - in St. Mary's, casual eatery & barn, open 11:30am-11pm, closed Sunday

Hitchin Post Bar and Grill - in Bevington, home style cooking with daily specials, open Thursday 8am-2am, Friday-Sunday 7am-2am

‍

Hinterland Music Festival is located in St. Charles, Iowa. 

Maps are subject to change.

The set times will be announced closer to the festival. Stay tuned!

The last chance to buy tickets with a payment plan was Friday, May 29th. If you have questions about your exisiting payment plan, please reach out to AXS Support.

Immerse yourself in the weekend of music by setting up camp in the friendliest corner of the Iowa countryside.

Ways to Camp
There are four different styles of camping at Hinterland:
- Tent Camping
- Car Camping
- RV
- Glamping

Find the camping option best suited for your group at hinterlandiowa.com/tickets.

Campfire Stage Access
Every festival attendee gets access to the Campfire Stage during the Campfire Stage sets.

Campgrounds Map
View the maps here.

Details on getting here in 2026 will be announced at a later date, but here's the information from 2025 for reference:

Times
You may check-in to GA, Premium and ADA Parking lots during these times ONLY: 9am-7pm Friday-Sunday. If you arrive outside of these hours we will be unable to check you in.

Parking for Non-Campers
Every vehicle will require a parking pass or campsite.

Parking Pass Stickers
Parking pass window stickers are required to enter the parking lots and are shipped out prior to the festival. When you receive your vehicle credential in the mail, peel it and attach to your driver's side front windshield for seamless entry.

If passes are purchased after July 16th or for some reason you do not get them, they will be available for pick at the Box Office. There is temporary parking at the onsite Box Office. If you are local, picking up on Wednesday at Val Air Ballroom is highly recommended. If you purchased GA Parking after July 16th, these will be digital tickets. You do not need to go to Box Office for digital tickets, they will be scanned upon arrival.

Purchasing parking in advance is highly recommended.

Peak Travel Times
Peak travel times for non-campers are 3pm - 5pm each day, and exiting the festival each night.

If you can't head out early to avoid traffic and have to wait in line on your way in or out of the festival grounds, remember to keep it friendly. Your fellow Hinterlanders are waiting too, and everyone will be there soon.

Vehicle Re-Entry
Re-entry IS allowed for 3-Day South General Parking, Premium Parking, and ADA Parking. Only during daylight hours.

Re-entry IS NOT allowed for 1-Day North General Parking once they exit the parking lot.

Gear up with a wide assortment of merch from Hinterland and artists. Head to our socials closer to the festival for a look at this year's Hinterland styles and trinkets!

Hinterland works closely with local, state, and federal authorities to help ensure a safe experience for all our patrons.

Every person, vehicle and belonging entering the festival or campgrounds is subject to a full airport-style search, which may include a magnetometer screening and/or pat-down.

Please review what isn't allowed within festival and campgrounds prior to attending.

Emergency exits are positioned throughout the festival grounds and clearly marked on signage and maps.

The National Weather Service will be monitoring any weather events that may occur for our specific location during the festival and we have procedures in place to react appropriately to keep all attendees safe.

Please be advised that many of the performances will include flashing and strobing lights, theatrical haze, pyrotechnics, and loud sounds. Patrons with sensitivities to these effects are advised to take necessary precautions.

Subscribe to SMS to receive onsite announcements.

The ADA Services check-in tent is located by ADA Parking.

Staff is available here to support and address the needs of attendees with accessibility needs.

At this tent you can:
- Learn about accessibility services and receive answers to your questions
- Receive an accessibility wristband
- Receive accessibility item tags

Food Vendor Application - Deadline May 29

Applications for market vendors in 2026 is now closed.

Every person, vehicle and belonging entering the festival or camp grounds is subject to a full airport-style search, which may include a magnetometer screening and/or pat-down. Information is subject to change.

