Best Camping near Cascade, IA

Cascade, IA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Cascade, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Cascade, IA (150)

    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    1. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    176 Photos
    215 Saves
    Baldwin, Iowa

    This campground offers both electric and non-electric sites as well as modern restroom and shower facility. All campsites are available by reservation only.

    Maquoketa Caves State Park is one of the biggest attractions in Jackson County and is a great place for spelunkers and hiking enthusiasts. The caves in the area were formed after millennia of water erosion on limestone bedrock. This park contains more caves than any other state park in Iowa. The park itself covers 370 acres nestled among hardwood trees and high bluffs. With approximately thirteen caves, a great experience awaits you at this interesting and unique state park.

    Bird Watching
    Cave Exploring/Spelunking
    Dump Station
    Geological Formations
    Handicap Access
    Hiking
    Interpretive Exhibit/Display
    Modern Restroom
    Park Office
    Parking
    Picnic Area
    
    Playground
    Registration Building
    Restrooms
    Showers
    Toilet, Pit/Vault
    Trash Dumpster
    Visitor Center
    Water Hydrants
    Wildflower Viewing
    Wildlife Viewing
    
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    2. Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    72 Photos
    48 Saves
    Cassville, Wisconsin
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $33 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park

    3. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park

    29 Reviews
    114 Photos
    108 Saves
    Dundee, Iowa

    Located about an hour’s drive north of Cedar Rapids, Backbone State Park is Iowa’s oldest state park. Established in 1920, it was named for a narrow limestone ridge—the Devil’s Backbone—along the Maquoketa River. At its founding, it was one of the largest state parks in the U.S. to offer camping, picnicking and hiking opportunities. Since that time, the park has expanded to 2,100 acres—almost double its original size—and offers even more opportunities for locals and visitors to get outdoors and enjoy some time in nature. Whether it’s wandering the woods, fishing on a quiet creek, lounging by the lake, or just napping in shade under a swinging hammock, there’s something for everyone here.

    The two campgrounds at Backbone State Park offers 125 campsites for tent and RV campers. The large South Lake Campground has nearly 100 sites, about half with electrical hookups, with flush toilets and showers. The smaller Six Pines Campground has 27 primitive tent sites with vault toilets. Most sites are open and grassy, but there are plenty of shade trees around. Both locations have drinking water faucets and trash receptacles; a dump station is located at the South Lake Campground. The park also offers a few 1- and 2-bedroom cabins for those visiting sans tent or RV; bedding not provided. Many sites and facilities are ADA accessible. A small store in the park sells bait, firewood and some concessions. Reservations are accepted, but some sites are held open for first-come, first-served campers. Seasonal campsite rates range from $6–$16/night; cabins range from $50–$100/night.

    There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at Backbone State Park. The park features several playgrounds, picnic areas, an outdoor auditorium, and a museum. More than 21 miles of multiuse trails explore the woods and waterways within the park. Taking a hike or ride is the best way to see some of the park’s natural rock features, including the Stone Arch, Balance Rock, and the Devil’s Backbone. In winter, many of these trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Swimming, paddling and boating can be enjoyed on Backbone Lake, with kayak and canoe rentals available from the park, and angers can fish for trout on the creek out of Richmond Springs. And rock climbers will find several challenging routes on the park’s many limestone cliffs.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground

    4. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    255 Photos
    330 Saves
    McGregor, Iowa

    Located on a high bluff overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, a land of sculpted limestone and prehistoric Native American mounds can be found amid a swath of preserved hardwood forest. Translated “home of the warrior” in the language of the local Munsee–Delaware Indians, Wyalusing Hardwood Forest and the Wyalusing Mounds have received recognition as national natural landmarks and historic places. Adjacent to the forest, Wyalusing State Park is the perfect camping destination for a little outdoors R&R, while discovering more about the natural and cultural history at the junction of Wisconsin’s and America’s greatest waterways.

    Visitors to Wyalusing State Park have two campgrounds to choose from. Wisconsin Ridge is set on a high bluff over the Wisconsin River, and Homestead is located in shady hardwood forest. Combined, they offer 109 campsites for tent and RV campers; there is also a large group campground. Both campgrounds provide flush and vault restrooms, shower facilities and drinking water. A portion of sites in each campground have electrical hookups for RVs, and there is a dump station near the Homestead site. The park also has several picnic areas, sports courts, and five reservable group picnic shelters. Firewood, camping supplies, ice and boat rentals are available at the concession stand. Seasonal campsite rates range from $15–$35/night; entrance to the park requires an additional fee.

