Camping opportunities near Bellevue, Iowa range from riverside spots along the Mississippi to inland county parks with varying amenities. The area sits at approximately 650 feet above sea level where the river cuts through bluffs creating a landscape of wooded hillsides and river bottomlands. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with higher humidity levels near waterways, while spring and fall camping can experience wider temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Paddling experiences: The backwater channels at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground offer excellent exploration opportunities with rental equipment available. "They have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife. Great place for the family," notes Ryan.
Educational programs: Visit the eco-tourism center at Rock Creek for naturalist-led activities. "They also have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed," shares Chris F., adding practical details about the facilities.
River tours: Experience Mississippi River backwaters with pontoon boat tours from local marinas. "CG is spread out along bottomland river forest and includes camping cabins, tent and RV sites, RR/showers, playground, dump and water stations, Eco Tourism store/grill, paddling rentals, Blue Heron Cruises, nature center," explains James M. about the comprehensive offerings.
Wildlife viewing: Explore the nature reserves accessible from various campgrounds, especially in spring and fall migration seasons. "There's a huge grassy area for walking the dog and several stations set up with poop bags/garbage. There are several benches set where you can sit and stare for miles and miles," describes Stephanie S. at Rustic Barn Campground RV Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain exceptionally clean bathroom facilities. "Shower house was immaculate with large hard stalled showers/changing room," notes Chris S. about Rustic Barn Campground, while another camper mentioned "very clean as were the showers" at the same facility.
River views: Sites along the Mississippi provide scenic vantage points. "This is a really nice campground right on the Mississippi! The campground is quiet with level gravel pads with a picnic table and firepit," explains Elisha L. about Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River campground.
Recreation options: Many campgrounds feature additional amenities beyond basic camping. "Nice rec room with TV, games, books, soft seating, pinball, ping pong, and pool table. Outdoor games set-up on the grass like Cornhole, croquet, etc," observed a visitor at Rustic Barn, highlighting the diverse activity options.
Level sites: "Site 40 had an electric hookup site with a generous sized level concrete pad, picnic table, and fire grate," reports Lee D., noting the practicality of well-designed sites at Fishermans Corner.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near the Mississippi River experience train disturbances. "Some sites are right on the river w/ views - worth it to try to get those. There's a train but it was infrequent so it did not disrupt our sleep," explains Sarah C. about Fishermans Corner, offering a balanced perspective.
Seasonal flooding: Low-lying areas can experience flooding during spring or after heavy rainfall. "Watch river levels for flooding, bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest," cautions James M. about Spruce Creek Park.
Reservation requirements: Many rv parks in Bellevue, Iowa and surrounding areas require advance planning, especially for weekend stays. "Appears there are some fulltime RV campers onsite. Advise only for overnight or short stay if traveling through," notes one reviewer about Interstate RV Park.
Cell service variability: Reception can be spotty in some locations. "We have ATT and had decent cell service here," mentions Mary S. about Blanding Landing, providing useful connectivity information for remote workers.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs specifically for children. "This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," notes Ryan about Rock Creek County Marina and Campground.
Playground access: Blanding Landing provides recreation facilities for younger campers. "Each site includes picnic table and fire pit. Most have electric. There's a playground for kids," explains Mary S., detailing amenities that appeal to families.
Swimming options: Some rv parks near Bellevue include swimming facilities during summer months. "The kids loved the huge pool," shares Connie V. about Interstate RV Park, highlighting one of the amenities important for family camping.
Safety considerations: Camp hosts provide oversight at many locations. "The icing on the cake was the woman who monitored the sites, Anne. She was so kind and welcoming, and made me feel comfortable and safe," reports Victoria R. about her experience at Blanding Landing.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check whether sites require additional equipment. "Site 26 seemed to be the most in level, which was our only negative. We had to use all our blocks to get us as level as possible," notes Stephanie S. about Rustic Barn Campground RV Park.
Hookup options: Full-service sites are available at Off Shore RV Park for those needing complete connections. "Resort has many options: even camp sites,4 villas, resort inn rooms. Sites have hard surfaces, fire rings, water, electric," reports James M., describing the range of accommodations.
Big rig accessibility: Many RV parks accommodate larger vehicles with specific sites. "What a picturesque campground! With rolling hills of Wisconsin farmland surrounding you, you can't beat the view. This is an extremely well maintained park with large pull thru sites, level sites with plenty of room," observes Tina N. about Rustic Barn.
Overnight versus extended stays: Some campgrounds better suit particular trip durations. "$55 night on old gravel spots. Close to interstate so that is plus," notes one reviewer about Interstate RV Park, highlighting it as primarily a convenient overnight option.
