Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 camping offers concrete pads at many sites, providing stable foundations during seasonal river fluctuations. Railroad tracks run parallel to the river throughout this stretch, with trains passing at regular intervals both day and night. Most campgrounds in this corridor sit at elevations between 580-630 feet above sea level, which positions them above typical spring flood stages but still requires monitoring during heavy rainfall periods.
What to do
Paddling and boat rentals: At Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, jon boats and pontoons on Lake George. "Can rent canoes, kayaks, and pontoons! Bait shop, fishing, food options with town just a few miles away," notes James M.
World-class disc golf: Several courses available at county parks along the corridor, particularly at Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park with a challenging 24-hole course. "Park has many amenities: 4 recently retired fishing and paddling lakes with seasonal swimming beach and concessions, disc golf, new hiking trails, shelters, playgrounds," says James M.
Fishing and shore access: Direct Mississippi River fishing access available at multiple locations. "Great fishing, near Fairport Fish Hatchery, and Wild Cat Den State Park," notes a visitor to Fairport State Recreation Area, which maintains two boat ramps for river access.
Historic sites exploration: Several 19th century structures dot the region, including the Pine Creek Grist Mill. "Excellent spring wildflowers, historical grist mill and schoolhouse," comments James M. about the attractions at Wildcat Den State Park Campground.
What campers like
Riverfront campsites: Campers consistently mention the appeal of riverside spots. "Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi. Very clean friendly stay," notes Donna T. about her stay at Shady Creek.
Level concrete pads: Many campgrounds feature poured concrete pads that stay stable during wet conditions. At Clarks Ferry, "Beautiful clean campground right next to the Mississippi River, lots of Maple Trees, level concrete pads. Lots of people this weekend, but very quiet," reports Michi P.
Hiking opportunities: Trails range from easy shoreline paths to more challenging bluff climbs. "Really loved this campground. Been traveling from Chicago and this was the perfect peaceful site. Price is great $9 it's reservable and walk ins. The forest walk is incredible," notes brigitte T. about Wildcat Den State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite being rural locations, many campgrounds maintain high standards. "Very clean sites and restrooms. Showers available as well. Most are pull through sites but each one has a view of the Mississippi River," says Lisa B. about Buffalo Shores County Park.
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Railroad tracks run close to virtually all river campgrounds in this stretch. "The spots are spaced out and angled nicely. Good view of the river. Has a nice handicap accessible dock. Very clean and well kept. The trains are noisy, other than that very quiet," explains Steve B. about his stay at Clarks Ferry.
Seasonal facility limitations: Water systems often shut down in colder months. "The campground is open year-round but they shut of the water spigots around the end of October (depending on the weather)," notes a review of West Lake Park.
Reservation requirements vary: Some sites require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "Make your reservations as early as you can the spots go quick! The campground even has a military spot!" advises Kimberly W. about Shady Creek.
Boat traffic creates wakes: Barges and recreational boats create regular disturbances along shorelines. At Buffalo Shores County Park, "Amazing campground. Short walk to the beach. All sites are 50 and 30 you just show up pick a site and go to the office. Camp host stays on site," reports Matthew K.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds available: Most county parks include play structures for different age groups. "This campground is probably the smallest of the four in the area, plus the spaces don't feel crammed together, so you do get a more relaxed feel. There are two playgrounds - one message for smaller kids and one mostly for bigger," shares Lisa H. about Clarks Ferry.
Swimming options with supervision: Several locations offer designated swimming areas during summer months. "CG offers standard sites with electric, tables, fire rings, hard pads, dump station, water. Entry station has host, firewood. There is a playground area with shelter across entry station along with a use fee boat ramp," notes James M.
Fishing for beginners: Shoreline access makes fishing possible without boats. "The campsites are great. The hosts are warm and welcoming also very helpful. Birds were migrating to the north and flying very close to the river. It was awesome to watch," says Elida L. about her stay at Clarks Ferry.
Bathroom accessibility: Look for campgrounds with multiple facilities. "I liked their bathroom/shower house setup, which I had not seen before (but may not be too unusual). Instead of the standard men's/women's sides, there were four separate rooms, each with toilet, sink, and shower. It helped a lot with helping young kids shower!" explains Lisa H.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup limitations: At Cedar River Campground, "We had a water hook up by us but did not realize that we couldn't use it. Got scolded by the Park Ranger and told it was a no no," reports Stephanie D.
Pad size variations: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "Spots are close, but level. Sewage located well to rear of most campsites, so back way in. Great staff, prices are wonderful. Water is clear and tasteless so good for filling my tank," advises Gena B. about West Lake Park.
Off-season value: Shoulder season camping offers better availability and quieter experience. "We came to the area to visit the John Deere factory and other Davenport/Moline attractions (and found there is lots to do in the area). We did not have a reservation and showed up on a Saturday but figured since it was a cold rainy weekend in late October we wouldn't have a problem finding a site," notes a visitor to West Lake Park.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds maintain dump stations even when water systems are winterized. "Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed through out the park, but often too far for a hose to reach. All in all we still very much like this park. With the geezer pass we paid $10 for a primo spot (#14)," explains Gary P.
