Best Campgrounds near Donahue, IA

The Mississippi River corridor defines the camping landscape around Donahue, Iowa, with a mix of Corps of Engineers facilities, county parks, and private campgrounds within a 20-mile radius. Scott County Park offers multiple camping areas including Pine Grove, Bald Eagle, and Wilderness campgrounds, featuring cabin rentals alongside traditional tent and RV sites. Most campgrounds in the region provide electric hookups, with water and sewer connections available at developed sites. The camping areas extend from the Wapsipinicon River in the north to the Quad Cities area in the south, with both riverside locations and inland wooded settings represented.

Seasonal considerations shape the camping experience, with most campgrounds operating from April through mid-October. Several campgrounds close entirely during winter months due to flood potential and freezing conditions. "This might be one of our favorite campgrounds in the area. It has trails for walking and lots of concrete for riding bikes. The park is close to the River and has plenty of places to put your boat in across the highway," noted one visitor about Mississippi Palisades State Park. Travelers should be aware that spring flooding can affect campground accessibility, particularly along the Cedar and Iowa Rivers where high water can temporarily close camping areas. Most campgrounds offer online reservations, though some maintain first-come, first-served sites for spontaneous trips.

Campers report high satisfaction with locations offering water proximity, whether alongside the Mississippi River or at inland lakes and reservoirs. Riverside camping allows visitors to watch barges pass by while enjoying fishing and paddling opportunities. The region's family-friendly campgrounds frequently feature playgrounds, hiking trails, and boat launches. According to one review, "Wildcat Den State Park is somewhat of an unknown gem. Surrounded by cornfields, rolling hills and the Mississippi River, this park is tucked neatly away in Southeast Iowa." While developed campgrounds with full hookups dominate the region, primitive tent camping can be found at places like Wapsi River Environmental Education Center. Most campgrounds maintain shower facilities and modern restrooms, though some primitive areas only offer vault toilets. Local wildlife viewing includes bald eagles along the Mississippi River corridor, especially during winter months.

Best Camping Sites Near Donahue, Iowa (129)

    1. Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

    18 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 328-3282

    $17 - $36 / night

    "Enjoyed almost 2 weeks at West Lake Park, part of the Scott County, IA park system. Helpful staff, park rangers make daily patrols, nice spots, many with shade trees & decent room."

    "Although theres a small "lake" here, Ive never had great luck catching much. Pool is nice and updated. Park rangers are always frequently present and patrolling."

    2. Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    23 Reviews
    Bettendorf, IA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 259-3628

    $14 - $26 / night

    "Site 13 seemed to be one of the best situated. We stayed in Site 12 which had a beautiful, unobstructed view of the river."

    "As with all the campgrounds along the Northern Illinois Great River Trail, it is along side Rt. 84, and railroad tracks."

    3. Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park

    11 Reviews
    Davenport, IA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 328-3281

    $27 / night

    "The host is on site plus a park ranger was frequently driving around to check on things. We were there on Labor Day weekend and everyone quieted down in the evening."

    "This campground is located in West Lake Park about 5 miles from downtown Davenport. There are two campgrounds – Summit and Park Terrace. "

    4. Interstate RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Eldridge, IA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 386-7292

    "Easy on off from highway, cute little place but still fit a big rig towing a trailer. DoorDash in area is convenient. 50 ⚡️💩👍💧👍"

    "It’s a bit noisy due to the nearness to the interstate."

    5. Sherman Co Park

    7 Reviews
    Wheatland, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 847-7202

    "There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling."

    "Primitive sites include gravel entrance, picnic tables, fire rings only. There is a boat ramp for the Wapsipinicon river with access for fishing, paddling, etc."

    6. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

    6 Reviews
    Wheatland, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 328-3286

    $70 - $80 / night

    "Charcoal grill, fire ring with wood supplied, picnic table, covered porch, trail head right next to cabin. After hours offers quite park, dark skies, and trails with wildlife."

    "AC/heat, covered porch, firewood, picnic table, Charcoal grill, trails. Park is also site of nature center with live animals, an observatory, access to Wapsipinicon River."

    7. Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    17 Reviews
    Rock Island, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 787-0665

    "My wife, son, and I recently stayed here on our trip back home from Iowa. The campground was clean and quiet."