    With nearly 24 miles of land and water trails in Wyalusing State Park, you’ll find ample opportunities for exploring riverside bluffs. Whether you like to walk, hike, ride, or paddle, there’s a trail just for you. Take an easy interpretive walk to learn about the park’s flora, fauna and geology; hike to see limestone caves, waterfalls, and a great view of the river; hop on your bike for a ride around the edge of a wooded grassland; or board a canoe or kayak and paddle through the Mississippi backwaters. Many of these trails are also open during the winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Other park activities include fishing, bird watching, and seasonal hunting.

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

    $15 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Swiss Valley County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swiss Valley County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swiss Valley County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swiss Valley County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swiss Valley County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swiss Valley County Park

    5. Swiss Valley County Park

    9 Reviews
    7 Photos
    19 Saves
    Dubuque, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park

    6. Rustic Barn Campground RV Park

    15 Reviews
    53 Photos
    63 Saves
    Dubuque, Iowa

    We welcome you to experience the true beauty of the Midwest. Our campground offers a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere, where you can enjoy the landscapes of rolling hills and lush countryside, with a friendly and caring staff and numerous amenities Rustic Barn Campground & RV Park is only 3 blocks off highway 151/61/35 and extremely convienent to reach. Just a few miles from the beautiful bluffs of the Mighty Mississippi, we are conveniently located in the tri-state area of Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois, where there are endless activities and attractions. 7 miles from Dubuque, IA 15 miles from Platteville, WI 17 miles from Galena, IL 80 miles from Madison, WI

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park

    7. New Wine Park Dubuque County Park

    6 Reviews
    39 Photos
    8 Saves
    New Vienna, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Central Park

    8. Central Park

    5 Reviews
    27 Photos
    13 Saves
    Anamosa, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area

    9. Grant River Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    34 Photos
    55 Saves
    Dubuque, Iowa

    Overview

    Spread along the banks of the Upper Mississippi River, the Grant River Campground, located in the "Catfish Capital of Wisconsin," is a modern campground that offers a plethora of outdoor and recreational activities.

    Recreation

    The famous fishing on the Mississippi River draws crowds of anglers each year. The most popular species is the channel catfish, earning the city of Potosi the nickname "Catfish Capital of Wisconsin." Other species include bluegill, walleye, crappie, northern pike and bass. Best to try your luck in the spring before the rice field grows up. There is boat ramp access within the campground, but can be chalenging for larger vessels as water levels drop and aquatic vegetation grows up.

    Natural Features

    Surrounding the large campsite is a lush river landscape with towering bluffs and beautiful sunsets, creating a nature experience for visitors without losing the comforts of modern camping.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (563) 582-0881.

    Nearby Attractions

    Potosi Brewing Company Restauraunt & Museum (Potosi, WI - 2 miles) Lock and Dam 11 (Dubuque, IA - 19 miles) National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (Dubuque, IA - 20 miles) Diamond Jo Casino & The Q Casino (Dubuque, IA - 20 miles) Historic sites, Antiques, Fine Dining (Galena, IL - 28 miles)

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

    $14 - $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge

    10. Riverview Ridge

    3 Reviews
    5 Photos
    30 Saves
    Cascade, Iowa

    From camping in tents to motorbuses, river tubing to hiking trails, Riverview Ridge offers the best of our Eastern Iowa landscape. With over 10 miles of trails, scenic bluff views and 80 acres of terrain.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 150 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Cascade

604 Reviews of 150 Cascade Campgrounds


  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Jan. 30, 2025

    New Wine Park Dubuque County Park

    Nice small county park campground

    General: This is a small (29-site) county park campground situated along the North Fork Maquoketa River. Nine of the sites are reservable, and the rest are first-come, first-served. Some sites are primitive, and some have water and 30-amp electricity hookups. There is one ADA-accessible site with a paved camper pad. 

    Site Quality: Most sites are level. The camper pads are gravel/grass, but not all are clearly defined. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. 

