Best Camping near Bettendorf, IA

Searching for the best camping near Bettendorf, IA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Bettendorf. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Bettendorf. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Bettendorf, IA (108)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    1. Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    21 Reviews
    19 Photos
    35 Saves
    Bettendorf, Iowa

    Overview

    With impressive views of the mighty Mississippi River, Fishermans Corner provides convenient RV and tent camping facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. The lush river landscape provides plenty of shade, and activities from water sports to hiking to wildlife viewing. Eagle watching is particularly popular during the winter months at Fishermans Corner.

    Recreation

    Although there is no river access from within the campground, the Fishermans Corner Day Use facility is a short walk away and offers numerous fishing areas as well as a canoe ramp. Visitors can also catch a weekly educational program at the amphitheater located within the campground. The Central Trail section of the famous Mississippi River Trail passes directly in front of the campground, offering visitors miles of walking and biking trails along the river bank. The expansive Elton E. Fawks Bald Eagle Refuge and Nature Preserve and the Illiniwek Forest Preserve are also located just minutes away.

    Facilities

    Although there is no river access from within the campground, the Fishermans Corner Day Use facility is a short walk away and offers numerous fishing areas as well as a canoe ramp. Visitors can also catch a weekly educational program at the amphitheater located within the campground. The Central Trail section of the famous Mississippi River Trail passes directly in front of the campground, offering visitors miles of walking and biking trails along the river bank. The expansive Elton E. Fawks Bald Eagle Refuge and Nature Preserve and the Illiniwek Forest Preserve are also located just minutes away.

    Natural Features

    Fishermans Corner offers an excellent view of a small aquatic marsh near Locks and Dam 14, which is home to an array of wildlife species. On any given morning visitors may see turtles sunning on rocks near the river bed or countless bird species hunting the shallow waters for food. The scenery during camping season never disappoints, whether it's the vivid greenery during the spring or the breathtaking medley of colors during the fall.

    Nearby Attractions

    The John Deere Pavilion, an interactive museum spanning almost 200 years of the famous American agricultural company's history is located a convenient 20-minutes away by car. For a more exotic experience, the Botanical Center located in Rock Island, features an array of colorful plant species located in both indoor and outdoor gardens.

    contact_info

    For local information, please call (563) 232-9096 or call (815) 259-3628 for general information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Scott County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Scott County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Scott County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Scott County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Scott County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Scott County Park

    3. Scott County Park

    11 Reviews
    47 Photos
    51 Saves
    Eldridge, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground

    4. Illiniwek Campground

    11 Reviews
    48 Photos
    62 Saves
    Bettendorf, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek

    5. Shady Creek

    16 Reviews
    41 Photos
    65 Saves
    Illinois City, Illinois

    Overview

    Shady Creek Campground is a 22-acre park where campers enjoy getaways on the banks of the Mississippi River. A nature trail, shore fishing and fantastic bird watching are offered at Shady Creek.

    Recreation

    The Mississippi River draws many anglers annually. The most popular fish species is the channel catfish; bluegill, walleye and northern pike are also found in the river. Picnicking and playing horseshoes is a popular activity in the park.

    Facilities

    The Mississippi River draws many anglers annually. The most popular fish species is the channel catfish; bluegill, walleye and northern pike are also found in the river. Picnicking and playing horseshoes is a popular activity in the park.

    Natural Features

    The park has spectacular views of the Mississippi River. Many trees throughout the campground provide great places to lounge in the shade. The Upper Mississippi River begins at the headwaters of Lake Itasca, Minnesota and flows 1,250 miles to Cairo, Illinois where it joins the Ohio River.

    Nearby Attractions

    Wildcat Den State Park is just north of Shady Creek, offering hiking trails and the historic Pine Creek Grist Mill built in 1848. The Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge is a 40-minute drive downstream. Trails and observation decks are open to the public. Hunting and fishing are allowed in many area of the refuge.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park

    6. Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park

    10 Reviews
    76 Photos
    49 Saves
    Davenport, Iowa

    Park Terrace Campground is open year-round during seasonal park hours. The restroom is open year-round. Due to weather conditions, water is available to the camp sites from mid April to mid October (weather dependent). Water is always available at the dump station.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $27 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneseo Campground

    7. Geneseo Campground

    12 Reviews
    22 Photos
    29 Saves
    Geneseo, Illinois

    Located just north of the charming city of Geneseo, IL, our little campground has it all! Whether you’re traveling with a tent, van, tow-behind or a big rig, we can accommodate you. Our RV sites have 30 and 50 amp electric connections as well as water and sewer connections on most sites. We have three cozy cabins on property as well as a yurt that can accommodate 5-8 guests.

