Top Dog Friendly Camping near Decorah, IA

Looking for the ultimate pet-friendly camping experience near Decorah? Find the best sites near Decorah where you bring your dog and enjoy a scenic view. Each pet-friendly campsite offers quick access to one or more of Decorah's most popular destinations.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Decorah, IA (105)

    Camper-submitted photo from Pulpit Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulpit Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulpit Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulpit Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulpit Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pulpit Rock Campground

    1.

    Pulpit Rock Campground

    17 Reviews
    40 Photos
    84 Saves
    Decorah, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground

    2.

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    251 Photos
    317 Saves
    McGregor, Iowa

    Located on a high bluff overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, a land of sculpted limestone and prehistoric Native American mounds can be found amid a swath of preserved hardwood forest. Translated “home of the warrior” in the language of the local Munsee–Delaware Indians, Wyalusing Hardwood Forest and the Wyalusing Mounds have received recognition as national natural landmarks and historic places. Adjacent to the forest, Wyalusing State Park is the perfect camping destination for a little outdoors R&R, while discovering more about the natural and cultural history at the junction of Wisconsin’s and America’s greatest waterways.

    Visitors to Wyalusing State Park have two campgrounds to choose from. Wisconsin Ridge is set on a high bluff over the Wisconsin River, and Homestead is located in shady hardwood forest. Combined, they offer 109 campsites for tent and RV campers; there is also a large group campground. Both campgrounds provide flush and vault restrooms, shower facilities and drinking water. A portion of sites in each campground have electrical hookups for RVs, and there is a dump station near the Homestead site. The park also has several picnic areas, sports courts, and five reservable group picnic shelters. Firewood, camping supplies, ice and boat rentals are available at the concession stand. Seasonal campsite rates range from $15–$35/night; entrance to the park requires an additional fee.

    With nearly 24 miles of land and water trails in Wyalusing State Park, you’ll find ample opportunities for exploring riverside bluffs. Whether you like to walk, hike, ride, or paddle, there’s a trail just for you. Take an easy interpretive walk to learn about the park’s flora, fauna and geology; hike to see limestone caves, waterfalls, and a great view of the river; hop on your bike for a ride around the edge of a wooded grassland; or board a canoe or kayak and paddle through the Mississippi backwaters. Many of these trails are also open during the winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Other park activities include fishing, bird watching, and seasonal hunting.

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

    $15 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground

    4.

    Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground

    6 Reviews
    9 Photos
    41 Saves
    Cresco, Iowa

    Chimney Rock campground has medium service private campground with cabin rentals, canoe, and kayak rentals. Primitive and electric sites and livery service. Located along the gorgeous upper iowa river. Chimney rock campground 5 small (six person) cabins and 2 Large (12 person) cabins. All have heat and air conditioning. All include: stove, refrigerator, microwave, coffee pot, toaster, pots and pans as well as complete table service. You do need to bring your own bedding. There are full sized bunk beds in the lower level and queen beds in the loft. There is also a water storage container and sink for washing dishes. For bathing we have a community bath and shower house. There are porta potties located very near the cabins as well.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    5.

    Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    64 Photos
    177 Saves
    McGregor, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest

    6.

    Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest

    12 Reviews
    46 Photos
    4 Saves
    Waterville, Iowa

    Yellow River State Forest is a perfect place to explore some of Iowa's best hiking trails. Located in northeast Iowa in Allamakee County, the forest is part of the "driftless area" that escaped the glaciers during the most recent ice age. The forest consists of 8,900 acres of hardwood and coniferous forest and is comprised of 6 units.

    The Paint Creek Unit is of primary interest to the recreationist, with well-kept camping areas, equestrian accommodations, fishing, hunting, and over 45 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bluffton Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluffton Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluffton Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluffton Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluffton Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluffton Resort

    8.

    Bluffton Resort

    5 Reviews
    9 Photos
    21 Saves
    Decorah, Iowa

    Formerly Randy's Bluffton Store and Campground - under new ownership

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

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging

    9.

    Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging

    16 Reviews
    22 Photos
    92 Saves
    Lanesboro, Minnesota

    Located just three miles east of Lanesboro, Minnesota, Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging offers something for everyone. Accommodations include riverfront tent sites, electric-only sites, water-electric sites and full hookup sites and a five-room motel on site. Eagle Cliff offers group camping, a picnic area, private canoe launch and wonderfully-clean central restrooms.

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

    $30 - $46 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    10.

    Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    10 Reviews
    28 Photos
    8 Saves
    Waterville, Iowa

    Yellow River State Forest in northeast Iowa is home to stunning views, beautiful woodlands, and meandering trout streams. Nestled in Iowa’s driftless area in Allamakee County, Yellow River offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities including camping, equestrian riding, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, and more. Yellow River State Forest was first established in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corp and is home to Iowa’s only fire tower, built in 1963. Today, the forest is managed for numerous natural resource benefits and recreational opportunities.

    Big Paint campgrounds are non-modern with vault toilets. Drinking water is available near the office complex. Advance campsite reservations are recommended and can be made through the park reservation system, and one-quarter of the campsites are available for self-registration on a first-come first-served basis.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $12 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 105 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Reviews In Decorah

424 Reviews of 105 Decorah Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Fontana County Park
    September 15, 2024

    Fontana County Park

    New, clean, no trees

    There is a brand new campground here with full hookups. There are no trees so I decided to pass and not camp here. Evidently there is an "old" campground somewhere in this park also that I did not find. The signs will direct you to the new campground.

    I had good T-mobile and Verizon service here.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Klocks Island Park
    September 15, 2024

    Klocks Island Park

    Crowded and quiet

    This seems like a quiet campground. It's just off the highway but there was almost zero traffic on this small highway. I drove through here on a Saturday in mid September. All spots were taken. I had barely usable Verizon service here and no T-mobile service. I was not able to camp here. The restroom building looked fairly new.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Great River Bluffs State Park Campground
    September 8, 2024

    Great River Bluffs State Park Campground

    Lovely Place

    The park is very easy to get to right off the highway. We were greeted by a beautiful meadow with a very well maintained gravel road, stopped by the info station and bought wood and a parking pass (pass is required and is 7$ for one day, easy online purchase). The sites are a bit of a ways into the park but with that maintained road it was very easy. The facilities are great. Very clean bathroom with nice showers (cold water then warmed up). The campground was quiet but there were still a good amount of people staying as well. We stayed just one night and were very happy with this area! Really pretty

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground
    August 26, 2024

    Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground

    Great place to get away

    My wife and I went there for the weekend and it was great. Clean and spacious sites. The bathrooms were even clean. They also provided free showers. The wood was a reasonable price and easily available at any time of the day. It was also pet friendly. I do wish that they hadn't cleared away so many trees. A little more shade would have been nice since we were in a tent. But other than that was was perfect.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore RV Resort and Campground
    July 23, 2024

    Lakeshore RV Resort and Campground

    Rude Host

     Please do not ignore the negative reviews written by people on other sites regarding the owners. My husband and I drove almost 2 hours to check out the campground. We are looking for a permanent site for our RV next year. When we arrived we called the phone number listed on the closed gate. The owner, Joyce came out and said we would need an appointment to drive thru and she did not have time to show us around. The owner was very rude. We had been on their website and it did not state appointments were needed. Yes, I guess we could have called ahead, but as seasoned campers its never been a problem to check out a campground ahead of time.. Just beware owner unfriendly:( NO WE WONT BE RETURNING, WE WOULD NEVER STAY HERE

  • Camper-submitted photo from R Campground, Inc
    July 15, 2024

    R Campground, Inc

    Very clean, friendly owners, great co-campers

    Randy was amazing and very attentive to my questions. Check in was super easy and the directions for check in were clearly spelled out. Everything was mapped out and the website was easy to use as well. The pond itself was pretty to look at and made for great photos, however it was loaded with geese which made it not user friendly. I would recommend this campground, and I will definitely go back to camp again!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Frickson Family Farms LLC
    June 3, 2024

    Frickson Family Farms LLC

    Very peaceful .

    We pulled in from a long driving day .we were greeted by our host . She was very friendly and explained where the site was . Had a great night sleep . This is a good over night stop . In the morning we went to her small store , there are a lot of good stuff . We would definitely stay here again.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground
    May 29, 2024

    Sidie Hollow County Ridge Campground

    Decent Camp Ground

    Book this campground last minute over the phone for a weekend of trout fishing in the driftless area. Fishing was great. The upper ridge campground did not have hardly any grass so it got muddy fast when it rained. The pit toilets were kind of dirty though toilet paper was always stocked so that’s a plus. I explored the other 3 campground at sidie hollow while I was there and this is my take. The main campground had nicer facilities and a play ground for kids. The boat landing campground is convenient if you have a boat. The upper ridge campground has the most shade out of all 3 campgrounds (cooler in the summer). The locals sell firewood for $5 a bundle which is awesome. I would stay at this campground again.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    May 26, 2024

    Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    Dream stay.

