Stephen R.
Guide
GuideBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Very nice camp grounds and nice trails and beach
Tent Camping near Eldridge, IA
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County parks and forest preserves surrounding Eldridge, Iowa offer several tent camping options along the region's waterways, ranging from walk-in primitive tent campsites to permit-based tent-only sites along scenic rivers. Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area provides primitive tent campsites with walk-in access only, situated along a waterway within bottomland woodlands. Indian Meadows Campground in Loud Thunder Forest Preserve features secluded tent-only sites with varying levels of privacy. Joinerville County Park along the Maquoketa River permits primitive tent camping by approved permit application submitted one month in advance. The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center allows limited primitive camping by authorization only, with access to trails and the Wapsipinicon River.
Most tent campgrounds in the Eldridge area feature basic amenities suited for self-sufficient campers. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, with surface conditions ranging from packed dirt to forest floor. Saulsbury Bridge requires campers to park within 100 yards of sites and pack gear in and out. Water and shower facilities are available at the main campground area but not at individual sites. Joinerville Park has gravel access roads but no toilet facilities. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, particularly at sites along rivers where proper waste disposal is essential for environmental protection.
Tent-only areas provide distinct advantages for those seeking natural experiences. According to reviews, Indian Meadows Campground offers "individual private sites" that provide exceptional seclusion. One visitor noted that "some are more open, others are like a nature playpen," making the area ideal for tent campers seeking privacy. At Saulsbury Bridge, campers report that sites are "spread along a waterway within bottomland woodlands with water access for fishing, paddling etc." The primitive nature of these tent campgrounds means fewer RVs and less noise from generators. Most sites provide access to water recreation, with Lake George described as "beautiful, perfect for kayaking." Backcountry tent camping opportunities exist at several locations, though advance permits may be required.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Eldridge (14)
1. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
"Charcoal grill, fire ring with wood supplied, picnic table, covered porch, trail head right next to cabin. After hours offers quite park, dark skies, and trails with wildlife."
"Cabin offers modern amenities: stove, oven,micro, dishwasher, refrigerator, coffee pot, toaster, ADA access, shower. AC/heat, covered porch, firewood, picnic table, Charcoal grill, trails."
Check Availabilityfrom $70 - $80 / night
2. Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
"The brick and mortar restroom is far better than the campsite bathroom. Most campsites are close together but enough forest in between to feel private. Quiet hours are enforced."
"Shower/RR nearby, trails including horse and bike . Main park has firewood, boat rentals, etc."
Check Availabilityfrom $14 - $32 / night
3. Cedar River Campground
"Convenient location a lot of amenities and activities"
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
from $35 - $50 / night
4. Silva Campground
5. Koch's Meadow Lake Campground
"This CG is a full service CG for RVs with community buildings, gravel road lanes, pet friendly, and lake access for fishing, paddling and swimming."
6. Lock and Dam 13
"You have to park off a gravel road on the iowa side and its about a mile walk and a half mile off the tracks. Very beautiful and peaceful place. Great fishing, especially along the spillway."
7. Hidden River Campground
8. Saulsbury Bridge Rec Area, Primitive Tent Camp
"The camp is walking only, with few tables and fire rings. Firewood available t main cg all ng with water and showers there too."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
9. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
"Jungletown Ridge is perfect for those looking to get some space from others and enjoy some quiet nights int he woods. Check them out and share some pics from your stay!"
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $45 / night
10. Joinerville County Park
Drive Time
- 9 min from Davenport, IA
- 54 min from Iowa City, IA
- 58 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 6 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
Tent Camping Reviews near Eldridge, IA
657 Reviews of 14 Eldridge Campgrounds
Cyndi R.
ScoutBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Clean, quiet and nice facilities but the placement of the fire rings borders on the absurd. These are obviously RV sites so there's already little expectation of privacy but they're good size and leave ample space behind your camper. The site we were on was tree-lined in the back. Perfect for a fire ring, right? Nah. Instead they're out front 5 ft from the road. I've never seen anything like it. 🥴
Stuart K.
LegendPark Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
Quad Cities Sweet Camping Retreat
Just minutes west of Davenport, Park Terrace Campground is a delightful county-operated camping destination nestled within the sprawling 620-acre West Lake Park. With four picturesque lakes, rolling green lawns, mature shade trees and an impressive assortment of recreational activities, this is much more than your average roadside CG. Whether you're passing through the Quad Cities or settling in for a relaxing weekend, there's plenty to keep you entertained, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, disc golf and a seasonal swimming beach. It's an especially appealing destination for families who appreciate having a little adventure right outside their camper door.
