Camping near Mississippi River - Pools 11-22
The Mississippi River corridor between Pools 11-22 features a mix of established campgrounds offering diverse camping options along the scenic waterway. Developed campgrounds include Wildcat Den State Park Campground, which provides primitive tent and RV sites with pit toilets and well water, located about 5 miles east of Muscatine. Shady Creek offers electric hookups along the riverfront with concrete pads and water access. Multiple camping areas throughout the region provide varied options from primitive tent camping to full-hookup RV sites, with several locations featuring cabins and glamping opportunities for those seeking additional comfort.
Many campgrounds in this stretch of the Mississippi River are managed by state agencies, county parks, or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, with camping seasons typically running from April through October, though some remain open year-round. Fairport State Recreation Area provides electric hookups, showers, and boat ramps for river access, while Wildcat Den offers more primitive facilities amid hiking trails and historic attractions. Weather patterns and river levels can significantly impact camping conditions, especially during spring when rainfall may cause localized flooding. Proximity to railroad tracks affects several riverside campgrounds, with train noise mentioned in multiple reviews. A visitor to Shady Creek noted: "Only negative was that there is a train track real close and a lot of crossings, so you will hear a lot of close train horns and they go deep into the night/morning."
Riverside camping represents the primary draw for many visitors to this region, with multiple developed campgrounds providing direct access to the Mississippi. Campers consistently praise the riverfront views at locations like Shady Creek, where concrete pads and electrical hookups create comfortable bases for river activities. Several reviews highlight the historic attractions near Wildcat Den State Park, including the Pine Creek Grist Mill, Melpine School, and numerous hiking trails featuring sandstone cliffs and spring wildflowers. Mixed-use campgrounds throughout the area accommodate various camping styles, with many offering boat ramps and fishing access. A review of Wildcat Den mentioned: "Wildcat Den State Park is somewhat of an unknown gem. Surrounded by cornfields, rolling hills and the Mississippi River, this park is tucked neatly away in Southeast Iowa."












