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Best Campgrounds near Dubuque, IA

550 Reviews

Camping sites near Dubuque, Iowa range from cave systems to riverside spots. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground draws many visitors with its network of bat caves and hiking paths throughout the park. Across the Mississippi, Wyalusing State Park Campground sits at the junction of two major rivers, with campsites that look out over the water. Nelson Dewey State Park Campground connects campers with local history while providing basic facilities and places to view the surrounding landscape. Backbone State Park works well for campers who want to climb rocks or fish in the park's waters. Summer temperatures make swimming and boating comfortable at these parks. The fall months bring cooler weather and colorful trees that enhance hiking trips. Camping during winter happens but requires good cold-weather gear. Spring camping coincides with bird migration season. Watch for deer and raccoons around your campsite, and keep food secured at night. Check yourself for ticks after walking through tall grass or wooded areas. Most of these campgrounds have bathrooms and tables for meals. Call ahead about seasonal openings and any rules that might affect your plans.

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Best Camping Sites Near Dubuque, Iowa (124)

    1. Rustic Barn Campground RV Park

    15 Reviews
    Dubuque, WI
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 568-7797

    "There’s a cute store and a cute little area with outside games like corn hole and yard checkers. There’s a huge grassy area for walking the dog and several stations set up with poop bags/garbage."

    "We stopped at the Rustic Barn because it was away from the city (Dubuque), priced very reasonably, and seemed like a good spot for a one night stay."

    2. Swiss Valley County Park

    9 Reviews
    Dubuque, IA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 556-6745

    "Trout stream (Catfish Creek) runs through campground and park and is stocked by Iowa DNR, has Swiss Valley Nature center with trails."

    "Fishing seemed popular in catfish creek about 50 feet away from our sight. There is a sign that states firewood is for sale at 6pm but the ranger was about 45 min late bc he tends to two other parks."

    3. Grant River Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Dubuque, WI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 582-0881

    $14 - $26 / night

    "Train tracks border the campground and train horns are loud. Has sites with views of the Mississippi."

    "Railroad tracks border the campground. Train horns are loud and was awaken at 3 am. It does have a nice view of the Mississippi and you can see the river from many camp sites."

    4. Miller Riverview City Park

    7 Reviews
    Dubuque, IA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 589-4238

    "All the sites had fire pits but one site, either 51 or 52 had that pit too close to the bushes so it wasn't really useable. We were right on the river bank with a good view of the bridge."

    "But it was very quiet and our spot (55) was right on the river and a bit tucked in the woods which was great and had an amazing view of the bridge."

    5. Creek Valley Campground

    3 Reviews
    Dubuque, IA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 580-9453

    $45 - $65 / night

    6. Mud Lake County Park

    5 Reviews
    Dubuque, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 552-2746

    "Mud Lake is a wonderful county park near Dubuque. Beautiful views of the Mississippi River. We stayed one night on our way to Minnesota. The sites are mostly sunny."

    "A little off the beaten path, but a nice place. Pulled in after a fiasco at another campground, was able to get 2 sites over the Fourth of July weekend. Very kid friendly."

    7. Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Cassville, WI
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 725-5374

    $33 / night

    "The site itself was sloped away from the road making it feel tucked into the trees. The downside was that the only flat space for the tent was very close to the fire pit."

    "Friendly Crowds and secluded spot despite us staying next to the main road for the camping area. Sunsets were beautiful looking west over the Mississippi River."

    8. Frentress Lake Campground

    2 Reviews
    Dubuque, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 747-3155

    $50 / night

    "This campground was created for those who visit Frentress Lake and need a place to stay in East Dubuque. Currently a lot of pipeline workers and their families stay here."

    9. Palace Campground

    7 Reviews
    Galena, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 777-2466

    "This campground is tucked into a little area next to a Walmart, Culvers, and Mini golf course. It sits between east Dubuque and Galena. When we stayed they had a dirt bike rally."

    "Campground is convenient to Galena and Dubuque. We stayed in site 73, which they call a double. If the campground is full, it would be pretty tight. No negatives I encountered here to mention."

    10. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Baldwin, IA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 652-5833

    $20 - $28 / night

    "Fire wood is available near the bathrooms with a donation box. Best part of this campsite was the walking distance from Maquoketa Caves State Park site with beautiful hiking trails easy to explore."

    "This is a great weekend stay, with short trails that show some beautiful and unusual scenery for central Iowa. The natural bridge is incredible, and the sites are well spaced out."

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Recent Camping Photos near Dubuque, IA

194 Photos of 124 Dubuque Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Dubuque, IA

550 Reviews of 124 Dubuque Campgrounds

Guide to Dubuque

Camping near Dubuque, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking Trails: Many campgrounds, like Wyalusing State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One reviewer mentioned, "Great hiking trails, overall a great place to stay."
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The backwaters of the Mississippi are accessible from campgrounds like Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds such as Nelson Dewey State Park Campground offer stunning views and wildlife. One camper shared, "There was a pair of bald eagles in a nest down by the river - bring binoculars!"

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at places like Wyalusing State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "Lovely morning sunrise and amazing sunsets."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. For instance, at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, one camper noted, "Bathrooms were OK and showers not great, but the park and caves are so fun!"
  • Privacy: Campgrounds like Backbone State Park offer well-spaced sites. A visitor mentioned, "The sites are big so you can camp far back and keep the vehicles at the front."

What you should know:

  • Train Noise: Some campgrounds, such as Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, are near train tracks. One camper warned, "When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries."
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground may have limited amenities. A visitor mentioned, "There are no playgrounds in the camp area."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Pikes Peak State Park Campground, are only open from April to October. A camper noted, "This campground is a short hike away from beautiful trails."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Governor Dodge State Park, which has amenities for families. One reviewer said, "The campsites are big and fairly private, some areas are better for groups of families camping together."
  • Plan for Activities: Ensure there are activities for kids. A camper at Blue Mound State Park Campground mentioned, "This campground has a nice playground, hiking trails both short and longer."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Given the proximity to water, bugs can be an issue. A visitor at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground advised, "Be prepared for humidity and bugs, it’s right by the river."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Dimensions: RVers should check site dimensions before booking. A camper at Governor Dodge State Park noted, "Pay attention to the drive-in dimensions posted."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park, offer electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "The campground has a large new area for RVs and trailers."
  • Be Ready for Slopes: Some sites may be sloped, making it tricky for RVs. A camper at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground shared, "Some sites are so secluded that they are bi-level."

Exploring the dubuque, iowa campgrounds can lead to memorable experiences, whether you're hiking, kayaking, or just enjoying the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Dubuque, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dubuque, IA is Rustic Barn Campground RV Park with a 4.4-star rating from 15 reviews.

What parks are near Dubuque, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Dubuque, IA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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