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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."
from $23 - $40 / night
Check Availability"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 $18 - $110 / 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."
"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"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."
from $15 - $25 / night
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GuideCampground sits on a hill overlooking a number of farms. Absolutely beautiful. Decent sized sites, full hook-ups. Also a dump station. Small store on site. Trees provide shade. Many acres of paths and grass to walk the dog. Very clean bathrooms and showers. Whole place is neat and tidy. Only negative is highway noise. Pull through sites are farther from highway so may be less noisy there.
LegendWe got here on a Monday and got a great spot in the back. The sunrise was spectacular. Then the fog moved in off the river and it was pretty cool.
TravelerDriving thru. Stayed for a quick stop over. County Park. Loop A takes reservations. Loop B first come first served. It was a long trek to the bathroom and showers which were well maintained. Great price $35
ScoutArrived late at night and struggled to find correct site as there were no numbers posted. Also no external lighting or picnic table. Bathrooms were clean and office help was accommodating when reservation was made.
ScoutI reserved online same day; didn’t show up until dusk/dark - @8:30pm on a Tuesday evening. My assigned pull through site was occupied and office closed. So I looked, found an open site and pulled in. Just overnight and I least @8:15am next morning so did not see any employee.
GuideWe camped in Pulpit Rock campground in a pull through site with friends. They allow two campers on one site. This site was particularly long with our 38' 5th wheel and their 33' pull type camper. We were next to the highway so it was a little noisy which is why I didn't give it 5 stars. Tons of shade in this area. Staff was very friendly. We called in early and they saved this spot for us b/c it was a FCFS site. So you call and they will hold a spot for you to come that day. We also had a flat fire pit with 2 sides instead of a circle one in the ground. We were always knocking out burning logs.
LegendNice spot right on the mighty Mississippi.
GuideOne of my favorites. Iowa knows how to do County campgrounds. Firefly campground has full hookups and reservations. The other campgrounds have water and electric and are first come first serve. I arrived on a Friday afternoon in July and found a site easily.
ScoutA well kept park with a very laid back atmosphere. Buggy yes but the park is worth it.
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.
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