    Bath/Shower: The bath/shower house was closed when we were there in November but there are vault toilets about a quarter mile from the campground (in the day-use area) that were very clean and well-stocked when we were there. 

    Activities/Amenities: Many activities including disc golf, three hiking trails, volleyball, two playgrounds (one in the day-use area and one by the campsites). There are two reservable picnic shelters. There is also a dump station. 

    We were tent camping in November on a backpacking trip so we didn’t take advantage of any of the activities but would return in our van on a future camping trip. We were the ONLY ones in the campground at this time of year!

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park
    Jan. 20, 2025

    Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park

    Nice wooded primitive County campground

    Although this campground is closed for the winter, these sites offer wooded and shaded spots. Sites themselves offer tables and firings. The campground has a seasonal host offering firewood on site, showers and restrooms, play area, trails, and overflow parking just adjacent for the entrance.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodside Campground, Scott County Park Iowa
    Jan. 20, 2025

    Woodside Campground, Scott County Park Iowa

    Nice, newer campground with solar power!

    Campground is closed for the winter season. Campground offers host, nicely maintained heated showers and restrooms, play area, firewood, available on site, RV pads are hard surface, have fire rings, water, electric, tables. Since this campground is newer, not much shade yet.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Grove Campground, Scott Co Park
    Jan. 20, 2025

    Pine Grove Campground, Scott Co Park

    Smaller campground in primitive tent, site area

    Pine Grove campground has primitive tent sites open this time of year, the other portion, including RV spots are closed for the season. The tent sites are well shaded, gravel, parking area, tables, firings included. There is firewood at the campground, and cabins for rent at the end of the Lane. The park itself offers many trails, pride Lake for paddling and fishing. The campground itself offers, restrooms, showers, dump station, and a seasonal host.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
    Jan. 20, 2025

    Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

    Very nice, year round camping in large county park

    This campground is the largest RV campground in the park. A portion of this campground is sectioned off for the season, though plenty of spacious sites are available that include: fire pit, tables, water, electric, hard pads, firewood, available, heated shower house, very clean, Recycling bins, overflow parking, electric vehicle charge station, wheelchair, charging station, seasonal host ( currently vacant ).The park offers miles of trails, fishing at pride Lake, a historical Pioneer Village within the park at the north, equestrian trails, bicycle trails.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palisades-Kepler State Park
    Jan. 18, 2025

    Palisades-Kepler State Park

    Nice Park & CG off US-30

    Park offers lots of amenities and recreation opportunities. Situated along the Cedar river, fishing and paddling can be done. Lots of trails, CG and cabins closed for winter season for improvements and online reservations. Campground offers pads, firings, electric, tables, and there is a dump station. Restrooms, shelters, overflow parking, and a youth campsite is available. Sites include tent and RV sites.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Jan. 1, 2025

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    The Robin to the Bat Caves of Campgrounds

    Hand’s down, this is one of Iowa’s best state parks, so if you’ve never made your way here to Maquoketa Caves SP, you need to start making your plans. And if you are coming with a large group of kiddos, Maquoketa SP has you covered with not one 1, but 3 individual large group sized campsites with each accompanied by its own duo split restroom albeit basic with a simple, but very clean privy. You’ll access all three of these youth camping sites by taking your second left after accessing the SP turning left on 98 Street after passing the Maquoketa SP Visitor Center. Each site is completely shrouded by tall grasses providing some solid privacy as you stare up at an unobstructed view of a perfect star-filled night sky. Each site has its own designated firepit accompanied by several picnic tables and chopped logs, which serve as extra seating.