These items ARE NOT allowed into the festival grounds:

NO Weapons of any sort
NO Chairs (see more on chairs below)
NO Coolers
NO Smoking
NO Glass
NO Styrofoam
NO Drones
NO Laser pointers
NO Pets (service animals are welcome, see policy)
NO Fireworks
NO Professional cameras
NO Sun tent
‍NO Umbrellas
NO Wagons
NO Totems
NO Outside food or beverage

These items ARE allowed into the festival grounds:

YES Refillable water bottles (empty), camelpacks (empty) - clear bottles are preferred, but not required
YES Blankets or legless chairs (see more on chairs below)
YES Backpacks, purses, bags (no larger than 18"x13"x8.5", don't need to be clear)
YES Point and click film and digital cameras (No detachable lenses, please)
YES Sunblock
YES Bug spray (The reality of Iowa summers. Do NOT forget your bug spray, people!)
YES Strollers
YES Hand sanitizer
YES Liquid IV/Gatorade type packets, must be sealed

Please note that other items may be deemed prohibited at event organizers discretion.

Chairs with legs, including camping and low-lying beach chairs, are not allowed in the festival grounds. You are welcome to bring a legless chair or blanket. If you have a medical need for a chair and would like info on how to be granted an exception through our ADA services, please email access@hinterlandiowa.com or visit our ADA Tent onsite.

Click here to see what's allowed/not allowed in the campgrounds.

Festival tickets are sold in tiers — same pass type, different price. This system rewards fans who buy early with the best prices.

Each tier offers the exact same access and benefits, but lower-priced tiers sell out first.

When you buy tickets:

- You may see multiple tiers listed. Choose the lowest available tier for the best price.
- Once a tier sells out, it's marked as unavailable and prices move to the next tier.
- Tiers can change quickly based on demand.

‍

THE LAST DAY TO PURCHASE PASSES AND HAVE THEM SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO YOU IS SUNDAY, JULY 12 AT 11:59 PM CT.

Orders with your wristbands and camping/parking passes are currently shipping!

Some orders will ship in multiple packages and on different dates. Don't fret if only part of your order arrives. Keep an eye out for an email from AXS with tracking information.

If you haven't received your order 4 days before the fest OR if you purchased after July 12, swing by one of our festival box offices before entering a parking lot or heading to a festival entrance. Bring a photo ID (or picture of the photo ID) of the original purchaser.

Exceptions: Tent Camping and Shuttle Passes are mobile tickets. Single day parking purchased after July 12 are also mobile tickets. Login to the AXS app to access.

‍

AXS Support
Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8 AM-10 PM CST
Sat & Sun: 12 PM-10 PM CST
Live Chat is also available!

Check out Hinterland's Miniland! Curated by Des Moines' own Ramona Muse Lambert, Miniland is a creative experience for all, focused on DIY art, music, and a welcoming spot for families to gather throughout the festival.

All festival long, guests are invited to try their hand at button making, patch making, keychain construction, and contributing to our bootleg Hinterland flyer wall. All are welcome to draw on our giant inflatable bear, hop in the photobooth, and give our artist-made carnival games a whirl.

Families can find some relief in our chill zone, make a Miniland kids pass, weave rainbow loom bracelets, free draw, grab an activity bag to go, and pick up a Hinterland activity newspaper while supplies last.

You can also come visit the Miniland Stage each day for a unique mix of musical performances, unconventional instrument demonstrations, and more!

First Aid tents are located throughout the festival & campgrounds and staffed by trained personnel to provide any medical aid needed. In case of an emergency, notify any staff member or our security team.

Accessible Parking
ADA Parking provides convenient access to designated parking spaces in the ADA Parking Lot for attendees with valid accessibility credentials. To use these spaces, a valid government-issued persons with disability parking placard, permit, or license plate is required. Purchase an ADA Parking Pass.

Re-entry to the ADA Parking Lot IS allowed. Reserve your ADA Parking Pass to secure accessible parking and enjoy a smooth festival experience.

Shuttles
The Des Moines Shuttle will have buses in rotation that have ADA accommodations and will drop off at the festival.

How to camp like a pro and make the most of your weekend in the beautiful Iowa countryside:

1. Four words: shade and air flow. The August sun in Iowa can be a little steamy, so bringing shade canopies to cover your camping area is a worthwhile consideration. Achieve pro-level status by erecting one over your tent so you can change or nap in the daytime without melting. Clipping cloth tapestries to your canopy is a great way to keep a breeze flowing through your space while blocking the sun.

2. Spare a few minutes here and there for comfort and hygiene. It's not a backpacking trip, so you can bring a few of the creature comforts that help you stay fresh and game for a whole weekend of fun. (Check out our camping pack list for inspiration.)

