Camping near Dubuque centers around the Mississippi River valley with its limestone bluffs and forested ridges. The area sits in the Driftless Region, characterized by deep river valleys and steep terrain that escaped glacial flattening during the last ice age. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional rainfall that affects trail conditions.
What to do
Explore limestone caves: $5 entrance fee at Maquoketa Caves State Park, where "there are caves for everyone, whether you're claustrophobic and don't want to be in tight spaces or you're willing to army crawl for 1/4 mile" according to Amanda F. Bring headlamps and prepare for wet conditions as "if you want to go in caves, bring headlamps/flashlights and prepare to have wet shoes" advises Amanda K.
Riverside fishing: Free access at Mud Lake County Park with boat launch facilities. "Lots of trees and access to the Mississippi River" notes Ronnie N. The park offers "marina and boathouse next door" according to David B., making it convenient for boaters.
Bird watching: No fee required at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, where the elevated position provides excellent viewing opportunities. "There was a pair of bald eagles in a nest down by the river - bring binoculars!" reports Steph P., highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities from the bluff trails.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathhouses: Swiss Valley County Park maintains well-kept facilities according to James M., who notes the "campground is well maintained, restrooms, showers, recycling station, firewood available." Multiple reviewers appreciate the park's amenities, though one mentioned "the toilets can use a little cleaning but the showers stunk so bad I wasn't sure I wanted to shower in them."
Spacious sites with utilities: Palace Campground receives praise for site layouts. "Some sites were tight and the lack of fire rings was disappointing," notes Mike F., while another reviewer mentions "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."
Riverside views: The sites at Miller Riverview City Park offer direct river access. "We paid $15 online to reserve a spot for the night...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," shares Courtney K. Some campers recommend careful site selection as "spots 56,57,58...can flood."
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Dubuque sit close to active rail lines. At Grant River Recreation Area, "a railroad mainline ran along the campground. Our site was about 100 ft from rail and campground was where train would blow their whistle. Until midnight, trains went by about every 1/2 hour," reports Lyle B.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have sulfur-smelling water. At Swiss Valley County Park, one camper noted "the shower facilities weren't bad but they have sulfites in the water so it stinks a little."
Seasonal flooding: Riverside locations may experience closures during high water. Miller Riverview City Park "floods on occasion and has to close. (It's that close to the river!)" according to Patti M. Check availability before planning trips in spring.
Tips for camping with families
Mini-golf and recreation areas: Rustic Barn Campground RV Park offers various activities for children. "There's a cute store and a cute little area with outside games like corn hole and yard checkers," notes Stephanie S. Another camper mentions "outdoor games set-up on the grass like Cornhole, croquet, etc."
Swimming options: Seasonal pool access at Creek Valley Campground where "it was a great campground that was very quiet. The help was wonderful and to my surprise it had a swimming pool. The kids loved the Friday night movie," shares CJ.
Kid-friendly caves: Allow 3-4 hours for exploring at Maquoketa Caves. "The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son and his friends," reports Charles M. Plan for muddy conditions after rain.
Tips for RVers
Level sites with amenities: Nelson Dewey State Park offers well-maintained spaces. "The electric and non-electric sites are well spaced and on the larger side," notes Steph P. Consider booking early for holiday weekends.
Full hookup availability: Frentress Lake Campground provides complete services for extended stays. "The campgrounds appear to have activities almost every weekend for the children. The pool was great, children enjoyed the volleyball & basketball court," shares Kathy W.
Dump station locations: Note that not all pet-friendly parks have sewer hookups. Swiss Valley has "standard RV sites, some electric tent sites otherwise primitive with fire rings and tables," according to James M. The campground offers a dump station near the entrance for convenience.
