6 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Shady Creek Campground's pet-friendly sites feature electric hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables along the Mississippi River, perfect for camping with dogs. Located near Muscatine, Iowa, this Corps of Engineers park offers spacious campsites that provide privacy from neighbors while still enjoying river views. Most campgrounds in the area welcome pets without breed restrictions but require them to be leashed at all times. Loud Thunder Forest Preserve maintains multiple pet-friendly camping areas including White Oak and Indian Meadows campgrounds where dogs can accompany campers on hiking trails. Bathrooms are exceptionally clean throughout these facilities, with one reviewer noting Shady Creek's spotless shower houses. Fairport State Recreation Area Campground also allows pets with water and electric hookups available at most sites.
The trail system at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve offers excellent opportunities for dog walking with terrain suitable for all skill levels. Indian Meadows Campground provides secluded, wooded sites that create natural "playpens" for pets while maintaining proximity to Lake George for water activities. Train tracks run close to several campgrounds, with Shady Creek experiencing occasional night trains that blow horns when passing. Wildcat Den State Park nearby expands outdoor recreation options for campers with pets. Wildlife encounters are possible throughout the region, so keeping dogs leashed protects both local fauna and pets. Most campgrounds in the area remain open seasonally from April through October, with a few like Buffalo Shores County Park maintaining year-round operations for winter camping with pets.
"Wild Cat Den State Park just up US61."
"We could see multiple fire works shows if we walked around the campground with the neighbors across the street putting on a pretty great "amateur" show. "
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $14 - $26 / night
"Lovely little campside with 19 places, rustical without electricity, dump etc. But got one waterstation and toilets. Every space with picknicktable and fireplace, surrounded by trees."
"Surrounded by cornfields, rolling hills and the Mississippi River, this park is tucked neatly away in Southeast Iowa. We've been here in all four seasons and each one provides a different landscape."
Available next weekend
from $10 - $25 / night
"Just off Highway 22 and runs along Mississippi River and railroad tracks. Shady sites, showers, 50 amp service, fish cleaning station, playground, and small amphitheater for naturalist programs. "
"Has playground for younger children, near Wild Cat Den State Park."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $25 - $26 / night
"Watching the barges go by, kids playground, nature trail, volleyball & swimming in the beach area, fishing & boating are a few of the things you can do here."
"Nice beach walk and next to a small town. Came in December to find they close the campground for the season but there’s lots of small lots to park overnight."
from $22 - $25 / night
"The sites are very close to each other. The sites at Riverview and Silva both seemed smaller."
"Good campgrounds with trails including equestrian options, and water! Can rent canoes, kayaks, and pontoons! Bait shop, fishing, food options with town just a few miles away."
"Just minutes west of Davenport, Park Terrace Campground is a delightful county-operated camping destination nestled within the sprawling 620-acre West Lake Park."
"The host is on site plus a park ranger was frequently driving around to check on things. We were there on Labor Day weekend and everyone quieted down in the evening."
from $27 / night
"Very nice walk around the lake, dog park was not large, but clean with enough room to run. There were much nicer spots, but we had all we needed for one night."
"Close to stores, and resturants. A casino close by."
"Great fishing, near Fairport Fish Hatchery, and Wild Cat Den State Park."
"Located about seven miles east of Muscatine and roughly 20 miles from Davenport, this intimate 42-site campground is decidedly more about the river than resort-style recreation, with every back-in campsite"
Available next weekend
from $20 / night
"Shower/RR nearby, trails including horse and bike . Main park has firewood, boat rentals, etc."
"Lake George is beautiful, perfect for kayaking."
from $14 - $32 / night
"CG has new septic lines and walking paths! Sites have upgraded lanes, pads."