Take a trip to the shower trailers for a quick refresh, and be sure to take time for tooth-brushing breaks, visits to the hydration stations, and taking care of your basic needs.

3. Stay connected by keeping your devices charged with portable batteries and chargers. It's a much smoother experience than trekking to the car to charge your phone!

4. Rain or shine, be prepared. Inclement weather can happen, so don't leave the waterproof tarps, ponchos, and rain boots at home. In case of a downpour, you'll want to keep your belongings dry by storing them in sealed plastic bags or waterproof containers.

5. Keep in mind that if you're in Tent Camping, your car will not be next to your tent. Bringing a wagon for transporting your stuff to and from the campsite is a great move.

Bonus: If you forgot something at home, swing into the Dollar General right on festival grounds.

Press Contacts: ginsberg@bighassle.com hinterland@on-pitch.com‍

Press Pass Applications: Click here to apply for a press pass.

Festival Photo Team: Our 2026 photo team is full. If you'd like to be considered for future years, please fill out this form.

Wednesday: 12pm–8pm, 

Thursday-Saturday: 9am–7pm., 

Sunday: 9am–12pm

‍

You can NOT check in if you arrive (for the first time) outside of these hours.

‍

Wednesday camping is encouraged! Food and drink vendors will be open.

‍

Details on getting here in 2026 will be announced at a later date, but here's the information from 2025 for reference:

‍Check-in Times
All campers can check-in during these times ONLY: Thursday: 12pm-8pm, Friday-Sunday: 9am-7pm. All campers must exit by Noon on Monday. If you arrive (for the first time) outside of these hours we will be unable to check you in.

If you are able, we encourage you to come on Thursday to set up and you are welcome to camp that night too! Food vendors will be available.

Parking
Parking, car camping, or RV camping window stickers are required to enter the parking lots and are shipped out prior to the festival. When you receive your vehicle credential in the mail, peel it and attach to your driver's side front windshield for seamless entry.
Purchasing parking in advance is highly recommended.

- Tent Camping tickets do not include parking. Purchase a Tent Camping Parking Pass. An optional gear drop-off off zone is available: Thursday 12pm-8pm, Friday 9am-4pm. And a gear pick up zone is available: Saturday, Sunday, Monday: 9am-12pm.

- Car Camping and ADA Car Camping includes parking for one vehicle within your campsite. Vehicle must be parked along the perimeter of your plot.

- RV Camping includes a companion vehicle parking pass for in and out use. If you bring a car, it must fit within your RV campsite and these parking passes will be issued at RV check-In. If you have additional cars that don't fit inside your RV campsite, added parking for extra vehicles can be purchased separately for the Tent Camping Parking Lot which is in close proximity to the RV campground.

- SAINTS tickets include one Premium Parking pass. Golf cart transportation is provided between Premium Parking and SAINTS Tent Camping.

- Glamping tickets do not include parking. Purchase a Premium Parking Pass. Golf cart transportation is provided between Premium Parking and Glamping.

Peak Travel Times
Peak travel times are 9am on Friday (for campers), 3pm - 5pm each day, and exiting the festival each night.

RV Rentals/Deliveries
RV deliveries are not permitted this year. The person arriving with the RV must have a festival admission ticket.

Vehicle Re-Entry
Vehicle re-entry IS allowed for Tent Camping, 3-Day South General Parking, and Premium Parking. RV campers companion vehicles may also re-enter. Only during daylight hours.

Vehicle re-entry IS NOT allowed for Car Camping and 1-Day North General Parking once they exit. RV re-entry is not allowed.

Hinterland's 90 Degree Guarantee allows ticket holders the option to request festival admission ticket returns for any day that is predicted to reach 90° or higher.

If on Monday 7/27 at 10am CT, the weather.gov forecast for 7/30, 7/31, 8/1, or 8/2 has a true temperature of 90° or higher for the 50240 zip code, ticket purchasers will have the option to request a return of their festival admission ticket for that day. Return requests are only available for the day/s the forecast is 90° or higher. 4-Day ticket holders can request a return for specific day/s at a rate of 1/4 of the total 4-Day ticket price.

To qualify for a return, ticket holders must fill out the 90° Guarantee Ticket Return Request Form at hinterlandiowa.com/tickets prior to 11pm CT on Monday 7/27. The form will only go live if the forecast meets the above criteria. Returns will be processed within as little as 10 days.