    If it’s fun and adventure you’re looking for, we’re situated right on the Hennepin Trail which offers miles of hiking and biking paths as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Your furry friends will enjoy our wonderful enclosed dog park! Our newly renovated camp store has everything you might need including ice, firewood and much more. Our community room is perfect for meetings and gatherings and even has arcade games to keep the kids happy. Our restrooms are modern and very clean. Need to top off your propane tank? We have you covered! In the event you need to stay connected and productive during your stay, the entire campground has access to fast, fiber-powered WiFi.

    Come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Geneseo Campground!

    For more camping options - including group reservations - please visit our website at https://rol.camp/geneseo-campground or call 309-442-2662.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 - $95 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry

    8. Clarks Ferry

    10 Reviews
    27 Photos
    16 Saves
    Illinois City, Illinois

    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

    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.

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Shores County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Shores County Park

    9. Buffalo Shores County Park

    9 Reviews
    45 Photos
    31 Saves
    Rock Island, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $22 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park

    10. Interstate RV Park

    8 Reviews
    41 Photos
    12 Saves
    Eldridge, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 108 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Bettendorf

Recent Reviews In Bettendorf

475 Reviews of 108 Bettendorf Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
    September 19, 2024

    Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

    Very nice County cabin near Wapsi River

    Cabin sleeps 6, has all amenities including firewood at no cost! Education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year round, Wapsipinicon River below bluff offers paddling, fishing. Menke Observatory offers sky programs.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Park
    September 19, 2024

    Bennett Park

    Nice small County CG with pond

    Campground is nice with a few newer amenities, including shower house and handicap campsite. Gravel pads at sites include tables, fire, pits, electric,. There’s a dump station, play area, shelters for rent, and a pond that you can actually swim and fish and paddling.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Langwood Education Center
    September 5, 2024

    Langwood Education Center

    Great place!

    Langwood Education Center looks like a great spot for a weekend camping trip, especially if you’re into outdoor education. If you’re planning to camp there with kids, it could be a fun way to blend learning and adventure. Plus, it’s close enough to larger cities, making it convenient for a quick getaway. I’ve been planning something similar but also juggling a lot of writing assignments lately. For those who need help with academic papers or essays while on the go, https://99papers.com/essay-writing/ has been a great resource. They’ve saved me a lot of time when I’ve had deadlines looming. Anyway, has anyone visited recently and can share tips on the best trails or activities for families?

  • Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    September 5, 2024

    Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    Perfect!

    Very nice, affordable and peaceful campsite. Stayed one night for tent camping, campsite was clean and accommodating with fire pit, picnic table, lights, Wi-Fi, and power plug. Bathrooms and showers were clean. Perfect camping site.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground
    September 4, 2024

    Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground

    Super cheap for what you get.

    I got a primitive tent site in an area all to myself, with a shower house just down the road, in a beautiful and quiet campground for $10 cash. You really can’t beat that. Campground is separate from the park so you don’t have to pay a park entrance fee to stay here.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sherman Co Park
    August 28, 2024

    Sherman Co Park

    Scenic County park along Wapsipinicon River

    The campground offers to camp areas: one better suited for RVs, and the other area is better suited for primitive tent, camping. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings, our recites include electric. There is a campground host, shower house, shelter and playground area there too. The tent sites are prone to flooding occasionally from the gun river. There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Cabin
    August 28, 2024

    Bald Eagle Cabin

    Nice modern cabin in County campground

    Cabin sits at end of campground lane with covered porch, parking for 3 cars, ADA accessible. Cabin has 2 sleeping rooms, sleeping loft, and sofa. Capacity is 10, with all kitchen amenities. Has fire pit, wood available in campground, tables, and gas grill with rental. Playground nearby, park has seasonal pool, garden of course, trails, Pride Lake for fishing and paddling.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    August 22, 2024

    Interstate RV Park

    Overnight stop along I-80

    Campground has gravel lanes, roads pads, appears to have annual residence, campground office, pool is clean, planes, farm, and fleet nearby for Supplies. Sites include tables, water, electric, though need updating.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Little Bear Campground
    August 18, 2024

    Little Bear Campground

    Great week of camping

    This was a great campground very clean all around, very nice pool..wish I could for a month. But they don't allow monthly stays

