Best Camping near Guttenberg, IA

Looking for the best campgrounds near Guttenberg, IA? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Guttenberg is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Guttenberg. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Guttenberg, IA (135)

    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground

    1. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    253 Photos
    320 Saves
    McGregor, Iowa

    Located on a high bluff overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, a land of sculpted limestone and prehistoric Native American mounds can be found amid a swath of preserved hardwood forest. Translated “home of the warrior” in the language of the local Munsee–Delaware Indians, Wyalusing Hardwood Forest and the Wyalusing Mounds have received recognition as national natural landmarks and historic places. Adjacent to the forest, Wyalusing State Park is the perfect camping destination for a little outdoors R&R, while discovering more about the natural and cultural history at the junction of Wisconsin’s and America’s greatest waterways.

    Visitors to Wyalusing State Park have two campgrounds to choose from. Wisconsin Ridge is set on a high bluff over the Wisconsin River, and Homestead is located in shady hardwood forest. Combined, they offer 109 campsites for tent and RV campers; there is also a large group campground. Both campgrounds provide flush and vault restrooms, shower facilities and drinking water. A portion of sites in each campground have electrical hookups for RVs, and there is a dump station near the Homestead site. The park also has several picnic areas, sports courts, and five reservable group picnic shelters. Firewood, camping supplies, ice and boat rentals are available at the concession stand. Seasonal campsite rates range from $15–$35/night; entrance to the park requires an additional fee.

    With nearly 24 miles of land and water trails in Wyalusing State Park, you’ll find ample opportunities for exploring riverside bluffs. Whether you like to walk, hike, ride, or paddle, there’s a trail just for you. Take an easy interpretive walk to learn about the park’s flora, fauna and geology; hike to see limestone caves, waterfalls, and a great view of the river; hop on your bike for a ride around the edge of a wooded grassland; or board a canoe or kayak and paddle through the Mississippi backwaters. Many of these trails are also open during the winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Other park activities include fishing, bird watching, and seasonal hunting.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    2. Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    64 Photos
    180 Saves
    McGregor, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    3. Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    72 Photos
    46 Saves
    Cassville, Wisconsin
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $33 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park

    4. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park

    29 Reviews
    114 Photos
    107 Saves
    Dundee, Iowa

    Located about an hour’s drive north of Cedar Rapids, Backbone State Park is Iowa’s oldest state park. Established in 1920, it was named for a narrow limestone ridge—the Devil’s Backbone—along the Maquoketa River. At its founding, it was one of the largest state parks in the U.S. to offer camping, picnicking and hiking opportunities. Since that time, the park has expanded to 2,100 acres—almost double its original size—and offers even more opportunities for locals and visitors to get outdoors and enjoy some time in nature. Whether it’s wandering the woods, fishing on a quiet creek, lounging by the lake, or just napping in shade under a swinging hammock, there’s something for everyone here.

    The two campgrounds at Backbone State Park offers 125 campsites for tent and RV campers. The large South Lake Campground has nearly 100 sites, about half with electrical hookups, with flush toilets and showers. The smaller Six Pines Campground has 27 primitive tent sites with vault toilets. Most sites are open and grassy, but there are plenty of shade trees around. Both locations have drinking water faucets and trash receptacles; a dump station is located at the South Lake Campground. The park also offers a few 1- and 2-bedroom cabins for those visiting sans tent or RV; bedding not provided. Many sites and facilities are ADA accessible. A small store in the park sells bait, firewood and some concessions. Reservations are accepted, but some sites are held open for first-come, first-served campers. Seasonal campsite rates range from $6–$16/night; cabins range from $50–$100/night.

    There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at Backbone State Park. The park features several playgrounds, picnic areas, an outdoor auditorium, and a museum. More than 21 miles of multiuse trails explore the woods and waterways within the park. Taking a hike or ride is the best way to see some of the park’s natural rock features, including the Stone Arch, Balance Rock, and the Devil’s Backbone. In winter, many of these trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Swimming, paddling and boating can be enjoyed on Backbone Lake, with kayak and canoe rentals available from the park, and angers can fish for trout on the creek out of Richmond Springs. And rock climbers will find several challenging routes on the park’s many limestone cliffs.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area

    5. Grant River Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    34 Photos
    55 Saves
    Dubuque, Iowa

    Overview

    Spread along the banks of the Upper Mississippi River, the Grant River Campground, located in the "Catfish Capital of Wisconsin," is a modern campground that offers a plethora of outdoor and recreational activities.

