Best Camping near Donahue, IA

Searching for the best camping near Donahue, IA? Donahue is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Donahue, IA (123)

    Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

    1. Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

    16 Reviews
    94 Photos
    5 Saves
    Long Grove, Iowa

    Bald Eagle Campground accommodates large Recreational Vehicles with electrical, water, and sewer hookups and a restroom/shower building. Select sites provide full handicapped accessibility. Limited sites are reservable May - Sep.

    Bald Eagle Campgroup is open year round during season park hours. Due to weather conditions, water is available to the camp sites from mid April to mid October (weather dependent). Water is always available at the dump station.

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

    $17 - $36 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    2. Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    21 Reviews
    19 Photos
    35 Saves
    Bettendorf, Iowa

    Overview

    With impressive views of the mighty Mississippi River, Fishermans Corner provides convenient RV and tent camping facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. The lush river landscape provides plenty of shade, and activities from water sports to hiking to wildlife viewing. Eagle watching is particularly popular during the winter months at Fishermans Corner.

    Recreation

    Although there is no river access from within the campground, the Fishermans Corner Day Use facility is a short walk away and offers numerous fishing areas as well as a canoe ramp. Visitors can also catch a weekly educational program at the amphitheater located within the campground. The Central Trail section of the famous Mississippi River Trail passes directly in front of the campground, offering visitors miles of walking and biking trails along the river bank. The expansive Elton E. Fawks Bald Eagle Refuge and Nature Preserve and the Illiniwek Forest Preserve are also located just minutes away.

    Natural Features

    Fishermans Corner offers an excellent view of a small aquatic marsh near Locks and Dam 14, which is home to an array of wildlife species. On any given morning visitors may see turtles sunning on rocks near the river bed or countless bird species hunting the shallow waters for food. The scenery during camping season never disappoints, whether it's the vivid greenery during the spring or the breathtaking medley of colors during the fall.

    Contact Info

    For local information, please call (563) 232-9096 or call (815) 259-3628 for general information.

    Nearby Attractions

    The John Deere Pavilion, an interactive museum spanning almost 200 years of the famous American agricultural company's history is located a convenient 20-minutes away by car. For a more exotic experience, the Botanical Center located in Rock Island, features an array of colorful plant species located in both indoor and outdoor gardens.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    3. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    168 Photos
    213 Saves
    Baldwin, Iowa

    This campground offers both electric and non-electric sites as well as modern restroom and shower facility. All campsites are available by reservation only.

    Maquoketa Caves State Park is one of the biggest attractions in Jackson County and is a great place for spelunkers and hiking enthusiasts. The caves in the area were formed after millennia of water erosion on limestone bedrock. This park contains more caves than any other state park in Iowa. The park itself covers 370 acres nestled among hardwood trees and high bluffs. With approximately thirteen caves, a great experience awaits you at this interesting and unique state park.

    Bird Watching
    Cave Exploring/Spelunking
    Dump Station
    Geological Formations
    Handicap Access
    Hiking
    Interpretive Exhibit/Display
    Modern Restroom
    Park Office
    Parking
    Picnic Area
    
    Playground
    Registration Building
    Restrooms
    Showers
    Toilet, Pit/Vault
    Trash Dumpster
    Visitor Center
    Water Hydrants
    Wildflower Viewing
    Wildlife Viewing
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Shady Creek

    5. Shady Creek

    16 Reviews
    41 Photos
    65 Saves
    Illinois City, Illinois

    Overview

    Shady Creek Campground is a 22-acre park where campers enjoy getaways on the banks of the Mississippi River. A nature trail, shore fishing and fantastic bird watching are offered at Shady Creek.

    Recreation

    The Mississippi River draws many anglers annually. The most popular fish species is the channel catfish; bluegill, walleye and northern pike are also found in the river. Picnicking and playing horseshoes is a popular activity in the park.

    Natural Features

    The park has spectacular views of the Mississippi River. Many trees throughout the campground provide great places to lounge in the shade. The Upper Mississippi River begins at the headwaters of Lake Itasca, Minnesota and flows 1,250 miles to Cairo, Illinois where it joins the Ohio River.

    Nearby Attractions

    Wildcat Den State Park is just north of Shady Creek, offering hiking trails and the historic Pine Creek Grist Mill built in 1848. The Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge is a 40-minute drive downstream. Trails and observation decks are open to the public. Hunting and fishing are allowed in many area of the refuge.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park

    6. Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park

    10 Reviews
    76 Photos
    49 Saves
    Davenport, Iowa

    Park Terrace Campground is open year-round during seasonal park hours. The restroom is open year-round. Due to weather conditions, water is available to the camp sites from mid April to mid October (weather dependent). Water is always available at the dump station.

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

    $27 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Illiniwek Campground

    7. Illiniwek Campground

    11 Reviews
    48 Photos
    62 Saves
    Bettendorf, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry

    8. Clarks Ferry

    10 Reviews
    27 Photos
    16 Saves
    Illinois City, Illinois

    Overview

    Clarks Ferry is a outdoor lovers delight, with fantastic bird watching and lots of shore fishing opportunities with our new accessible fishing dock! The park has plenty of trees to lounge under while taking in the spectacular views of the mighty Mississippi River.

    Recreation

    Take the kids to one of the two playgrounds, play a game of horseshoes, volleyball, or go boating. The Mississippi River draws crowds of anglers for channel catfish, bluegill, walleye, crappie and northern pike.

    Natural Features

    The park is surrounded by large mature trees along the Iowa side of the Upper Mississippi River. The Upper Mississippi is the section of the river that starts in the headwaters of Lake Itasca, Minnesota and flows 1,250 miles to Cairo, Illinois, where it joins with the Ohio River.

    Nearby Attractions

    Clarks Ferry is near the Shady Creek Recreation Area and the Wildcat Den State Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park

    9. Interstate RV Park

    8 Reviews
    41 Photos
    12 Saves
    Eldridge, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground

    10. Wildcat Den State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    69 Photos
    63 Saves
    Illinois City, Illinois

    Two historical attractions both have active friends groups. One is the "turn of the century" Melpine one-room schoolhouse, which is located in the park and offers visitors a glimpse of Iowa's past.

    The other historical attraction is the Pine Creek Grist Mill, which was built in 1848. The mill was built by Benjamin Nye, one of Muscatine County's first settlers. He also built the county's first store and post office in 1838. The mill is one of the finest examples of mid-19th century mills left in the country and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The mill is being restored to its original condition. Great strides have been made at the mill and it is now grinding corn for the first time in more than 75 years.

    Wildcat Den is a great place for a family to "get away from it all" for a weekend or a family vacation. Campsites can be reserved in the non-modern campground which has water and vault toilets. There are no showers and there is no electrical service to the campsites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $6 - $9 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 123 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Donahue

Recent Reviews in Donahue

580 Reviews of 123 Donahue Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lundeens Landing
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Lundeens Landing

    Rock Riverside Oasis

    Hiding underneath of the I80 bridge carrying you over the Rock River, you’ll spot Lundeens Landing on the EAST side of this interstate (you’ll want to take note of this as The Dyrt has this campground in the wrong location on the WEST side of I80 in the small town of Barstow). Getting here to Lundeens is not the easiest journey, as you’ll need to head northwards on I80 crossing the bridge (if you are coming in by way of Colona), where you’ll want to get off on I88 heading west, where shortly after the exit, you’ll have to make a U turn and take the frontage road (193rd Street) that straddles I80 heading south until you can catch Route 4 / Barstow Road heading east, where you’ll pass underneath that bridge holding up I80 and continue east about 2 miles before spotting Lundeens on the left with a gorgeous view of the Rock River.

    Now that you’ve made your way here, let me tell you about this place. First, you’ll be greeted by the main office that sits up about a story on stilts, which BTW isn’t for bird watching, but rather to safeguard the building from any river flooding that may happen (and trust me, in this parts, it happens). After checking in with the owner, Joe, or one of his few employees, you’ll make your way down a single narrow loop that will take you to your designated plot of land. It goes without saying that the best sites are those located right in front of the Rock River. And if you’re a tent camper, you’ll find bliss at the far end of the loop as far away from the main office as possible, where you’ll find water & electric-equipped sites tucked into some really thick brush complete with your own mini-forest.