"Sites offer: tables, fire rings, hard drive through pads, electric, water, showers/RR, play areas, horse shoes, trails, and 2 cabins adjacent to CG. Overflow/visitor parking."
from $17 - $36 / night
ScoutClean, quiet and nice facilities but the placement of the fire rings borders on the absurd. These are obviously RV sites so there's already little expectation of privacy but they're good size and leave ample space behind your camper. The site we were on was tree-lined in the back. Perfect for a fire ring, right? Nah. Instead they're out front 5 ft from the road. I've never seen anything like it. 🥴
LegendJust minutes west of Davenport, Park Terrace Campground is a delightful county-operated camping destination nestled within the sprawling 620-acre West Lake Park. With four picturesque lakes, rolling green lawns, mature shade trees and an impressive assortment of recreational activities, this is much more than your average roadside CG. Whether you're passing through the Quad Cities or settling in for a relaxing weekend, there's plenty to keep you entertained, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, disc golf and a seasonal swimming beach. It's an especially appealing destination for families who appreciate having a little adventure right outside their camper door.
The campground itself features approximately 77 campsites, including spacious RV sites with 50-amp electrical service, water and sewer hookups, plus 13 primitive tent sites tucked toward the wooded perimeter in the rear - so for those tent campers that like to be somewhat removed from the RV crowd, this is an excellent option. Most RV sites are reasonably level, with gravel parking pads, picnic tables and fire rings, although spacing can be a little cozy (er, tight) in places. Mature trees provide welcome shade throughout portions of the campground, while the modern bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Additional conveniences include a dump station, playground, seasonal campground host and firewood availability. Best of all, the CG delivers an impressive collection of amenities without the hefty price tag of a commercial RV resort.
A few things worth knowing before arriving: the CG is accessed through Gate 5 off 110th Avenue, and water hookups are generally seasonal despite the CG's year-round designation. Some sites are more exposed than others, and the relatively close spacing means privacy isn't necessarily its strongest selling point. Nevertheless, for RV travelers, tent campers and families seeking affordable accommodations with outstanding recreational opportunities, Park Terrace is a terrific little discovery.
Insider's Tip: Tent campers should head toward the designated wooded camping area toward the back of the CG for a more traditional outdoor experience. RV travelers should bring an extra-long drinking-water hose, as some sites share water connections positioned several campsites apart. Also, the park gates close overnight, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Happy Camping!
Scout$25 a night with Wi-Fi that actually works! I absolutely love it out here I'm not sure how busy it gets but there's no one out here right now in Oct! Electrical hookup at every site, water hook up every other site. But lots of sites available!
LegendThe camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people and include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags;All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent-- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, boat ramp, paddling rentals, store with grill, Eco Tourism Center pontoon rides, and nature center with displays and programs.
LegendThe camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people that include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags; All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, store and grill, paddle rentals, nature center too.
LegendPark has multiple cabins. Pintail Cabin is an ADA compliant, fully accessible cabin that sleeps up to 6 people. The cabin includes a queen-size adjustable bed that raises and lowers for easy access, twin size bunk bed, a full-size sofa sleeper, table/chairs. Kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, electric cook top, sink. Central Heat/AC. Bathroom has accessible roll-in shower. There is also has a large deck and an accessible picnic table and fire ring outside. Bedding, towels, and kitchen cookware and utensils are not provided. The cabin has an ADA compliant access ramp. Tents are not permitted on this site. There is a playground, boat ramp, paddle rentals, Eco Tourism Center with small store and grill, and a nature center offering programs! The Blue Heron pontoon boat offers tours on the water too!
LegendThis campground offers lots of amenities, including: gravel, pads, fire rings, firewood, on site, campground host, playgrounds, water, dump station, both tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. There’s a store for Supplies, and a grill serving food. The Eco tourism center includes interactive and educational displays and programs. The marina offers slips for rent, boat rentals of canoes and kayaks. The campground can get very buggy, considering seasons in Iowa.
