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GuideBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Very nice camp grounds and nice trails and beach
Camping near Clinton, IA
4 campgrounds with availability next weekend
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Camping options along the Mississippi River corridor near Clinton, Iowa provide access to both developed campgrounds and waterfront sites. Riverview City Park in Clinton offers full hookups for RVs with riverside views, while Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area provides more secluded tent and RV camping along the Mississippi. Several campgrounds across the river in Illinois, such as Thomson Causeway and Lock and Dam 13, offer additional options with river access. The area includes established campgrounds that accommodate various camping styles including tent sites, RV facilities with electric hookups, and a few locations with cabin rentals. Clinton's riverside campsites are particularly popular during summer months when visitors can enjoy fishing, boating and paddling directly from their campgrounds.
Road conditions throughout the area are generally good with most campgrounds accessible via paved roads. Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences, with many campgrounds open from April through October. Spring flooding can impact riverside camping areas, and summer brings increased insect activity. "There were hundreds of thousands of insects, we couldn't enjoy our stay. The camp workers were scraping them with shovels," noted one visitor to Thomson Causeway. Train noise affects several campgrounds in the region, particularly at Riverview City Park where trains pass regularly. Most campgrounds provide electric hookups, though water and sewer connections vary by location. Cell coverage is generally adequate throughout the area but may be spotty in more remote locations.
Mississippi River views represent a significant draw for campers in this region. Thomson Causeway receives praise for its waterfront sites with concrete pads and scenic river vistas. According to one visitor, "We enjoyed our weekend at Thomson Causeway. Not a lot of privacy, but being right on the water was great." Water-based recreation opportunities include fishing, boating, and paddling, with several campgrounds providing boat ramps and marina access. Rock Creek Marina and Campground features an environmental center with wildlife exhibits that appeals to families. While some campgrounds like Riverview City Park lack shade and privacy, others such as Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground offer more wooded surroundings. Proximity to bike trails, particularly along the river corridor, enhances recreational opportunities for campers exploring the Clinton area.
Best Campgrounds near Clinton (134)
1. Thomson Causeway
"Bathrooms are a short walk from this site and were clean. Water pump was also a short walk. We enjoyed bike riding around the campsite. There is a longer bike path that will take you to Clinton. "
"This is a beautiful spot on the outskirts of a small town. The train museum is open for a few hours on weekends. Other towns are nearby with more things to do."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $14 - $26 / night
2. Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
"Enjoyed almost 2 weeks at West Lake Park, part of the Scott County, IA park system. Helpful staff, park rangers make daily patrols, nice spots, many with shade trees & decent room."
"Although theres a small "lake" here, Ive never had great luck catching much. Pool is nice and updated. Park rangers are always frequently present and patrolling."
Check Availabilityfrom $17 - $36 / night
3. Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground
"Hidden gem near the iowa/illinois border. Secluded and beautiful."
"It has trails for walking and lots of concrete for riding bikes. We did both. The park is close to the River and has plenty of places to put your boat in across the highway."
4. Gary McDermott RV Park
"It is right next to the river and the Clinton Riverfront Park and even fast food restaurants are within walking distance. There is also a walking path next to the river."
"This campground is a great location along the river in Clinton. There is a Thomas Dambo troll within walking distance."
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $22 / night
5. Rock Creek County Marina and Campground
"The campground can get very buggy, considering seasons in Iowa."
"Sites include fire rings, tables, gravel backing pads, electric with some right near water edge."
Check Availabilityfrom $14 - $18 / night
6. Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
"Site 13 seemed to be one of the best situated. We stayed in Site 12 which had a beautiful, unobstructed view of the river."
"As with all the campgrounds along the Northern Illinois Great River Trail, it is along side Rt. 84, and railroad tracks."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $14 - $26 / night
7. Morrison-Rockwood State Park
"We saw an article about "Dutch Days" in nearby Fulton on www.OnlyInYourState.com, (first weekend in May) and thought it looked like fun."
"We enjoyed the beautiful lake and cute restaurant/gift shop. We liked the different loops of campsites with pit toilets every where and a nice modern bathroom/shower house also."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 / night
8. Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area — Mississippi River Pools 11 22
"Usually a pretty quiet area although its next to a train track so expect a train or two to wake you up. Tucked away next to the Mississippi. There is a boat ramp and parking."
from $14 / night
9. Lock and Dam 13
"You have to park off a gravel road on the iowa side and its about a mile walk and a half mile off the tracks. Very beautiful and peaceful place. Great fishing, especially along the spillway."
10. Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park
"Surrounded by mature hardwood forest, generous-sized campsites with decent privacy and miles of interconnected hiking trails, this campground delivers a camping experience that feels far more secluded"
"The campground has a seasonal host offering firewood on site, showers and restrooms, play area, trails, and overflow parking just adjacent for the entrance."
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $23 / night
Drive Time
- 38 min from Davenport, IA
- 1 hr 4 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 23 min from Iowa City, IA
- 1 hr 28 min from Rockford, IL
Recent Camping Photos near Clinton, IA
157 Photos of 134 Clinton Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Gary McDermott RV Park
Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area — Mississippi River Pools 11 22
Thomson Causeway
Rock Creek County Marina and Campground
Morrison-Rockwood State Park
Rockwood State Park Campground
Spring Lake Campground
Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Mississippi Palisades State Park CampgroundJ
Prophetstown State Park Campground
Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
Sunset Lakes Resort
Recent Reviews near Clinton, IA
708 Reviews of 134 Clinton Campgrounds
- GGreg F.
TravelerVel Terra
Great little campground in rural setting. The owner was great. We stayed in Oct 25 while doing a fall color/wine tasting/Galena trip. It was a perfect central location for us.
Stuart K.
LegendHansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground
Rustic Ranch Retreat Beneath Big Prairie Skies
Set deep in the farmland west of Oregon, Hansen’s Hideaway blends working-ranch authenticity with simple, countryside camping across more than 100 acres of pasture, red barns and wide-open Midwestern sky. Founded in 1962 and reached by a winding bend off S Harmony Road, this quiet hideout welcomes guests beneath an old-fashion tall wooden ranch gate right out of the Wild West and into a spread of RV loops, tent spaces and shade-scattered meadows where horses graze freely. Sites range from the busier cluster near the main office, which is also where you'll be to the swimming pond, game room, arcade, pavilions and clean restrooms to two quieter, more spread-out loops farther in the property that offers privacy and stillness for those seeking a true escape. Amenities include water and electric hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, a dump station, playground and a small market inside the office. While remote, the campground offers easy access to great hiking at George B. Fell Nature Preserve and Lowden-Miller Forest with excellent kayaking on the Rock River at nearby Castle Rock State Park. Expect big skies, big peace and that unmistakable 'far from everything' feeling.
UPSIDES: (1) Authentic working ranch setting with roaming horses and wide prairie views; (2) Exceptional peace & quiet thanks to the secluded location; (3) Shaded and spacious RV sites plus open tenting areas; (4) Fun family amenities including a swimming pond, arcade, game room and playground; (5) Clean, well-maintained restrooms and showers; (6) Friendly, welcoming staff; (7) Close to great hiking and kayaking destinations; and (8) If you'd like to get the scoop on what's happening at this CG, swing by the main office for a cup of joe and hang out around the wood-burning stove to chat it up with the owners, fellow campers and working ranchhands.
DOWNSIDES: (1) Very remote with no nearby services, so campers should arrive fully stocked as it's a decent haul back to civilization; (2) No sewer hookups and limited on-site provisions; (3) The RV area near the office can feel crowded during peak weekends;(4) Amenities show their age in places; and (5) Cell signal varies significantly by carrier.
Happy Camping!
Cyndi R.
ScoutBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Clean, quiet and nice facilities but the placement of the fire rings borders on the absurd. These are obviously RV sites so there's already little expectation of privacy but they're good size and leave ample space behind your camper. The site we were on was tree-lined in the back. Perfect for a fire ring, right? Nah. Instead they're out front 5 ft from the road. I've never seen anything like it. 🥴
- Stuart K.Legend
Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
Quad Cities Sweet Camping Retreat
Just minutes west of Davenport, Park Terrace Campground is a delightful county-operated camping destination nestled within the sprawling 620-acre West Lake Park. With four picturesque lakes, rolling green lawns, mature shade trees and an impressive assortment of recreational activities, this is much more than your average roadside CG. Whether you're passing through the Quad Cities or settling in for a relaxing weekend, there's plenty to keep you entertained, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, disc golf and a seasonal swimming beach. It's an especially appealing destination for families who appreciate having a little adventure right outside their camper door.
