Hiking enthusiasts will find multiple trail options at Wapsipinicon State Park Campground, including paths that lead to Ice Cave and Horse Thief Cave formations. The campground sits atop bluffs overlooking the Wapsipinicon River, offering both primitive and electric sites for RVs up to 26 feet and tent campers. Sites accommodate various camping styles, though reviewers consistently note that level spots are rare throughout the campground.
The facility includes restrooms with cold-water showers, and several campers mention the bathrooms need updating. Electric hookups are available at some sites, while four primitive sites offer a more basic camping experience. A campground host is present during the main camping season. James M. notes the campground "has primitive and electric sites atop the bluffs of the river."
River access requires a short drive from the camping area, where visitors can fish, launch boats at two ramps, or explore picnic areas near the water. The park also features a golf course and playground facilities. Deer frequently visit the river area, particularly during early morning and evening hours. For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore campgrounds near Anamosa. Reservations are available for some sites, while others operate on a first-come basis.
Description
Welcome to Wapsipinicon State Park. The sandstone and limestone bluffs in the 400 acre park are covered with moss and columbine. The "newest" addition to the park has its own unique history laid out on an information kiosk in the west side parking area. The three-span bowstring arch bridge is on the National Registry of Historical Places and is the last one in Iowa.
Caves
A trip to Wapsipinicon isn't complete without visiting bowl-shaped Horse Thief Cave. The excitement of years past exists in the legend of the two horse thieves who, as the story goes, used the cave for their camp. Prior to use by these horse thieves, the cave was apparently occupied as a shelter by prehistoric American Indian cultures. Ice Cave is named for the cool air in the cave as you enter it. Visitors can crawl back into the cool temperatures during the height of summer's heat.
Warning 3 Alerts are In Effect
There are 3 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 3 Alerts are In Effect
There are 3 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
This campground is 100 percent reservable and accepts reservations April 1 - October 31 until 10:00 pm CST the day of arrival.
The Playground and Dutch Creek Shelters are undergoing septic system installation through early September 2026. Reservation availability and restroom access have changed during this time: Playground Shelter: Unavailable for reservations; open on a first-come, first-served basis only. Temporary portable restrooms are available. Dutch Creek Shelter: Available for reservations Friday–Sunday (first-come, first-served Monday–Thursday). The pit latrine remains open. (Updated June 3, 2026)
The campground is closed each year from November 1 - March 31.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsWapsipinicon State Park Campground is located in Iowa near Anamosa
Directions
Wapsipinicon St. Park is located on the southwest side of Anamosa IA. just across the Wapsipinicon River on County road E-34. From highway 151 take either exit 49 or 54. From exit 49 (north bound) go north on county road E-34 about three miles. When coming down the hill the park entrance will be to your right. If you cross the bridge into town you went to far. From Exit 54 (south bound) turn right onto 3rd street. It will change to Scott street. Turn left at the stop sign onto main street (west). Towards the end the road it will take a sharp curve to the south and turn into elm street. Take elm street out of town crossing bridge on E-34. Park entrance will be to the left once you cross the bridge. Park DOT signs are along these routes so look for the signs.
Address
21301 County Road E34
Anamosa, IA 52205
Coordinates
42.10000025 N
91.292 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/24/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 6/24/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/24/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 6/24/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 31 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 42 min from Dubuque, IA
- 47 min from Iowa City, IA
- 1 hr 12 min from Davenport, IA


