Best Campgrounds near Port Byron, IL

Camping in the Port Byron area of Illinois offers riverside camping experiences along the Mississippi River corridor. Developed options include Fishermans Corner on the Mississippi River, Illiniwek Campground, and several campgrounds in neighboring Scott County, Iowa, just across the river. Most sites support both tent and RV camping, with several properties like Geneseo Campground and Bald Eagle Campground offering cabin rentals. The region features campgrounds with varying amenities, from basic electric sites to full-hookup RV parks situated along waterways.

Access to campgrounds generally remains open from April through October, with many facilities closing for winter. The Mississippi River corridor experiences regular train traffic that affects the noise levels at several campgrounds. Water levels and seasonal flooding can impact riverside camping areas, particularly at locations like Lundeens Landing, where buildings are elevated to protect against river flooding. Electric hookups are standard at most developed campgrounds, with water and sewer connections available at premium sites. Bathhouse and shower facilities vary significantly between properties. As one camper noted, "The campground is right next to the river and the Clinton Riverfront Park and even fast food restaurants are within walking distance. The one negative is noise from trains. One seems to go by every few hours."

Riverfront camping represents a major draw to the Port Byron region, with several campgrounds offering direct water access for fishing, boating, and paddling activities. The Great River Trail provides cycling opportunities that connect multiple campgrounds along the Mississippi. Several visitors highlight the natural beauty and wildlife viewing possibilities along the waterways. According to one reviewer, "Sunsets and stargazing, fishing and kayaking, biking and relaxing! This campground is the perfect sanctuary for your family and friends to get away, enjoy quiet time and be outdoors." Family-friendly amenities are common at larger campgrounds like Rock Creek Marina and Campground, which offers paddle rentals and recreational facilities. Campgrounds near Interstate 80 provide convenient overnight stops for travelers, though they typically experience more traffic noise than the more secluded sites along the Mississippi River backwaters.

Best Camping Sites Near Port Byron, Illinois (113)

    1. Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    23 Reviews
    Bettendorf, IA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 259-3628

    $14 - $26 / night

    "As with all the campgrounds along the Northern Illinois Great River Trail, it is along side Rt. 84, and railroad tracks."

    "Bugs were not too bad when we were there (October) which was surprising as it was so close to the river and still warm. The after-hours check-in procedure was a little confusing."

    2. Illiniwek Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bettendorf, IA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 496-2620

    "The campground is also right next to a biking trail. There was public and private bathrooms. The private ones were only accessible to campers that received a key from the park office."

    "There is a section of the campground where you can camp right on the edge of the Mississippi River which is nice, but you must deal with people fishing the entire time."

    3. Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

    18 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 328-3282

    $17 - $36 / night

    "Enjoyed almost 2 weeks at West Lake Park, part of the Scott County, IA park system. Helpful staff, park rangers make daily patrols, nice spots, many with shade trees & decent room."

    "Although theres a small "lake" here, Ive never had great luck catching much. Pool is nice and updated. Park rangers are always frequently present and patrolling."

    4. Geneseo Campground

    15 Reviews
    Geneseo, IL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 442-2662

    $40 - $95 / night

    "will be surrounded by."

    "The tent sites are nicely tucked away from the RVs, with a row of bushes to separate you from your neighbor. Nice shade."

    5. Rock Creek County Marina and Campground

    7 Reviews
    Princeton, IA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 259-1876

    $14 - $18 / night

    "Sites include fire rings, tables, gravel backing pads, electric with some right near water edge."

    "Turn at quarry off Great River Road/Highway 67."

    6. Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    17 Reviews
    Rock Island, IL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 787-0665

    "Close to stores, and resturants. A casino close by."

    "I had fun nice little get away from every one nature is everywhere compared to city I love it"

    7. Sunset Lakes Resort

    5 Reviews
    Port Byron, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 747-5253

    "It was on the pond, very quiet and away from a lot of the activities...which was fine for me. The regular sites look nice as well. Lots to do...pool, mini-gold, volleyball, etc."

    "Access to a lake with paddle boats and kayaks available. Swimming pool and a great camp store."

    8. Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park

    6 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    13 miles
    Website

    $15 - $23 / night

    "I met include restrooms and showers, campground host with firewood, available, trash, bins, playground area, trails nearby, I shelter to rent, a golf course across from the entrance, And the park has a"

    "CG offers primitive site amenities: tables, fire rings, some hammock structures, spacious sites, shelter to rent, seasonal host with fire wood and golf course like cated at entrance."

    9. Lundeens Landing

    3 Reviews
    Colona, IL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 496-9956

    "of the I80 bridge carrying you over the Rock River, you’ll spot Lundeens Landing on the EAST side of this interstate (you’ll want to take note of this as The Dyrt has this campground in the wrong location"

    10. Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park

    5 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    13 miles
    Website

    $15 - $23 / night

    "The campground has a seasonal host offering firewood on site, showers and restrooms, play area, trails, and overflow parking just adjacent for the entrance."