    Beyond this, there’s no additional amenities, however there are more than 6 miles of hiking trails that await your ‘spazierengehen’ pleasure as well as pretty close access to Raccoon Creek, which is not big enough to do anything that includes oars (but at least you’ll have a good view of a trickling stream). Apart from the youth campground itself, there’s 13 bat caves to explore and scattered throughout the SP, you’ll find plenty of shelters with picnic tables featuring an assortment of both in-ground and stand-up BBQ grills. There’s a very good children’s playground near the only other campground here at Maquoketa SP, and it’s just a short hike up the hill past the bat cave entrance– about ¾ mile hike from the youth campground.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While there’s not much in the way of decent, deep waterways at this SP to explore, if you head due east, check out 6B’s Campground, which on its lower level you’l discover has direct access to the Maquoketa River, which is definitely worth your oar paddling effort, but do yourself a favor and reach out to 6B’s before paying a visit; (2) In the event that you grow weary of trying to conjure up your next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler and you want to check out some local fare, trust me, there’s not much in these parts, although there is a small hidden-in-the-weeds joint called Bluff Lake Catfish Farm that not only serves up some amazing Midwest comfort food (fried catfish, cole slaw, fried shrimp, sirloin, fried chicken, prime rib, fried haddock), but the food shack sits in front of a lake complete with ducks who will eat your leftovers right out of your hand; and (3) If you’ve never gone spelunking before – and trust me, if you come here to Maquoketa SP, you’re going to want to – then make sure you bring the right gear: headlamp, good sturdy hiking boots, pants to keep the bugs, spiders and ticks away as well as plenty of water to stay hydrated.

    Happy Camping!

  • Connor M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Dec. 30, 2024

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Nice views, good hiking, cool rocks

    Took my 5 year old son camping here in early April of 2024 and it was fun. We were at site #125 which has fantastic views of the river and surrounding area's, but the wind is stronger at this spot because it's open. The entire campground is situated on top of a bluff so this compounded our wind issue. I also need to note that the majority of these campgrounds don't have much privacy or lack it entirely. This site was very open and I would opt for a little more tree coverage in the future.

    There's some really nice trails and cool rock formations, couple this with the playground and nice bathrooms it makes for an ideal campground for families with younger children. Just 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. Cellphone coverage wasn't a problem either.

    It was a Colder night as we camped in 30 degree weather and freezing rain came into our campground. This along with the wind made our situation feel pretty cold and we left early in April. We would stay here again but probably opt for a slightly more warm month. Over-all it's a good campground for the area.

    On a side note, I bet this place looks tremendous in the fall with the changing colors.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodside Campground, Scott County Park Iowa
    Dec. 26, 2024

    Woodside Campground, Scott County Park Iowa

    Nice Flat, Well-Groomed Albeit Barren CG

    This CG is one of 6 that you have to choose from here at Scott County Park, wherein Woodside is definitely more geared for the RVs – especially the much larger ones, so if you have a very big rig, this likely is the best CG for you – with each site offering FHUs with electric, water& sewage, fire rings and picnic tables. If you wanted to tent camp here, you could, although I would recommend nearby Incahias or Sac-Fox as better for tent campers. Unlike some of the other campgrounds, Woodside is somewhat bare and desolate inside the actual campground with the land being incredibly flat, but wide open so therefore not providing much privacy or shade whatsoever. Back-in slots are spacious, hard and very level with the grounds being incredibly well-kept and impeccably clean bathroom / shower facilities with great HOT running water.

    Albeit with a short hike through the forest, Woodside CG is near Cody Lake and Glynn’s Creek, which offers some decent oaring in your kayak or canoe. Sitting adjacent to Cody Lake is an eponymous community shelter than can be reserved or used on a first-come, first-served basis. There’s also a playground for the kiddos and a restroom facility that is also spartan-clean as well access to Glynn’s Creek Trailhead which is a moderate hike and further afield throughout the rest of the park, there’s no shortage of hiking / biking / horse trails. We found Woodside to be fairly quiet, although lacking in privacy without the benefit of any real brush or trees to blot out our next-door neighbors, but that said, everyone was incredibly friendly with full displays of Midwestern hospitality that this area is known for.

    Scott County Park is easy to fall in love with, whether traveling solo or with a family as there is a lot that this park offers up: from fresh water catch & release lakes, combination of topographies, from woodlands, wetlands and prairie grasslands, beautiful 18-hole championship golf course, outdoor exercise areas, club house and concessions, stand-alone cabins for rent, designated dump stations and trash receptacles, numerous picnic areas, massive heated swimming pool complete with a snake-like water slide, volleyball court, ranger stations, seasonal on-site hosts, firewood available for purchase at entry stations, Walnut Grove Pioneer Village and St. Anne’s church at the park’s NW perimeter, 7 community shelters, designated picnic areas, a memorial park, equestrian area and an incredibly well-paved network of roads that allows you to easily access just about every corner of this park. Oh, and the incredibly friendly rangers that constantly patrol and keep this beautiful park in full working order were nothing short of amazing.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 6B's Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    6B's Campground

