Camping areas near Fruitland, Iowa sit along the banks of the Cedar and Mississippi Rivers at elevations between 580-650 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid continental climate with seasonal flooding that can affect campground access, particularly along the Cedar River during spring and early summer. Several camping areas provide riverfront access, with sites situated on former sand pits, river bends, and forested areas.
What to do
Fishing access: Multiple locations offer shore fishing opportunities, particularly at Deep Lakes Park Cabins where "cabins have hard drives, shared fire rings, very nice views from porches" and are "situated along sand pit lakes for convenient fishing access." This 435-acre county park provides direct access to multiple fishing spots.
River watching: Observe barge traffic along the Mississippi at Clarks Ferry campground where "you can se the barge traffic on the river" and campers note "Birds were migrating to the north and flying very close to the river. It was awesome to watch." The riverside sites provide front-row views of commercial river traffic.
Boat rentals: Paddle or motorize at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve which "rents kayaks, john boats, pontoons, and mini-pontoons" where one camper shared "For 30 dollars we navigated the lake for two hours. My son loved steering the boat." Rentals operate on a first-come basis, so arrive early to secure your watercraft.
What campers like
Spacious sites with river views: Many campers appreciate the Saulsbury Bridge Rec Area - Cedar River Campground where "sites are spaced apart well and clean with a beautiful view of the Cedar River." One reviewer mentioned "sites along the river, while others are larger tucked along the woods and not close to each other."
Modern amenities: Several campgrounds provide updated facilities. At Shady Creek, campers appreciate the "Level poured pad for RV, electric and nice fire pits. Large sites. Clean restrooms and lots of hot water for Shower." Another reviewer noted, "Even though we didn't have a choice it was still a great spot. It was pretty quiet while we were there."
Natural surroundings: The combination of woods and water attracts many campers. One reviewer at Wildcat Den State Park Campground mentioned "Beautiful area with lots of hiking trails" while another praised the "Excellent spring wildflowers, historical grist mill and schoolhouse."
What you should know
Train noise: Several riverside campgrounds experience significant train disruption. At Clarks Ferry, "the train comes by about every hour behind the campsite and blows its horn at the two crossings adjacent to the campsite. This happened through the night and was extremely loud." Consider bringing earplugs if staying near rail lines.
Flooding considerations: Water levels affect campground availability. Check conditions before arrival as "When the Cedar River is high, it pushes Chicken Creek out of its banks which can mean potential closure of campgrounds."
Reservation requirements: Many sites book quickly, especially those with prime river views. One camper at Shady Creek advised to "make your reservations as early as you can the spots go quick! The campground even has a military spot!"
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Consider boat rentals for family entertainment. At Loud Thunder, a camper shared: "I had never heard of a mini-pontoon prior to this trip; they are amazing and now I want one. For 30 dollars we navigated the lake for two hours."
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. Clarks Ferry offers "two playgrounds - one message for smaller kids and one mostly for bigger" according to a visitor.
Historical sites: Incorporate educational opportunities at Wildcat Den State Park which features "historical grist mill and schoolhouse" that children can explore during your stay.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: Check water access at your specific site. At Shady Creek, one RVer noted "water is shared by 4 sites and was 30 ft away" while another mentioned "Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed through out the park, but often too far for a hose to reach."
Pad quality: Many campgrounds offer level concrete pads. A visitor to Shady Creek noted "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one" which makes setup considerably easier for larger rigs.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Fruitland generally require leashes in campground areas, though some parks like Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area allow dogs to run in designated hunting areas that are clearly marked. These pet-friendly campgrounds near Fruitland typically offer access to water for dogs that enjoy swimming.