  • Camper-submitted photo from Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park
    August 15, 2024

    Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park

    Very, very clean, County, modern cabin, surrounded by Prairie overlooking lake

    This cabin has all modern conveniences with two sleeping rooms, full service, kitchen, living room, with sofa, sleeper, and fireplace, ADA bathroom and a covered porch overlooking the lake. There’s a gas grill, fire pit, picnic table for outdoor recreation. The park offers kayak rentals, paddle boat rentals, swimming beach in season, and concessions.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Summit Cabin 1
    August 15, 2024

    Summit Cabin 1

    Very nice, clean County cabin overlooking lake

    This modern cabin offers to better bedrooms, full service, kitchen, living room, with sofa, sleeper, and fireplace, ADA bathroom, covered porch with chairs and view of the lake, fire pit, and picnic table outside. Park offers, kayak and paddleboard, rentals, concessions, and a swimming beach in season.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Allison Lake Storey
    August 2, 2024

    Allison Lake Storey

    Second time was not the same

    We stayed here at the beginning of May last year. We thought it was a pretty good camp ground, but didn’t realize how different it would be the second time around a little later in the season. It was noisy and packed, tenters taking up more room than they should’ve, and no one to tell them not to. We had a camper set up close to us and taken over three sites. It was even uneven terrain than we remembered where we were set up, more dirt than grass. The bathrooms smelled heavily like urine and were not clean. When we left to dump the dump we had to switch to the other dump station because the hose threading was so bad. Even the other one wasn’t great, but we had to make it work. We will not be back, unless we try at the beginning of the season when it’s less busy and things aren’t as dirty. Even then, I don’t know if we want to battle the uneven sites.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cabin Fever Campground
    July 15, 2024

    Cabin Fever Campground

    Place is nice, manager isn't.

    The place is nice and very quiet on weekdays.  My only complaint is Rick who runs the place.  I have not had good experiences with him.  He really seems unhappy in his job.  I heard him tell a good friend of mine while I was standing just feet away  "... I hate managing the place".

  • Camper-submitted photo from Galesburg East / Knoxville KOA Journey
    July 12, 2024

    Galesburg East / Knoxville KOA Journey

    Great Campground fixing it up

    They are spending a lot on this campground. New restrooms, traveled all pads, trimmed trees, new playground equipment. It is a hidden gem. If you are on I 74 great place to stay. We will be back. A lot of events scheduled. Cabins being put in.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
    July 10, 2024

    Wildcat Den State Park Campground

    Lovely hidden space

    Found by hiking at the Wildcat Den State Park. Lovely little campside with 19 places, rustical without electricity, dump etc. But got one waterstation and toilets. Every space with picknicktable and fireplace, surrounded by trees. Places are gras. Sorry for my english, Camp from Germany :-)

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground
    July 1, 2024

    Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground

    Serene Primitive Camping Outpost

    For those searching out ‘bare bones’ extreme primitive camping conditions with which to imbibe the best of what tent camping au naturale looks like, smack dab in the middle of absolutely nowhere, then welcome to Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground. This particular outpost follows a chain of similar sparsely outfitted campgrounds that more resemble simple grass pastures to set up your encampment versus a proper designated campground with all of the accoutrement. Located just off of Route 80, you’ll be searching for the Annawan exit, where heading northbound, you’ll take a right upon exiting and immediately thereafter, turn left, crossing the median, which will send you down a path that greets the Hennepin Canal, where you’ll turn left and follow the gravel road only about 50 yards before coming upon Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground.

    For mi primitive tent pitchin' bredren, you have just discovered a small slice of heaven. There’s nothing here but the following: (1) Nobody; (2) A slow-moving current of Hennepin Canal that is sublime for a kayak or canoe to dip her beak in; (3) Enough space for 4 to maybe 5 tents to set up for the night; and (4) A proper his / her restroom, which even I was shocked to see – and curiously enough, it was well-maintained, but that said, it’s still just a glorified hole in the ground with a plastic toilet on top. Beyond this, you only have yourself, a pristine bit of nature to explore and the never-ending swooshing of nearby Interstate 80 traffic, which you very quickly get over.

    Do note that this (and the other camping locations up and down the Hennepin Canal) are offered up on a first-come, first-served basis with no proper reservation system in place. There’s a canal security officer who MAY stop by to collect a fee or not – when we were there, no such officer arrived, so while we were prepared to pay the $8 nightly fee, we ended up not having to pay and there’s no ‘on-your-honor’ drop box to leave an envelope with the nightly fee, which we would have gladly paid, so we used that $8 to pay it forward on our next camping adventure. Because this place is so 'off the beaten path,’ we didn’t encounter a single soul during our entire stay, apart from a farmer who dropped by near dusk to offer us up a half dozen eggs for our breakfast the following morning, which was supremely awesome.