    "Close to stores, and resturants. A casino close by."

    8. Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park

    5 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    7 miles
    Website

    $15 - $23 / night

    "The campground has a seasonal host offering firewood on site, showers and restrooms, play area, trails, and overflow parking just adjacent for the entrance."

    "Unlike either nearby Woodside or Bald Eagle campgrounds, which are more geared for the RV driving and 5th Wheel hauling camping community, Wilderness CG isn’t very level, has decent natural barriers like"

    9. Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park

    6 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    8 miles
    Website

    $15 - $23 / night

    "I met include restrooms and showers, campground host with firewood, available, trash, bins, playground area, trails nearby, I shelter to rent, a golf course across from the entrance, And the park has a"

    "CG offers primitive site amenities: tables, fire rings, some hammock structures, spacious sites, shelter to rent, seasonal host with fire wood and golf course like cated at entrance."

    10. Pine Grove Campground, Scott Co Park

    5 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    8 miles
    Website

    $15 - $23 / night

    "Primitive tent sites include: tables, fire rings, parking, water and firewood nearby, shelter for rent, seasonal host, visitor parking, 2 modern cabins adjacent."

    "Beautiful area that is well secluded, especially since it is so close to the city."

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Recent Reviews near Donahue, IA

634 Reviews of 129 Donahue Campgrounds


  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Linder Point Campground

    Well designed and maintained small RV campground j

    Natural setting with plenty of trees and located near Coralville Reservoir. Paved roads and sites. Ample roam for big rigs, but no pull through sites. Electricity only, with fresh water and a dump station nearby. Modern and clean bathhouse. Open sky at most sites for Starlink. No other amenities at this campsite for children, but there are hiking trails and activities at the nearby reservoir recreation areas.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    Trails, Tales & a Big Round Barn at Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    If you like your camping served with a side of quirk, Johnson Sauk Trail State Park near Kewanee, Illinois, delivers in spades. First impressions are of rolling hills, shady hardwoods, and wide-open prairie that feels like someone took a painter’s brush to the Midwest and got carried away. It’s big, it’s woodsy, and it has just enough old-fashioned charm to make you think you’ve stumbled into a summer postcard here in the heart of the Prairie State. Families and weekend wanderers flock here, but the atmosphere stays laid-back and the kind of place where you can still hear the wind in the trees over the laughter and screaming of kids chasing fireflies.

    The campground itself is no slouch, with more than 70 sites ranging from rustic tent pads (25 in total) to electric hook-up spots that keep RVs humming happily. Sites are generally roomy and shaded, each with picnic tables and fire rings that dare you to try out your best s’mores engineering skills. Bathhouses are clean and close, with flush toilets and showers that (miracle of miracles) actually have good water pressure. Roads are paved and very easy to navigate, though keep an eye on turns if you’re wrangling a bigger rig. Pets are welcome, kids have plenty of room to roam, and the general feel is safe and easygoing.

    And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who ‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.

    Outside the campground, Johnson Lake offers paddleboat rentals, fishing piers, and calm waters for paddling, which is ideal for wearing out the kids while you pretend you’re training for a kayak marathon! Trails wind through forest and prairie with wildlife sightings being frequent enough that you’ll start feeling like you’re starring in your own nature documentary. When hunger hits, Kewanee is just down the road, with options ranging from old-school diners to pizza joints. And don’t skip The Coop, a local gem in the hamlet of Annawan with an ice cream parlor and baked goods like cinnamon rolls, iced cookies and chocolate chunk brownies so good you’ll briefly consider moving to town just to live closer.

    Insider tips? Yep, here’s a handful: (1) Book a site in the lake loop(of which there’s some 7 or slots to choose from) for quick access to Johnson Lake, where despite a short trek to the water’s edge, you’ll get fewer complaints from the kids when it’s time to haul gear to the water and you’ll also be treated to unbeatable sunset views from one of the scattered benches along the lakefront; (2) For food, check out Cerno’s Bar & Grill in Kewanee, which was established in 1898 BTW and feels like you’re stepping back in time for massive burgers and a family-friendly vibe, Good’s Furniture for surprisingly solid sit-down meals (yes, furniture and food under one roof), and The Coop for ice cream and baked goods that will tempt you back two days in a row; (3) Don’t miss touring the Ryan Round Barn with it’s four stories of history, architecture and oddball charm that kids and adults alike will find fascinating. Just remember: it’s round, so if you get lost inside, maybe camping isn’t your sport; and (4) Bring a kayak or canoe for Johnson Lake as the calm water is great for families, fishing will likely net some channel catfish, largemouth bass and white crappie and you’ll likely spot turtles, herons and maybe even a beaver supervising your paddling skills.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground - Members Only

