Campsites around Davenport, Iowa sit at approximately 590 feet above sea level where the Mississippi River carves through bluffs and lowlands. The region features distinct seasonal variations with hot, humid summers and cold winters, which affects camping availability and comfort. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, though select sites like Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA remain open year-round for those seeking winter glamping opportunities.
What to do
Paddling on the Hennepin Canal: Geneseo Campground provides direct canal access for kayaking adventures. "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," notes Ann C. The canal offers 72 miles of water trails to explore.
Explore hiking networks: Scott County Park features extensive trails connecting different camping areas. "Wilderness CG isn't very level, has decent natural barriers like tree roots, forest boundaries like thick brush and space constraints to consider, yet this CG still offers near equal amenities as the other CGs," says Stuart K. about Wilderness Campground.
Nature education programs: The Eco Center at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground offers environmental education with native wildlife displays. "Nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore. Showers are open until October 14 this year," mentions Jeff and Linda L.
Historical village tours: Visit the Walnut Grove Pioneer Village in Scott County Park to experience restored historical buildings. "Park offers pool, golf with concessions, Pride Lake for fishing/paddling, historical Pioneer Village," notes James M., highlighting additional attractions beyond just camping.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the secluded spots at Morrison-Rockwood State Park for a genuine nature experience. "Very big campsites, sites where more like a rainbow then flat but more then enough space to back up. Plenty of shade very friendly," writes Harrison Z. The park offers spacious glamping spots surrounded by mature trees.
Clean facilities: Many glamping locations in the area maintain exceptional bathroom facilities. "The (and I cannot emphasize this enough) CLEANEST campground bathrooms I've ever seen! I'm not squeamish and have been camping for years so my expectations for campground bathroom cleanliness is well calibrated but these bathrooms (even the vault toilets!) were amazingly clean," shares Stacie H.
Fishing access: Backwater channels of the Mississippi River provide excellent fishing opportunities. "Primitive tent site, fire ring/grill, cheap stay. has small camp store and newer nature center, canoe/kayak rentals, shower house, wood for fee. Can be very buggy depending on season, right along backwaters, good fishing, wildlife viewing," reports James M.
Modern amenities: Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA offers glamping conveniences with recreational facilities. "This campground is pretty big lots of full time campers. Camp ground is open year round. Have lots of different options if your ten camping or have an rv. They do have very nice cabins on site and a decent sized pond where the campground goes around. Mini golf is available with a pool," explains Matthew K.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most premium glamping sites operate April through October with varying amenities. "Seasonal cg has good shade in forested areas with fire rings, tables, durable roads. Seasonal host with firewood, rr/showers," notes James M. about Wilderness Campground.
Bug preparation: Being near river backwaters means insects can be abundant. "Beautiful campground but...management didn't seem to concerned about us! We ordered wood and had to carry it out ourselves. Tried to ask for directions to our site and got steered completely the wrong direction. Drove around for 15 minutes trying to find the right location. But wow! What a beautiful spot we had! Would have been in paradise if it wasn't for the swarms and swarms of mosquitos and spiders that the pond brought," shares Jamee N.
Flooding concerns: Low-lying campgrounds may experience closures during Mississippi River flooding periods. "We have never camped in colder weather or during a statewide lockdown for Corona Virus so I am taking that into account. I was glad they were open to begin with, but the website did not mention that the premium patio site with full hook up would not have water service while we were there," explains Marc W., highlighting the importance of checking current conditions.
Site selection importance: Woodside Campground offers varying levels of privacy depending on site location. "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," observes Stuart K.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near dedicated play areas for convenience. "We camped the last weekend in April and we loved it. The pad was uneven but we got our pup leveled out. We couldn't hike as much due to some hunting still going on but we made due. We will be back to this camp ground," reports Pam O. about Morrison-Rockwood State Park.
Educational opportunities: Camp Liberty offers structured activities for children. "Camp offers site for all tastes: primitive and modern cabins and lodges, tents for small or large groups and couples. Hard roads, fire pits, tables, water, showers, supplies. Surrounded by nature with forest, prairie, and lake. Trails, and even guided activities," explains James M.
Pool availability: Several glamping sites offer swimming facilities during summer months. "Fantastic campground. Facilities were well maintained and the staff was great! Traveling with 3 younger kids and they enjoyed all the activities. We'll be back here again, for sure," shares Dan B.
Rental options: For families without equipment, many sites offer cabin or yurt glamping alternatives. "This was our 3rd time visiting this KOA. We've yet to be disappointed! No traffic noise. Our site was across from the picnic area & we had a nice view of the lake. Nice place to relax after a day on the road. Clean bathrooms & showers. We didn't use the pool, but it looked nice," says Cynthia K.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RVers should prepare for varied terrain at many Davenport area sites. "Sites are small however pull through sites are 2x as big, but they cost a little more. Good fishing beautiful sunsets on west side of campground," advises Mindy W.
Access considerations: Some glamping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. "Convenient location a lot of amenities and activities," notes Family F. about Cedar River Campground, which offers 185 sites with varying sizes and accessibility.
Full hookup availability: Many sites offer complete utility connections for extended stays. "Very conveniently located off I-80, Fair price, full hook up and pull through site $33.00," reports Alan B. about Little Bear Campground, highlighting the value for RV glampers.
Winter options: For cold-weather glamping near Davenport, seek campgrounds with year-round operations. "This campground is pretty big lots of full time campers. Camp ground is open year round. Have lots of different options if your ten camping or have an rv," mentions Matthew K.