    After setting up our tent for the evening and prepping our kayaks for a dawn launch, my mates and I headed into nearby Annawan, where we had a really nice dinner over at the Purple Onion where the fried catfish was simply outstanding and the rhubarb pie was an unexpected gift. Following this, we headed over to Paxton’s Corner Coop for some killer cupcakes and ice cream. I can’t believe we found this 'out-of-the-world' place so close to our very primitive camping experience!

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) The nearby town of Annawan really is a local blessing as it offers up just a few restaurants and a single grocery store with which to augment your otherwise primitive experience, so if you run out of anything or need something in particular on short notice, even though you’re primitive camping, within 5 minutes, you can access just about anything you need; (2) If you are looking for some unique hiking options, there’s two that are very close by, including Mineral Marsh Nature Reserve and further afield, McCune Sand Prairie; (3) Should you be carrying watercraft with you, of course, there’s the Hennepin Canal in which you are camping in front of, but if you are looking for a bigger or alternative water escape, then head due south of this location by about 20 minutes to discover Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area that has the amazing Johnson Lake to explore as well as fish in; (4) If you are looking for a really nice, albeit different dining experience, then Johnson Sauk Trail State RA also offers up Red Earth Café, where the dining room has a sweeping view of the lake; and (5) Whether you are searching for a local icon or not, if you do make your way to Johnson Sauk Trail State RE, check out Ryan’s Historic Red Barn, which you can access and take stunning photos of.

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    June 13, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Beautiful State Park

    This park is beautiful and perfect for an adventurous hike. The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son and his friends. We would definitely go back.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bellevue State Park Campground
    June 13, 2024

    Bellevue State Park Campground

    Campsite Was Average at Best

    I took my son and one of his friends campjng to Bellvue State Park, however, we did not visit the actual park itself. The camp sites were close to one another, many had almost no privacy from the other campsites. We were at campsite 40, which had a severe incline. Also, if you prefer to hammock camp you may not be able to do so. I was able to find one tree and hook the other side up to my vehicle.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    May 30, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

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  • Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Lake Campground
    May 16, 2024

    Leisure Lake Campground

    Just The Basics @ This Lake Encircled RV-Only Campground

    It would be EZ enough to miss this little campground outpost as you find yourself navigating across I88 searching for the perfect little patch of prairieland to call home for the night in these parts where the cicadas sing endlessly, crisp towering stalks of golden sweetcorn easily outnumber the local residents and where, somehow, it seems as though time has just come to a grinding halt here in north central Illinois. So, if you find yourself driving one of those monstrous over-the-top RVs or hauling a 5th wheel behind you in search of a slice of what this flat, prairieland has to offer you, then this small RV-only lakeside campground might just work for you and your camping plans.

    One quick note – so as not to waste anyone’s time here – in case you missed it in the headline, there is no tent camping at this property, which was a major bummer to learn, especially after learning this was ALSO the case at the only other nearby campground over at Crystal Lake. Unlike this latter camping outpost, Leisure Lake makes no qualms about saying that they have zero plans to allow tent campers anytime soon, so if that’s what you’ve got in mind, keep on looking for higher ground, mi bredren.

    Contrary to the non-stop, almost carnival-like amenities that you will find over at Crystal Lake (you’ll have to read my review on to understand the very long laundry list of family-friendly amenities that are offered there), here at Leisure Lake you will either be incredibly happy with or utterly disappointed by the stark contrast in terms of just basic, nearly non-existent amenities here. One thing is sure, if you are looking for greater solitude, enhanced peace & quiet and less distractions in which to truly embrace what this area of God’s green garden has to offer, then you might actually have found the perfect location. These are the amenities you will find here at Leisure Lake Campground: typical 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage hook-ups, community showers & bathrooms, private access to Leisure Lake, which honestly, is more like a pond IMHO, picnic tables and a fire ring.  Yup, that's it.

