Situated near the border of Iowa and Wisconsin, Dundee's camping areas rest within the Driftless Region characterized by steep limestone bluffs, valleys, and abundant water features. The area sees moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights in spring and fall. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from April through October, with limited access during winter months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bailey Ford Delaware County Park offers multiple water access points for anglers. "Bailey's Ford has everything you need for a night or a week. It's clean and beautiful. Trout stream, trails, river access, showers and a playground," notes Laura, who visited in March 2024.
Hiking trails: Swiss Valley County Park provides several marked walking paths through wooded terrain. "Great walking trails, creek, and small river for fishing," reports Aaronius K. The park connects to a nature center with educational exhibits about local ecosystems.
Water recreation: Access kayaking and canoeing on multiple waterways near Dundee. "From trout steam, river access for boats or kayaks, to the beautiful trails with educational signs along it. This park is perfect," writes Ronnie N. about Bailey Ford Park.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Matsell Bridge Natural Area provides rustic camping experience with fewer amenities but more privacy. Ryan notes, "Good campsite for a mellow weekend. When i visited we were the only campers there an it was awesome!"
Family gathering spaces: Delaware County Coffins Grove Park features open camping arrangements ideal for group gatherings. "Nice, smaller campground! No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion)," explains Elizabeth K.
Modern bathhouse facilities: Multiple campgrounds in the region have updated shower facilities. At Nelson Dewey State Park, Ashley F. comments, "I'll begin by saying this is by far the cleanest campground I have stayed at. The facilities were well kept including the vault toilet houses."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping close to Dundee, Iowa operates from April through October. Many sites close during winter months due to freezing temperatures and potential snow.
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential, especially during summer months. At Matsell Bridge, Carol M. advises, "Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up. HOWEVER, take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness of this 'best kept secret.'"
Train noise: Several campgrounds near the Mississippi River have railroad tracks nearby. At Grant River Recreation Area, Lyle B. reports, "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."
Water fluctuations: Riverside camping areas may experience flooding after heavy rains. Plan accordingly and check conditions before arrival, especially in spring and early summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. Elizabeth K. describes Coffins Grove Park: "Newer playground that my kids love, sand so that's an extra play optional. Small creek runs through the park (on the edge of the campground) and a fun place for kids to explore and play in."
Group camping options: Look for parks with flexible site arrangements. Coffins Grove Park allows groups to arrange campsites together without strict boundaries between sites.
Water safety: Shallow creek access points provide safer water play for younger children. Bailey Ford Park offers both creek and river options depending on children's ages and swimming abilities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup details: George Wyth State Park Campground provides full electric service at affordable rates. Steve R. confirms: "All sites have 50 amp service and the water provided is from the city of Waterloo. There is an onsite dump station."
Pad surfaces: Most premium glamping close to Dundee includes level parking surfaces. Grant River Recreation Area features concrete pads, as Dave M. notes: "Cement pads and blacktop roads. Clean shower houses. Has sites with views of the Mississippi."
Site spacing: Consider how close sites are positioned. At Swiss Valley, brian observed, "Stacked on top of each other...we like to be a lil secluded from others no offense just like to listen to Mother Nature to relax but if you have a rv it might be for you."