    Duo-Layered Camping Experience

    My twin brother and I discovered this little hidden gem of a campground outpost just a mile or so east of Maquoketa Caves SP. This nature-infested outpost is split into 2 levels with an upper plateau section that is more geared towards the tent-pitchin’ bredren of my tribe, while the lower level straddles the Maquoketa River and offers up splendid waterfront views of the slow-moving, fresh-water creek variety. Apart from the very welcoming folks that run this place, led by Karen Townsend, what I loved most about 6B’s was the very welcoming community of fellow campers who rolled out the‘red carpet’ treatment for us when we rocked up. The upper level offers up only a solid picnic table, in-ground fire rings w/ fold-up BBQ grills and a tree-lined backdrop with a fenced in front lawn– perfect for a quick and EZ set-up. Massive bonus points for the location of this campground, which apart from rural country farmers and bat cave tourist passerby traffic, there was virtually no noise pollution to battle with.

    If you’re rolling in on an RV, 5th wheeler or trailer, while you likely could park your mobile living room on the upper plateau, you’ll likely feel much more comfortable on the lower river basin, providing that you can make it down the somewhat steep decline gravel road(this is Iowa, so I don’t think anyone will be too challenged, but just want to put the decline out there). Before you’ve arrived at the river’s edge, you’ll notice a simply sublime solo picnic table that has strategically been placed in one of the very large, abandoned bat caves, which makes for a very special picnic outing. Turning left as you reach the riverfront, you’ll follow a single, narrow loop that offers up slots on a first-come, first-served basis, with each offering up water, 30 amp electric, boat ramp, diving platform and a fairly flat landing to park for the night or a week(or even month!).

    Downsides? This camping outpost only accepts cash, money order or checks, which was a major bummer for us as we didn’t have any of those with us and while there were banks nearby(well, some 30 miles away), we weren’t members of the bank, which wasn’t even open, on account that it was after noon on a Saturday, so yeah, while a small thing, it became quite a big deterrent for us. If you can get this solo downside, there really is nothing else but upside, chief of which includes direct access to the Maquoketa River, which we enjoyed, given we were toting my tandem kayak with us, as well as, of course, just 3 miles west to Maquoketa Caves SP.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Eco-Locate This Blissful Hidden Campground Gem

    This Iowa SP campground is simply AMAZING and if you are a bat cave spelunker, you are going to be absolutely excited by this place, if you don’t know it already. For the rest of us outdoor enthusiasts who are simply looking for a great campground, then you’ve also struck the campground lottery, but if you are interested in staying here, I would STRONGLY encourage you to mind your dates taking note of when bat hibernation ends and begins – for what it’s worth, my brother and I drove all the way here only to find out that hibernation began the day of our arrival. That said, we could still hike all of the amazing trails, but couldn’t access the bat caves.

    The campground that resides here, is less than a quarter mile away from the access point to the bat caves, creating huge upside for selecting this campground in the first place. A heavily wooded area encompasses every single site (there’s 28 in total w/ 24 offering 20 / 30 / 50 amp electric) providing a substantial amount of shade, will also allowing decent sunlight as well along a slowly winding lone lane that leads one into this shrouded camping haven. While the spots (#12-#16) towards the end of the lane are more earmarked for mi tent pitchin’ bredren, whereas the rest of the sites (#1-#11; #17-#28) are set-up for the RV and 5th Wheel toting crowd (although you could easily set up a tent on any one of these sites should you choose to).

