Best Campgrounds near Cresco, IA

Camping near Cresco, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Wyalusing State Park Campground. Campers rave about the "great hiking trails" and the "lovely morning sunrise and amazing sunsets."
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Enjoy water activities at Perrot State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "This park has good access for a kayak/canoe path."
• Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in the nearby rivers. Campers at Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground noted, "Good trout fishing here," making it a great spot for anglers.

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers love the views at Pikes Peak State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "Absolutely BEAUTIFUL overlooks above the great Mississippi River!"
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Minnesota Whitewater State Park remarked, "The main shower/restroom area looks brand new and is very nice."
• Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness of sites at Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park. One camper noted, "The sites are big so you can camp far back and keep the vehicles at the front."

What you should know:

• Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A camper at Minnesota Whitewater State Park mentioned, "Spotty cell service" while enjoying the park.
• Mosquitoes: Depending on the season, mosquitoes can be a nuisance. A visitor at Perrot State Park Campground warned, "Had to pull out the heavy-duty spray right out of the car."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have limited amenities. A camper at Great River Bluffs State Park Campground noted, "There are no hookups," so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

• Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby swimming areas. Campers at Minnesota Whitewater State Park enjoyed the "swimming beach about half a mile from the campground."
• Playgrounds: Check for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. A visitor at Pulpit Rock Campground mentioned, "large playground" as a highlight for families.
• Group Sites: Consider campgrounds that offer group sites for family gatherings. One camper at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground said, "Campsites are flat and grassy. They back up to each other so good for groups camping together."

Tips from RVers:

• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. Campers at Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park appreciated the "electric hookups, flush toilets, water."
• Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has a dump station. A visitor at Pikes Peak State Park Campground noted, "Very Easy to use dump station."
• Space Between Sites: Choose campgrounds that offer space between RV sites for privacy. A camper at Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are not too close but it was early in the season."

Camping near Cresco, Iowa, provides a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure!