Best Tent Camping near Cascade, IA

Searching for a tent campsite near Cascade? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Cascade. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Cascade, IA (22)

    Camper-submitted photo from Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only
    Camper-submitted photo from Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only
    Camper-submitted photo from Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only
    Camper-submitted photo from Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only

    1. Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only

    1 Review
    4 Photos
    Dyersville, Iowa

    The Worthington Sportsmen's Club Inc. is located approximately 3.5 miles south of Highway 20 on X47 (310th Ave) or 6.5 miles north of Highway 38 in Delaware County, Iowa open to members only. Membership is open to everyone and an application is available via the website: https://sites.google.com/site/worthingtonsc2/membership?authuser=0

    For the camper there are six 30-amp Electric camp sites (see Fees for cost information) at the front of the club, with primitive sites located around the pond. If you prefer just spending time with family and friends in a beautiful setting we also have two picnic pavilions with playground equipment and a number of picnic tables and fire rings surrounding the pond.

    Camping - membership required, no non-member guests. Electric sites are $10 per night. Non-Electric site donations are appreciated. Fees for camping can be sealed in an envelope and placed in the Yellow camping box in the camp ground. Contact Tom Dunkel (563-590-2704) with any questions.

    Camping is limited to 7 days unless approved by a Director.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

    2. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

    1 Review
    9 Photos
    11 Saves
    Monmouth, Iowa

    The 273-acre area is located along the South Fork of the Maquoketa River. The unique beauty of Northeast Iowa is very evident here with limestone rock outcroppings, upland timber, flood plain, wildlife, and panoramic scenery. Wildlife food plots are planted throughout the area to help wildlife survive harsh winters. Primitive camping is available by the river with restroom facilities nearby. This area is a convenient stop for canoeists traveling down the Maquoketa River.

    primitive camping (walk-in or paddle-in, tent only) pit toilets

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
    Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
    Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
    Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
    Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
    Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

    3. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

    1 Review
    26 Photos
    13 Saves
    Wyoming, Iowa

    Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax. Consider booking a massage while on property.

    Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people?

    Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site.

    We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing!

    Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully.

    We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available.

    Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill.

    Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely.

    **Property Owner is certified in Massage, offering sessions at the property for more information: www.bodyfantasy-iowa.com

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table

    $20 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
    • No image available

      5. Wakpicada Natural Area

      1 Review
      12 Saves
      Central City, Iowa
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Equestrian
      • Trash
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

      6. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

      5 Reviews
      63 Photos
      5 Saves
      Wheatland, Iowa

      The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center is located along the Wapsipinicon River and consists of 225 acres of upland and bottomland forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The Wapsi Center, along with Sherman Park across the river, provide a 432-acre complex offering a wide variety of uses. The larger of the two campsites at the Center, Elm Campsite is offered to Scouts and to special event participants as a primitive camp site. The site offers flat ground for many tents, two fire pits, picnic tables, trash cans, and two sets of horseshoe pits. In return for Scout use, a service project is suggested and may be coordinated with the Center Director. Pack-in and pack-out ethics are observed at this site. Vincent Campsite is offered to Scouts and to special event participants as a primitive camp site offering a fire pit, picnic tables, and trash can. In return for Scout use, a service project is suggested and may be coordinated with the Center Director. Pack-in and pack-out ethics are observed at this site.

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

      $17 - $80 / night

      • No image available

        7. Whitetail Bluff Campground LLC

        1 Review
        3 Saves
        Cassville, Wisconsin
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Tents
        • Market
        • Picnic Table
        Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground

        8. Cedar River Campground

        8 Reviews
        17 Photos
        32 Saves
        West Liberty, Iowa

        We are a seasonal campground open April 15 thru October 15. We have seasonal, monthly, weekly, and overnight rates. We have planned activities as well as many amenities. River frontage, canoe/ tube rental, mini golf, pool and so much more.

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

        $35 - $50 / night

        • No image available
          Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
          Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
          Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
          Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
          Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
          Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
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        Showing results 1-10 of 22 campgrounds

        Recent Tent Reviews in Cascade

        587 Reviews of 22 Cascade Campgrounds


        • Tori K.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
          Jan. 1, 2025

          Pikes Peak State Park Campground

          Waterfall and mounds

          Pikes Peak State Park has an attractive campground with electric and non-electric sites, modern shower and restroom facilities, as well as a trailer dump station. October is one of their busiest times of the year due to the fall colors, which peak around Oct 9-15th. Most notable hike: a half-mile wooden boardwalk to one of the park's glens to the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls. On your way to the falls, just north of the main overlook, you will notice Bear Mound, an effigy built by ancient American Indians who inhabited the area from 800-1200 A.D. There are 63 mounds in the park, most of them conical or linear in shape.

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

          Maquoketa Caves State Park - Youth 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.

        • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
          Aug. 28, 2024

          Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

          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.

        • W
          Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
          Aug. 24, 2024

          Riverview Ridge

          Unique River and Trail Access Campground

          Two hour float trips on the North Fork Maquoketa River are available directly from the campground. There is a mix of permanent and temporary campers. The tent sites, nearest the river, are well spaced with flush toilets. Apparently there are also good trails, as many of the campers have ATV’s parked at their sites. The shower house, under the office, was spacious and clean.

        • Dj Y.
          Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
          Aug. 19, 2024

          Grant River Recreation Area

          Sandy and Gentleman worker=AMAZING

          I was hitchhiking thru, was dropped off by a ride that said he was buying a $14 tent site for me, come to find out he never did, I just was honest with sandy and the gentleman worker and offered the only 8$ I had, no sir, they said please stay for free and just enjoy. WONDERFUL PPL THAT CARE ABOUT OTHERS!! THANKS YALL

        • Jim C.
          Camper-submitted photo from Little Bear Campground
          Aug. 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

        • C
          Camper-submitted photo from Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek)
          Jul. 26, 2024

          Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek)

          Great location and amenities

          I loved this campground. There are a variety of sites to choose from, nice trees, and a beautiful wildflower field to walk through. Bathrooms are stationed without so it’s never a far walk and the shower house was really nice. You can hear the highway, but overall the campground was very quiet.


        Drive Time


        Guide to Cascade

        Tent camping near Cascade, Iowa offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. With several well-reviewed campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to set up your tent and unwind.

        Tent campers like these nearby activities

        • At Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area, you can hike or paddle along the Maquoketa River, surrounded by native wildlife and beautiful scenery.
        • Wakpicada Natural Area features great fishing opportunities right next to the pond, making it a perfect spot for anglers.
        • For those seeking solitude, Jungletown Ridge offers a peaceful retreat in the woods, ideal for quiet nights under the stars.

        Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $20

        Specific local attractions

        • Explore the scenic beauty of the Maquoketa River while camping at Joinerville County Park, which provides access to both hiking and boating.
        • Worthington Sportsman's Club is a members-only site that offers excellent fishing and a secluded atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
        • Experience the tranquility of nature at Troy Mills Wapsi Access, where you can set up camp and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cascade, IA?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cascade, IA is Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

        • What is the best site to find tent camping near Cascade, IA?

          TheDyrt.com has all 22 tent camping locations near Cascade, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.