This policy only applies to festival admission tickets. It does not include camping, parking, or shuttle tickets. To qualify, tickets must have been purchased directly via AXS.com. Tickets purchased from a third-party are not eligible.

Hinterland's Commitment to Climate Awareness: The 10 hottest years on record have all occurred in the past decade. At Hinterland, we are committed to raising awareness about climate change and its impact on our daily lives. We will continue striving to make sustainable choices, both this year and in the years ahead. Together, we can make a difference.

There will be port-a-potties throughout the camping areas (more added for 2026!). All bathrooms will be serviced daily. If you notice an issue, please visit Guest Services or email us at realperson@hinterlandiowa.com.

Showers will be available for purchase for $10 (credit card only). Showers are located just east of Dollar General along the festival trail.‍

Shower Hours (Thursday-Sunday): 6am-12pm and 3pm-9pm

‍

Official Hinterland hotel and ticket packages are available now through Crewfare. Bundle your stay and passes in one seamless booking at crewfare.com/events/hinterland-26.

‍

Join us for yoga daily (Thursday-Sunday) at 9:00 a.m. by the Campfire Stage. These Vinyasa yoga classes led by Mayce at Mindful Healing Co. will focus on connecting body with breath, relaxation, mindfulness, and letting go. After the flow, there will be a 10-15 minute sound bath during savasana to bring awareness inwards and fully immerse in the soothing sounds. All levels welcome, just bring a mat/towel & water. Follow @yogimayce on Instagram!
‍

You are welcome to breastfeed or pump anywhere on festival grounds. There will also be a nursing and pumping area located in Miniland.

If you have medical related items or breastmilk that requires a cooler within the festival concourse, please visit the ADA Services tent for an accessibility tag.

Accessible Car and Tent Only Camping locations are available for guests with disabilities, as well as preferred spots within the RV campground. Please see our map for the location of the reserved ADA camping area. To camp in this area, you must have a valid government-issued persons with disability parking placard, permit, or license plate, and purchase an ADA Camping pass. There is a fixed amount of ADA camping spots in this area, so please do not purchase this pass if you do not need it on account of a disability. If you have a special medical need, it must be requested in advance by July 10th or it may not be available. You may email access@hinterlandiowa.com.

See more information on camping here.

A sample packing list to help you set up camp in comfort and style with some suggestions from our friends at Subaru. Don't forget to visit Subaru at Hinterland Basecamp for some extra fun!

‍

‍

‍

CAR & ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS

Jumper cables

Roadside emergency kit

Offline maps (download ahead of time for areas where cell service may be limited)

Car trash bag

Sunshade for windshield

‍

CAMPSITE SETUP

Tent, stakes, and footprint

Sleeping bag

Sleeping pad

Pillow

Blanket

Rubber mallet

Canopy or tapestries for shade

Camping chairs

Fold-out table

Wagon for transporting gear

Tent lock

Flags, solar-powered lights, or campsite flare

Camp rug

Hammock

‍

KITCHEN & FOOD

Camping stove and fuel

Matches or lighter

Cook pots and frying pan

Cooking and eating utensils

Plates, bowls, and mugs

Cutting board and sharp knife

Bottle opener and can opener

Cooler (ice available for purchase on-site)

Refillable water bottles or jugs

Coffee setup

Reusable food storage containers or bags

Biodegradable soap and pot scrubber

Dish towel

Garbage bags

‍

CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR

Multiple pairs of shoes and in-camp sandals

Lightweight jacket or fleece hoodie

Rain gear just in case

Bandanas and hats

‍

HEALTH & HYGIENE

First aid kit

Pain medicine

Bug spray

Sunscreen

Lip balm with SPF

Sunglasses

Earplugs

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Quick-dry towel

Toilet paper, wipes, and tissues

Hand sanitizer

‍

LIGHTING & POWER

Headlamp or flashlight

Lantern

Extra batteries

Portable charger

Extension cord

‍

For sponsorship inquires, please click here.

The entire festival grounds span about 1.5 miles from end to end, so be prepared to walk (closed toe shoes are recommended). There are designated hiking trails between campgrounds and parking lots.