    Came to learn more about Tenkara fly fishing. Had a ball. Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush. I had no phone service. Campsites are well mown, have a picnic table and fire ring. Pit toilets. Easy access to water. Drink water and firewood are at the host A frame. There is no dump site. Everyone was very friendly. Helpful. Nights were quiet. Very relaxing.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sylvan City Park
    May 23, 2024

    Sylvan City Park

    Small city park campground right in town

    Walking distance to downtown and easy access to Root River Trail. RV sites were close to each other with little privacy. Many tent sites around the perimeter. Short walk to bathhouse. Showers are not free, 4 quarters for 5 minutes. No laundry available. Campground is first come/first serve and doesn’t take reservations or online payment. Payment is made at adjacent city office.
    Sites are gravel, fairly level. Water and electric available at rv sites.
    Nice park nearby with stocked fishing pond. There is some noise due to the park being tucked into the city. Garbage and dump station free for campers. They ask for a donation for dumping if not camped there. Tight access at dump station might make it difficult for larger rigs. Strong Verizon signal.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
    May 20, 2024

    Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging

    Good campground, rude and unprofessional management

    If you want to experience very rude and unfair treatment where you will be mistreated and ripped off by the staff and ow era you must come to Eagle Cliff campground. Was double charged for the room without any options and negotiations and knees delivered to us after we already left the campground. Staff is very rude and unwilling to be reasonable, professional and understanding. Campground looks good but rules are ridiculous and staff and owners are very shady and make non sense decisions. Stay away if you want nice peaceful stay and don’t want to be ripped off.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging
    May 20, 2024

    Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging

    Management is beyond horrible. Very unprofessional.

    If you want to experience very rude and unfair treatment where you will be mistreated and ripped off by the staff and ow era you must come to Eagle Cliff campground. Was double charged for the room without any options and negotiations and knees delivered to us after we already left the campground. Staff is very rude and unwilling to be reasonable, professional and understanding. Campground looks good but rules are ridiculous and staff and owners are very shady and make non sense decisions. Stay away if you want nice peaceful stay and don’t want to be ripped off.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    May 20, 2024

    Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    Quaint Campground with River Views

    Loved this campground but it does have some drawbacks. Set up a lot for rv camping with site layout and connections. Some sites have the fire ring very close to the parking area and some spots have limited shade (compared to the majority of the campground that is in the trees). The bathrooms and showers are in good condition. The Mississippi River overlooks are a short walk away. There were lots of birds and spiders around the campground. There are a good number of hiking trails in the park.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    May 14, 2024

    Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    Dramatic scenery, quiet campground

    This campground is a short hike away from beautiful trails that overlook the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. The boardwalk trails also lead to a small falls and more. Site 51, where we stayed, is near trailhead but on a slight slope. Showers, water, dump station available here, no playground

  • Camper-submitted photo from Great River Bluffs State Park Campground
    May 14, 2024

    Great River Bluffs State Park Campground

    Nice Weekend Get Away

    The cart in sites all have a fire pit with a grill, picnic table, and are a short walk from the primitive toilets. There is a water spigot in the parking area. They have 4-5 wheelbarrows to use as carts to get your stuff to the site. Each site could comfortably hold 3 to 4 tents. They are on a path for an out and back hike so expect some passers by. Cart in 1 and 2 are fairly close to the parking area and are less secluded from each other. 3 and 4 are more secluded. Site 3 offers more shade and 4 looks to have recently had some trees cut down and is fairly open air. Overall the trails are well maintained and accessible from the cart in area. They provide some nice views of the river and you can easily hike the area in a day. It’s by no means a secluded area if you’re looking to get away from road noise or other people. All in all it makes for a nice weekend getaway.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Twins Campground
    May 3, 2024

    Twins Campground

    Serene

    Serenity, nature at its best, birdsong all day long wildlife at every turn our campsite was level the owners and manager were great hosts. We stayed several weeks the price was very reasonable, honey wagon service was included ; riding/ hiking trails from campsite.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Twins Campground
    April 13, 2024

    Twins Campground

    Twins campground- cresco,Iowa.

    Very friendly and helpful owner. He even drove to town so we could follow him in. Has playground community area fire pit and a structure built to cover picnic tables. atv trails. Turkey river right there was 20 feet from my site. Porta potty and shower water is hot. 30/50 amp power with water on each site. Water fill station and dump station. Garbage .