    As for the campground itself, it likely doesn’t get any simpler. There’s about 60 or 70 RV slots that encircle the namesake Leisure Lake and while every site is lakefront, the only real difference between sites is that the northern side doesn’t have much shade or privacy and parallels the only road that runs past these parts, whereas the eastern side has closer access to what looks like a beach house and has the best views particularly around sunset as these sites are westward facing, followed by the southern side which has a bit more shade / privacy and has only the swoosh of traffic coming of I88 to content with (albeit the highway is elevated, so the whole property doesn't really experience any traffic noise per se).

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) When you grow tired of trying to conjure up that next meal from the remains of what is in your onboard mini-fridge or you just want to try out some local fare, then nearby you’ll have a few fast food joints to choose from like Culver’s and Burger King, but there’s a few other spots I would recommend first like nearby Rock Falls Candlelight, which is simply fantastic and a bit upscale for this area or the very modest A’s Kitchen; (2) If you come here expecting (like most people I would imagine) that you can swim in this lake ... you would be mistaken, as there is absolutely no swimming in this pond, which was a bummer to learn about, and honestly, I have to question 'WHY?!' (as coming from FL, I can't imagine there's alligators to contend with);(3) If you are camping here you can fish for free, but if not, the owners want to charge you $5 for dropping a line, which seems silly; (4) While the prices are modest at $32 per night / $190 per week, it feels a tad steep considering you really aren’t getting much of anything on the amenity front, but I guess that’s for you to decide; (5) Should you find yourself getting ‘cabin fever’ here (due to the lack of just about anything in the way of diversions) then just due west of here a few miles down the road, you can find Centennial Park which offers up playground areas, baseball diamonds, paddle boat rentals, shelters with picnic tables, tennis courts and hiking trails; and (6) even if you could dip your canoe or kayak in Leisure Lake, trust me, you would be bored in under 10 minutes as the pond is just too small, but good luck for you, nearby there’s Hennepin Canal or the more challenging Rock River to choose from, either of which will provide ample hours of fresh water exploration, sight-seeing as well as angling and, the best part? No one will charge you $5 for the right to drop a line!

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground
    May 10, 2024

    Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

    Bare Bones Primitive Camping Haven

    Located literally just a few stone’s throw due west of the tiny town of Wyanet, which is just a few miles west of better-known Princeton, you will access this little spec of undisturbed primitive camping bliss first via the major Highway 80, running east-west, and then, eventually via Route 6, which is more like a well-paved country backroad than anything else. While you will be hard pressed to find Hennepin Canal Lock 21 on your GPS, trust me, if you simply head west out of Wyanet, you will eventually find this jewel in the middle of nature.

    If you didn’t already know, the Hennepin Canal, and its series of locks & dams will eventually connect you with two of the most amazing rivers in the entirety of the US: the mighty Mississippi as well as the murky depths of the Illinois River – both of which are great for kayaking BTW. Should you choose to follow the canal in its entirety, you will be ushered through the minuscule townships of Mineral, Sheffield, Wyanet, Tiskilwa and Bureau – all of which are fairly emblematic of small Midwestern blue-collared towns that still to this day possess an equal amount of charm and hospitality, which the area is very well known for.

    Given that you can’t actually make a reservation here (or at any of the campgrounds along the Hennepin Canal for that matter) as this spot and the 5 others that make up the Hennepin Canal Lock camping options are only offered on a first-come, first-served basis, one thing is for certain: if you planned to truly ‘get away from it all’ you really can ‘have your cake and eat here too’ at Hennepin Canal Lock 21. While there is no actual check-in or check-out time, occasionally there is a park ranger that will come by to check on the location and collect those $8 nightly fares, although we never came across a ranger during our entire canal-navigating weeklong journey. You should also note that all of the campgrounds up and down the canal are class C camping, meaning that these primitive camping sites do not have showers or electricity, so either bring your own or, better yet, learn to live without these conveniences for a few days and actually embrace the opportunity to connect with nature.