    Apart from the very warm Midwestern hospitality that you’ll receive here from Joe, his father and the rest of the Lundeens crew, this medium-sized camping outpost offers up a no-frills, basic level of camping comfort with direct access to one of the most exciting rivers I’ve had the great pleasure of kayaking and fishing on. Amenities include: pull-thru and back-in sites for RVs, general market, typical RV hook-ups (water, 15 / 20 / 30 / 50 amp electric), concrete patios, picnic tables, fire rings, honey wagon, dump station, pet-friendly, playground, nature trails, weekly events, boat ramp & 7 river docks, shuttle service, canoe & kayak rentals, pretty clean restroom & showers, innertubes, adventure island (located just across the river) and a small beachhead.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) While it’s likely the direct access to Rock River that attracted you to this location, if you have bikes, you should bring them as the frontage road that brought you here is one very EXCELLENT road to bike on to see and explore the gorgeous Midwestern country landscape that exists here; (2) In speaking with Joe’s father at length about the campground, there’s plans to put in another campground area just across the street and due northwest of this property, which will offer additional RV spots, a designated laundry facility with coin-operated washers & dryers as well as many more amenities; and (3) Depending upon your interest and a craving, if you want to gnosh on some local grub, the best nearby spots include: Choppers Bar & Grill, Tap 22 Bar & Grill and 11th Hour Bar & Grill (yes, everything's a Bar & Grill out in these parts).

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 6B's Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    6B's Campground

    Duo-Layered Camping Experience

    My twin brother and I discovered this little hidden gem of a campground outpost just a mile or so east of Maquoketa Caves SP. This nature-infested outpost is split into 2 levels with an upper plateau section that is more geared towards the tent-pitchin’ bredren of my tribe, while the lower level straddles the Maquoketa River and offers up splendid waterfront views of the slow-moving, fresh-water creek variety. Apart from the very welcoming folks that run this place, led by Karen Townsend, what I loved most about 6B’s was the very welcoming community of fellow campers who rolled out the‘red carpet’ treatment for us when we rocked up. The upper level offers up only a solid picnic table, in-ground fire rings w/ fold-up BBQ grills and a tree-lined backdrop with a fenced in front lawn– perfect for a quick and EZ set-up. Massive bonus points for the location of this campground, which apart from rural country farmers and bat cave tourist passerby traffic, there was virtually no noise pollution to battle with.

    If you’re rolling in on an RV, 5th wheeler or trailer, while you likely could park your mobile living room on the upper plateau, you’ll likely feel much more comfortable on the lower river basin, providing that you can make it down the somewhat steep decline gravel road(this is Iowa, so I don’t think anyone will be too challenged, but just want to put the decline out there). Before you’ve arrived at the river’s edge, you’ll notice a simply sublime solo picnic table that has strategically been placed in one of the very large, abandoned bat caves, which makes for a very special picnic outing. Turning left as you reach the riverfront, you’ll follow a single, narrow loop that offers up slots on a first-come, first-served basis, with each offering up water, 30 amp electric, boat ramp, diving platform and a fairly flat landing to park for the night or a week(or even month!).

    Downsides? This camping outpost only accepts cash, money order or checks, which was a major bummer for us as we didn’t have any of those with us and while there were banks nearby(well, some 30 miles away), we weren’t members of the bank, which wasn’t even open, on account that it was after noon on a Saturday, so yeah, while a small thing, it became quite a big deterrent for us. If you can get this solo downside, there really is nothing else but upside, chief of which includes direct access to the Maquoketa River, which we enjoyed, given we were toting my tandem kayak with us, as well as, of course, just 3 miles west to Maquoketa Caves SP.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Eco-Locate This Blissful Hidden Campground Gem

    This Iowa SP campground is simply AMAZING and if you are a bat cave spelunker, you are going to be absolutely excited by this place, if you don’t know it already. For the rest of us outdoor enthusiasts who are simply looking for a great campground, then you’ve also struck the campground lottery, but if you are interested in staying here, I would STRONGLY encourage you to mind your dates taking note of when bat hibernation ends and begins – for what it’s worth, my brother and I drove all the way here only to find out that hibernation began the day of our arrival. That said, we could still hike all of the amazing trails, but couldn’t access the bat caves.

    The campground that resides here, is less than a quarter mile away from the access point to the bat caves, creating huge upside for selecting this campground in the first place. A heavily wooded area encompasses every single site (there’s 28 in total w/ 24 offering 20 / 30 / 50 amp electric) providing a substantial amount of shade, will also allowing decent sunlight as well along a slowly winding lone lane that leads one into this shrouded camping haven. While the spots (#12-#16) towards the end of the lane are more earmarked for mi tent pitchin’ bredren, whereas the rest of the sites (#1-#11; #17-#28) are set-up for the RV and 5th Wheel toting crowd (although you could easily set up a tent on any one of these sites should you choose to).

