The Mississippi River and its tributaries shape the landscape near Burlington, Iowa, creating a mix of wooded bluffs and riverside camping opportunities. Elevations range from 530 to 700 feet above sea level throughout the region, with summer temperatures typically averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Cell service can vary significantly between riverside locations and higher ground campsites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Big Hollow Recreation Area, the lake offers multiple species for anglers. "If you are into fishing, this place has large mouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish," notes one camper who enjoyed both fishing and camping in their travel trailer.
Kayaking and paddling: The Mississippi River and surrounding waterways provide excellent paddling routes. A camper at Ferry Landing recommends "paddling upstream to Port Louisa NWR or Lake Odessa" and mentions the area is "great for isolated camping at river edge where Iowa and Mississippi rivers meet!"
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer hiking opportunities through bottomland forests. "The trail system around the lake is in pretty good shape and makes for some great mountain biking," reports a visitor to Geode State Park, where you'll find well-maintained paths suitable for various skill levels.
What campers like
River views: Campsites along the Mississippi provide unobstructed water views. At Shady Creek, a camper recommends "Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi." Another notes the "level poured pad for RV, electric and nice fire pits" with "beautiful views of the Mississippi."
Affordable camping: Many sites offer reasonable rates for RV camping near Burlington, Iowa. At Geode State Park, a visitor mentioned paying just "$12 a night. No electricity or water in our site. Clean bathrooms. Cheap wood for fires. Really nice fire pits with attached grill."
Level sites: RV campers appreciate the concrete pads at several area campgrounds. According to one camper at Shady Creek, "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one. Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed through out the park."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Spring flooding can affect riverside campgrounds. At Ferry Landing, a visitor noted they "tried to camp here, but dirt road going in was submerged in deep mud holes after some heavy rain."
Insect preparation: Bottomland areas along rivers can have significant insect activity. A camper at Ferry Landing advises to "look out for insects" when enjoying "paddling, fishing, hiking in bottom land forests."
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad noise. At Crossroads RV Park, a reviewer mentioned "railroad tracks on one side, which came through at 3:30 am blowing his horns, and the Mississippi on the other, a couple during the night with their loud engines."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking. A visitor to Shady Creek advises, "make your reservations as early as you can the spots go quick! The campground even has a military spot!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children appreciate dedicated play areas. At Galesburg East / Knoxville KOA Journey, a visitor mentioned, "When we first got to the camp ground you can see a decent sized pool and greeted by the host with great hospitality... They have mini golf and cabins on site as well."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation suitable for families. Big Hollow Recreation Area features a beach area, though one camper noted that during their visit "the lake was filled with algae. So if you're wanting to fish or swim, this isn't the place for you!"
Nature activities: Look for campgrounds with diverse outdoor options. A visitor to Big Hollow Recreation Area mentioned "a gun range, horse farm, playground, bathrooms, and even a place to use a few telescopes to see the stars!"
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: Some RV parks have limited space between units. At Updog RV & Camping, a critical reviewer noted, "With slide out on each side, and not superslides either, I had EXACTLY 1 foot left on each side of my slides. I could not put out my awning as it would hit the camper next to me."
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds offer complete utilities. A camper at Big Hollow Recreation Area commented, "This is a great campground. Sites are pretty level and easy to get parked. Full hookup!!!"
Cell service considerations: Digital connectivity varies by location. At Shady Creek, one camper mentioned "Our cell phone provider is Sprint and we had zero service" while others reported "Strong Verizon access" at the same campground, indicating carrier-dependent coverage.
Accessibility for large rigs: Several campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Galesburg East / Knoxville KOA Journey noted, "All sites are pull thru with full hookups. The grounds have lots of mature trees so shade is plenty."
