Stephen R.
Guide
GuideBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Very nice camp grounds and nice trails and beach
Dog-Friendly Camping near Fruitland, IA
7 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Shady Creek campground features 40 pet-friendly sites with water and electric hookups, situated along the Mississippi River. Pets are allowed in both tent and RV camping areas, with fire rings and picnic tables at each site. Nearby Wildcat Den State Park Campground also welcomes pets with designated walking paths through the wooded areas. Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Fruitland require pets to remain on leash at all times, with a standard 6-foot leash rule enforced throughout camping areas. Deep Lakes Park Cabins offers pet-friendly accommodations for those seeking more shelter, with cabins facing lakes for excellent shore access and shared fire pits that are perfect for evening relaxation with four-legged companions. The cabins are newer, ADA accessible, and situated along sand pit lakes for convenient fishing access with pets.
Cedar River access points provide excellent opportunities for dogs that enjoy swimming, with several boat ramps available for water entry. Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area spans 675 acres with multiple pet-friendly camping options including a main campground with modern restrooms and showers, primitive tent sites along Chicken Creek, and a river campground directly on the Cedar River. Dogs must be leashed in campgrounds and on trails, but are allowed to run in designated hunting areas that are clearly marked with signs. The park's prairie restoration areas attract abundant wildlife, making morning and evening dog walks particularly interesting. Firewood is available for purchase in the main campground, and kayak or canoe rentals can be arranged through the Muscatine County Conservation office for water adventures with pets. During periods of high water, some campground areas may be subject to closure when the Cedar River rises. Whether you prefer dog-friendly campsites with full hookups along the river or primitive tent sites with open prairie, pet-friendly camping near Fruitland offers a wide range of options suited to different needs.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Fruitland (97)
1. Shady Creek
"Wild Cat Den State Park just up US61."
"What a gem we found in Muscatine Iowa. Level poured pad for RV, electric and nice fire pits. Large sites. Clean restrooms and lots of hot water for Shower."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $14 - $26 / night
2. Wildcat Den State Park Campground
"Surrounded by cornfields, rolling hills and the Mississippi River, this park is tucked neatly away in Southeast Iowa. We've been here in all four seasons and each one provides a different landscape."
"Lovely little campside with 19 places, rustical without electricity, dump etc. But got one waterstation and toilets. Every space with picknicktable and fireplace, surrounded by trees."
18 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $10 - $25 / night
3. Fairport State Recreation Area Campground
"Great fishing, near Fairport Fish Hatchery, and Wild Cat Den State Park."
"Located about seven miles east of Muscatine and roughly 20 miles from Davenport, this intimate 42-site campground is decidedly more about the river than resort-style recreation, with every back-in campsite"
42 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 / night
4. Deep Lakes Park Cabins
"Neat, newer cabins nettled along the sand pit lakes. Well maintained park with bike trail running through, fishing, hiking, paddling all within areas of cabins."
"Cabins are newer, ADA accessible, and face lakes for great shore access and shared fire pits."
Check Availabilityfrom $110 - $250 / night
5. Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area - Main Camping
"Located in Muscatine County in southeast Iowa, this rec area offers well-maintained campgrounds, hiking trails, fishing, kayaking/canoeing and seasonal hunting. There are three separate campgrounds."
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $20 / night
6. Clarks Ferry
"Just off Highway 22 and runs along Mississippi River and railroad tracks. Shady sites, showers, 50 amp service, fish cleaning station, playground, and small amphitheater for naturalist programs. "
"Has playground for younger children, near Wild Cat Den State Park."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $25 - $26 / night
7. Riverview Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
"The sites are very close to each other. The sites at Riverview and Silva both seemed smaller."
"Good campgrounds with trails including equestrian options, and water! Can rent canoes, kayaks, and pontoons! Bait shop, fishing, food options with town just a few miles away."
8. Saulsbury Bridge Rec Area - Cedar River Campground
"There are sites along the river, while others are larger tucked along the woods and not close to each other. Perfect get away. 15-20 minutes to the closest town."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 - $20 / night
9. Blanchard Island
Check Availabilityfrom $14 / night
10. Whispering Maples Campground
Check Availabilityfrom $25 - $600 / night
Drive Time
- 40 min from Davenport, IA
- 43 min from Iowa City, IA
- 1 hr 3 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 1 hr 41 min from Dubuque, IA
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Fruitland, IA
29 Photos of 97 Fruitland Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Saulsbury Bridge Rec Area, Primitive Tent Camp
Saulsbury Bridge Rec Area - Cedar River Campground
Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area - Main Camping
Riverview Campground - Loud Thunder Forest PreserveJ
River Junction
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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Fruitland, IA
588 Reviews of 97 Fruitland 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!
- James M.Legend
Cabin 1, Rock Creek Marina & Campground
The camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people that include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags; All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, store and grill, paddle rentals, nature center too.
- James M.Legend
Pintail Cabin- Rock Creek Marina
Neat County park in Mississippi River backwaters
Park has multiple cabins. Pintail Cabin is an ADA compliant, fully accessible cabin that sleeps up to 6 people. The cabin includes a queen-size adjustable bed that raises and lowers for easy access, twin size bunk bed, a full-size sofa sleeper, table/chairs. Kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, electric cook top, sink. Central Heat/AC. Bathroom has accessible roll-in shower. There is also has a large deck and an accessible picnic table and fire ring outside. Bedding, towels, and kitchen cookware and utensils are not provided. The cabin has an ADA compliant access ramp. Tents are not permitted on this site. There is a playground, boat ramp, paddle rentals, Eco Tourism Center with small store and grill, and a nature center offering programs! The Blue Heron pontoon boat offers tours on the water too!
- James M.Legend
Rock 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.
👩🏭ScoutWhispering Maples Campground
Papas paradise buyout
New owners, free laundry 🧺
Guide to Fruitland
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near Fruitland, IA?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Fruitland, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Fruitland, IA is Shady Creek with a 4.6-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find
dog-friendly camping near
Fruitland, IA?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Fruitland, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 97 dog-friendly camping locations near Fruitland, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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