    A couple of points to keep in mind– the entrance to the campground is the busiest, so if this is of concern, steer clear of #1-#3 or #27-#28. Second, if you have kids and want to be planted near the playground, you might want to target sites #26-#28, where the spacious kids playground sets right behind these sites. In the event that being nearest the built-in amenities (restroom, shower, water source, community library, trash, firewood) are important to you, then look at sites #5-7 and #23-26. With this in mind, as you meander further down the lone campground loop lane, the quieter and more sheltered the place gets, so from #6-#24 should be a prime target for you if peace & solitude are important to you. Despite all of the advice I’ve just given, I don’t think you can really go wrong with any site here.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’re looking for a primitive tent camping experience, then you’re going to want to book sites #12 and #13, which set a bit further back for the cul-de-sac end of the lane offering up more privacy and less noise from the rest of the camping commune; (2) All sites designated for RV’s are back-in and range in driveway length between 31 and 68 feet; (3) The campground itself is closed between December 1 thru February 28 each year; (4) This SP offers up more than 370 acres with 6 miles of hiking trails with 13 distinct bat caves to explore, so bring good hiking shoes, headlamps, proper long sleeve shirts and pants to keep the bugs and ticks away, which abound here aplenty; and (5) There’s plenty of picnic tables, most under shelters as well as scattered stand-up and in-ground BBQ grills all offered up on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Happy Camping!

  • Coty G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Keithsburg Riverside Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Keithsburg Riverside Campground

    Great river view

    Nice campground, we have camped there on several occasions. Tent, pop up, and travel trailer. Shower house is a little bit of a walk but not terrible. Bout a 3 block walk to several bars/restaurant a caseys gas station. Everyone was friendly. Would recommend.

  • Coty G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sturgeon Bay Park and Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Sturgeon Bay Park and Campground

    We Camp here almost every weekend

    Great place to camp especially if you have a boat or like to fish the Mississippi river. 2 blocks from a restaurant/tavern. City of New Boston has several different community events throught the year as well.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Pond
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Horseshoe Pond

    Nice smaller CG in City of Maquoketa, Iowa

    CG offers gravel pads, tables, fire rings, electric, sump station, water, small pond with fishing, paddling, dog park. Close to stores for supplies, dining, fuel.

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Nice campground, fun caves, older established state park

    My mom remembers visiting this park in the 40's. Not a surprise since Grampa was a Geologist.
    This is a small campground for such an old park, only 34 sites, walk-ins included. All sites are along one road with a turnaround at the end. There is only one building with toilets, showers and no pit toilets. These are clean and well maintained.
    There is a playground near the entrance that is shared with the caves entrance area, a bit of a walk.
    The caves themselves are down a long hill from the campground. There are facilities there too, and a concession stand with limited hours/ days. The caves are fun to explore, but not ADA accessible. Bring flashlights and in some areas watch your head.
    The Visitor's center at the park entrance is staffed by volunteers and only open on weekends.
    Once you've done the caves, there's not much else to see within the park. But visit the Hurstville interpretive center for a nice nature center and trails.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

    Very nice County cabin near Wapsi River

    Cabin sleeps 6, has all amenities including firewood at no cost! Education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year round, Wapsipinicon River below bluff offers paddling, fishing. Menke Observatory offers sky programs.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Park
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Bennett Park

    Nice small County CG with pond

    Campground is nice with a few newer amenities, including shower house and handicap campsite. Gravel pads at sites include tables, fire, pits, electric,. There’s a dump station, play area, shelters for rent, and a pond that you can actually swim and fish and paddling.

  • Fred S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Langwood Education Center
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Langwood Education Center

    Great place!

    Langwood Education Center looks like a great spot for a weekend camping trip, especially if you’re into outdoor education. If you’re planning to camp there with kids, it could be a fun way to blend learning and adventure. Plus, it’s close enough to larger cities, making it convenient for a quick getaway. I’ve been planning something similar but also juggling a lot of writing assignments lately. For those who need help with academic papers or essays while on the go, https://99papers.com/essay-writing/ has been a great resource. They’ve saved me a lot of time when I’ve had deadlines looming. Anyway, has anyone visited recently and can share tips on the best trails or activities for families?

  • .! E !.
    Camper-submitted photo from Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    Perfect!

    Very nice, affordable and peaceful campsite. Stayed one night for tent camping, campsite was clean and accommodating with fire pit, picnic table, lights, Wi-Fi, and power plug. Bathrooms and showers were clean. Perfect camping site.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground
    Sep. 4, 2024

    Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground

    Super cheap for what you get.

    I got a primitive tent site in an area all to myself, with a shower house just down the road, in a beautiful and quiet campground for $10 cash. You really can’t beat that. Campground is separate from the park so you don’t have to pay a park entrance fee to stay here.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherman Co Park
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Sherman Co Park

    Scenic County park along Wapsipinicon River

    The campground offers to camp areas: one better suited for RVs, and the other area is better suited for primitive tent, camping. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings, our recites include electric. There is a campground host, shower house, shelter and playground area there too. The tent sites are prone to flooding occasionally from the gun river. There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

    Nice modern cabin in County campground

    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. Playground nearby, park has seasonal pool, garden of course, trails, Pride Lake for fishing and paddling.

  • W
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Riverview Ridge

    Unique River and Trail Access Campground

    Two hour float trips on the North Fork Maquoketa River are available directly from the campground. There is a mix of permanent and temporary campers. The tent sites, nearest the river, are well spaced with flush toilets. Apparently there are also good trails, as many of the campers have ATV’s parked at their sites. The shower house, under the office, was spacious and clean.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Interstate RV Park

    Overnight stop along I-80

    Campground has gravel lanes, roads pads, appears to have annual residence, campground office, pool is clean, planes, farm, and fleet nearby for Supplies. Sites include tables, water, electric, though need updating.

  • Jim C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Bear Campground
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Little Bear Campground

    Great week of camping

    This was a great campground very clean all around, very nice pool..wish I could for a month. But they don't allow monthly stays

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park

    Very, very clean, County, modern cabin, surrounded by Prairie overlooking lake

    This cabin has all modern conveniences with two sleeping rooms, full service, kitchen, living room, with sofa, sleeper, and fireplace, ADA bathroom and a covered porch overlooking the lake. There’s a gas grill, fire pit, picnic table for outdoor recreation. The park offers kayak rentals, paddle boat rentals, swimming beach in season, and concessions.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Cabin 1
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Summit Cabin 1

    Very nice, clean County cabin overlooking lake

    This modern cabin offers to better bedrooms, full service, kitchen, living room, with sofa, sleeper, and fireplace, ADA bathroom, covered porch with chairs and view of the lake, fire pit, and picnic table outside. Park offers, kayak and paddleboard, rentals, concessions, and a swimming beach in season.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park Campground
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Wildcat Den State Park Campground

    Lovely hidden space

    Found by hiking at the Wildcat Den State Park. Lovely little campside with 19 places, rustical without electricity, dump etc. But got one waterstation and toilets. Every space with picknicktable and fireplace, surrounded by trees. Places are gras. Sorry for my english, Camp from Germany :-)

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 campground

    Serene Primitive Camping Outpost

    For those searching out ‘bare bones’ extreme primitive camping conditions with which to imbibe the best of what tent camping au naturale looks like, smack dab in the middle of absolutely nowhere, then welcome to Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground. This particular outpost follows a chain of similar sparsely outfitted campgrounds that more resemble simple grass pastures to set up your encampment versus a proper designated campground with all of the accoutrement. Located just off of Route 80, you’ll be searching for the Annawan exit, where heading northbound, you’ll take a right upon exiting and immediately thereafter, turn left, crossing the median, which will send you down a path that greets the Hennepin Canal, where you’ll turn left and follow the gravel road only about 50 yards before coming upon Hennepin Canal Bridge 23 Campground.

    For mi primitive tent pitchin' bredren, you have just discovered a small slice of heaven. There’s nothing here but the following: (1) Nobody; (2) A slow-moving current of Hennepin Canal that is sublime for a kayak or canoe to dip her beak in; (3) Enough space for 4 to maybe 5 tents to set up for the night; and (4) A proper his / her restroom, which even I was shocked to see – and curiously enough, it was well-maintained, but that said, it’s still just a glorified hole in the ground with a plastic toilet on top. Beyond this, you only have yourself, a pristine bit of nature to explore and the never-ending swooshing of nearby Interstate 80 traffic, which you very quickly get over.

    Do note that this (and the other camping locations up and down the Hennepin Canal) are offered up on a first-come, first-served basis with no proper reservation system in place. There’s a canal security officer who MAY stop by to collect a fee or not – when we were there, no such officer arrived, so while we were prepared to pay the $8 nightly fee, we ended up not having to pay and there’s no ‘on-your-honor’ drop box to leave an envelope with the nightly fee, which we would have gladly paid, so we used that $8 to pay it forward on our next camping adventure. Because this place is so 'off the beaten path,’ we didn’t encounter a single soul during our entire stay, apart from a farmer who dropped by near dusk to offer us up a half dozen eggs for our breakfast the following morning, which was supremely awesome.

    After setting up our tent for the evening and prepping our kayaks for a dawn launch, my mates and I headed into nearby Annawan, where we had a really nice dinner over at the Purple Onion where the fried catfish was simply outstanding and the rhubarb pie was an unexpected gift. Following this, we headed over to Paxton’s Corner Coop for some killer cupcakes and ice cream. I can’t believe we found this 'out-of-the-world' place so close to our very primitive camping experience!

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) The nearby town of Annawan really is a local blessing as it offers up just a few restaurants and a single grocery store with which to augment your otherwise primitive experience, so if you run out of anything or need something in particular on short notice, even though you’re primitive camping, within 5 minutes, you can access just about anything you need; (2) If you are looking for some unique hiking options, there’s two that are very close by, including Mineral Marsh Nature Reserve and further afield, McCune Sand Prairie; (3) Should you be carrying watercraft with you, of course, there’s the Hennepin Canal in which you are camping in front of, but if you are looking for a bigger or alternative water escape, then head due south of this location by about 20 minutes to discover Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area that has the amazing Johnson Lake to explore as well as fish in; (4) If you are looking for a really nice, albeit different dining experience, then Johnson Sauk Trail State RA also offers up Red Earth Café, where the dining room has a sweeping view of the lake; and (5) Whether you are searching for a local icon or not, if you do make your way to Johnson Sauk Trail State RE, check out Ryan’s Historic Red Barn, which you can access and take stunning photos of.

    Happy Camping!



Guide to Donahue

Camping near Donahue, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore caves: Visit the Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground for a unique experience. The caves are a big draw, and one camper mentioned, "The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous."
  • Fishing and boating: At Shady Creek, you can enjoy fishing and a boat launch right on the Mississippi River. One visitor said, "Nice boat launch. Right on the Mississippi."
  • Disc golf and trails: West Lake Park features a disc golf course and trails for hiking. A camper noted, "Park offers 4 lakes to fish, paddle, disc golf course, shelters to rent, trails."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. At Scott County Park, one reviewer said, "Bathrooms were always stocked and cleaned, plus they have HOT SHOWERS!"
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground hosts. A camper at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River shared, "The hosts were absolutely the best! They walk through the camp each night checking sites."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the sites. One visitor at Geneseo Campground remarked, "This was a nice quiet campground. Great for relaxing and enjoying a campfire."

What you should know:

  • Train noise: If you stay at Clarks Ferry, be prepared for train noise. A camper mentioned, "The trains were just relentless, even during the night."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Thomson Causeway, may not have showers or water hookups at every site. A visitor noted, "The bathrooms are a little dated, but very clean."
  • Reservations recommended: Popular spots like Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. One camper advised, "We were dismayed when we arrived at 3 pm on a Sunday to find the place packed."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. Illiniwek Campground has a nice playground area, making it family-friendly. A parent shared, "The campground had firewood for sale and a nice playground for kids."
  • Activities for all ages: Choose campgrounds that offer various activities. At West Lake Park, one camper said, "There are nice trails to walk and a lake for fishing and for paddle boats."
  • Safety and cleanliness: Ensure the campground is well-maintained. A visitor at Scott County Park mentioned, "Park rangers and staff are so kind and respectful of keeping the areas cleaned up and cared for!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Big rig friendly: Many campgrounds, like Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, accommodate larger RVs. One RVer noted, "Although not exceptionally long, we did see quite a few big rigs fit into the spaces."
  • Electric hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, such as Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River. A visitor shared, "All sites are paved or cement with electric, some have water."
  • Dump stations: Make sure the campground has a dump station for convenience. At Thomson Causeway, a camper mentioned, "There is a dump station."

Camping near Donahue, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions