The Mississippi River backwaters near Delmar, Iowa create a unique ecosystem for glamping and camping experiences. Located in eastern Iowa, this region sits at elevations between 600-800 feet with bottomland forests and wetlands that support diverse wildlife. Camping opportunities range from primitive sites to solar-powered glamping accommodations with seasonal availability typically running from April through October.
What to do
Fishing and paddling opportunities: Rock Creek County Marina and Campground provides extensive access to Mississippi backwaters where visitors can enjoy both fishing and paddling. According to Jeff and Linda L., the site has a "nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore." Showers remain open into mid-October.
Wildlife viewing excursions: At Swiss Valley County Park, campers can explore trails alongside Catfish Creek, which is stocked by Iowa DNR. James M. notes the park features "trout stream (Catfish Creek) runs through campground and park and is stocked by Iowa DNR, has Swiss Valley Nature center with trails."
Historical explorations: Visit Walnut Grove Pioneer Village near Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park. James M. describes this area as having "park gates close after hours. Concessions available, pool" and mentions the historical village as a point of interest for visitors wanting to learn about regional history.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the secluded nature of certain campgrounds. Stuart K. says of Wilderness Campground: "The surroundings here are thick and lush, providing you with a real authentic experience in nature and offers real amazing solitude, peace & quiet as well as substantial privacy, where you and your camping exploits won't be on full display."
Educational centers for children: Central Park offers educational opportunities through its nature center. James M. describes it as "very well maintained with full service and primitive sites. Trails, nature center, shelters, restrooms/showers, and lake access for beach, paddling, fishing, etc."
Solar-powered amenities: Modern eco-friendly glamping near Delmar includes solar power installations. At Woodside Campground, James M. highlights this feature: "Newer CG offers RVs including big rigs basics like electric, water, sewer, fire rings, hard pads. Not much shade though trees are planted."
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. James M. notes at Rock Creek: "Watch river levels for flooding, bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest."
Train noise proximity: Some campgrounds are located near active train tracks. At Blanding Landing, Mary S. advises, "Trains are noisy—we slept through them but are also used to living by a train station. Your mileage may vary on that one."
Site unevenness: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Morrison-Rockwood State Park, Pam O. mentions "The pad was uneven but we got our pup leveled out" while Amy R. notes their site was "huge, flat and private - no trouble finding flat ground to pitch the tent."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, consider sites near playground facilities. At Morrison-Rockwood, Stacie H. recommends: "For that same loop, since it circles the playground, if kids playing noises bother you, might want to choose a different site."
Nature programs for kids: Seek out campgrounds with educational programming. At Rock Creek, Chris F. shares: "They also have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed."
Swimming options: Palace Campground provides swimming facilities that appeal to families. Chad C. notes, "My family and I have been coming to this campground for over 6 years running now...This is by far my kids favorite place to go camping." The campground includes pool facilities, swings and playgrounds for children.
Tips from RVers
Solar-assisted sites: RV campers seeking sustainable options should note Woodside Campground's solar capabilities. James M. describes it as a "great newer CG using solar power" with "sites have tables, fire rings, hard pads."
Site privacy considerations: RVers concerned about privacy should choose campgrounds carefully. Stuart K. says about Woodside: "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."
Dump station locations: For longer stays, note campgrounds with dump stations. At Swiss Valley County Park, Tom R. states: "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."
