Camping near Edgewood, Iowa offers options for outdoor recreation in the rolling hills of Delaware County. The area features limestone bluffs and spring-fed trout streams, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Fall camping provides colorful foliage displays from late September through mid-October, especially along creek-side camping areas.
What to do
Trout fishing: Fountain Springs County Park offers direct access to a stocked trout stream. "The stream offers good trout fishing. It is stocked regularly with rainbow trout," notes Kerry M., who appreciates the proximity to fishing spots.
Hiking the Backbone Trail: Pikes Peak State Park features unique geological formations and burial mounds. "Most notable hike: a half-mile wooden boardwalk to one of the park's glens to the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls. On your way to the falls, just north of the main overlook, you will notice Bear Mound, an effigy built by ancient American Indians," explains Tori K.
Creek exploration: Perfect for hot summer days at Delaware County Coffins Grove Park. Elizabeth K. mentions "a small creek runs through the park (on the edge of the campground) and a fun place for kids to explore and play in," making it ideal for families seeking water activities.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Fountain Springs County Park provides peace and quiet. "The several times I have camped, there have been at most a few other sites with people camping. Often, I have been alone in the campground, which is perfect for those seeking solitude," says Kerry M.
Fall foliage viewing: The changing colors make October a prime time for visiting. Larissa C. from Backbone State Park shares, "We went camping at Backbone for a friend's wedding that was taking place at the park's lodge. While most of the wedding guests stayed in town, we opted to camp, during October. It was gorgeous!"
Affordable rates: Twin Bridges County Park offers budget-friendly camping. Annie C. notes the "camp host has ice for sale at $2.00 a bag (some of the cheapest ice pricing I've seen in a campground!)," making it cost-effective for extended stays.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some swimming areas may have seasonal issues. At Backbone State Park, Cheryl V. warns, "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it."
Train noise at some locations: Nelson Dewey State Park campsites can experience train disruptions. Steph P. cautions, "This site sits on a ridge above a county highway and freight train tracks. When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries. When they go past the site, it's incredibly loud!"
Tent pad conditions: Check site details before setting up. Ashley F. from Nelson Dewey notes "Our tent pad was quite rocky so I would recommend sleeping pads or you will be very uncomfortable."
Cell service limitations: Dog friendly campgrounds near Edgewood may have spotty coverage. At Fountain Springs, Tammie C. reports, "Very odd wormy looking things falling from the trees. Very primitive, all I could do was text from my AT&T phone."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: New Wine Park provides excellent facilities for children. Annie C. notes "The campground has a nice, newer shower house with free showers... The center of the loop has a few campsites and a nice playground."
Group-friendly sites: Some parks accommodate larger family gatherings. Elizabeth K. says Coffins Grove Park has "no designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion)."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites offer learning experiences. At Pikes Peak, Danny J. notes "Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa's state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers," making it affordable for family outings to explore the Native American mounds.
Scout-friendly camping: Fountain Springs works well for youth groups. Robert F. shares, "This primative campground has a small stocked trout stream running through it. It is off of the beaten path and is usually not too busy. This has become a favorite of our Scouting BSA Troop."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Six Pines Campground at Backbone State Park offers varied services. Matt S. advises, "I have visited a lot of Iowa parks and campgrounds. Backbone is one on my favorites. Backbone is the oldest state park in Iowa... This is a great place to stay but make sure you get your reservations in early if you plan on staying on the weekend."
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some sites. Grace D. from Pikes Peak notes, "Nice pull-through, large enough for our 36' 5th Wheel and pickup tow vehicle, needed more leveling than some. Some sites have power and water, ours only power."
Water access points: For pet-friendly campgrounds near Edgewood, check water fill locations. Grace D. adds, "There's a water pipe and dump station on the way out," which helps RVers plan their arrival and departure procedures.
Legend
