Camping options near Bernard, Iowa span a 30-mile radius in rural eastern Iowa, where elevations range from 700-950 feet amid the rolling hills of the Driftless Area. Primitive campsites within Jackson County provide alternatives to established campgrounds, with many accessible via hiking trails or water routes. Late spring through early fall typically offers the most favorable camping conditions, though seasonal flooding can impact campsite availability along river corridors.
What to do
Cave exploration: Maquoketa Caves State Park has 13 distinct bat caves to explore. "If you are a bat cave spelunker, you are going to be absolutely excited by this place. For the rest of us outdoor enthusiasts who are simply looking for a great campground, then you've also struck the campground lottery," notes Stuart K. Consider timing visits around bat hibernation seasons.
River activities: Paddle the North Fork Maquoketa River from campsites like Riverview Ridge. "Two hour float trips on the North Fork Maquoketa River are available directly from the campground," reports Wayne K. The campground provides convenient river access for canoe and kayak enthusiasts.
Wildlife observation: Jackson County wildlife areas offer prime viewing opportunities. The native vegetation at Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area supports diverse bird and animal populations. "Native forbs and wildlife surrounding the area. Two parking sites to hike in or access by river," explains James M.
Stargazing: Clear, dark skies enhance overnight stays at primitive sites. Eden Valley Refuge backcountry sites provide excellent stargazing conditions away from light pollution. "It is absolutely pitch black. PERFECT for stargazing on a clear night," according to Linsey M., who frequents the pack-in sites.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Pack-in camping areas offer privacy not found at developed campgrounds. "The tent sites, nearest the river, are well spaced with flush toilets," reports Wayne K. about Riverview Ridge. At Eden Valley, "We like to stay at the Pack in site #1 due to the difference in the levelness of the sites."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the upkeep of bathrooms and shower facilities in the area. At Swiss Valley County Park, "Campground is well maintained, restrooms, showers, recycling station, firewood available, campground host onsite, resident park ranger," notes James M.
River views: Waterfront sites rank among the most popular options. "We paid $15 online to reserve a spot for the night but I'm not sure if a different part of the park was free or not as advertised here. But it was very quiet and our spot (55) was right on the river and a bit tucked in the woods which was great and had an amazing view of the bridge," writes Courtney K. about Miller Riverview City Park.
Short hiking trails: Easy access to trail networks enhances camping experiences. Maquoketa Caves State Park "offers up more than 370 acres with 6 miles of hiking trails with 13 distinct bat caves to explore," according to Stuart K., making it ideal for day hikes from campsites.
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Flooding affects river campgrounds during spring and after heavy rains. At Miller Riverview City Park, "Checked the availability before you go. We were told this place floods on occasion and has to close. It's that close to the river!" advises Patti M.
Water quality: Some campgrounds have sulfur-containing water. At Swiss Valley County Park, "The shower facilities weren't bad but they have sulfites in the water so it stinks a little," notes Michael S. Pack extra drinking water when visiting affected campgrounds.
Noise considerations: Urban proximity creates noise at some locations. Miller Riverview visitors mention that "ambient noise includes auto traffic of speeding cars coming over the nearby highway bridge, and loud semi-trucks that are air-braking as they come into town. Also, multiple trains rumbled by the campground across the river, many blowing their horns repeatedly as they passed at all hours of the night," according to Stephen R.
Reservation systems: Policies vary by location. Eden Valley Refuge requires advance planning for backcountry sites. "These sites must be reserved online and are $13 a night. Firewood is available for purchase at the main campground from the campground host," explains Linsey M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-oriented campgrounds include dedicated play areas. At Maquoketa Caves State Park, "If you have kids and want to be planted near the playground, you might want to target sites #26-#28, where the spacious kids playground sets right behind these sites," recommends Stuart K.
Swimming opportunities: Cooling off options exist despite limited natural swimming areas. Creek Valley Campground offers "a great campground that was very quiet. The help was wonderful and to my surprise it had a swimming pool. The kids loved the Friday night movie," according to CJ.
Educational programs: Nature centers enhance family camping experiences. Eden Valley Refuge provides educational opportunities with its on-site nature center. "Main CG has primitive and electric sites on gravel pads, restrooms/showers, dump station, Nature Center, play area, along Bear Creek," notes James M.
Cave exploration safety: Prepare properly for cave visits with children. At Maquoketa Caves, "There are caves for everyone, whether you're claustrophobic and don't want to be in tight spaces or you're willing to army crawl for 1/4 mile," writes Amanda F. Bring headlamps, sturdy footwear, and be aware that cave closures may occur to protect bat populations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Level sites vary within campgrounds near Bernard. At Palace Campground, "If you get along the outsides you have a lot more privacy and better chance they will be level. If you aren't worried about sharing a conversation with your neighbor then you can pick anything," advises Scott M.
Hookup information: Water and electric availability differs by location. Swiss Valley County Park has "standard RV sites, some electric tent sites otherwise primitive with fire rings and tables," according to James M., while Eden Valley Refuge offers "All 28 sites have electric and water. Some are a little closer together than others, but there's a few jems with plenty of space," per Chris D.
Accessibility considerations: Site access varies considerably between campgrounds. At Rustic Barn Campground, "All had gravel driveways and looked level. Decent separation between sites although they are close together, as would be expected in an RV park," notes Lee D., highlighting the well-maintained access roads suitable for larger rigs.
