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!

Chimney Rock campground has medium service private campground with cabin rentals, canoe, and kayak rentals. Primitive and electric sites and livery service. Located along the gorgeous upper iowa river. Chimney rock campground 5 small (six person) cabins and 2 Large (12 person) cabins. All have heat and air conditioning. All include: stove, refrigerator, microwave, coffee pot, toaster, pots and pans as well as complete table service. You do need to bring your own bedding. There are full sized bunk beds in the lower level and queen beds in the loft. There is also a water storage container and sink for washing dishes. For bathing we have a community bath and shower house. There are porta potties located very near the cabins as well.

Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Cresco. Cresco is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Cresco

The Best Camping Near Cresco, Iowa

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.

Canoe Rental and Group Camping

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.

Perfect Spot on Upper Iowa River 

This campground has it all. Easy access for kayaking and tubing on the Upper Iowa River.

Awesome campground outside beautiful Decorah!

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

Best place to unplug with the family.

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.

The best weekend camping so close to home!

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.  

Photos of Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground

Real photos from real campers