    Hidden Gem Along the Hennepin Canal

    This is the Geneseo Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America, which coming across one fine Autumn day, I was completely unaware of this organization, which apparently is America’s oldest and most successful conservation organizations. This particular chapter in Geneseo was chartered back in 1952 and shortly thereafter founded Ike’s Park located right along the Hennepin Canal, which features among other things: picnic facilities, fishing, boating and kayaking, a boat ramp, handicapped accessible fishing pier as well as a community lodge that you can book in advance, in addition to a primitive style campground offering up some 20 or so sites on a first-come, first served basis.

    To put it bluntly, this place is incredibly simple and basic, which is its beauty in a nutshell. This undiscovered little gem will make you feel as though you’ve just hit the primitive camping lottery jackpot as very few folks outside of Geneseo even know of this place. So if you’re coming from slightly further afield, you’ll appreciate getting in on something special. Upon arrival from Route 82, which if you are coming from the nearest major highway of I80, you’d be heading northbound, you need to simply hang a right onto a very modest gravel road that has an immediate declining slope upon entry. Once you turn into Izaak Walton Park, you’ll feel embraced by something truly special with mature maples and oaks surrounding you before coming across a sign marking this territory as Ike’s Place with the community lodge on the right. If you continue on, just about 30 yards further you’ll come across the self-check-in kiosk where you just need to fill out the required information and drop your$10(member) or$20(non-members) in an envelope and you can set up wherever you’d like.

    As you are literally right next to the Hennepin Canal, you’ll want to set up as near the canal as you can get, although, you could sit back a bit further south if you’d like under the canopy of a mature treeline. Beyond the beautiful, scenic riverview, there’s just a couple of community shelters, basic restroom facilities with vault toilets, a fishing pier and a large area that faces a larger swath of the Hennepin Canal that for a short bit resembles a lake, although when you are on the water, you’ll learn it’s just the bend in the river. Here at Izaak Walton Park alongside the property immediately to the south, Geneseo Prairie Park, there’s lots of decent hilly hiking trails to keep you occupied. And of course, if you’re an angler, you’ll appreciate the quick and easy access to casting a line where you’ll be able to catch panfish, small- and large-mouth bass as well as catfish.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) While you are north of Geneseo, you shouldn’t have too much problem with cell coverage out in these parts– we got 4 bars with Verizon and 3 bars with AT&T;(2) Not all of the sites are level, so you definitely want to check out a number of the sites before deciding upon which to choose from– where you’ll also want to keep in mind that not all of the sites have electricity, so either plant yourself near an outlet or bring a long electrical cord;(3) While there is a dump station on-site, when we were there, it was locked, so while we were able to place most of our trash in the garbage receptables, be prepared to haul yours out with you before leaving; and(4) You’ll want to take note that you are sitting alongside the Hennepin Canal, which if you haven’t been to before, provides about 100 miles worth of some pretty amazing slow-moving current that is excellent for kayaks and canoes, so if you’ve got one, bring it, but if not, the good folks at Geneseo Campground just due north of this location across the river will rent you one.

    Happy Camping!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Summit Campground - West Lake Park

    Nice Break

    We are headed to North Carolina and needed a break from the back-to-back travel days. This campground was clean and quiet while we’re were there. We did stay from Monday to Wednesday so it might be busier on the weekends.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park

    The Brady Bunch of Campgrounds

    SOC-Fox Campground is like the middle child in a family of seven - yes, count 'em seven - campgrounds within Scott County Park. Think Brady Bunch, but with fire pits and RV hookups instead of bell bottoms and avocado-colored kitchens. It’s not the flashiest sibling, but it’s got that reliable Midwest charm that makes you go,'Yep, it's not the most attractive, but it will get the job done.' First impression? Clean, organized and incredibly less chaotic than you’d expect from the Jan of the camping family.

