152 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Backbone State Park, Iowa's oldest state park, anchors the camping options near Edgewood with both developed and primitive sites. The region includes Six Pines Campground offering tent, RV, and cabin accommodations, while South Lake Campground provides electric hookups for larger vehicles. Just 10 miles east of Edgewood, Fountain Springs County Park presents more rustic camping with tent and RV sites in a natural setting. Several campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire rings, and varying levels of amenities, from primitive sites with vault toilets to developed facilities with showers and electric hookups.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, particularly at Backbone State Park which remains open year-round but sees peak visitation from April through October. Most campgrounds near Edgewood require reservations during summer months, while off-season camping may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Water access points, hiking trails, and trout fishing opportunities shape the camping experience, with several streams and small lakes providing recreational opportunities. Winter camping is limited but possible at certain locations, though water systems may be winterized. A visitor noted, "Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa."
The natural landscapes surrounding Edgewood campgrounds contribute to their popularity, with limestone bluffs, forested areas, and water features creating distinctive camping environments. Backbone State Park receives consistently high ratings for its hiking trails and geological features, including a cave system that visitors can explore. Campers frequently mention the quality of trout fishing in the area, particularly at Backbone and other nearby streams. Many reviewers appreciate the range of camping options, from more secluded primitive sites to family-friendly developed campgrounds with modern amenities. Some visitors recommend the South Lake Campground for its electric sites, while others prefer the more rustic experience at Six Pines. A camper wrote, "The primitive campground is my favorite at Backbone for camping, especially in the autumn after the leaves have fallen off of the trees."
"The lake was super gross, with excessive floating moss (probably a weather issue) and EXCESSIVE goose poop everywhere. The beach was basically unusable, with goose bombs everywhere."
"Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa. There are two campgrounds."
from $16 - $25 / night
Check Availability"It is off of the beaten path and is usually not too busy. This has become a favorite of our Scouting BSA Troop."
"A very nice park located close to the Iowa border. Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak! It has great trails & campsites & lots of geocaching! Come one New Years for the annual carp drop :)"
"This is an amazing park on the Wisconsin/Iowa border, overlooking where the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers join. I usually try to get in at least 1 trip a year, if lucky enough 2-3."
"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."
from $33 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $16 - $36 / night
Check Availability"The RV/pull behind spots here fill up VERY fast. This was no big deal for us since we went for a long tent camping weekend, there are plenty of sites if you are ok without all the hookups."
"The tent camping sites are quiet, well shaded and good access to the fishing stream. Running water Bathrooms closed due to covid but the vault toilets are fine."
"We visited Backbone State Park with our two young kids, and it quickly became one of our favorite Iowa getaways."
"General: This is a small (29-site) county park campground situated along the North Fork Maquoketa River. Nine of the sites are reservable, and the rest are first-come, first-served."
"Great campground near Dyersville, IA (home to The Field Of Dreams site). The campground is a lollipop loop with sites on one side along the creek and on the other along woods."
"Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa’s state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers. Many sites have full hook-up, most if not all have electric. I paid $25 a night. Full week is $150!!"
"It is within walking distance of the overlook of the magnificent Upper Mississippi River at the confluence of the Wisconsin River. There are other walking/hiking opportunities."
from $20 - $38 / night
Check Availability
GuideThis is a beautiful location. The caves were gorgeous, there were fireflies and lots of wildlife. The sites are close together, but far enough apart to have privacy and space to walk around. The trails can be super slick and muddy in the rain, so wear proper gear if you're hiking!
GuideWe had a great two day weekend at this park. Small and quiet. Mix of RVs and tents. We stayed on one of the 4 primitive sites but there are several with electric hookups. Bathrooms were decent and have running water for showers(cold) which felt amazing after our 2.5 miles hike. The trails were beautiful and be sure to check out the Ice Cave and Horse Thief Cave!
TravelerMy family and I had the opportunity to go to Yogi bears jealous Jellystone national Park and we had so much fun. We went during their Christmas in July program. We stayed for five nights 6 days and barely paid a thing camping in a tent. Mini golf water wars snowball fights rentals of golf carts that are cheap cabins on site Santa came to visit games to play and borrow at each campsite arts and crafts laser tag and so much more. Prices were fair for food and snacks. They have cabins available to rent. I hope to bring my friend and her family this year because it's going to be so much fun! Hope to see you there someday!
ScoutVery clean, hookups in great shape, everything is brand new. Lots of cement. But missing the charm of a more established campground.
ScoutNice new clean great wi fi with Verizon
TravelerOff the beaten path, beautiful area but when we got there the road to the campground was closed, so we ended up parking for the night in the horse staging area instead.
GuideStaying in the Deerfield (?) loop provided quiet sites, some good wooded walks in the campground, and clean bathrooms. The park itself offers pretty, remote hiking along the bluffs and in the forests. You won't get bored camping here, although Wyalusing is a little too big to be walkable. Summers can be very hot, and swimming at Wyalusing is iffy/nonexistent.
GuideWyalusing State Park is a real gem, if you’re able to get a spot. The campsites along the ridge offer the best views, but do not have electricity. The inner campsites have electricity but no views. Definitely not the most private campground, with many sites being tight up against the campground road.
There are some very nice hiking trails here, as well as a few interesting things like the little “cave” you can check out. We came here in April and had a wonderful time, it was not too muddy and not too cold at night.