The campground itself features approximately 77 campsites, including spacious RV sites with 50-amp electrical service, water and sewer hookups, plus 13 primitive tent sites tucked toward the wooded perimeter in the rear - so for those tent campers that like to be somewhat removed from the RV crowd, this is an excellent option. Most RV sites are reasonably level, with gravel parking pads, picnic tables and fire rings, although spacing can be a little cozy (er, tight) in places. Mature trees provide welcome shade throughout portions of the campground, while the modern bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Additional conveniences include a dump station, playground, seasonal campground host and firewood availability. Best of all, the CG delivers an impressive collection of amenities without the hefty price tag of a commercial RV resort.
A few things worth knowing before arriving: the CG is accessed through Gate 5 off 110th Avenue, and water hookups are generally seasonal despite the CG's year-round designation. Some sites are more exposed than others, and the relatively close spacing means privacy isn't necessarily its strongest selling point. Nevertheless, for RV travelers, tent campers and families seeking affordable accommodations with outstanding recreational opportunities, Park Terrace is a terrific little discovery.
Insider's Tip: Tent campers should head toward the designated wooded camping area toward the back of the CG for a more traditional outdoor experience. RV travelers should bring an extra-long drinking-water hose, as some sites share water connections positioned several campsites apart. Also, the park gates close overnight, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Happy Camping!
Benjamin S.ScoutLouisa County Fairgrounds
$25 a night with Wi-Fi that actually works! I absolutely love it out here I'm not sure how busy it gets but there's no one out here right now in Oct! Electrical hookup at every site, water hook up every other site. But lots of sites available!
Amy B.ScoutCrow Valley Campground
Avoid this Campground at all cost
Seasonal Stay Review Overall Rating:⭐☆☆☆☆ Our experience as seasonal campers at this campground was deeply disappointing due to unprofessional management, inconsistent rule enforcement, premature lease violations, and a toxic atmosphere. Management& Atmosphere The campground owner frequently engaged in inappropriate behaviors, including spreading gossip, making disrespectful comments, and actively bullying campers both in person and on social media platforms. Rather than fostering a welcoming community, the leadership promoted a divisive culture marked by clear favoritism. Inconsistent Rule Enforcement Rules were applied arbitrarily. Certain seasonal campers were permitted to disregard campground policies without consequence, while others were singled out, micromanaged, and targeted for minor or non-existent issues. Unprofessional Conduct Regarding Minors Most concerning was management’s unacceptable conduct toward children. The owner actively made a ten-year-old child feel unwelcome by making inappropriate insinuations regarding his friendship with a nearly thirteen-year-old girl, claiming a platonic friendship between a boy and a girl of those ages was somehow improper. Targeting young children and policing harmless childhood friendships crosses a line that no family should have to deal with while on vacation. Breach of Contract& Property Damage To make matters worse, management prematurely cut off electricity to our campsite prior to the end of our contractual agreement. This lack of power led to a total loss of all refrigerated food items and caused significant interior damage to our camper when the freezer thawed and the ice inside it melted and leaked onto the flooring. Additionally, management unlawfully removed personal property from our campsite before our lease term had expired and failed to return it. Conclusion While a seasonal site should offer a relaxing environment for families, the current ownership creates an uncomfortable, hostile, and unethical environment. Between the emotional hostility and the direct financial loss caused by management's actions, I strongly advise others to avoid this campground.
James M.LegendRock Creek County Marina and Campground
Neat county Park and campground in Mississippi River backwaters
This campground offers lots of amenities, including: gravel, pads, fire rings, firewood, on site, campground host, playgrounds, water, dump station, both tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. There’s a store for Supplies, and a grill serving food. The Eco tourism center includes interactive and educational displays and programs. The marina offers slips for rent, boat rentals of canoes and kayaks. The campground can get very buggy, considering seasons in Iowa.
- James M.Legend
Wildcat Den State Park Campground
Great State Park with Great trails and mature forests.
This campground has basic amenities, including tables, fire pits, water on site, restrooms. There is also a larger group campsite across from the standard campground. There are many trails throughout the limestone Bluffs and pine Creek credited through. There is a historical site known as Pine Creek Brit Mill, pioneer cemetery, and a cabin and school site.
- James M.Legend
Buffalo Shores County Park
Nice county campground on the Mississippi River
This campground is well located on Highway 22 in Buffalo, Iowa. Sitting along the banks of the Mississippi river, sites include hard pads, fire rings, electric, water, showers, and restrooms, campground Office, seasonal host with wood. There is a playground, volleyball, Sandy beaches, boat ramps. This campground recently connected to City water instead of septic.