    Recreation

    The famous fishing on the Mississippi River draws crowds of anglers each year. The most popular species is the channel catfish, earning the city of Potosi the nickname "Catfish Capital of Wisconsin." Other species include bluegill, walleye, crappie, northern pike and bass. Best to try your luck in the spring before the rice field grows up. There is boat ramp access within the campground, but can be chalenging for larger vessels as water levels drop and aquatic vegetation grows up.

    Natural Features

    Surrounding the large campsite is a lush river landscape with towering bluffs and beautiful sunsets, creating a nature experience for visitors without losing the comforts of modern camping.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (563) 582-0881.

    Nearby Attractions

    Potosi Brewing Company Restauraunt & Museum (Potosi, WI - 2 miles) Lock and Dam 11 (Dubuque, IA - 19 miles) National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (Dubuque, IA - 20 miles) Diamond Jo Casino & The Q Casino (Dubuque, IA - 20 miles) Historic sites, Antiques, Fine Dining (Galena, IL - 28 miles)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rustic Barn Campground RV Park

    6. Rustic Barn Campground RV Park

    15 Reviews
    53 Photos
    63 Saves
    Dubuque, Iowa

    We welcome you to experience the true beauty of the Midwest. Our campground offers a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere, where you can enjoy the landscapes of rolling hills and lush countryside, with a friendly and caring staff and numerous amenities Rustic Barn Campground & RV Park is only 3 blocks off highway 151/61/35 and extremely convienent to reach. Just a few miles from the beautiful bluffs of the Mighty Mississippi, we are conveniently located in the tri-state area of Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois, where there are endless activities and attractions. 7 miles from Dubuque, IA 15 miles from Platteville, WI 17 miles from Galena, IL 80 miles from Madison, WI

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest

    7. Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest

    12 Reviews
    46 Photos
    4 Saves
    Waterville, Iowa

    Yellow River State Forest is a perfect place to explore some of Iowa's best hiking trails. Located in northeast Iowa in Allamakee County, the forest is part of the "driftless area" that escaped the glaciers during the most recent ice age. The forest consists of 8,900 acres of hardwood and coniferous forest and is comprised of 6 units.

    The Paint Creek Unit is of primary interest to the recreationist, with well-kept camping areas, equestrian accommodations, fishing, hunting, and over 45 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    9. Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    11 Reviews
    29 Photos
    8 Saves
    Waterville, Iowa

    Yellow River State Forest in northeast Iowa is home to stunning views, beautiful woodlands, and meandering trout streams. Nestled in Iowa’s driftless area in Allamakee County, Yellow River offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities including camping, equestrian riding, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, and more. Yellow River State Forest was first established in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corp and is home to Iowa’s only fire tower, built in 1963. Today, the forest is managed for numerous natural resource benefits and recreational opportunities.

    Big Paint campgrounds are non-modern with vault toilets. Drinking water is available near the office complex. Advance campsite reservations are recommended and can be made through the park reservation system, and one-quarter of the campsites are available for self-registration on a first-come first-served basis.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park

    10. New Wine Park Dubuque County Park

    5 Reviews
    22 Photos
    8 Saves
    New Vienna, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 135 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Guttenberg

Recent Reviews in Guttenberg

402 Reviews of 135 Guttenberg Campgrounds


  • Stuart O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    Good late season option for the self-contained camper

    Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. Not a lot of free parking options in this part of Iowa. No water, electric, or dump station, so very much like a parking lot overnight from that perspective. However, the park is situated on the valley bottom of the Yellow River Forest with beautiful tall trees, and there are fire rings. Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Eco-Locate This Blissful Hidden Campground Gem

    This Iowa SP campground is simply AMAZING and if you are a bat cave spelunker, you are going to be absolutely excited by this place, if you don’t know it already. For the rest of us outdoor enthusiasts who are simply looking for a great campground, then you’ve also struck the campground lottery, but if you are interested in staying here, I would STRONGLY encourage you to mind your dates taking note of when bat hibernation ends and begins – for what it’s worth, my brother and I drove all the way here only to find out that hibernation began the day of our arrival. That said, we could still hike all of the amazing trails, but couldn’t access the bat caves.

    The campground that resides here, is less than a quarter mile away from the access point to the bat caves, creating huge upside for selecting this campground in the first place. A heavily wooded area encompasses every single site (there’s 28 in total w/ 24 offering 20 / 30 / 50 amp electric) providing a substantial amount of shade, will also allowing decent sunlight as well along a slowly winding lone lane that leads one into this shrouded camping haven. While the spots (#12-#16) towards the end of the lane are more earmarked for mi tent pitchin’ bredren, whereas the rest of the sites (#1-#11; #17-#28) are set-up for the RV and 5th Wheel toting crowd (although you could easily set up a tent on any one of these sites should you choose to).

    A couple of points to keep in mind– the entrance to the campground is the busiest, so if this is of concern, steer clear of #1-#3 or #27-#28. Second, if you have kids and want to be planted near the playground, you might want to target sites #26-#28, where the spacious kids playground sets right behind these sites. In the event that being nearest the built-in amenities (restroom, shower, water source, community library, trash, firewood) are important to you, then look at sites #5-7 and #23-26. With this in mind, as you meander further down the lone campground loop lane, the quieter and more sheltered the place gets, so from #6-#24 should be a prime target for you if peace & solitude are important to you. Despite all of the advice I’ve just given, I don’t think you can really go wrong with any site here.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’re looking for a primitive tent camping experience, then you’re going to want to book sites #12 and #13, which set a bit further back for the cul-de-sac end of the lane offering up more privacy and less noise from the rest of the camping commune; (2) All sites designated for RV’s are back-in and range in driveway length between 31 and 68 feet; (3) The campground itself is closed between December 1 thru February 28 each year; (4) This SP offers up more than 370 acres with 6 miles of hiking trails with 13 distinct bat caves to explore, so bring good hiking shoes, headlamps, proper long sleeve shirts and pants to keep the bugs and ticks away, which abound here aplenty; and (5) There’s plenty of picnic tables, most under shelters as well as scattered stand-up and in-ground BBQ grills all offered up on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Happy Camping!

  • Brian O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Nice campground, fun caves, older established state park

    My mom remembers visiting this park in the 40's. Not a surprise since Grampa was a Geologist.
    This is a small campground for such an old park, only 34 sites, walk-ins included. All sites are along one road with a turnaround at the end. There is only one building with toilets, showers and no pit toilets. These are clean and well maintained.
    There is a playground near the entrance that is shared with the caves entrance area, a bit of a walk.
    The caves themselves are down a long hill from the campground. There are facilities there too, and a concession stand with limited hours/ days. The caves are fun to explore, but not ADA accessible. Bring flashlights and in some areas watch your head.
    The Visitor's center at the park entrance is staffed by volunteers and only open on weekends.
    Once you've done the caves, there's not much else to see within the park. But visit the Hurstville interpretive center for a nice nature center and trails.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    Great place for a short trip

    I’ll begin by saying this is by far the cleanest campground I have stayed at. The facilities were well kept including the vault toilet houses. We stayed in a walk to site and the views were incredible. Our tent pad was quite rocky so I would recommend sleeping pads or you will be very uncomfortable. Our site was also extremely dusty which wasn’t a problem at all just be prepared to be a little dirty. The campground was quiet except for the occasional train that rolled through those are quite loud due to how close they are to the campground. I would definitely come back to Nelson Dewey and stay again. There was not a ton to do in the area so a short weekend stay was perfect. A highlight is that the park provided cart to use to haul all your stuff to the walk to sites. There is 1 designated parking spot per walk to site as well. The walk to sites are small and only accommodated our one (6 person) tent which was not a problem for us as we knew this ahead of time.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oelwein City Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Oelwein City Park

    This is a beautiful city park campground

    I enjoyed my 5 night stay at Oelwein City Park Campground. It's located on the south end of town, there is only one business within walking distance. It's a great restaurant (Oelwein Family Restaurant) and it's about a 15 minute walk.

    There is one shower house, and several vault toilets throughout the park. The shower house is old and a little run down but was very clean. I had no problems using it.

    The city park is adjacent to the campground and has picnic shelters, a playground, and a dog park.

    There are electric and water hookups at most sites, and there is a dump station. The park was pretty full on the weekend as you would expect, but very quiet during the week.

    I had great Verizon and T-mobile service here.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkader City Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Elkader City Park

    Close to town, nice facilities, not quiet

    I had good Verizon signal here (70 down, 20 up) but zero T-mobile signal.

    The campground is close to down, there are two museums within walking distance (just steps from the campground entrance). Across the street is a walking & biking trail that will take you straight to downtown, where you'll find a coffee shop, a few restaurants, and other shopping. It's less than a 5 minute bike ride to get there, and very scenic as it follows the river.

    The facilities are newer and pretty nice. The showers are the single-button kind with no temperature adjustment. If you wait a while, the water does get barely warm enough for a comfortable shower.

    This is not a quiet campground, it has a well traveled highway on one side, and a city main street on the other side that semi trucks use during the day. Sometimes there are highschool football games at the stadium next to the campground. Late at night it does get quiet.

    The sites are grass or gravel. There are electrical hookups at most sites, with water faucets spread throughout the campground. The sites are mostly shaded.

    I enjoyed the George Maier Rural Heritage Center and Museum ($5 admission) and the Elkader Depot Museum (free) which are located right next to the campground.

    The downside to this campground is the dump station. It is just a hole in a manhole cover. It's in a dirt/weedy area and smells terrible. It's located across the street from the campground.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from River of Lakes Campground
    Sep. 20, 2024

    River of Lakes Campground

    Ok. Great checkin - however..

    Nice campground with many sites on the Mississippi backwaters and decent fishing stayed two days and opted on a third. However, after we paid for the third night we noticed a campsite on the other side. Of course the first amendment is everyone’s freedom but really ,do campers need to put out “2024 No More Bulls***” AND how about 2024 Fu** your Feelings” that was in front of their welcome sign. These phrases were on massive flags nailed to trees. Of course we all have freedoms but because these vulgar, in your face phrases were seen every time we left the campground we did not feel comfortable. Good thing I did not have my grandkids along. We all have our beliefs, but is offensive language regarding politics have a place in campgrounds have a place? I say “No!” those folks were out of line and it is wrong. We will never return to this campground again.

  • Jeff and Linda L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Grant River Recreation Area

    Feet from the Mississippi

    The park is on the beautiful might Mississippi river. It’s 2 miles from Potosi, WI with a large brewery with good food as well. Army Corps so half price with America The Beautiful senior discount card. If you like trains you will see many, close and going fast.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park Campground
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Nice Park

    Nice sites, trails and facilities. Stayed during the week in mid September. Beautiful sites overlooking the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers. Great hiking with clean bathrooms and toilets. Private with plenty of room from neighbors for our teardrop.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fontana County Park
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Fontana County Park

    New, clean, no trees

    There is a brand new campground here with full hookups. There are no trees so I decided to pass and not camp here. Evidently there is an "old" campground somewhere in this park also that I did not find. The signs will direct you to the new campground.

    I had good T-mobile and Verizon service here.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Klocks Island Park
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Klocks Island Park

    Crowded and quiet

    This seems like a quiet campground. It's just off the highway but there was almost zero traffic on this small highway. I drove through here on a Saturday in mid September. All spots were taken. I had barely usable Verizon service here and no T-mobile service. I was not able to camp here. The restroom building looked fairly new.

  • W
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Riverview Ridge

    Unique River and Trail Access Campground

    Two hour float trips on the North Fork Maquoketa River are available directly from the campground. There is a mix of permanent and temporary campers. The tent sites, nearest the river, are well spaced with flush toilets. Apparently there are also good trails, as many of the campers have ATV’s parked at their sites. The shower house, under the office, was spacious and clean.

  • Dj Y.
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Grant River Recreation Area

    Sandy and Gentleman worker=AMAZING

    I was hitchhiking thru, was dropped off by a ride that said he was buying a $14 tent site for me, come to find out he never did, I just was honest with sandy and the gentleman worker and offered the only 8$ I had, no sir, they said please stay for free and just enjoy. WONDERFUL PPL THAT CARE ABOUT OTHERS!! THANKS YALL

  • Anna R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore RV Resort and Campground
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Lakeshore RV Resort and Campground

    Rude Host

     Please do not ignore the negative reviews written by people on other sites regarding the owners. My husband and I drove almost 2 hours to check out the campground. We are looking for a permanent site for our RV next year. When we arrived we called the phone number listed on the closed gate. The owner, Joyce came out and said we would need an appointment to drive thru and she did not have time to show us around. The owner was very rude. We had been on their website and it did not state appointments were needed. Yes, I guess we could have called ahead, but as seasoned campers its never been a problem to check out a campground ahead of time.. Just beware owner unfriendly:( NO WE WONT BE RETURNING, WE WOULD NEVER STAY HERE

  • Kenneth M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Hills Campground
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Clayton Hills Campground

    Best Owners Ever

    I was looking around for a place and being the weekend after the 4th of July, I knew there wouldn't be many options. This place is literally a hidden gem and should get more focus!!! The owner had a spot for my family and me!!! When he found out that I was only tent camping, he even lowered the price!!! He didn't have to do that at all and it wasn't expected. Grassy locations everywhere. Wonderful water and electric hookups!!! A little piece of heaven here. JJ is an AMAZING host!!!

