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Nature

Free Camping Collection

Established Camping

Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area in Iowa features rolling hills and dense woodlands. Temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Nearby, the Mississippi River offers opportunities for fishing and boating, while the Mines of Spain Recreation Area provides hiking trails and scenic views.

Description

County

The 273-acre area is located along the South Fork of the Maquoketa River. The unique beauty of Northeast Iowa is very evident here with limestone rock outcroppings, upland timber, flood plain, wildlife, and panoramic scenery. Wildlife food plots are planted throughout the area to help wildlife survive harsh winters. Primitive camping is available by the river with restroom facilities nearby. This area is a convenient stop for canoeists traveling down the Maquoketa River.

primitive camping (walk-in or paddle-in, tent only) pit toilets

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Location

Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area is located in Iowa

Detail location of campground

Directions

There are three access points provided to the area: Parking Lot off County Road E17, just east of Canton Parking Lot off County Road 30th Avenue (1/2 mile south of E17) River access off the south fork of the Maquoketa River (between bridge in Canton & Millertown bridge on 30th Ave) - Part of the Maquoketa River Water Trail

Coordinates

42.15248293987988 N
90.87313371168491 W

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The Dyrt Alerts

Get reservations at sold-out campgrounds.

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Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Apr. 16, 2022

Unique County wildlife site along Maquoketa River

Unique hike or paddle primitive site. Native forbs and wildlife surrounding the area. Two parking sites to hike in or access by river. Site is along river, has table, fire ring, latrine. Pack in, pack out and Leave No Trace.

Month of VisitApril
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  • Review photo of Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area by James M., April 16, 2022
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is unknown, AT&T is available, and T-Mobile is unknown.