    "Unlike either nearby Woodside or Bald Eagle campgrounds, which are more geared for the RV driving and 5th Wheel hauling camping community, Wilderness CG isn’t very level, has decent natural barriers like"

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Recent Reviews near Port Byron, IL

548 Reviews of 113 Port Byron Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    Trails, Tales & a Big Round Barn at Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    If you like your camping served with a side of quirk, Johnson Sauk Trail State Park near Kewanee, Illinois, delivers in spades. First impressions are of rolling hills, shady hardwoods, and wide-open prairie that feels like someone took a painter’s brush to the Midwest and got carried away. It’s big, it’s woodsy, and it has just enough old-fashioned charm to make you think you’ve stumbled into a summer postcard here in the heart of the Prairie State. Families and weekend wanderers flock here, but the atmosphere stays laid-back and the kind of place where you can still hear the wind in the trees over the laughter and screaming of kids chasing fireflies.

    The campground itself is no slouch, with more than 70 sites ranging from rustic tent pads (25 in total) to electric hook-up spots that keep RVs humming happily. Sites are generally roomy and shaded, each with picnic tables and fire rings that dare you to try out your best s’mores engineering skills. Bathhouses are clean and close, with flush toilets and showers that (miracle of miracles) actually have good water pressure. Roads are paved and very easy to navigate, though keep an eye on turns if you’re wrangling a bigger rig. Pets are welcome, kids have plenty of room to roam, and the general feel is safe and easygoing.

    And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who ‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.

    Outside the campground, Johnson Lake offers paddleboat rentals, fishing piers, and calm waters for paddling, which is ideal for wearing out the kids while you pretend you’re training for a kayak marathon! Trails wind through forest and prairie with wildlife sightings being frequent enough that you’ll start feeling like you’re starring in your own nature documentary. When hunger hits, Kewanee is just down the road, with options ranging from old-school diners to pizza joints. And don’t skip The Coop, a local gem in the hamlet of Annawan with an ice cream parlor and baked goods like cinnamon rolls, iced cookies and chocolate chunk brownies so good you’ll briefly consider moving to town just to live closer.

    Insider tips? Yep, here’s a handful: (1) Book a site in the lake loop(of which there’s some 7 or slots to choose from) for quick access to Johnson Lake, where despite a short trek to the water’s edge, you’ll get fewer complaints from the kids when it’s time to haul gear to the water and you’ll also be treated to unbeatable sunset views from one of the scattered benches along the lakefront; (2) For food, check out Cerno’s Bar & Grill in Kewanee, which was established in 1898 BTW and feels like you’re stepping back in time for massive burgers and a family-friendly vibe, Good’s Furniture for surprisingly solid sit-down meals (yes, furniture and food under one roof), and The Coop for ice cream and baked goods that will tempt you back two days in a row; (3) Don’t miss touring the Ryan Round Barn with it’s four stories of history, architecture and oddball charm that kids and adults alike will find fascinating. Just remember: it’s round, so if you get lost inside, maybe camping isn’t your sport; and (4) Bring a kayak or canoe for Johnson Lake as the calm water is great for families, fishing will likely net some channel catfish, largemouth bass and white crappie and you’ll likely spot turtles, herons and maybe even a beaver supervising your paddling skills.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground - Members Only

    Hidden Gem Along the Hennepin Canal

    This is the Geneseo Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America, which coming across one fine Autumn day, I was completely unaware of this organization, which apparently is America’s oldest and most successful conservation organizations. This particular chapter in Geneseo was chartered back in 1952 and shortly thereafter founded Ike’s Park located right along the Hennepin Canal, which features among other things: picnic facilities, fishing, boating and kayaking, a boat ramp, handicapped accessible fishing pier as well as a community lodge that you can book in advance, in addition to a primitive style campground offering up some 20 or so sites on a first-come, first served basis.

    To put it bluntly, this place is incredibly simple and basic, which is its beauty in a nutshell. This undiscovered little gem will make you feel as though you’ve just hit the primitive camping lottery jackpot as very few folks outside of Geneseo even know of this place. So if you’re coming from slightly further afield, you’ll appreciate getting in on something special. Upon arrival from Route 82, which if you are coming from the nearest major highway of I80, you’d be heading northbound, you need to simply hang a right onto a very modest gravel road that has an immediate declining slope upon entry. Once you turn into Izaak Walton Park, you’ll feel embraced by something truly special with mature maples and oaks surrounding you before coming across a sign marking this territory as Ike’s Place with the community lodge on the right. If you continue on, just about 30 yards further you’ll come across the self-check-in kiosk where you just need to fill out the required information and drop your$10(member) or$20(non-members) in an envelope and you can set up wherever you’d like.

    As you are literally right next to the Hennepin Canal, you’ll want to set up as near the canal as you can get, although, you could sit back a bit further south if you’d like under the canopy of a mature treeline. Beyond the beautiful, scenic riverview, there’s just a couple of community shelters, basic restroom facilities with vault toilets, a fishing pier and a large area that faces a larger swath of the Hennepin Canal that for a short bit resembles a lake, although when you are on the water, you’ll learn it’s just the bend in the river. Here at Izaak Walton Park alongside the property immediately to the south, Geneseo Prairie Park, there’s lots of decent hilly hiking trails to keep you occupied. And of course, if you’re an angler, you’ll appreciate the quick and easy access to casting a line where you’ll be able to catch panfish, small- and large-mouth bass as well as catfish.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) While you are north of Geneseo, you shouldn’t have too much problem with cell coverage out in these parts– we got 4 bars with Verizon and 3 bars with AT&T;(2) Not all of the sites are level, so you definitely want to check out a number of the sites before deciding upon which to choose from– where you’ll also want to keep in mind that not all of the sites have electricity, so either plant yourself near an outlet or bring a long electrical cord;(3) While there is a dump station on-site, when we were there, it was locked, so while we were able to place most of our trash in the garbage receptables, be prepared to haul yours out with you before leaving; and(4) You’ll want to take note that you are sitting alongside the Hennepin Canal, which if you haven’t been to before, provides about 100 miles worth of some pretty amazing slow-moving current that is excellent for kayaks and canoes, so if you’ve got one, bring it, but if not, the good folks at Geneseo Campground just due north of this location across the river will rent you one.

    Happy Camping!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Summit Campground - West Lake Park

    Nice Break

    We are headed to North Carolina and needed a break from the back-to-back travel days. This campground was clean and quiet while we’re were there. We did stay from Monday to Wednesday so it might be busier on the weekends.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park

    The Brady Bunch of Campgrounds

    SOC-Fox Campground is like the middle child in a family of seven - yes, count 'em seven - campgrounds within Scott County Park. Think Brady Bunch, but with fire pits and RV hookups instead of bell bottoms and avocado-colored kitchens. It’s not the flashiest sibling, but it’s got that reliable Midwest charm that makes you go,'Yep, it's not the most attractive, but it will get the job done.' First impression? Clean, organized and incredibly less chaotic than you’d expect from the Jan of the camping family.

    The sites here are roomy, shaded, and well-behaved, just like campers who say 'please' and 'thank you' everywhere you go, well, because you're in the Midwest. You’ve got a mix of electric and FHU options, so everyone from RV royalty to tent campers with coolers full of questionable lunch meat can settle in comfortably. Roads are wide enough that you won’t have to close one eye and pray when maneuvering your rig. Bathhouses? Shockingly nice. Like, did a spa consultant sneak in here when no one was looking?!  Nice. Fire rings and picnic tables come standard, and the pet-friendly vibe means your dog will probably make more friends than you do.  There's some shade, but most of it is on the treeline on the perimeter.

    And let’s talk about Scott County Park itself, which is like the Disney World of county parks. You want hiking? Got it. Equestrian trails? Saddle up. Disc golf? Fore! Playground for the kids? Absolutely. And then there’s the aquatic center. Not a pool. Not a splash pad. A full-on aquatic wonderland with waterslides, diving boards and enough chlorine to strip a small car of paint. Meanwhile, other campgrounds are out here bragging about their kiddie swings. Weak, right?!

    Insider Tips?  Here's a handful: (1) Shady sites near the woods are perfect for naps and hiding from the in-laws, while open sites are better if you need your daily satellite news fix; (2) Hungry? Roll into nearby Eldridge for The Rustic Ridge, where the burgers are taller than your nephew’s science project and fries are an entire food group all to itself; (3) Kayak fans can float the Wapsipinicon River where it’s calm, scenic and you’ll get to wave at locals fishing with that 'I’ve lived here since 1842' energy; and (4) Don’t skip the aquatic center as your kids will cannonball themselves into exhaustion while you finally finish that camp chair beer in peace.

    Happy Camping!

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park

    Nice modern cabin along lake

    Cabin has on-site parking as well as overflow parking nearby, hard surface with picnic table, and firing, gas grill, covered porch with Lakeview, sleeps eight, fireplace and full kitchen amenities, ADA accessible restroom. Park offers seasonal swimming beach, for lakes to paddle and fish at, disc golf course, Concessions in season, and lots of trails.