    A couple of points to keep in mind– the entrance to the campground is the busiest, so if this is of concern, steer clear of #1-#3 or #27-#28. Second, 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. In the event that being nearest the built-in amenities (restroom, shower, water source, community library, trash, firewood) are important to you, then look at sites #5-7 and #23-26. With this in mind, as you meander further down the lone campground loop lane, the quieter and more sheltered the place gets, so from #6-#24 should be a prime target for you if peace & solitude are important to you. Despite all of the advice I’ve just given, I don’t think you can really go wrong with any site here.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’re looking for a primitive tent camping experience, then you’re going to want to book sites #12 and #13, which set a bit further back for the cul-de-sac end of the lane offering up more privacy and less noise from the rest of the camping commune; (2) All sites designated for RV’s are back-in and range in driveway length between 31 and 68 feet; (3) The campground itself is closed between December 1 thru February 28 each year; (4) This SP offers up more than 370 acres with 6 miles of hiking trails with 13 distinct bat caves to explore, so bring good hiking shoes, headlamps, proper long sleeve shirts and pants to keep the bugs and ticks away, which abound here aplenty; and (5) There’s plenty of picnic tables, most under shelters as well as scattered stand-up and in-ground BBQ grills all offered up on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Happy Camping!

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Pond
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Horseshoe Pond

    Nice smaller CG in City of Maquoketa, Iowa

    CG offers gravel pads, tables, fire rings, electric, sump station, water, small pond with fishing, paddling, dog park. Close to stores for supplies, dining, fuel.

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Nice campground, fun caves, older established state park

    My mom remembers visiting this park in the 40's. Not a surprise since Grampa was a Geologist.
    This is a small campground for such an old park, only 34 sites, walk-ins included. All sites are along one road with a turnaround at the end. There is only one building with toilets, showers and no pit toilets. These are clean and well maintained.
    There is a playground near the entrance that is shared with the caves entrance area, a bit of a walk.
    The caves themselves are down a long hill from the campground. There are facilities there too, and a concession stand with limited hours/ days. The caves are fun to explore, but not ADA accessible. Bring flashlights and in some areas watch your head.
    The Visitor's center at the park entrance is staffed by volunteers and only open on weekends.
    Once you've done the caves, there's not much else to see within the park. But visit the Hurstville interpretive center for a nice nature center and trails.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    Great place for a short trip

    I’ll begin by saying this is by far the cleanest campground I have stayed at. The facilities were well kept including the vault toilet houses. We stayed in a walk to site and the views were incredible. Our tent pad was quite rocky so I would recommend sleeping pads or you will be very uncomfortable. Our site was also extremely dusty which wasn’t a problem at all just be prepared to be a little dirty. The campground was quiet except for the occasional train that rolled through those are quite loud due to how close they are to the campground. I would definitely come back to Nelson Dewey and stay again. There was not a ton to do in the area so a short weekend stay was perfect. A highlight is that the park provided cart to use to haul all your stuff to the walk to sites. There is 1 designated parking spot per walk to site as well. The walk to sites are small and only accommodated our one (6 person) tent which was not a problem for us as we knew this ahead of time.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkader City Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Elkader City Park

    Close to town, nice facilities, not quiet

    I had good Verizon signal here (70 down, 20 up) but zero T-mobile signal.

    The campground is close to down, there are two museums within walking distance (just steps from the campground entrance). Across the street is a walking & biking trail that will take you straight to downtown, where you'll find a coffee shop, a few restaurants, and other shopping. It's less than a 5 minute bike ride to get there, and very scenic as it follows the river.

    The facilities are newer and pretty nice. The showers are the single-button kind with no temperature adjustment. If you wait a while, the water does get barely warm enough for a comfortable shower.

    This is not a quiet campground, it has a well traveled highway on one side, and a city main street on the other side that semi trucks use during the day. Sometimes there are highschool football games at the stadium next to the campground. Late at night it does get quiet.

    The sites are grass or gravel. There are electrical hookups at most sites, with water faucets spread throughout the campground. The sites are mostly shaded.

    I enjoyed the George Maier Rural Heritage Center and Museum ($5 admission) and the Elkader Depot Museum (free) which are located right next to the campground.

    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. It's located across the street from the campground.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from River of Lakes Campground
    Sep. 20, 2024

    River of Lakes Campground

    Ok. Great checkin - however..

    Nice campground with many sites on the Mississippi backwaters and decent fishing stayed two days and opted on a third. However, after we paid for the third night we noticed a campsite on the other side. Of course the first amendment is everyone’s freedom but really ,do campers need to put out “2024 No More Bulls***” AND how about 2024 Fu** your Feelings” that was in front of their welcome sign. These phrases were on massive flags nailed to trees. Of course we all have freedoms but because these vulgar, in your face phrases were seen every time we left the campground we did not feel comfortable. Good thing I did not have my grandkids along. We all have our beliefs, but is offensive language regarding politics have a place in campgrounds have a place? I say “No!” those folks were out of line and it is wrong. We will never return to this campground again.