    As you arrive, ultimately via Route 6 & Route 34, you will need to hang a left (coming westbound from Wyanet), where after just a short jig heading due south, you will find the first of 5 camping areas on either side of the main road you are driving down. On the right, in addition to the camping area, you will discover the first of 3 restrooms and just slightly beyond that, the boat launch. If instead of turning right to follow this first encampment, you head left, following the Hennepin Canal, you will see a small camping area on your immediate left, followed by a water spigot, after which you will come across another much larger camping area that has the second restroom facility. Opposite of these 2 camping areas on the other side of the road, there are 2 small camping areas that run right along the canal. If you go back to to the main road, from which you just came, and continued south across the little land bridge and hang another left, you will go around a small pond that will eventually present the third and final restroom facility as you go up a slight incline, where on your immediate right will be the sixth and final camping area that has been reserved for equestrian campers, of which there’s about 4-5 individual sites complete with a wooden hitching post to tie your horses down.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Of all the camping options up and down the Hennepin Canal, while Canal Lock 21 is likely the largest and has more campsite offerings, it is still very basic and primitive, apart from the restroom, boat launch, picnic tables and fire rings that you will find. If that bothers you or you are simply looking for a spot with more space to explore, then likely the Hennepin Canal camping options aren’t for you, and instead, you may want to look just a bit further afield to another amazing place called Johnson-Sauk SP; (2) Should you grow weary of fixing ‘franks & beans’ again for dinner over your roaring fire, while there isn’t much out in these parts, if you are looking for some local fare, over in nearby Wyanet, you’ll find an abundance of just 3 options: Casey’s for well-made, fresh pizza; Harley-K’s Filipino Restaurant, which might actually just shock you!; or Ecky’s Tap, which is fairly darn amazing actually, but only serves up booze. For anything else, head on into Princeton, where there’s tons of options; (3) There is no potable drinking water anywhere at any of these locks up and down the Hennepin Canal apart from at the Visitors Center, so ensure you bring your own water or a filtration system; (4) Should you have your own kayak or canoe, the Hennepin Canal is very nice to explore, although at times difficult to navigate, especially when you come to each of the sets of locks and dams. If that is bothersome and you simply want to get some oaring in without having to take your watercraft in and out of the water every 30 minutes or so, then head on over to Goose Lake just southwest of Hennepin, which is a fantastic lake to explore and has some decent fishing as well; and (5) If you are on the look-out for simply amazingly fresh meats to ‘slap on the Barby’ then head on over to Wyanet Meat Locker, which has fresh venison, pheasant and of course, all of the typical Midwestern carnivore fare like brats, Ribeyes, burgers and pork chops, which all would be DELISH on that flip-open BBQ grill you have back at Canal Lock 21.

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    May 9, 2024

    Clarks Ferry

    Great campground

    This campground sits between the Mississippi River with barge traffic and busy rail road tracks. I knew this up front because you can see it on the map. To me this just means people are working which is great. I know the horns blow all night and day long but i choose to ignore it. The campsites are great. The hosts are warm and welcoming also very helpful. I missed a great photo opportunity last night. Birds were migrating to the north and flying very close to the river. It was awesome to watch. We love this campground!



Guide to Bettendorf

Camping near Bettendorf, Iowa, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Explore the caves: At Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, you can hike through unique caves. One visitor mentioned, "The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous."
  • Enjoy the lake: Lake Macbride State Park Campground is perfect for swimming and fishing. A camper noted, "Beautiful lake. Will stay here again when come back to visit her."
  • Hiking and biking: The trails around Thomson Causeway are great for biking. One reviewer said, "The paved bike route heads along the Mississippi and connects towns."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathrooms. A visitor at Sugar Bottom Campground remarked, "Bathrooms were clean. Easy in and out of the campground."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A review for Shady Creek stated, "Nice quiet spot on the Mississippi."
  • Friendly hosts: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. At Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River, one camper said, "The hosts were absolutely the best! They walk through the camp each night checking sites."

What you should know:

  • Site spacing: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Illinois White Pines Forest State Park noted, "The campground is absolutely jammed with camp sites—it's ridiculous."
  • Insect presence: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Thomson Causeway mentioned, "I should’ve taken the other reviews more seriously about the number of insects."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A review for Chief Keokuk Campground stated, "The restaurant and bait shop/boat rental was closed due to no staffing."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose quieter sites: Look for sites that offer more privacy. A family at Lake Macbride State Park Campground found, "Doesn't feel like a bunch of campers crammed together."
  • Bring activities: Make sure to pack games and outdoor toys. One camper at Sugar Bottom Campground said, "The beach was a plus for the kids as well."
  • Plan for meals: Consider cooking at your campsite. A visitor at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground enjoyed, "The good news is that likely due to the bats, there were no gnats or mosquitos."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Lake Macbride State Park Campground mentioned, "The entry on this app says big rig friendly, but it might be hard to fit a big rig on the electrical only sites."
  • Use leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A visitor at Sugar Bottom Campground noted, "We did have to put blocks under the passenger-side tires."
  • Stay connected: Check for cell service availability. One camper at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River said, "Excellent AT&T service, remote worked from my site for four hours today."

Camping around Bettendorf, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions