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The Arlington, Iowa area features several established campgrounds within a short drive, including Backbone State Park and Volga River State Recreation Area. Both parks offer tent and RV camping with electric hookups, while Backbone State Park also provides cabin accommodations. Jakway County Park and Klocks Island Park round out the local camping options with more basic amenities. Most campgrounds in this region of northeastern Iowa provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to drinking water, with varying levels of hookup availability for RVs. The landscape features rolling hills, forests, and river access points that create diverse camping environments throughout the area.
Road conditions and campground accessibility remain consistent throughout most of the camping season, which typically runs from April through October for many sites. As one camper noted, "Iowa state parks are a bargain! This one is $11 for a non-electric site, $16 for an electric site." Reservations are recommended for weekend stays, particularly at Backbone State Park which tends to fill quickly during summer months and fall color season. Most campgrounds offer both reservable and first-come, first-served sites, though availability varies by location. Winter camping is limited, with only select parks like Backbone State Park remaining open year-round. Cell phone coverage is generally reliable near established campgrounds but may be spotty in more remote areas.
Campers consistently highlight the natural features and recreational opportunities available near Arlington's camping areas. Backbone State Park, Iowa's oldest state park, receives particular praise for its unique geological features and diverse activities. "Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa," shared one reviewer who appreciated the park's two distinct campgrounds. Water activities feature prominently in the region, with several campgrounds offering access to lakes and rivers for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to scenic overlooks and natural attractions. The proximity to trout streams makes this area especially popular with anglers, as several streams are stocked regularly from April through October. Campers seeking quieter experiences often prefer visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons when crowds are thinner.
"Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa. There are two campgrounds."
"The lake was super gross, with excessive floating moss (probably a weather issue) and EXCESSIVE goose poop everywhere. The beach was basically unusable, with goose bombs everywhere."
from $12 - $25 / night
Check Availability"Large park, no designated sites, fire rings spread around. Elect posts spread around.water available a dump station on site $2.00 charge. Very green, a river all around the park."
from $12 / night
"Went there last weekend had to do a walk up everything else was reserved. Clean park area, bathrooms were disgusting though. Talked to the DNR he was very friendly and knowledgeable."
from $15 - $40 / night
Check Availability"A very nice park located close to the Iowa border. Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak! It has great trails & campsites & lots of geocaching! Come one New Years for the annual carp drop :)"
"This is an amazing park on the Wisconsin/Iowa border, overlooking where the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers join. I usually try to get in at least 1 trip a year, if lucky enough 2-3."
from $20 - $38 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $12 - $25 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $25 / night
Check Availability"We visited Backbone State Park with our two young kids, and it quickly became one of our favorite Iowa getaways."
"A bit of traffic noise from the county highway. Otherwise lots to do here. Horse shoes, disc golf, woodland trails, and a playground."
"There are pit toilets at the upper sites, near the pavilion."
"The hiking trail was perfect for a morning stroll with my dog and coffee and there certainly is a petting zoo (my German Shepard was a little uncertain about the goats)"
from $5 / night
Check Availability"Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa’s state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers. Many sites have full hook-up, most if not all have electric. I paid $25 a night. Full week is $150!!"
"It is within walking distance of the overlook of the magnificent Upper Mississippi River at the confluence of the Wisconsin River. There are other walking/hiking opportunities."
from $20 / night
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RangerVery nice campground with a few FHU sites, most are electric only. Some sites are pretty sloped making it hard to level longer rigs. Check carefully when making your reservation. Nice close hike to see the overlooks to the river, and there’s a well maintained hike down to the Bridal Veil Falls. Minus 1 star for the horrible push-button operated showers that only stay on for 6 seconds at a time. Good phone service for both t-mobile and AT&T.
LegendWe came here for a visit and we’re going to stay but the online reservation system was difficult for us with Canadian coverage in cell phones.
We carried on to black hawk instead as they had easier first come first serve but this place was much nicer.
The sites were large and mostly private. It did seem a bit “wet”
We even saw a deer
LegendI edit my review - the gun range next door is obnoxious. Why would they have that next to a park with walking trails ?
Big enough for big rvs, big sites Showers Water Hydro Quiet $18 for unserved $30 for serviced
ScoutBe advised site 14 is on such a steep hill it was honestly scary coming in an out of our camper! If an older couple were staying at this site in a camper I’m not sure if they would even be able to. Our second door entrance cannot be used due to how steep the hill is and we had to add wood to the bottom of our stairs because they didn’t touch the ground. Forgot to add you’re also under a very large black walnut tree that is currently dropping walnuts that are ripe.
LegendThough the CG is small, open, few interior trees for shade, it has a outhouse, fire rings, picnic tables, and dump station. Has 8 designated camp sites with sled registration. Great 1 mile access to the Middle Fork of the Little Maquoketa River ( Bankston Creek) and is stocked by the Iowa DNR with trout. Public hunting in park during seasons.
LegendWe got here on a Monday and got a great spot in the back. The sunrise was spectacular. Then the fog moved in off the river and it was pretty cool.
ScoutArrived late at night and struggled to find correct site as there were no numbers posted. Also no external lighting or picnic table. Bathrooms were clean and office help was accommodating when reservation was made.
ScoutI reserved online same day; didn’t show up until dusk/dark - @8:30pm on a Tuesday evening. My assigned pull through site was occupied and office closed. So I looked, found an open site and pulled in. Just overnight and I least @8:15am next morning so did not see any employee.
ScoutThe place is very dirty and needs updating.
Camping sites near Arlington, Iowa offer affordable options for outdoor recreation in northeastern Iowa's rolling terrain, with most sites priced between $11-16 per night. The camping season typically runs April through October, though weather can be unpredictable with summer highs averaging 80°F and frequent thunderstorms. Several campgrounds feature direct access to trout streams that are stocked regularly during fishing season.
Hike the Backbone Trail: At Backbone State Park, visitors can explore unique geological features not commonly found in Iowa. "I went with a group of entering sixth grade Girl Scouts on a weekend tent camping trip to this park. We hiked on the famous Backbone trail - a really fun hike that isn't too incredibly long," shares Rachel H.
Try trout fishing: Echo Valley State Park provides quiet fishing spots along a stocked trout stream. "There is a nice trout stream, with a few sites right by the stream. It is most suitable for tent, truck, or teardrop camping... large RVs would not do well," notes Kerry M.
Visit local museums: The Elkader City Park campground places you within walking distance of cultural attractions. "The campground is next to the city pool and history museum, which has great exhibits and a few historic train cars to explore," explains Annie C., who also mentions "there is a GREAT bakery on the main corner in town."
Explore the Gilbertson Conservation Education Area: This campground provides educational opportunities focused on environmental conservation. Its location makes it ideal for campers interested in learning about local ecology while enjoying outdoor recreation.
Accessibility to rivers: Klocks Island Park offers an affordable camping experience with water access. "Large park, no designated sites, fire rings spread around. Elect posts spread around.water available a dump station on site $2.00 charge. Very green, a river all around the park. Our favorite place in the area. $12.00 a night," explains Bob S.
Clean facilities: South Lake Campground at Backbone State Park maintains high standards for their amenities. "All reservable spots...clean bathrooms, showers and spots. Beautiful park!" notes Edward B.
Affordability: Camping options near Arlington remain budget-friendly compared to other recreational destinations. Dennis G. mentions that Klocks Island Park has "water and electric hookups. Dump station with nonpotable water is easily accessible. Very shady camping right along the river. $12 per night. Worth the money."
Nature observation: The varied terrain creates diverse habitats for wildlife. Echo Valley State Park provides solitude and nature encounters, with Wilber S. noting, "I was a quarter mile from the next nearest site. Certainly a tent oriented campground."
Campsite privacy varies: Many campgrounds offer different levels of seclusion. At Wyalusing State Park, Jim J. notes, "Homestead provides secluded, wooded sites with a good distance between them. Ridge sites have the view from high over the Wisconsin River. That view will cost you though: the sites are very close to each other with little vegetative separation."
Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the region may have issues. Cheryl V. warns about Backbone State Park: "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it. Campsites are close together w no privacy."
Off-season availability: While most campgrounds close for winter, select sites remain open year-round. Wyalusing State Park offers camping throughout the year, though Connor M. cautions about spring camping: "We camped in 30 degree weather and freezing rain came into our campground. This along with the wind made our situation feel pretty cold."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. Ryan S. observed at Klocks Island Park: "I had barely usable Verizon service here and no T-mobile service."
Look for educational programs: Osborne Conservation Center provides learning opportunities for children. "This is a great place for kids to explore. Well maintained and the animal exhibit is amazing!!" recommends Dustin B.
Consider cabin options: When weather turns challenging, cabins provide comfort for families. Backbone State Park offers cabin accommodations in addition to tent and RV sites.
Check for playground access: Jakway County Park includes amenities specifically for children. Carolyn M. notes, "A bit of traffic noise from the county highway. Otherwise lots to do here. Horse shoes, disc golf, woodland trails, and a playground."
Plan for wind exposure: Some campsites experience significant wind, which can impact comfort. Connor M. advises about Wyalusing: "The entire campground is situated on top of a bluff so this compounded our wind issue... keep in mind that it's on a bluff so there are some steep drop-off points that children could take a pretty nasty fall from."
Dump station quality varies: Not all facilities are equal. Ryan S. cautions about Elkader City Park: "The downside to this campground is the dump station. It is just a hole in a manhole cover. It's in a dirt/weedy area and smells terrible."
Site selection for size: Most campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. Dennis G. describes Lakeview Campground at Volga River State Recreation Area: "Gravel parking spots, fairly level, most without shade unless you get on the 'back loop' where you can find 4 with good shade."
Electric hookup details: Electrical options differ between campgrounds. Edward B. notes about Backbone State Park's South Lake Campground: "No full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available."
Off-season options: Several campgrounds in the region remain open during shoulder seasons. Weekday camping offers more space and availability for RVers needing specific site requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Arlington, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Arlington, IA is Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.
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