Walk on the festival hiking trail (marked on the map) to get around the campgrounds and from parking to festival grounds entrances. Walking along Highway G50 is NOT permitted for safety reasons.

Keep in mind that if you're in Tent Camping or Glamping, your car will not be next to your tent. Bringing a wagon for transporting your stuff to and from the campsite is a great move.

Pedicabs
Skip the stroll and grab a ride! Coors Light will be offering pedicab rides at Hinterland this year. Perfect for getting from the parking lot or campgrounds to the festival entrance with zero fuss. Prices start at $15, all forms of payment accepted including cash, card, Venmo, PayPal, etc. Ready to ride? Flag one down or head to a pedicab pickup spot located throughout the grounds. Pedicabs are first-come, first-serve.

See a full list of 2026 Food & Drink Vendors

‍

We will have a wide variety of food & beverage options to satisfy all including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and non-alcoholic.

Please note that we do not allow outside food or drink into the festival grounds. You are allowed to bring your own food & drink into the camping areas. If you require special accommodation for dietary restrictions, please make this request by emailing access@hinterlandiowa.com. Advance request by July 10th is recommended.

The only tickets we can guarantee are tickets purchased directly through our official ticketing partner, AXS.com.

We are unable to facilitate or provide support to tickets purchased from a third-party website or individual.

Please be aware that scammers often try to sell invalid tickets on Facebook, Instagram, StubHub, Vivid Seats, SeatGeek, Craigslist, and Marketplace by fake accounts. Tickets purchased through third-parties will not be accepted.

Every person, vehicle and belonging entering the festival or camp grounds is subject to a full airport-style search, which may include a magnetometer screening and/or pat-down.

These items are NOT allowed in campgrounds:

NO weapons of any kind
NO pyro stuff (No tiki torches, fireworks or the like, please)
NO glass
NO pets (service animals are welcome, see policy)
NO selling stuff, unlicensed vending, sponsor tents
NO swimming in the pond
NO vehicles in Tent Campgrounds
NO RVs in regular parking lots
NO motorized bicycles, scooters, etc.

These items ARE allowed in campgrounds:

YES food
YES small campfire stoves/grills that run on propane or charcoal
YES drinks with a limit of three cases of either beer, boxes of wine, or liquor bottles per campsite
YES firepits
YES bicycles
YES wagons for transporting gear

Please note that other items may be deemed prohibited at event organizers discretion.

Generators: Non-fuel generators are allowed in all campgrounds. Gas or diesel generators are not allowed in tent camping or car camping, but are allowed in both RV campgrounds.

Any drop offs, pick ups and ride shares (Lyft or Uber) can only be done at our designated ride share location.

Not camping, but still want to be prepared? Remembering these essentials will elevate your festival experience.

Refillable water bottle
Blanket
Belt bag
Sunscreen
SPF lip balm
Earplugs
Bandana
Hat
Sunglasses
Power bank or portable charger
Hand sanitizer
Pain medicine
Handheld fan

At Hinterland, we want our premium guests to feel their extra dollars were well spent. We think you'll love what we've put together! If you don't, you have options.

All 4-Day VIP and VIP+ purchasers will have the opportunity for a "Free Look" onsite after scanning in. If you decide within one hour of scanning into the festival that you aren't satisfied with the premium amenities, you can return your ticket or downgrade to a lower level. Simply visit the VIP Concierge Tent on the north side of the premium area.

To qualify for the Free Look Return Policy, purchasers must scan into the festival grounds by 6pm on Thursday, July 30.

This policy only applies to 4-Day VIP and VIP+ festival admission tickets. It does not include camping, parking, or shuttle tickets. To qualify, tickets must have been purchased directly via AXS.com. Tickets purchased from a third-party are not eligible.

Come relax in the shaded White Claw Hammock Hang in the camping area. Bring your own hammock or use one of ours. All ticket holders are welcome!

Hinterland is rain or shine. No refunds or exchanges. Only exceptions are the 90 Degree Guarantee and Free Look Policy for VIP.  

Festival performers are subject to change or cancellation at any time without notice. Prices subject to change without notice.

The only tickets we can guarantee are tickets purchased directly through our official ticketing partner, AXS.com. We are unable to facilitate or provide support to tickets purchased from a third-party website or individual.