    The sites here are roomy, shaded, and well-behaved, just like campers who say 'please' and 'thank you' everywhere you go, well, because you're in the Midwest. You’ve got a mix of electric and FHU options, so everyone from RV royalty to tent campers with coolers full of questionable lunch meat can settle in comfortably. Roads are wide enough that you won’t have to close one eye and pray when maneuvering your rig. Bathhouses? Shockingly nice. Like, did a spa consultant sneak in here when no one was looking?!  Nice. Fire rings and picnic tables come standard, and the pet-friendly vibe means your dog will probably make more friends than you do.  There's some shade, but most of it is on the treeline on the perimeter.

    And let’s talk about Scott County Park itself, which is like the Disney World of county parks. You want hiking? Got it. Equestrian trails? Saddle up. Disc golf? Fore! Playground for the kids? Absolutely. And then there’s the aquatic center. Not a pool. Not a splash pad. A full-on aquatic wonderland with waterslides, diving boards and enough chlorine to strip a small car of paint. Meanwhile, other campgrounds are out here bragging about their kiddie swings. Weak, right?!

    Insider Tips?  Here's a handful: (1) Shady sites near the woods are perfect for naps and hiding from the in-laws, while open sites are better if you need your daily satellite news fix; (2) Hungry? Roll into nearby Eldridge for The Rustic Ridge, where the burgers are taller than your nephew’s science project and fries are an entire food group all to itself; (3) Kayak fans can float the Wapsipinicon River where it’s calm, scenic and you’ll get to wave at locals fishing with that 'I’ve lived here since 1842' energy; and (4) Don’t skip the aquatic center as your kids will cannonball themselves into exhaustion while you finally finish that camp chair beer in peace.

    Happy Camping!

  • Emily B.
    Sep. 21, 2025

    River Junction

    Great views and location, but not private and not well-marked

    This was our first time camping here. We pulled in around 8pm when it was already dark and there was another car that had just entered the campground in front of us. After driving down the hill, he saw the basic “welcome” and “Pay here” signs next to a 4-car parking area. There were no signs marking where the bathroom was or any directions on how to choose a site. The group ahead of us chose to camp next to the boat ramp, so we circled around the loop and chose a dirt pad on the right side of the loop next to the river. We were very confused because the pictures on Dyrt showed picnic tables and fire rings at every site, but these were nowhere to be seen. It was getting late, so we set up the tent and went to bed. It wasn’t until the morning that we had discovered that we weren’t camping in one of the marked sites! As it turns out, all 4 sites were walk-in sites on grass behind the parking area that had been occupied by 2 cars when we pulled in. The signage didn’t clarify this and we couldn’t see the marked sites when it was dark! The marked sites were pretty close together and they offered no privacy between groups. Additionally, upon leaving we discovered that the toilet was on the top of the hill right by the entrance. Due to the lack of signage and privacy in between the official campsites, I rate 3 stars. It was very beautiful and peaceful, but it was very confusing in the dark.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park

    Nice modern cabin along lake

    Cabin has on-site parking as well as overflow parking nearby, hard surface with picnic table, and firing, gas grill, covered porch with Lakeview, sleeps eight, fireplace and full kitchen amenities, ADA accessible restroom. Park offers seasonal swimming beach, for lakes to paddle and fish at, disc golf course, Concessions in season, and lots of trails.

  • Michael P.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Fairport State Recreation Area Campground

    Host not friendly very rude woman would not recommend staying here at all

    Would not recommend fairport camping  in muscatine iowa at all the host is rude and non caring personality more like two faced   i would recommend  shady creek  or one of the others on the same hwy if looking for nice and great host

    On the note dnr are great thou

  • Jorge F.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Cedar River Campground

    Good place to go camping with friends and family.

    “This place became my wife’s and daughters’ favorite this year. It is a place where everyone who visits is very kind and respectful. The managers are always courteous and attentive.”


Guide to Donahue

Scott County Park dominates the camping landscape near Donahue, Iowa, with multiple campgrounds offering distinct experiences within its 1,280 acres. The park sits on rolling wooded terrain approximately 300 feet above sea level, creating varied camping environments from open meadows to dense forest. Most campgrounds in the area close seasonally between October and April, though Park Terrace Campground remains open year-round for winter camping enthusiasts.

What to do

Fishing at multiple lakes: West Lake Park features four recently rehabilitated fishing lakes stocked with various species including trout in 2023. "Park has many amenities: 4 recently retired fishing and paddling lakes with seasonal swimming beach and concessions, disc golf, new hiking trails, shelters, playgrounds," notes one camper about Park Terrace Campground.

Hiking forest trails: Scott County Park offers extensive trail networks connecting its six campgrounds. "The individual camping sites are incredibly spacious, fairly uneven land with all spaces offering substantial shade, thick backdrop behind each spot and tons of foliage... Lastly, one of the things that make Wilderness differentiated here in Scott County Park is that a ton of the best hiking trails converge at this CG," explains a visitor at Wilderness Campground.

River paddling experiences: The Wapsipinicon River provides paddling opportunities near Sherman Park. "This quant little campground is my favorite. There's plenty of room between sites in the electric section and there's even more room along the river in the primitive section, which is my personal favorite... Our favorite past time while we're there is to go tubing on the Wapsi River," shares a camper from Sherman Park.

What campers like

Wildlife viewing: White-tailed deer are commonly spotted throughout Scott County Park. "Expect to see whitetail deer as they love to make the park home," comments one visitor at Bald Eagle Campground. The diverse habitats support various wildlife species.

Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses. At Sherman Park, a reviewer notes: "The bathroom/shower house is the nicest & cleanest I've seen. The camp host's are very friendly. There's also a nice newer playground for the kids and a few trail to explore."

Historical attractions: The Pioneer Village at Scott County Park offers a glimpse into the past. "We did one of the hiking trails. It was a nice trail just big enough for one person (or person on a bike) to walk through so you have to walk in a single file line. We also stopped at the Pioneer Village to check it out... It was very cool to see how things were done back then!" shares a visitor at Bald Eagle Campground.

What you should know

Winter closures: Most campgrounds near Donahue close seasonally. "RV sites are closed for season. This CG offers both primitive tent and RV sites. Seasonal host site offers firewood, there is a play ground, shelter, RR/showers, trails, dump station and two cabins available for rent," explains a camper at Pine Grove Campground.

Railroad noise: Campgrounds along the Mississippi River may experience train noise. At Fisherman's Corner, a visitor mentioned: "Great overnight site. Paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas. Plenty of eateries nearby. Well-shaded and manicured sites." However, another noted: "Railroad runs nearby can be loud."

Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. "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," reports a camper at Woodside Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Swimming and waterslides: The swimming pool at Scott County Park offers summer recreation. "The pool was open while we were there but we did not partake. It was really hot out so the pool was packed! It looks really nice from the road, it has 2 water slides and a small child area fashioned similar to a splash park," shares a visitor at Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins.

Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. "We stayed in the Pine Grove Campground, Lot #15 from Sunday, July 25, 2021 - Wednesday, August 4, 2021. This campground is electric hookup only... Everyone was very friendly and there were a ton of kids that were playing and riding around on their bikes. It was fun to watch everyone having a good time!"

Cabin options: For families wanting comfort without tents, several parks offer cabins. "Cabin sits at end of campground lane with covered porch, parking for 3 cars, ADA accessible. Cabin has 2 sleeping rooms, sleeping loft, and sofa. Capacity is 10, with all kitchen amenities. Has fire pit, wood available in campground, tables, and gas grill with rental."

Tips from RVers

Full hookup availability: Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA offers complete services for RVs. "This was a great one night stay. We were in site #5 FHU. Easy and friendly check in. Nice lake in park. It was still off season so pool etc was not open. Easy on/off interstate."

Level sites: Many campgrounds provide level pads for RVs. "Back-in slots are spacious, hard and very level with the grounds being incredibly well-kept and impeccably clean bathroom/shower facilities with great HOT running water," notes a camper at Woodside Campground.

Overnight options: For travelers passing through, Interstate RV Park offers convenience. "Less than 1 mile north of I-80. Campground has a variety is sites surrounding a central camp office/store bathrooms, laundry and pool. Blain's Farm & Fleet across from entrance. A mix of hardtop and gravel lanes throughout park."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Donahue, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Donahue, IA is Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins with a 4.5-star rating from 18 reviews.

What parks are near Donahue, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Donahue, IA that allow camping, notably Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 and Coralville Lake.