- Mary H.
RangerWest Overlook Campground
Sweet campground
We had a delightful afternoon and overnight stay here. We were warmly welcomed by the volunteer at the registration booth, who filled us in on the area and what we might see during our short visit. Our site was lovely, tucked at the end of a loop overlooking the woods, where we spotted several deer. We explored a bit while we were there, including the dam and the nearby fossil site—both very cool. Bathrooms were clean, and the showers had plenty of hot water and good pressure. We only wish we could have stayed longer at this lovely park. It was a wonderful final stop on our trip.
Guide to Eldridge
Tent campsites near Eldridge, Iowa can be found within county parks and forest preserves spanning both Iowa and Illinois. The Mississippi River watershed defines the region, with tributaries including Cedar River and Wapsipinicon River flowing through natural areas at elevations between 600-750 feet. Camping options range from walk-in primitive sites to modern cabin facilities with varied access to water recreation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cedar River Campground, visitors can access the Cedar River for fishing. "They had a great fireworks display for the fourth. Spots are tighter than what we prefer, but will be back again," notes Jenny, highlighting seasonal activities beyond fishing.
Kayaking and canoeing: Lake George at Silva Campground provides water recreation access with boat ramps and docks. According to James M., the campground offers "access to a boat ramp and docks on Lake George, flush toilets, water access, playground, picnic area, and pavilion."
Hiking trail exploration: The Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. features multiple trail systems. One reviewer notes, "After hours offers quite park, dark skies, and trails with wildlife. Wapsipinicon River access just down River Trail." Trails wind through forests and prairie areas, offering diverse hiking experiences.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Campers appreciate the minimal light pollution at several campgrounds near Eldridge. At #JTRidge Sites, Jake C. mentions it's "perfect for those looking to get some space from others and enjoy some quiet nights in the woods," making it ideal for stargazing.
Cabin amenities: The Kestrel Cabin at Wapsi River Environmental Center receives consistent positive reviews. One camper states, "Cabin has all amenities for six. Charcoal grill, fire ring with wood supplied, picnic table, covered porch, trail head right next to cabin." Another notes it offers "modern amenities: stove, oven, micro, dishwasher, refrigerator, coffee pot, toaster, ADA access, shower."
Swimming opportunities: Koch's Meadow Lake Campground provides swimming access in addition to fishing and paddling. James M. describes it as "a full service CG for RVs with community buildings, gravel road lanes, pet friendly, and lake access for fishing, paddling and swimming."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some camping areas require advance planning. At Joinerville County Park, "primitive camping is by approved permit application 1 month in advance of stay. Gravel access road into and around park. No toilets. Maquoketa River access has hard surface access entry."
Walk-in camping logistics: Several tent camping areas require carrying gear from parking areas. At Saulsbury Bridge Primitive Tent Camp, "The camp is walking only, with few tables and fire rings. Firewood available t main cg all ng with water and showers there too. Parking is within 100 yards so must pack in/out, use Leave No Trace ethics."
Campground ownership changes: Before booking, check current management reviews. Cedar River Campground changed ownership recently, with one camper noting, "Recently under new ownership, you can tell they've been working hard getting the place going again. Yes, you hear traffic, but it didn't bother us."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational facilities: For families seeking activities beyond nature exploration, Cedar River Campground offers "mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids." One reviewer mentioned, "This place became my wife's and daughters' favorite this year. It is a place where everyone who visits is very kind and respectful."
Educational opportunities: Koch's Meadow Lake Campground provides opportunities for children to learn about aquatic ecosystems. The campground includes "community buildings, gravel road lanes, pet friendly, and lake access for fishing, paddling and swimming."
Nature programs: The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center offers structured educational activities. A reviewer mentions the "education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year round," and the center "specializes in environmental education and the Eagle View Eco Center with exhibits and native live animals."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Hidden River Campground, RVers should note that there are "lots of year round campers" and "many people seem to take advantage of the year round rates and stay all summer." The campground operates from "April 15-October 15" and is "close to I-80 if you need somewhere to stay during your travels."
Unlevel sites: Some campgrounds in the area present challenges for larger RVs. One camper at Cedar River Campground mentioned "sites are unlevel and next to the interstate," suggesting travelers with larger rigs should call ahead to request specific sites.
Hookup availability: For RVers needing full hookups, Koch's Meadow Lake Campground provides water and electric connections. The site is described as "a full service CG for RVs" indicating amenities suitable for recreational vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Eldridge, IA?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Eldridge, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Eldridge, IA is Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.
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tent camping near
Eldridge, IA?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Eldridge, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 tent camping locations near Eldridge, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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