Best Campgrounds near Delhi, IA
Camping near Delhi, Iowa encompasses a mix of county parks and state recreation areas nestled among the rolling farmlands of eastern Iowa. Silver Lake County Park in Delhi provides basic electric sites for tent and RV camping with toilet facilities, while nearby Backbone State Park in Dundee offers more extensive camping options including cabins. The area features several water-based camping opportunities along Lake Delhi and the Maquoketa River, with Turtle Creek County Park providing spacious waterfront sites. According to one camper who visited Turtle Creek, the campground is "small with about 30 first come, first serve spots" that are "spaced out fairly well" and located "right on Lake Delhi with a boat ramp within walking distance."
Most campgrounds in the Delhi area are open from spring through fall, with several operating year-round including Backbone State Park and Bailey's Ford Park in Manchester. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night, making for comfortable camping conditions. Spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter camping is available at select locations but with limited amenities. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near towns and spotty reception in more remote areas. Reservations are recommended for weekend stays during peak summer months and fall color season, particularly at Backbone State Park.
The camping experiences around Delhi range from modern to primitive. Backbone State Park, Iowa's oldest state park, features both a modern campground with electric hookups, flush toilets, and showers, as well as a primitive campground that offers a more secluded experience. As one visitor noted, "This is my favorite at Backbone for camping, especially in the autumn after the leaves have fallen off of the trees. As this campground is non-electric, there are not many people camping after it turns colder." County parks like Bailey's Ford and Coffins Grove provide water and electric hookups for RVs while maintaining a rural atmosphere. Most campgrounds in the area are pet-friendly and offer fire rings, with firewood often available for purchase on-site.