The party doesn’t stop after the main stage lights turn off. Meet your Campfire Stage 2026 lineup — live in the campground after hours. All ticket holders, not just campers, are welcome!

‍Thursday
Nourished by Time
Pixel Grip
‍
Friday
Between Friends
Ninajirachi

Saturday
The Brook & The Bluff
Buffalo Traffic Jam

Sunday
Die Spitz
Gouge Away

‍

‍

Des Moines Shuttle
Reduce your carbon footprint and save time by riding to Hinterland on our shuttle.

The Des Moines Shuttle provides convenient transportation between Southridge Mall, 1111 E. Army Post Road, Des Moines, and the festival grounds. There will be buses in rotation that have ADA accommodations that drop off at the ADA Parking Lot.

Shuttles start running at 10am Thursday-Sunday. The last shuttle leaves the festival grounds at 2am, please plan accordingly.

Each year music-loving families make their way to St. Charles for a beautiful music experience in the countryside. If you're planning to bring some little ones too, experienced festival-going parents shared a few tips to help you prepare.

1. Spend some time at Miniland
From interactive art installations to children's crafts, the corner of the festival made just for kids is ingeniously devised by Des Moines-based artist and mother of three boys, Ramona Muse-Lambert. Air conditioned and shaded, the Miniland tent is a good place for kiddos to have some quiet moments coloring and cooling off.

2. Pack the essentials
You'll want sunscreen, hats, reusable water bottles, and comfy clothing to keep the whole family happy. Make sure to remember ear protection for young children, especially if they'll be near the main stages.

3. Plan your schedule
Take a look at the festival schedule in advance as you may want to prioritize family-friendly activities and performances. Consider nap times and meal breaks when planning your day.

4. Stay hydrated and energized
With so much excitement in the air, it's easy to forget to hydrate and snack. Take regular meal and water breaks to keep everyone feeling their best.

5. Set meeting points
In case someone gets separated from your group, establish meeting points throughout the festival grounds where you can easily reunite with the fam.

If you're bringing the young ones to Hinterland, you're creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Grab your festival gear, round up the family, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in St. Charles!

p.s. Children 10 and under are free with a ticketed adult and do not require a wristband.

Basecamp is the new central hub in the campgrounds. Located just west of Dollar General.



‍24/7 Food Vendors‍
Space Fruit, Pizza Nova, Iowah Noodz, Big Acai Bowl, Tropical Sno


Full-Service Bar
Open Wednesday 4pm-Midnight; Thursday-Saturday 9am-1pm, 9pm-1am; Sunday 9am-1pm, 9pm-Midnight

Vinyl DJ Sets
Plus playlists curated by Billy B. Well Weathers.
‍
Vinyl Cup Record Store
Shop records & more from Vinyl Cup.
‍
Hinterland Throwback Merch
Gear up with a wide assortment of merch from Hinterland’s past year stock. Open Wednesday 12pm-11pm, Thursday-Sunday 10am-4pm, 9pm-1am.
‍
HinterMarket Vendors
Shop cool finds from Wander & Co., Then Now Always, and Sunny Life Hats. Open Wednesday 12pm-11pm, Thursday-Sunday 9am-Midnight.
‍
SolFarm Organic Farm Stand

A sustainable, beyond-organic produce farm and homestead located just east of the Hinterland festival grounds. Their Basecamp farm stand will be selling fresh produce including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, potatoes, onions, garlic, zucchini and more. Open Thursday-Sunday 10am-2pm.

Subaru Outpost‍
Check out the new Outback Wilderness, often-forgotten camp items, games, and giveaways. Open Wednesday 1pm-6pm and Thursday-Sunday 9am-3pm.
‍
B.WELL Foundation

A Des Moines non-profit with a mission to develop and expand young minds and lift them to a place of prosperity through mentorship and education.
‍
Disc Golf Course
Play a round at our mini disc golf course just west of Basecamp. Discs will be available for rent from the Freak Disc Golf tent, along with other goodies to buy. Open Wednesday 12pm-Midnight, Thursday-Sunday 10am-Midnight. 

‍‍Water and Ice Stations

Bring your refillable containers to stock up.

‍

‍

Festival gates open at 12pm each day.

You may start lining up at the gates at 10am, if you arrive before that you will be redirected to the campgrounds.

Times are subject to change.