  • Jeff and Linda L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Grant River Recreation Area

    Feet from the Mississippi

    The park is on the beautiful might Mississippi river. It’s 2 miles from Potosi, WI with a large brewery with good food as well. Army Corps so half price with America The Beautiful senior discount card. If you like trains you will see many, close and going fast.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Nice Park

    Nice sites, trails and facilities. Stayed during the week in mid September. Beautiful sites overlooking the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers. Great hiking with clean bathrooms and toilets. Private with plenty of room from neighbors for our teardrop.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
    Sep. 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.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Park
    Sep. 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.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground
    Sep. 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.

  • Brent A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Vel Terra
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Vel Terra

    Wonderful Little Campground

    We stayed at this campground over Labor Day. The owner intentionally doesn't fill all of the sites in order to give people more space- a great luxury over a holiday like this. The sites are pretty small and only one 'sleeping structure' is allowed on each site but we found that Jeff was very willing to let us put up two tents (one for my wife & I 

    + one for the kids) because we were in the same family.

    The bathrooms and showers were very neat and well maintained. We didn't use the showers because they were paid but our friends did and had good things to say about them.

    The campground has a very nice playground (the favorite of the trip for one of my kids) and a lounge where anyone staying at the campground can rest with A/C, wifi, a phone charging area, and some board games.

    The primary drawback is that there isn't a lot of outdoor activities to do in the area. All the land is private so there's not great hiking (a little in the state park about 20 min drive away), IL law allows waterways to be privately owned so you can't kayak the river, etc. Galena is nearby if you want to go shopping and we really enjoyed going to Terrapin Apple Orchard and picking some apples (if you're there in the Fall). But all in all I would say this is a great campground to rest and relax at- probably not ideal for outdoor adventures.

  • Jeff and Linda L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Bluff County Park
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Wildcat Bluff County Park

    Nice small park

    Small quite county park with electricity at most sites. First come sites. On Labor Day weekend only 5 campers there out of 21 sites. We found one with mostly shade. There is a first class 21 hole frisbee golf course at this park. Close to 52 mile Cedar Valley Nature bike trail. On the Cedar River. Boats were going in and out, I would guess you could Kayak there. One half mile on gravel to the park. No cell service.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherman Co Park
    Aug. 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.


Guide to Cascade

Camping near Cascade, Iowa, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. From stunning views to unique activities, there’s something for everyone in this scenic area.

What to do

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the many trails available at Wyalusing State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, “Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi.”
  • Cave Exploration: Visit Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground for a unique experience. A visitor shared, “The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous.”
  • Fishing and Boating: At Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper noted, “There’s a large lake with three boat launches.”

What campers like

What you should know

  • Train Noise: Some campgrounds, like Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, are near train tracks. A camper warned, “When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have stores or markets nearby. A visitor at Lake Macbride State Park Campground noted, “There’s no place to buy firewood nearby, so come prepared.”
  • Sloped Sites: Some sites may not be flat. A camper at Wisconsin Yellowstone State Park Campground mentioned, “What I would have loved to know is that the vault toilets are closed because they are doing construction.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Binoculars: If you’re camping at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, don’t forget binoculars to spot wildlife. One camper said, “There was a pair of bald eagles in a nest down by the river.”
  • Plan for Bugs: Be ready for insects, especially near water. A visitor at Wyalusing State Park Campground advised, “Be prepared for humidity and bugs; it’s right by the river.”
  • Use a Fan: To keep bugs away, consider bringing a fan. A camper at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground mentioned, “We use a fan at the campsite which really kept most of them away.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Sugar Bottom Campground noted, “The sites here are closer together.”
  • Bring Blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at Sugar Bottom Campground mentioned, “We did have to put blocks under the passenger-side tires.”
  • Use a Dump Station: Familiarize yourself with the dump station locations. A visitor at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River said, “There is a dump station. The bathrooms are a little dated, but very clean.”

Camping near Cascade, Iowa, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic experience for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions