Accessible via paved roads, this Army Corps of Engineers campground sits directly along the Mississippi River with concrete pads accommodating RVs up to 70 feet. The 25 sites include electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, with reservations available through the standard federal booking system. Rates run $25-26 per night during the May through October season.
The campground operates between active railroad tracks and the river, creating a unique environment where barge traffic and freight trains provide constant background activity. James M. notes the campground "sits along Mississippi River and has sites on shore" while also mentioning it "sits along train tracks so be aware." Several reviewers describe trains passing hourly with horn blasts at nearby crossings, particularly noticeable at night.
Sites feature level concrete pads with maple trees providing shade throughout the campground. The facility includes a boat ramp, playground areas, and individual restroom buildings with private shower rooms rather than traditional communal facilities. Elida L. observed "birds were migrating to the north and flying very close to the river" during her spring visit, highlighting the location's position along the Mississippi flyway.
The campground provides direct river access for fishing and watching commercial barge traffic. A handicap-accessible dock extends into the water, and the entry station stocks firewood for evening campfires. Train noise represents the primary consideration for light sleepers, though many campers appreciate the active river commerce. For additional options, see campsites near Illinois City or explore Riverview Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve across the river. The location puts campers within reach of Wildcat Den State Park downstream for daytime exploration.
Description
Overview
Clarks Ferry is a outdoor lovers delight, with fantastic bird watching and lots of shore fishing opportunities with our new accessible fishing dock! The park has plenty of trees to lounge under while taking in the spectacular views of the mighty Mississippi River.
Recreation
Take the kids to one of the two playgrounds, play a game of horseshoes, volleyball, or go boating. The Mississippi River draws crowds of anglers for channel catfish, bluegill, walleye, crappie and northern pike.
Facilities
Picnic tables, campfire rings, and 50-amp electric hookups are provided at every campsite. A boat ramp, dump station, and picnic shelter are also onsite.
Natural Features
The park is surrounded by large mature trees along the Iowa side of the Upper Mississippi River. The Upper Mississippi is the section of the river that starts in the headwaters of Lake Itasca, Minnesota and flows 1,250 miles to Cairo, Illinois, where it joins with the Ohio River.
Nearby Attractions
Clarks Ferry is near the Shady Creek Recreation Area and the Wildcat Den State Park.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundClarks Ferry is located in Iowa
Directions
From Davenport, Iowa, drive west on Hwy 22 about 15 miles and turn at Clark's Ferry Sign (in Montpelier)
Address
3860 Sunset Beach
Montpelier, IA 52759
Coordinates
41.4663889 N
90.8094444 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 22 min from Davenport, IA
- 1 hr 1 min from Iowa City, IA
- 1 hr 18 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 1 hr 28 min from Dubuque, IA
