Mississippi River Pools 11-22 span approximately 313 river miles through Illinois and Iowa, creating diverse camping environments along limestone bluffs, wooded floodplains, and backwater sloughs. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often reaching 85-95°F, while spring and fall camping offer milder conditions with daytime highs in the 60-75°F range. Train noise affects most riverfront campgrounds as railroad tracks parallel the river throughout this stretch.
What to do
Paddling the backwaters: At Rock Creek Marina and Campground, explore the Mississippi backwaters by canoe or kayak. "It has canoe/kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore. Showers are open until October 14 this year," notes one visitor. The marina offers naturalist programs and pontoon river cruises through bottomland riverine forests.
Fishing access: Ferry Landing provides primitive camping at the confluence of Iowa and Mississippi rivers. "Great isolated camping at river edge where Iowa and Mississippi rivers meet! Paddling, fishing, hiking in bottom land forests," shares one camper. Anglers can paddle upstream to Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge or Lake Odessa for diverse fishing opportunities.
Biking trails: The Great River Trail offers miles of scenic riding accessible from several campgrounds. "From this campground you can go north, as far as Savanna. Going south will take you through Hampton, East Moline, Moline, Rock Island, and you can cross over to Davenport," explains a cyclist at Fishermans Corner. For mountain bikers, "there is the Illiniwek Forest Preserve 5 mile trail, just a mile south of Fisherman's Corners. Some call it the best trail in Illinois."
What campers like
Level concrete pads: Fishermans Corner receives praise for its well-maintained sites. "Paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas," shares one camper. Sites include electric hookups, with many offering river views—sites 8, 9, and 10 are specifically noted as prime water-view locations.
Educational facilities: Rock Creek County Marina features an eco-tourism center that appeals to families. "They have an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," mentions a visitor. The nature center includes native animal displays and a large fish aquarium that helps visitors learn about local ecosystems.
Off-season value: Camping from mid-September through October offers reduced crowds while maintaining access to amenities. "We lucked out and got a last min campsite for 4th of July weekend," explains one camper about summer crowds. By contrast, fall camping provides easier site availability and fewer insects. "Bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest," warns one regular visitor regarding summer conditions.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run alongside most Mississippi River rv campgrounds between Pools 11-22. "Train only went by once!" reports one relieved camper at Shady Creek, while another notes that trains "came through at 3:30 am blowing his horns." At Crossroads RV Park, one reviewer warns of "constant train traffic all night! Horns blaring! The tracks are less than 1/4-mile away."
Water levels: Spring flooding can affect site availability and access. "Watch river levels for flooding," cautions a regular visitor to Rock Creek Marina. Low-lying campgrounds may close with little notice during high water events, particularly in April and May after snowmelt or heavy rain periods.
Insects: Bottomland forests along Mississippi River Pool areas harbor significant insect populations, especially in summer. "Look out for insects. Pack in/out, gather drift wood for fire," advises a Ferry Landing camper. Another visitor notes, "Would worry about mosquitoes in late summer" when describing conditions at a campground along the Hennepin Canal.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: "The Eco Center has nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore," mentions a visitor about Rock Creek Marina. Children can learn about river ecology through naturalist programs and wildlife exhibits that showcase native species.
Playgrounds and activities: Geneseo Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond standard camping. "Pedal bikes for kids (and grown ups), a spray ground, and more!" notes one parent. The campground provides 72 sites accommodating both tent campers and RVs, with options for 30- and 50-amp service.
Water safety: Families camping along the main river channel should bring life jackets for all children regardless of swimming ability. Fast currents and barge traffic create unpredictable water conditions even in seemingly calm areas. Backwater areas provide safer water play environments while maintaining river access.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal considerations: Most rv campgrounds along Mississippi River Pools 11-22 operate from April through October, with limited winter options. Porth RV Park closes October 31, making advance planning crucial for late-season visits. "Sewer, water, electricity. It rained a lot while we were there no flooding issues at all," reports one fall camper, noting well-drained sites despite seasonal precipitation.
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary significantly between developed and primitive campgrounds. "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one," reports a camper at one Corps of Engineers site, while others warn about "sites that could use some gravel" at private campgrounds. Bring leveling blocks as backup even when staying at campgrounds with concrete pads.
Cell service variations: Coverage depends heavily on specific location and carrier. "Strong Verizon access" reports one camper, while another notes "Sprint users experience no coverage." For those needing consistent connectivity, prioritize campgrounds closer to towns like Davenport, Muscatine, or Geneseo where service remains more reliable.
