Camping options near Eldridge, Iowa offer varied terrain along the Mississippi River bottomlands at elevations between 580-800 feet. Summer humidity peaks in July and August when temperatures reach 85-90°F, creating ideal conditions for water activities at riverfront sites. Seasonal closures affect availability from October through April at most locations.
What to do
River fishing access: Fishermans Corner provides direct Mississippi River frontage for anglers. "Sites are shaded, with services, fire pits, wood available, site volunteer. Access along river for fishing. Railroad runs nearby can be loud," notes James M.
Biking trails: The Great River Trail connects multiple campgrounds along the Mississippi. "From this campground you can go north, as far as Savanna. Going south will take you through Hampton, East Moline, Moline, Rock Island, and you can cross over to Davenport, circle Credit Island, and pick up other paths in Iowa," explains Sebastian G.
Paddling opportunities: Rock Creek Marina offers canoe and kayak rentals for exploring Mississippi backwaters. "CG is spread out along bottomland river forest and includes camping cabins, tent and RV sites, RR/showers, playground, dump and water stations, Eco Tourism store/grill, paddling rentals, Blue Heron Cruises, nature center," according to James M.
What campers like
Concrete pads: Campers appreciate the level, paved sites at several campgrounds. "Paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas. Plenty of eateries nearby. Well-shaded and manicured sites," shares Al K. about Fishermans Corner.
Riverfront views: Shady Creek offers premium riverside camping spots. "Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi. Very clean friendly stay," writes Donna T. Other campers note that "Really enjoyed our stay, sites are large and staggered so you aren't staring at your neighbors and can enjoy the views."
Educational facilities: Rock Creek Marina features nature education options. "Nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore. Showers are open until October 14 this year," reports Jeff and Linda L.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds sit near active railroad tracks. "Although Thomson has less RR noise, there is the hunting, with parts of the park closed off, and gunfire going from dawn to dusk...I find the trains the lesser of the evils!" explains Sebastian G. Another camper mentions "Only negative was that there is a train track real close and a lot of crosses, So you will hear alot of close train horns and they go deep into the night/morning."
Cell service variations: Coverage can be spotty at some locations. "Our cell phone provider is Sprint and we had zero service. The campground is close to Muscatine if you need to make a run but far enough out to feel like you're really camping," shares Stephanie D. about Shady Creek.
Seasonal flooding: Low-lying areas may experience water issues. "Looks like an un-maintained Corp of Engineer campground. Tried to camp here, but dirt road going in was submerged in deep mud holes after some heavy rain," reports Fred S. about Ferry Landing.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "They have mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids," according to Jackie J. at Cedar River Campground.
Swimming options: Pools provide alternatives to river swimming. "The kids loved the huge pool," mentions Connie V. about Interstate RV Park.
Child-friendly layout: Spruce Creek Park offers good visibility for supervising children. "I took my children here for years when they were little. As a single mom of 5 it was very manageable. I could see them throughout the entire park. There's fishing, exploring, a playground," explains Kari K.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Consider how close RV sites are positioned. "Sites are a little too close together for our liking (our neighbor's a/c could have been like white noise to some but not me!)" notes Lee D. about Fishermans Corner.
Water hookup limitations: Be aware of shared water facilities at rv sites near Eldridge, Iowa. "As stated water is shared by 4 sites and was 30 ft away," reports Barbara P. about Shady Creek.
Electric options: Geneseo Campground provides multiple electrical configurations. "From an amenities standpoint, there's an amazing kid's playground, well-stocked camp store, propane refueling station, kayak & canoe rental, gas grill rental, e-bike, pedal carts & fat tire bike rental, full and partial hook-ups offering 30/50 electric amp, water & sewage hook-ups," describes Stuart K.
Leveling considerations: Check site levelness before setup. "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one. Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed through out the park, but often too far for a hose to reach," notes Gary P. about Shady Creek.