LegendFollowing up on my review from over a year ago, I’m adding a bunch of additional reflections and tips as well as an abbreviated post pointing out the HIGHS and LOWS of this camp loop near the remarkable cave system of Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) The campground is nestled under a dense canopy of tall trees, offering shade, peace and a deep-woods feel rarely found so close to a major trail and cave network; (2) It’s just a short walk from the trailhead of the park’s famed 13-cave system, making it ideal for early morning spelunkers or families wanting adventure without long drives; (3) Campsites are reasonably spacious and include essential hookups with 24 of the roughly 28 sites featuring 20 / 30 / 50-amp electric and many are well separated from neighbors; (4) The modern bathhouse and showers are clean and appreciated, especially after muddy hikes through the caves; (5) Wildlife and geology lovers will be delighted, where you can expect to see deer, turkey, and perhaps even a bat fluttering near dusk, with cave formations and hiking trails that are genuinely outstanding; and (6) The campground here really is one of the best I’ve ever come across, where it is nicely tucked away AFTER you pass by the tourist trappings that these bat caves produce, but what you will enjoy most is the serenity of the place, watching as the thick mist lifts from the campground area as the sun rises higher during the day giving off a very cool vibe to this place.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Some of the access roads and pads are packed sand and gravel rather than smooth pavement, which can challenge level setup for larger rigs after rain; (2) Trail signage can be minimal and navigating the caves may get confusing without a good flashlight or headlamp; (3) Although the hookups exist, this campground is still basic compared to full-service resorts (which, TBH is why I love it here so much), so no big clubhouse or elaborate amenities; (4) Sites closer to the entrance (like #1-#3 or #27-#28) can register more traffic and less tranquility than those deeper in the loop; and (5) Bee and mosquito activity near the creek and cave edges can pick up at dusk in the summer, so a bit of bug protection goes a long way.
Happy Camping!
Camping near Edgewood, Iowa provides access to the Driftless Region, an area untouched by glaciers during the last ice age resulting in unique topography with limestone bluffs and cold water springs. The area receives approximately 35 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush vegetation and supporting year-round trout fishing in many streams. Campsite availability near Edgewood varies seasonally with most options concentrated within a 30-minute drive radius.
Trout fishing access points: Fountain Springs County Park offers direct access to a regularly stocked trout stream. "I have been coming to Fountain Spring for the trout fishing for years. More recently, for the last two years, this has become my go-to spot for camping. Camping is free and there are several sites to choose from, most (literally) a few yards from the trout stream," notes Kerry M. in a review of Fountain Springs County Park.
Hiking on boardwalks: The boardwalk trails at Pikes Peak State Park provide accessible hiking for all ability levels. "There is a very nice smooth wood walk way for one of the trails making it easy for all ages. Also amazing over looks of the river," shares Hannah N. about Pikes Peak State Park Campground.
Water exploration: Children can enjoy playing in the creek at Delaware County Coffins Grove Park. "Small creek runs through the park (on the edge of the campground) and a fun place for kids to explore and play in," mentions Elizabeth K. who camps at Delaware County Coffins Grove Park for family reunions.
Variety of campsite privacy levels: Sites at Nelson Dewey State Park offer different degrees of seclusion. "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," explains Rene about site 18 at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground.
Availability during off-season: Many campers appreciate the solitude of off-season camping near Edgewood. "We went camping at New Wine Park after Labor Day and we were one of 6 trailers in the entire park," notes Russell B. about his stay at New Wine Park Dubuque County Park.
Geological features for exploration: The area's unique limestone formations create exploration opportunities. "Great scenery and views! Fun trails, great beach, lighthouse, boat docks, cabins, caves, and much more," reports Melanie Jo L. about her experience at Backbone State Park.
Seasonal water safety concerns: Water quality can vary throughout the season at some locations. "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it," warns Cheryl V. about Backbone State Park.
Cell phone coverage limitations: Some campgrounds have minimal or no cell service. "Free up to two weeks, very primitive, all I could do was text from my AT&T phone. Very odd wormy looking things falling from the trees. I forgot where my morning destination was and had to use GPS to feel my way out until I had service again," reports Tammie C. about Fountain Springs County Park.
Noise considerations: Train noise affects some campsites. "There is a train track very close. The train runs very regularly and can be loud. For me, it was the city noise I needed to fall asleep," explains Rene about Nelson Dewey State Park Campground.
Multiple playgrounds: Bailey's Ford Park offers extensive play areas. "Plenty of things for kids to do volleyball ball court, softball field, and several playgrounds! Many shelters available for larger gatherings," notes Ashley F. about Bailey's Ford.
Educational opportunities: Many parks feature historical or natural learning experiences. "On your way to the falls, just north of the main overlook, you will notice Bear Mound, an effigy built by ancient American Indians who inhabited the area from 800-1200 A.D. There are 63 mounds in the park, most of them conical or linear in shape," explains Tori K. about Pikes Peak State Park Campground.
Group-friendly camping areas: Some campgrounds allow for flexible arrangements. "No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion)," shares Elizabeth K. about Delaware County Coffins Grove Park.
Size considerations for larger rigs: Some campgrounds accommodate larger RVs better than others. "Campgrounds are clean and easy to navigate with our 31' TT. Camp host was very helpful," reports Scott D. about Pikes Peak State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: The South Lake Campground at Backbone State Park offers electric but not full hookups. "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available," advises Edward B. about South Lake Campground.
Affordable options for extended stays: Iowa state parks offer weekly rates. "Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa's state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers. Many sites have full hook-up, most if not all have electric. I paid $25 a night. Full week is $150!!" shares Danny J. about Pikes Peak State Park Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Edgewood, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Edgewood, IA is Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.
Keep Exploring
