7 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Wildcat Den State Park Campground offers primitive camping with 19 pet-friendly sites, each with picnic tables and fire rings. Located between cornfields, rolling hills and the Mississippi River in Southeast Iowa, this non-electric campground maintains a strict pets-on-leash policy throughout all trails and camping areas. Shady Creek provides level cement pads with 30/50 amp electrical hookups where dogs can camp alongside their owners with views of the Mississippi. Both campgrounds feature clean restroom facilities, though neither offers pet-specific amenities like dog washing stations or designated pet areas. Buffalo Shores County Park, Fairport State Recreation Area, and Park Terrace Campground at West Lake Park all welcome pets with similar leash requirements. The campground at Wildcat Den becomes especially popular during spring when wildflowers bloom along pet-accessible hiking trails.
Numerous hiking trails at Wildcat Den State Park accommodate leashed dogs with access to Devil's Punch Bowl, Steamboat Rock, and other scenic limestone formations. While the trails offer excellent terrain for dog walking, they lack clear markings which can present navigation challenges for hikers with pets. Morning trains passing near Shady Creek and Fairport campgrounds create noise that may disturb sensitive pets, particularly with 3:30 am horn blasts that campers frequently mention. Summer brings higher temperatures and increased insect activity, requiring pet owners to pack bug spray and ensure adequate shade and water for animals. Nearby towns of Muscatine and Buffalo provide access to pet supplies and veterinary services, though campers should arrive with sufficient food and basic first aid items for their animals as on-site stores are limited.
"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 this 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 this 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 this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $25 - $26 / night
"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
"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."
"Convenient location a lot of amenities and activities"
Campground full this weekend
from $35 - $50 / night
"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 this weekend
from $20 / 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."
"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!
GuideI arrived after dark. Crept in slowly as its dark. Loop B. Found a spot easy. I’ll drop the envelope on the way out. Some minor road noise. Dark! Quiet! So far, excellent. I plan to head out early. I would stay here again. $25water/electric. Cash in iron ranger. Haven’t used the restroom. Perhaps in the morning. Lovely clear night sky
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.
Campgrounds along the Mississippi River near Pools 11-22 in Illinois provide access to 195 miles of waterway. The region features multiple Corps of Engineers and county-managed facilities offering riverside camping with varying amenities. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall months deliver milder temperatures between 55-75°F with less rainfall than summer's frequent thunderstorms.
Disc golf course access: West Lake Park offers a challenging course described as "world class" by visitors. "Park has many amenities: 4 recently retired fishing and paddling lakes with seasonal swimming beach and concessions, disc golf, new hiking trails, shelters, playgrounds," writes James M. about Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park.
Pontoon rentals: Lake George at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve provides boat rentals including pontoons. One visitor notes, "We decided to rent a small pontoon. This pontoon was very rickety and we did not end up staying out as long as we had planned. The boat rentals are all on a first come first serve basis so it's the luck of the draw," according to Stephanie D. at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve.
Historic site exploration: Several limestone formations and historic structures provide educational opportunities. "The park offers non-electrical campsites with pit toilets located in the campground area. A portion of the sites are available on a first come first serve basis," explains Jessica H., who adds that "the Pine Creek Grist Mill built in the 1800's, the Melpine School, and most recently, a renovated log cabin" are worth visiting.
River views: Many campers appreciate Mississippi River access for watching barge traffic. "Sites are spaced out and angled nicely. Good view of the river. Has a nice handicap accessible dock," notes Steve B. about Clarks Ferry. Another camper mentions, "Beautiful clean campground right next to the Mississippi River, Lots of Maple Trees, level concrete pads."
Concrete camping pads: Several campgrounds feature level cement pads making RV setup easier. "Level cement pads. Strong Verizon access," writes David D. about Shady Creek, while Kathy J. describes it as having "Level poured pad for RV, electric and nice fire pits. Large sites. Clean restrooms and lots of hot water for shower."
Spring wildflowers: The forests along the river corridor provide seasonal blooming opportunities. Sarah B. found Wildcat Den State Park Campground to have "absolutely NO privacy between sites as it's basically a grassy field of sites surrounded by an outer loop of more grass," but noted it was nearly empty on a weeknight in June.
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds sit near active railroad tracks causing noise throughout night hours. "The train comes by about every hour behind the campsite and blows its horn at the two crossings adjacent to the campsite. This happened through the night and was extremely loud," warns Grayson about Clarks Ferry.
Insect preparation: Summer camping requires bug protection for people and pets. "Lots of gnats and other flying bugs, so bring spray," advises Sarah B., while others mention mosquitoes near water features as problematic during warmer months.
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer and holidays. Kimberly W. recommends visitors at Shady Creek "make your reservations as early as you can the spots go quick! The campground even has a military spot!"
Playground options: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds along the Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 offer children's play areas. At Cedar River Campground, Jenny notes they're "Recently under new ownership, you can tell they've been working hard getting the place going again. Yes, you hear traffic, but it didn't bother us. They had a great fireworks display for the fourth."
Swimming facilities: Several locations have designated swim areas during summer months. "Our site was at Indian Meadows and it is large enough to fit my big 8-person tent, a picnic table, my truck, and all our other stuff with room to spare," reports Scott N. at Loud Thunder, adding "For 30 dollars we navigated the lake for two hours. My son loved steering the boat."
Tent camping considerations: Many campgrounds cater primarily to RVs but offer tent sites with limited amenities. "Places are gras. Sorry for my english, Camp from Germany :-)," explains Angelika M. about Buffalo Shores County Park, which Melanie P. describes as having "sites with electric & water hookup. There is a dump station and bath house as well."
Hookup availability: Water access varies widely between campgrounds. "Sites have tables, fire rings, electric. Dump station, play area, showers/RR, wood available," writes James M. about Summit Campground, while Gary P. notes that at Shady Creek, "water was dispersed through out the park, but often too far for a hose to reach."
Site spacing: Some campgrounds provide more generous spacing between RVs than others. "Sites are close, but level. Sewage located well to rear of most campsites, so back way in," advises Gena B. about Summit Campground, rating it "Above avg, kid friendly" with "great staff, prices are wonderful."
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Our cell phone provider is Sprint and we had zero service. The campground is close to Muscatine if you need to make a run but far enough out to feel like you're really camping," reports Stephanie D., while others mention strong Verizon service at different dog friendly Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Mississippi River - Pools 11-22?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 is Shady Creek with a 4.6-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Mississippi River - Pools 11-22?
TheDyrt.com has all 104 dog-friendly camping locations near Mississippi River - Pools 11-22, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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