  • Michael P.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Fairport State Recreation Area Campground

    Host not friendly very rude woman would not recommend staying here at all

    Would not recommend fairport camping  in muscatine iowa at all the host is rude and non caring personality more like two faced   i would recommend  shady creek  or one of the others on the same hwy if looking for nice and great host

    On the note dnr are great thou

  • Jorge F.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Cedar River Campground

    Good place to go camping with friends and family.

    “This place became my wife’s and daughters’ favorite this year. It is a place where everyone who visits is very kind and respectful. The managers are always courteous and attentive.”

  • Steve T.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Saulsbury Bridge Rec Area - Cedar River Campground

    Enjoyable Stay

    The sites are spaced apart well and clean with a beautiful view of the Cedar River. If you camp on the riverside campground be sure to bring a bike or extra vehicle if you camp on the far end because the bathrooms are bit of a walk. And bring a grate with you for your fire ring as some have them and some don’t. All and all it was an enjoyable stay with a fantastic view, even caught a few fish since our campsite was literally on the river edge

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Shady Creek

    Beautiful View

    Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi. Very clean friendly stay


Guide to Port Byron

Port Byron camping options extend beyond the Mississippi riverfront to include wooded areas, backwater marshes, and prairie landscapes. Seasonal changes impact site availability, with many smaller campgrounds open from April to October while larger operations maintain year-round accommodations. Overnight costs range from $10-25 for basic sites to $50-99 for premium spots with full hookups.

What to do

Paddling adventures: Access the Mississippi River backwaters at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground where you can rent canoes and kayaks to explore the water trails. "The Eco Tourism store/grill, paddling rentals, Blue Heron Cruises, nature center. Sites include fire rings, tables, gravel backing pads, electric with some right near water edge," notes James M.

Cycling on the Hennepin Canal: The historic waterway near Geneseo Campground offers 72 miles of flat riding trails alongside the canal. "Pedal bikes for kids (and grown ups), a spray ground, and more! Two local breweries in town and tons of shopping and food options," shares Elizabeth R.

Wildlife viewing: Scott County Park's Wilderness Campground puts you in prime position for spotting native wildlife through forested trails. "A ton of the best hiking trails converge at this CG, so if you're tent camper and want to be located right in the thick of nature, while having direct access to prize hiking above just about anything else, then this is your haven," writes Stuart K.

What campers like

River access sites: Fishermans Corner earns praise for its waterfront locations. "Right on the Mississippi! The campground is quiet with level gravel pads with a picnic table and firepit. The sites have electric, water to fill your tanks with dispersed throughout the campground, and a dump station," explains Elisha L.

Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. At Illiniwek Campground, "The insides of the bathrooms were kept very clean. One of the shower stalls in the women's restroom did not work but the other worked just fine with nice water pressure. The showers were stalls with a shower curtain."

Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value at many Port Byron area sites. "Great place to camp! Right on the Hennepin Canal. RV, tent, Cabins, and Yurt camping," adds one camper about Geneseo Campground, with sites typically priced between $20-35 per night.

What you should know

Train noise: Railroad tracks parallel the Mississippi River corridor, affecting campgrounds along the water. One camper at Illiniwek notes, "Only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 was the train tracks n road traffic being as we were on the back row right next to both. Still wasn't bad though."

Flooding concerns: River-adjacent sites can experience water level changes. At Lundeens Landing, buildings are elevated for protection as Stuart K. explains: "You'll be greeted by the main office that sits up about a story on stilts, which BTW isn't for bird watching, but rather to safeguard the building from any river flooding that may happen."

Bug pressure: Backwater locations can have significant insect activity. At Rock Creek Marina, one camper warns: "Watch river levels for flooding, bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest."

Tips for camping with families

Recreation options: Scott County Park offers numerous family activities. "This campground has 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. Great place for the family," recommends Ryan about Rock Creek.

Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences for children. At Rock Creek County Marina, "The Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed" makes for an engaging stop.

Pet protocols: Many campgrounds welcome dogs but have varying rules. "I'm not sure what the rules are, but there were a lot of dogs not tied up. Most people kept a close eye on them, but we had a couple wander through and do their business in our site," notes Chris F. at Rock Creek.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: Choose campsites based on your priorities. At Fishermans Corner, "Some sites are directly on the water (Sites 8, 9, and 10) plus several more that have a view of the water; these are in the loop to the left of the entrance) and they are the best in my opinion."

Full hookup options: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "This campground is right on the river w/ views - worth it to try to get those. Very clean, little playground for kids, nice spacing between sites. 2 dump stations so no congestion to dump. Potable water between sites (not for fixed hookup) and good electric," explains Sarah C.

Seasonal considerations: Check ahead for seasonal closures. In winter months, Pine Grove Campground operates with limitations: "Primitive tent sites are open this time of year, the other portion, including RV spots are closed for the season."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Port Byron, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Port Byron, IL is Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River with a 4-star rating from 23 reviews.