• All sales are final - no refunds or exchanges.
• Only wristbands purchased through AXS are valid for entry. If you purchased from an unauthorized source or have a counterfeit wristband, entry will not be permitted.
• Wristbands must be worn securely on your wrist and cannot be slipped on or off.
• Keep your wristband on for the entire festival—it must not be removed, stretched, or tampered with, as doing so will void entry.
• To re-enter the festival on the same day, your wristband must be scanned upon exiting.
• Wristbands are non-transferable and non-exchangeable.

Lost or Damaged Wristbands?
No worries! They can be replaced one time only for the original purchaser, for a $25 replacement fee. Just head to our Box Office and they'll get you taken care of. Please bring a photo ID (or picture of the photo ID) of the original purchaser.

Please Note:

• Counterfeit or duplicated wristbands will be confiscated by security.
• This wristband policy is strictly enforced, and there are no exceptions.

Your wristband is your ticket to an incredible experience! Please treat it with care-it's a revocable license, and entry may be denied or revoked for non-compliance with festival policies or protocols. By attending the festival, you voluntarily assume all risks, including potential injury or loss of property.

The entire festival grounds span about 1.5 miles from end to end, so be prepared to walk (closed toe shoes are recommended). There are designated hiking trails between campgrounds and parking lots.

Walk on the festival hiking trail (marked on the map) to get around the campgrounds and from parking to festival grounds entrances. Walking along Highway G50 is NOT permitted for safety reasons.

Keep in mind that if you're in Tent Camping or Glamping, your car will not be next to your tent. Bringing a wagon for transporting your stuff to and from the campsite is a great move.

Pedicabs
Skip the stroll and grab a ride! Coors Light will be offering pedicab rides at Hinterland this year. Perfect for getting from the parking lot or campgrounds to the festival entrance with zero fuss. Prices start at $15, all forms of payment accepted including cash, card, Venmo, PayPal, etc. Ready to ride? Flag one down or head to a pedicab pickup spot located throughout the grounds. Pedicabs are first-come, first-serve.

‍

Power is not provided for campers. Please plan accordingly.

The only exception is that Glamping and Powered RV Campsites. Glamping includes a power strip with 20-amp service. Powered RV Campsites include a 50-amp power hookup. Bring your own adapter if your RV uses a 30-amp connection. They will not be available for sale.

Tune in to our official playlists:

Spotify

YouTube

Apple

Make a road trip out of your drive to Hinterland with some suggestions from our friends at Subaru.

‍

Campground Food & Drink Vendors
We'll have delicious food & drink available for purchase in Basecamp.

Outside Food & Drink
You're welcome to bring your own food and drink into the campgrounds. We have a limit of three cases of either beer, boxes of wine, or liquor bottles per group. Please keep glass bottles at home. No outside food or drinks are allowed within the festival grounds, only the campgrounds.

Water
We'll have water refill stations throughout all the campgrounds and within the festival grounds. We encourage you to bring refillable water bottles or jugs.

Ice
Ice will be available for purchase in Basecamp.

Camp Stoves
Small campfire stoves/grills that run on propane or charcoal are permitted.

‍

Every RV entering the festival grounds requires an RV Campsite pass and cannot park in any other area. The following vehicles are considered an RV.

- Any size RV (motorhome): Class A, Class B or Class C
- Any size bus (no tour buses, prevosts, or motorcoaches with low clearance allowed)
- Any vehicle wider or longer than a normal 15 passenger van (230 x 80 x 80)
- Any vehicle towing a camper or 5th wheel of any size.
- If you're hitching anything, it's an RV. (Box trucks and trailers are not allowed into the campgrounds.)

All campers must exit the campgrounds by Monday at Noon.

Re-entry
Re-entry IS allowed for Tent Camping, Glamping Parking, 4-Day General Parking, and Premium Parking. Only during daylight hours.

Re-entry IS NOT allowed for Car Camping, RV Camping, once they exit the campground.

Special note: re-entry IS allowed for companion vehicles in RV Camping.

New this year - Pump-out and water refill services will be available during daylight hours for Powered and Non-Powered RV Pass Holders for a fee. Specific details will be provided closer to the festival. 

‍

Camping passes cover all four days of the festival. If you are attending for less than four days, you are still welcome to camp. Just purchase the camping pass type of your choice!