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    April 8, 2024

    Bloody Run County Park

    An amazing weekend

    I went fishing and hiking and it’s very scenic and beautiful area , train blairing its horn in the middle of the night sucks since it’s right by train tracks, pit toilets and clear water stream in front of the campground fishing wasn’t the best 

  • Camper-submitted photo from Great River Bluffs State Park Campground
    March 31, 2024

    Great River Bluffs State Park Campground

    Fall camping

    Stayed here in the fall. Had a site right next to the bathroom big enough for 2 tents and 2 vehicles. Hikes here offer great views of the river and bluffs and the fall colors are gorgeous!!! site came with a fire pit with grate and a picnic table. I did not use the grate for cooking as I camp with a blackstone as grates tend to be dirty. When I do use the fire for cooking, I always use a cast iron pan rather than cooking directly on the grate. pictures are from before my friend arrived with their vehicle and tent. They parked directly in front of my car and put their tent near the parking barricade close to the bathroom. My dog enjoyed all the room he had at this site!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Joes Little Campground
    March 24, 2024

    Big Joes Little Campground

    Never Again

    It is not meant for weekenders. The campground is 97% concrete pad sites for people who want to park their camper and ent for the year. The two "weekender sites they do have are over 100 yards away and the water smells like sulphur. The owner will also personally take the time to drive out and chew you out if you inadvertently park on the grass. Bottom line, they care about getting their cash and trying to make it look like Augusta National golf course. I will never go back.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Springs Trout Hatchery Campground
    March 20, 2024

    Big Springs Trout Hatchery Campground

    A slice of heaven

    This is a beautiful scenic view right next to the river and there are picnic tables fire rings and a trash can and porta potty with a water spigot for fresh water

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    March 20, 2024

    Bloody Run County Park

    Amazing creekside

    It was a beautiful area with the creek running right next to it only problem was there was some trash in the firing which we had to take care of. People are so lazy.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Gilbertson Conservation Education Area


Guide to Decorah

Camping near Decorah, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the campfire, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Pikes Peak State Park Campground. “Beautiful overlooks above the great Mississippi River! Very nice trails!” said one happy camper.
  • Fishing: Head to Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground for some great trout fishing. A visitor mentioned, “Good trout fishing here, some sites are primitive, some have electric and water.”
  • Cave Tours: Don’t miss the cave tours at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground. One reviewer raved, “Love the cave tours! Some trails in the park are horse trails also, so you may encounter the occasional horseback rider.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground love the stunning views. One camper shared, “Campsite D's views were unbeatable. A storm rolled in over the Mississippi as we were heading to bed; it was a magical experience.”
  • Privacy: Many appreciate the spacious sites at Perrot State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “The sites are well spaced and well separated by trees.”
  • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Minnesota Whitewater State Park Campground said, “Restroom with showers also available in campground. Site was large and easy to back into.”

What you should know:

  • Train Noise: If you camp at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, be prepared for train noise. One camper warned, “When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries. When they go past the site, it's incredibly loud!”
  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Great River Bluffs State Park Campground, have spotty cell service. A visitor mentioned, “There is little to no cell coverage.”
  • Mosquitoes: Be ready for bugs, especially in summer. A camper at Perrot State Park Campground noted, “Lots of vegetation around the camp site that made it feel a bit more private but that also brought lots of bugs and mosquitoes.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby swimming areas, like Minnesota Whitewater State Park Campground. A reviewer said, “Swimming beach about half a mile from campground.”
  • Playgrounds: Check out campgrounds that have playgrounds for kids. One camper at Pulpit Rock Campground mentioned, “Large playground, internet at the front building in case you need to work.”
  • Group Sites: Consider campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A visitor at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground noted, “Campsites are flat and grassy. They back up to each other so good for groups camping together.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park, offer electric hookups. A reviewer said, “Restrooms were nice, shower house was closed and locked but the scenery on the hiking trail was amazing.”
  • Space Between Sites: Look for campgrounds with spacious layouts. A camper at Wyalusing State Park Campground mentioned, “Site layouts a little less private. Great hiking.”
  • Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has a dump station for convenience. A visitor at Pikes Peak State Park Campground noted, “Very Easy to use dump station.”

Camping near Decorah, Iowa, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for the occasional train noise and bring some bug spray!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Decorah, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Decorah, IA is Pulpit Rock Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 17 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Decorah, IA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 105 dog-friendly camping locations near Decorah, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.