The campground itself features approximately 77 campsites, including spacious RV sites with 50-amp electrical service, water and sewer hookups, plus 13 primitive tent sites tucked toward the wooded perimeter in the rear - so for those tent campers that like to be somewhat removed from the RV crowd, this is an excellent option. Most RV sites are reasonably level, with gravel parking pads, picnic tables and fire rings, although spacing can be a little cozy (er, tight) in places. Mature trees provide welcome shade throughout portions of the campground, while the modern bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Additional conveniences include a dump station, playground, seasonal campground host and firewood availability. Best of all, the CG delivers an impressive collection of amenities without the hefty price tag of a commercial RV resort.
A few things worth knowing before arriving: the CG is accessed through Gate 5 off 110th Avenue, and water hookups are generally seasonal despite the CG's year-round designation. Some sites are more exposed than others, and the relatively close spacing means privacy isn't necessarily its strongest selling point. Nevertheless, for RV travelers, tent campers and families seeking affordable accommodations with outstanding recreational opportunities, Park Terrace is a terrific little discovery.
Insider's Tip: Tent campers should head toward the designated wooded camping area toward the back of the CG for a more traditional outdoor experience. RV travelers should bring an extra-long drinking-water hose, as some sites share water connections positioned several campsites apart. Also, the park gates close overnight, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Happy Camping!
Amy B.ScoutCrow Valley Campground
Avoid this Campground at all cost
Seasonal Stay Review Overall Rating:⭐☆☆☆☆ Our experience as seasonal campers at this campground was deeply disappointing due to unprofessional management, inconsistent rule enforcement, premature lease violations, and a toxic atmosphere. Management& Atmosphere The campground owner frequently engaged in inappropriate behaviors, including spreading gossip, making disrespectful comments, and actively bullying campers both in person and on social media platforms. Rather than fostering a welcoming community, the leadership promoted a divisive culture marked by clear favoritism. Inconsistent Rule Enforcement Rules were applied arbitrarily. Certain seasonal campers were permitted to disregard campground policies without consequence, while others were singled out, micromanaged, and targeted for minor or non-existent issues. Unprofessional Conduct Regarding Minors Most concerning was management’s unacceptable conduct toward children. The owner actively made a ten-year-old child feel unwelcome by making inappropriate insinuations regarding his friendship with a nearly thirteen-year-old girl, claiming a platonic friendship between a boy and a girl of those ages was somehow improper. Targeting young children and policing harmless childhood friendships crosses a line that no family should have to deal with while on vacation. Breach of Contract& Property Damage To make matters worse, management prematurely cut off electricity to our campsite prior to the end of our contractual agreement. This lack of power led to a total loss of all refrigerated food items and caused significant interior damage to our camper when the freezer thawed and the ice inside it melted and leaked onto the flooring. Additionally, management unlawfully removed personal property from our campsite before our lease term had expired and failed to return it. Conclusion While a seasonal site should offer a relaxing environment for families, the current ownership creates an uncomfortable, hostile, and unethical environment. Between the emotional hostility and the direct financial loss caused by management's actions, I strongly advise others to avoid this campground.
- James M.Legend
Cabin 4, Rock Creek Marina & Campground
The camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people and include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags;All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent-- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, boat ramp, paddling rentals, store with grill, Eco Tourism Center pontoon rides, and nature center with displays and programs.
- James M.Legend
Cabin 1, Rock Creek Marina & Campground
The camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people that include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags; All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, store and grill, paddle rentals, nature center too.
- James M.Legend
Pintail Cabin- Rock Creek Marina
Neat County park in Mississippi River backwaters
Park has multiple cabins. Pintail Cabin is an ADA compliant, fully accessible cabin that sleeps up to 6 people. The cabin includes a queen-size adjustable bed that raises and lowers for easy access, twin size bunk bed, a full-size sofa sleeper, table/chairs. Kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, electric cook top, sink. Central Heat/AC. Bathroom has accessible roll-in shower. There is also has a large deck and an accessible picnic table and fire ring outside. Bedding, towels, and kitchen cookware and utensils are not provided. The cabin has an ADA compliant access ramp. Tents are not permitted on this site. There is a playground, boat ramp, paddle rentals, Eco Tourism Center with small store and grill, and a nature center offering programs! The Blue Heron pontoon boat offers tours on the water too!