LegendThis campground has basic amenities, including tables, fire pits, water on site, restrooms. There is also a larger group campsite across from the standard campground. There are many trails throughout the limestone Bluffs and pine Creek credited through. There is a historical site known as Pine Creek Brit Mill, pioneer cemetery, and a cabin and school site.
ScoutNew owners, free laundry 🧺
Mississippi River campgrounds near Illinois City offer year-round camping opportunities with concrete pads for all weather conditions. The region sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with moderate humidity during summer months. Most camping areas provide both river access and wooded sites, creating distinct experiences depending on which side of the campground you choose.
Fishing spots access: The Mississippi River provides excellent fishing with multiple dedicated access points at Fairport State Recreation Area Campground. "Great fishing, near Fairport Fish Hatchery, and Wild Cat Den State Park," notes James M., highlighting the diverse fishing options.
Explore historic sites: Wildcat Den State Park Campground features preserved structures from the 1800s. "Park offers historical sites, Pine Creek running through, wooded/limestone cliff trails, shelters, and campsites," explains James M. The Pine Creek Grist Mill provides educational opportunities during warmer months.
Water recreation rentals: Multiple boat options are available at reasonable prices. At West Lake Park, "The beach has kayak, paddle-boats, and fishing boat for rent," according to James M. This makes water activities accessible even for campers without their own equipment.
Level camping pads: Shady Creek provides exceptionally stable sites. "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one," writes Gary P. This feature is particularly appreciated during or after rainfall when ground stability becomes important.
Mississippi River views: Clarks Ferry offers prime river watching spots. "Beautiful clean campground right next to the Mississippi River, lots of Maple Trees, level concrete pads," reports Michi P. Campers can observe river wildlife and barge traffic throughout the day.
Affordable pricing: Many campgrounds maintain reasonable rates year-round. "With the geezer pass we paid $10 for a primo spot (#14)," notes Gary P. at Shady Creek, while West Lake Park is described as having "very reasonable rates" by Jerome B.
Train noise proximity: Railroad tracks run alongside multiple campgrounds, affecting sleep quality. At Clarks Ferry, Stephanie S. notes, "If it weren't for the trains going by constantly, it would be a five star place. The trains were just relentless, even during the night."
Booking requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during holidays. "Make your reservations as early as you can the spots go quick! The campground even has a military spot!" advises Kimberly W. about Buffalo Shores County Park.
Variable cell service: Network coverage differs significantly between carriers. Stephanie D. notes at Shady Creek, "Our cell phone provider is Sprint and we had zero service," while other campgrounds report stronger signals for Verizon users.
Playground options: Indian Meadows Campground offers secluded sites that double as natural play areas. "Some are more open, others are like a nature playpen. Lake George is beautiful, perfect for kayaking," explains Wendy R.
Educational opportunities: Visit the historic mill and schoolhouse at Wildcat Den State Park. "Park has historical sites, Pine Creek running through, wooded/limestone cliff trails, shelters, and campsites," describes James M., providing context for families seeking learning experiences.
Swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds offer designated swimming beaches during summer months. "Park offers 4 lakes for fishing, paddling, and a seasonal beach for swimming with concessions," notes James M. about West Lake Park, creating multiple cooling-off options.
Sewage connection placement: At some campgrounds, utility hookup locations require strategic parking. "Sewage located well to rear of most campsites, so back way in," advises Gena B. about West Lake Park, helping RVers plan their setup.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds with electric hookups offer sewer connections. Lindsay L. warns about Buffalo Shores: "No sewer dump, can't be hooked up to water. No bathrooms or shower houses... Not enough room for 2 full size vehicles to park on pad."
Water access points: Shared water spigots at some campgrounds may require extra hose length. "Water was dispersed throughout the park, but often too far for a hose to reach," notes Gary P. about Shady Creek, suggesting RVers should arrive prepared with extended water hoses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Illinois City, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Illinois City, IL is Shady Creek with a 4.6-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Illinois City, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 105 dog-friendly camping locations near Illinois City, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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