Campsites near Delhi, Iowa sit within the gently rolling hills of the Wapsipinicon River valley in eastern Iowa. The area features a mix of hardwood forests, restored prairie lands, and riverside terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 950 feet above sea level. Many campgrounds remain open from April through October, with limited winter accommodations at select locations.
What to do
Water recreation on Wapsipinicon River: Paddlers access multiple river points at Bailey Ford Delaware County Park where you'll find "trout stream, river access for boats or kayaks, to the beautiful trails with educational signs along it. This park is perfect" according to visitor Ronnie N. The park offers boat ramps and shore fishing areas along a 2.5-mile stretch.
Hiking trail exploration: The extensive trail system at Pinicon Ridge Park features well-marked routes through diverse terrain. Brandon T. notes, "The trail through the campground takes you across the river where you can find canoe and paddle boat rentals, and our favorite an off leash do area. We all took the trail into town and found a BIT Brewery where we enjoy woodfired pizza."
Lookout tower climbing: The observation tower at Pinicon Ridge Park provides panoramic views of the surrounding valley and river. Beau Z. calls it "a must see" with visibility extending up to 15 miles on clear days. The tower stands approximately 70 feet tall with interior stairs leading to viewing platforms.
What campers like
Modern shower facilities: Campers consistently praise the updated bathroom facilities at Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area Campground. One visitor mentioned the campground is "very well maintained grounds. Camp sites do not provide private water/sewer but there is a good water/sewer station on the way in." The shower buildings feature individual stalls with hot water available May through September.
Secluded tent camping: Tent campers appreciate the private sites at Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground where one camper noted, "Super chill and plenty of space, especially for tents on site 39. Bathrooms are very nice and modern and clean." Most tent sites feature level pads separated by natural vegetation buffers.
Variety of glamping accommodations: Multiple parks near Delhi offer upscale outdoor stays. At Matsell Bridge Natural Area, primitive glamping options exist alongside tent camping. According to Carol M., it's a "nice little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River... fire pits and picnic tables at every site. Good for RV, trailer or tent camping... level ground and lots of shade."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: The Wapsipinicon River occasionally overflows its banks during heavy spring rains. Beau Z. mentioned that at Pinicon Ridge Park, the "Lower area is susceptible to flooding during extremely high water, but county staff is very proactive and hospitable with helping campers relocate from dangerous areas."
Limited cellular service: Cell phone reception varies widely across the area's campgrounds. Prepare for spotty coverage in valley areas and ravines. Download maps and campground information before arrival as several parks have no on-site WiFi except at specific locations.
Weather considerations: The camping season typically runs April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime. Prepare for humidity in July and August, when overnight temperatures rarely drop below 65°F. Spring and fall bring 45-65°F daily temperatures with cooler nights.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Central Park offers extensive play areas for children with modern equipment. James M. notes it's "well maintained with full service and primitive sites. Trails, nature center, shelters, restrooms/showers, and lake access for beach, paddling, fishing, etc." The playground areas feature equipment suitable for children 2-12 years old.
Educational opportunities: Many parks provide nature programs during summer weekends. The nature center at Central Park has scheduled programs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with weekend activities for children ages 5-12 focusing on local wildlife and ecosystems.
Family-friendly glamping in Delhi, Iowa: Coffins Grove Park offers accessible glamping options for families with young children. One visitor, Elizabeth K., described it as a "nice, smaller campground! No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion). Newer playground that my kids love."
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Most campgrounds provide dump stations, though not all sites offer full hookups. Clint G. advises that Pinicon Ridge Park offers "a level rock pad witch was very spacious with a fire ring and picnic table. Nearest grocery store was within 5 miles. The bathrooms and shower were very clean with lots of hot water."
Campsite selection advice: When booking RV sites or looking for upscale glamping near Delhi, Iowa, consider the level sites at Swiss Valley County Park where Tom R. found "excellent" conditions: "This is one of the best RV parks we have stayed in awhile. Meticulously maintain with good size, level sites. We had a 50amp water site and the dump station was nearby."
Winter camping availability: While most campgrounds close for winter, selected sites remain open for cold-weather glamping. Check for updated shower facility closures and water shutoffs typically occurring after October 15th. Certain electric sites remain accessible for winter camping with appropriate RV preparations.