Guide to Clinton
Camping opportunities around Clinton, Iowa provide access to the Mississippi River's backwaters and woodlands. The area sits at approximately 590 feet of elevation with a continental climate featuring humid summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in this region are situated along the river corridor, creating a unique environment where bottomland forests meet riverine ecosystems.
What to do
Paddling the backwaters: Rock Creek Marina and Campground offers direct access to Mississippi River backwaters. "This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," notes Ryan in a review of Rock Creek County Marina and Campground.
Fishing at multiple river access points: Bulger's Hollow provides secluded fishing spots along the Mississippi. "Have camped here multiple times. Usually a pretty quiet area although its next to a train track so expect a train or two to wake you up. Tucked away next to the Mississippi. There is a boat ramp and parking," says Ryan in a review of Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area.
Biking on the Great River Trail: The trail runs along the river corridor, connecting several campgrounds. "There is a great bike trail to enjoy and the Mississippi Pallisades state park is close by for some excellent views of the river from up on the bluffs," mentions Libby W. from her stay at Thomson Causeway.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites with privacy: Mississippi Palisades offers camping with natural spacing between sites. "The sites were very well spaced apart. There were many well worn paths that lead to the lake, but it was too wet from previous rain for us to explore those," says Stephanie S. in her review of Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground.
Access to environmental education: The environmental center at Rock Creek provides educational opportunities. "The grounds are on backwaters of the Mississippi so there are boat ramps, docks, and areas to fish. The camp store also offers canoe, kayak, and other boat rentals... They also have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed," explains Chris F.
Concrete pads for level camping: Many campgrounds feature concrete pads that make setup easier. "We have stayed here often over the years as recently as last night. The sites are all level concrete and just about every one have a great view of the Mississippi. Quiet at night," reports Matt P. about his experience at Thomson Causeway.
What you should know
Seasonal insect issues: The riverfront location means insects can be problematic at certain times. "Overall Thompson was a very nice park. Our sites were behind the backwaters and we didn't have any flies. Our sites didn't have the spring river flies but there were several sites closer to the Mississippi river that were covering their RVs and tents with these big ugly flies," warns Melissa B.
Train noise impacts many campgrounds: Several campgrounds in the area are located near train tracks. "There's a train but it was infrequent so it did not disrupt our sleep, in fact, all four of us accidentally slept VERY late!" notes Sarah C. from her stay at Fishermans Corner.
Flooding potential in spring: River levels can affect camping experiences, particularly in spring. "Watch river levels for flooding, bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest," advises James M. about Rock Creek Marina and Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bald Eagle Campground offers dedicated family facilities. "This campground is the largest RV campground in the park. The park offers miles of trails, fishing at Pride Lake, a historical Pioneer Village within the park at the north, equestrian trails, bicycle trails," explains James M. in his review of Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins.
Educational opportunities: Rock Creek's nature center provides interactive learning. "Great educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore. Showers are open until October 14 this year," notes Jeff and Linda L.
Swimming options: Some campgrounds provide swimming facilities during summer months. "The pool was open while we were there but we did not partake. It was really hot out so the pool was packed! It looks really nice from the road, it has 2 water slides and a small child area fashioned similar to a splash park," describes M E. about the facilities at Scott County Park near Bald Eagle Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric sites, but water and sewer connections vary. "This campground is electric hookup only. On our site we were able to just fit our camper and truck with not a whole lot of extra room but other sites had longer driveways able to accommodate a larger rig," notes M E. about Pine Grove Campground in the Scott County Park system.
Dump station access: Multiple campgrounds provide dump stations for RVers. "CG is spread out along bottomland river forest and includes camping cabins, tent and RV sites, RR/showers, playground, dump and water stations, Eco Tourism store/grill, paddling rentals," reports James M. about Spring Lake Campground.
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds are better suited for bigger RVs than others. "It wasn't as heavily treed and we liked that. The sites were very well spaced apart. Some sites are massive...as in .25 an acre that you drive over the grass to get too your site bc it is situated away from the road. Other sides are just simple drive through," explains Scott M. about Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Clinton, IA?
Which is the most popular campground near Clinton, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clinton, IA is Thomson Causeway with a 4-star rating from 15 reviews.
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