Camper submitted image from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground - 2
Activities
Camper submitted image from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground - 3
People
Camper submitted image from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground - 4
Water
Camper submitted image from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground - 5
Nature
Unlock Planning Tools in App

Established Camping

Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground

Do you own or manage this property?

Claim Your Listing
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground, near Cresco, Iowa, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations, there's something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out.

This campground is known for its clean facilities and well-kept grounds, making it a comfortable place to unwind. Visitors rave about the easy access to the Upper Iowa River, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. One happy camper noted, “This campground has it all,” highlighting the scenic views and fun water activities available.

If you're into fishing, you're in luck! Reviewers have shared stories of catching fish after fish right from the river. Plus, the spacious sites offer a good amount of privacy, so you can enjoy your time without feeling cramped. As one family put it, they had “the best weekend camping so close to home,” thanks to the peaceful atmosphere and friendly vibe.

Chimney Rock is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area, with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you're up for a game of sand volleyball or just want to relax by the water, this campground has you covered. So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable outdoor adventure!

Suggest an Edit

Location

Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground is located in Iowa

Detail location of campground

Directions

From jct SR 9, SR 139 & Pole Line Rd (A34): Go 7 mi E on Pole Line Rd (A34), then follow signs 3-1/2 mi on gravel road.

Address

3312 Chimney Rock Rd
Cresco, IA 52136

Coordinates

43.41579719 N
91.93627836 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Cabins
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • WiFi
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

84%
17%
0%
0%
0%

5.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 12, 2021

Hidden oasis from the city

We booked a spot for our RV because we wanted to explore the Decorah,IA area and it’s abundant set of activities. The campground is more on the rustic side but they have a nice clean shower house, very well kept grounds and a ton of space to spread out. The lower campground is right next to the river and there are RV, tent and cabin sites available.

SiteLE-10
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by MitchRoeschlein , August 12, 2021
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by MitchRoeschlein , August 12, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 4, 2019

The best weekend camping so close to home!

Chimney Rock Campground was exactly what this Family needed for our first camping trip! We stayed in the upper C campground, every spot is spread far apart for privacy. Yes there was music and people partying I have read people complain in other reviews, but it was done at a decent time and what do you expect? we have all been there and done that and they were done before midnight and silence the rest of the night! We rented canoes and went on a four hour trip but next time we will Deff go on a longer canoe trip and leave earlier. The scenery and the clear water on the river and we went fishing and caught one after the other. We cannot complain about one single thing from our weekend getaway close to home and will be back very very soon.

SiteC upper level
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by Laura P., August 4, 2019
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by Laura P., August 4, 2019
Reviewed May. 22, 2018

Best place to unplug with the family.

Excellent staff. One of the best kept campgrounds I've been to. Between the campground and the nearby towns, there is easily two weeks of activities to do. More depending on the time of year you go. They offer canoeing, kayaking, tubing, sand volleyball court, shower facilities, water and electrical hookups, cabins, picnic shelter, and firewood on site. Go to http://www.chimneyrocks.com for more information

SitePrimitive site
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by Jeremy L., May 22, 2018
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by Jeremy L., May 22, 2018
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by Jeremy L., May 22, 2018
Reviewed Apr. 28, 2018

Perfect Spot on Upper Iowa River

I have been visiting Chimney Rock Camp and Canoe for 20 years. Every time I visit I have a wonderful time enjoying the scenic Upper Iowa River. This part of Iowa is a treasure. Deb and her crew are always helpful and accommodating. They run a great canoe/kayak/tube rental with shuttle service. This is a private campground. I appreciate the laid back vibe. We have been here during the week and have had the place pretty much to ourselves. The weekends are a bit more lively, but with friendly folks. Some of my favorite memories are on the shuttle bus up to the drop in and laughing with fellow campers/ river floaters. We love Chimney Rock and pray this little slice of heaven is available for us to enjoy for years to come. We prefer to stay down by the river sans electricity. We have done this for years in a tent and now in our hybrid camper. There are cabins, electric sites, showers and a dump station.

Reviewed Apr. 23, 2018

Canoe Rental and Group Camping

We visit on memorial day weekend with a large group. Camp right along side the Upper Iowa River....80 foot limestone bluffs! Campground shuttles and rents canoes/kayaks.

SiteRiverside
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by J. T., April 23, 2018
  • Review photo of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground by J. T., April 23, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

What canoe rental options are available at Chimney Rock Campground in Cresco?

Chimney Rock Campground offers comprehensive water recreation rental options including canoes, kayaks, and tubes. The campground provides a convenient shuttle service that transports guests and equipment to designated launch points along the Upper Iowa River. This service allows visitors to enjoy paddling experiences without worrying about transportation logistics. The rental operation is well-established and professionally managed by the campground staff, who are known for being helpful and accommodating to guests' needs. The river access is easy and convenient, making this an excellent base for exploring the scenic Upper Iowa River.

Where is Chimney Rock Campground located in Iowa?

Chimney Rock Campground is situated along the Upper Iowa River in northeastern Iowa. The campground is positioned in a particularly scenic area characterized by dramatic 80-foot limestone bluffs. Its location provides easy access to the river while serving as a convenient base for exploring the broader Decorah area. The setting combines natural beauty with proximity to local towns that offer additional activities and amenities.

What amenities and facilities are available at Chimney Rock Campground?

Chimney Rock Campground features clean shower facilities, water and electric hookups for RVs, and a sand volleyball court. The grounds are exceptionally well-maintained with spacious campsites that offer privacy, particularly in the upper C campground area. The campground has two distinct sections - a lower area directly adjacent to the Upper Iowa River and an upper area with more spread-out sites. For recreation, the campground provides canoe, kayak, and tube rentals with shuttle service, and direct access to the river for water activities. The facilities are clean, the grounds are well-kept, and the overall atmosphere balances natural beauty with essential camping amenities.