Clinton sits at the junction of the Mississippi River and its backwaters, creating diverse water-based camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 590 to 700 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F and high humidity levels that peak in July and August. Many campgrounds in the region offer water access for fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing.
What to do
Explore Mississippi backwaters: At Rock Creek County Marina and Campground, visitors can experience the unique ecosystem of river backwaters. "Nice 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. The park offers pontoon tours during summer months.
Biking on Great River Trail: The area offers extensive biking opportunities, especially along established river routes. One reviewer at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River mentions, "From this campground you can go north, as far as Savanna. Going south will take you through Hampton, East Moline, Moline, Rock Island, and you can cross over to Davenport, circle Credit Island, and pick up other paths in Iowa."
Fishing from accessible piers: Several campgrounds provide specialized fishing access. "The campground is right on the Mississippi River. The campground is quiet except for a train from time to time. Nice shower facilities," writes Dexter I. about Blanding Landing. Many parks have dedicated fishing piers and boat launches for water access.
What campers like
Canal-side camping: The Hennepin Canal offers a quieter water experience than the main river. "This was a nice quite campground. Great for relaxing and enjoying a camp fire. Great location. Right on the Hennepin Canal. Not far from town," reports Ann C. about Geneseo Campground.
Level concrete pads: Many RVers appreciate the well-maintained sites at certain parks. "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one. Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed through out the park, but often too far for a hose to reach," shares Gary P. about Shady Creek.
Educational nature centers: Several parks have dedicated facilities for learning about local ecosystems. "They also have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed. The grounds are on backwaters of the Mississippi so there are boat ramps, docks, and areas to fish," explains Chris F. about their experience at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground.
What you should know
Train noise levels: Many campgrounds near Clinton sit close to active rail lines. "Down side is railroad tracks on one side, which came through at 3:30 am blowing his horns, and the Mississippi on the other, a couple during the night with their loud engines," notes one Shady Creek visitor.
Seasonal flooding risks: Low-lying areas experience periodic flooding. "Watch river levels for flooding, bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest," cautions James M. at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground.
Limited sewer hookups: While electric service is common, full hookups aren't universal. At Interstate RV Park, "It has pull through sites with gravel drives, tables, electric, water, and dump station. CG office area offers concessions, a play area, and swimming pool with restrooms."
Tips for camping with families
Paddling opportunities: Families can enjoy water activities at several locations. "The camp store also offers canoe, kayak, and other boat rentals," mentions Chris F. about Rock Creek County Marina and Campground. Rental rates typically range from $15-25 per hour depending on watercraft type.
Playgrounds and activity options: Some campgrounds offer organized activities. "[Geneseo Campground has] pedal bikes for kids (and grown ups), a spray ground, and more! Two local breweries in town and tons of shopping and food options," shares Elizabeth R.
Nature education programs: Off Shore RV Park combines recreation with learning opportunities. "Resort has many options: even camp sites, 4 villas, resort inn rooms. Sites have hard surfaces, fire rings, water, electric. No shade since trees have not been planted as of this date. Boat ramp nearby, resort has restaurant, playground, water park."
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly Corps of Engineers parks: Several RV campgrounds near Clinton are operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, offering good value. "Very nice park. Easy to navigate, even with big rigs, which there were plenty. With the geezer pass we paid $10 for a primo spot (#14)," reports Gary P. about their stay at Shady Creek.
Cell coverage variations: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. At Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground, "While you are north of Geneseo, you shouldn't have too much problem with cell coverage out in these parts—we got 4 bars with Verizon and 3 bars with AT&T."
Overnight access: For RVers just passing through the Clinton area, Interstate RV Park provides convenient highway access. "Convenient campground that's minutes off of I80 in Davenport IA. The sites are nice wooded sites. A mix of gravel and pavement. It's a bit noisy due to the nearness to the interstate."
