Best Campgrounds near Edgewood, IA

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."

Best Camping Sites Near Edgewood, Iowa (148)

    1. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park

    29 Reviews
    Dundee, IA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 924-2527

    $15 - $25 / night

    "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."

    2. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    McGregor, WI
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 996-2261

    $15 - $35 / night

    "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 :)"

    "Camp sites are far enough away from neighbors that there is some privacy. Need a state park sticker to access. Illinois Minnesota and Iowa are all short drives away."

    3. Fountain Springs County Park

    5 Reviews
    Greeley, IA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 927-3410

    "It is off of the beaten path and is usually not too busy.  This has become a favorite of our Scouting BSA Troop."

    4. Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Cassville, WI
    20 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."

    5. South Lake Campground — Backbone State Park

    2 Reviews
    Dundee, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 924-2527

    $15 - $33 / night

    6. New Wine Park Dubuque County Park

    7 Reviews
    New Vienna, IA
    16 miles
    +1 (563) 921-3475

    "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."

    7. Baileys Ford

    4 Reviews
    Delhi, IA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 927-3410

    "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."

    8. Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    McGregor, IA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 873-2341

    $20 - $35 / night

    "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."

    9. Osborne Conservation Center

    1 Review
    Elkader, IA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 245-1516

    10. Delaware County Coffins Grove Park

    2 Reviews
    Dundee, IA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 927-3410

    "Small creek runs through the park (on the edge of the campground) and a fun place for kids to explore and play in."

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Recent Reviews near Edgewood, IA

466 Reviews of 148 Edgewood Campgrounds


  • Susan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Creek Valley Campground

    Trip to Mackinac

    A little cramped, nice people. We didn't use the pool but it had adults only after dark. Our site backed up to the forest, there's a short trail thru the trees. Most sites have FHU, most are back-in. We had one of the sites with only water and electric. There is a dump station, small concession, playground. A small creek runs around much of the outside of the property.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Great campground

    Beautiful park. The campground has less than 30 sites, most of which have power. The walk in sites are very private but still less than 75 yards from your car. You are in thick forest and will hear lots of animal sounds at night.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Gorgeous sunsets

    Clean and beautiful campsite. Dry firewood and kindling available. The toilets were clean. The ridge view sites are spectacular but not for those with a fear of heights.

  • Isaac H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Deerwood Park

    Cash Only

    Good place to camp. Seems safe and friendly. Only down side is that it's cash only. Who carries cash these days?!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Pulpit Rock Campground

    Very Nice

    Very nice City owned facility . City water only available central locations otherwise a delight spot in a wonderful town

  • D
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Beautiful views

    Clean sites with some privacy. Great showers and clean bathrooms. There are lots of places to walk the dogs and great hiking.

    Even if you have an inside or non cliff side site, there are plenty of places to sit and watch the sunsets.

  • Chad R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area Campground

    Great Experience

    This is a great campground.  The camp sites were nice and the restrooms were not bad.  There is plenty of access to the lake for fishing whether it's from shore or on a boat.

  • b
    Jul. 18, 2025

    Klocks Island Park

    Klocks island

    Large park, no designated sites, fire rings spread around. Elect posts spread around.water available a dump station on site $2.00 charge. Very green, a river all around the park. Our favorite place in the area. $12.00 a night.

  • Truly W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    Good proximity to Effigy Mounds

    Some bugs, decent service, great bathrooms, Very close to a cute town (McGregor) and Effigy Mounds NM.


Guide to Edgewood

Camping near Edgewood, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Wyalusing State Park Campground. Campers rave about the "great hiking trails" and the "lovely morning sunrise and amazing sunsets."
  • Cave Exploration: Visit Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground for a unique experience. One reviewer mentioned, "The caves make this a unique place to visit," perfect for adventurous families.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Lake Macbride State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A visitor noted, "The lake is beautiful," making it a great spot for water activities.

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at George Wyth State Park Campground. One camper warned, "There were tremendous amounts of mosquitoes during our visit."
  • Train Noise: If you stay at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, be aware of train noise. A reviewer noted, "When trains are blowing their horns... it’s incredibly loud!"
  • Limited Privacy: Some campgrounds, like Pulpit Rock Campground, have sites that are close together. A camper mentioned, "Very small campground with sites right on top of each other."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Site: Look for sites with more space and privacy. A family at Sugar Bottom Campground found, "The park ranger was very nice, the area was excellent, and the bathrooms were clean."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground said, "The hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son, and his friends."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Given the presence of insects, especially near water, it's wise to bring bug spray. A camper at Lake Macbride State Park Campground noted, "Bugs were a bit of an issue."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Sugar Bottom Campground mentioned, "We had to put blocks under the passenger-side tires."
  • Use a Leveling System: Many RVers recommend using leveling blocks. A camper at Backbone State Park said, "The sites are big so you can camp far back and keep the vehicles at the front."
  • Stay Connected: If you need internet, check cell service availability. A reviewer at Rustic Barn Campground RV Park noted, "Verizon service was not great in the area but could still stay connected for the most part."

Camping near Edgewood, Iowa, has something for everyone, from stunning views to fun activities. Just be prepared for the local quirks, and you’ll have a great time!

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.