Several campgrounds surround Fruitland, Iowa, a small community situated along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa. The region features river backwaters, bottomland forests, and agricultural fields with elevations ranging from 540 to 700 feet above sea level. Local camping options typically experience hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching 85-95°F in July and August, while spring and fall offer milder conditions.
What to do
Water recreation access: Rock Creek County Marina and Campground offers boat launches, fishing spots, and equipment rentals. "This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," notes Ryan.
Wildlife observation: The region's river ecosystem supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "Plenty of sites, boat landing, kayak/canoe rentals, naturalist programs, nature center with native animals including large fish aquarium, cabins, park store and kitchen, shower house, pontoon river cruises," explains a visitor at Rock Creek.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer direct river and backwater fishing access. At Ferry Landing, one camper describes it as "Great isolated camping at river edge where Iowa and Mississippi rivers meet! Paddling, fishing, hiking in bottom land forests."
Educational experiences: Several campgrounds feature nature centers with educational programs. "Great educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore," writes Jeff and Linda L. about Rock Creek's eco-center.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Camping directly along the Mississippi provides unique experiences. At Shady Creek, Kathy J. shares, "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. Beautiful views of the Mississippi and most of all quiet."
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities as standout features. "Very clean, friendly stay," reports Donna T. about her experience at Shady Creek.
Wildlife viewing: The Mississippi River ecosystem attracts diverse wildlife. At Fishermans Corner, one reviewer noted, "Sites are shaded, with services, fire pits, wood available, site volunteer. Access along river for fishing."
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate larger sites at certain campgrounds. "Sites are large and staggered so you aren't staring at your neighbors and can enjoy the views," writes Barbara P. about Shady Creek.
What you should know
Railroad noise: Train tracks parallel much of the Mississippi River, creating noise issues at several campgrounds. At Fishermans Corner, a camper warns, "Main con is the road noise, especially in the morning during commute hours. Although the campground is immediately adjacent to train tracks, I only heard one train around 10 am."
Weather impacts: Spring rains can affect access to riverside camping. At Ferry Landing - Mississippi River, one visitor reported, "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."
Cell service variability: Coverage varies significantly by provider and location. "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," notes Stephanie D. about Shady Creek.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. Kimberly W. advises about Shady Creek: "make your reservations as early as you can the spots go quick! The campground even has a military spot!"
Tips for camping with families
Nature centers for kids: Cedar River Campground offers additional family-friendly amenities beyond what riverfront campgrounds provide. "This place became my wife's and daughters' favorite this year. It is a place where everyone who visits is very kind and respectful. The managers are always courteous and attentive," shares Jorge F.
Swimming options: Pools provide alternatives to river swimming. "They have mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids," notes Jackie J. about Cedar River Campground.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers at some campgrounds offer learning experiences. At Rock Creek, Chris F. explains, "They also have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed."
Recreational amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional activities beyond water recreation. "Not our typical campsite but we had the kids down for the weekend and we thought a campsite with a pool and mini golf would be a fun break from the norm," notes Steve T. about Cedar River Campground.
Tips from RVers
RV pad quality: Concrete pads at various RV campgrounds near Fruitland, Iowa provide level parking. At Fishermans Corner, Sarah C. reports, "The sites are nice wooded sites. A mix of gravel and pavement. It's a bit noisy due to the nearness to the interstate."
Hookup configurations: Water access varies between campgrounds. At Shady Creek, Gary P. notes, "Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed through out the park, but often too far for a hose to reach."
Overnight convenience: Some campgrounds serve well for shorter stays. At Crossroads RV Park, a reviewer mentioned, "This was a nice spot for an overnight stay. The site was a full hookup- electric, water and sewer. I wouldn't stay longer than an overnight. The sites were close together and very close to a train track."
Site spacing considerations: Site proximity varies considerably between campgrounds. "Sites are close together: gravel pads, onsite: water, firewood, fire pit, tables, food nearby, playground adjacent, near Highway 30," notes James M. about Porth RV Park.