  • Robert P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Inn Campground
    Jun. 26, 2024

    Blue Inn Campground

    Reservations

    I made a reservation back in April 20 q24 June 26th 6 days before vacation I received a refund notice from them not in the full amount I paid less than a half

  • Charles M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Beautiful State Park

    This park is beautiful and perfect for an adventurous hike. The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son and his friends. We would definitely go back.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Baileys Ford
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Baileys Ford

    Excellent campground

    What more can I say than this place was stellar. We were tent camping the site we picked was big (there were smaller sites if that’s what you need). Access to the trout stream directly from our site! The facilities were clean even for a vault toilet (regular toilets and showers available at the main building which were extremely clean) the showers had hot water and real on and off handles NOT the push to start ones. Access to the river was available and there was a boat launch site. Staff we encountered were all friendly. Firewood available to purchase on site (only available Friday and Saturday night it was $10 a bundle during our stay). Plenty of things for kids to do volleyball ball court, softball field, and several playgrounds! Many shelters available for larger gatherings. This place even had an outdoor chapel. Baileys Ford exceeded my expectations for a county campground and I will be returning 100% my only complaint was spotty service (Verizon) but then again the point of camping is to disconnect so this was not a big deal. Minimal bugs considering how close we were to the water as well!

  • Kelsey G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Bluff Campground LLC
    Jun. 6, 2024

    Whitetail Bluff Campground LLC

    Very clean,Well kept up, Lots of things for kids to do

    This is a really nice and clean campground! The sites are very spacious and the food is good!! Really good Friday night fish fries! We will definitely be back!!

  • Tori L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    May. 26, 2024

    Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    Dream stay.

    Came to learn more about Tenkara fly fishing. Had a ball. Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush. I had no phone service. Campsites are well mown, have a picnic table and fire ring. Pit toilets. Easy access to water. Drink water and firewood are at the host A frame. There is no dump site. Everyone was very friendly. Helpful. Nights were quiet. Very relaxing.

  • Tiffany K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    May. 20, 2024

    Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    Quaint Campground with River Views

    Loved this campground but it does have some drawbacks. Set up a lot for rv camping with site layout and connections. Some sites have the fire ring very close to the parking area and some spots have limited shade (compared to the majority of the campground that is in the trees). The bathrooms and showers are in good condition. The Mississippi River overlooks are a short walk away. There were lots of birds and spiders around the campground. There are a good number of hiking trails in the park.

  • Marci S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park Campground
    May. 14, 2024

    Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    Dramatic scenery, quiet campground

    This campground is a short hike away from beautiful trails that overlook the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. The boardwalk trails also lead to a small falls and more. Site 51, where we stayed, is near trailhead but on a slight slope. Showers, water, dump station available here, no playground

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Bloody Run County Park

    An amazing weekend

    I went fishing and hiking and it’s very scenic and beautiful area , train blairing its horn in the middle of the night sucks since it’s right by train tracks, pit toilets and clear water stream in front of the campground fishing wasn’t the best 

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Springs Trout Hatchery Campground
    Mar. 20, 2024

    Big Springs Trout Hatchery Campground

    A slice of heaven

    This is a beautiful scenic view right next to the river and there are picnic tables fire rings and a trash can and porta potty with a water spigot for fresh water

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
    Mar. 20, 2024

    Bloody Run County Park

    Amazing creekside

    It was a beautiful area with the creek running right next to it only problem was there was some trash in the firing which we had to take care of. People are so lazy.



Guide to Guttenberg

Camping near Guttenberg, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the numerous hiking trails available in the area. Campers have enjoyed the “great hiking” at places like Wyalusing State Park Campground, where one reviewer mentioned, “Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails.”
  • Kayaking and Fishing: The Mississippi River is perfect for kayaking and fishing. One visitor at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground noted, “There’s a large lake with three boat launches,” making it easy to get out on the water.
  • Cave Exploration: For a unique experience, check out the caves at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground. A camper shared, “The caves make this a unique place to visit,” highlighting the fun of spelunking.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views. At Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, one visitor said, “The sunset seemed to last for hours as the light danced in the storm clouds.”
  • Privacy and Space: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites. A reviewer at Rustic Barn Campground RV Park mentioned, “The sites are all clean and most all are level,” which is great for families looking for comfort.
  • Family-Friendly Amenities: Campgrounds like Cox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park have playgrounds and clean facilities. One camper noted, “The campsites are big and fairly private,” making it a good choice for families.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Twin Valley Campground — Governor Dodge State Park mentioned, “The vibe here wasn’t for us,” due to loud music and children playing.
  • Site Selection: Not all sites are created equal. A camper at Pulpit Rock Campground said, “Very small campground with sites right on top of each other,” which might not suit everyone.
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. One camper at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground noted, “There were many annoying flies!” so bring some bug spray.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, a reviewer mentioned, “Great beach, lots of space with picnic tables,” which is perfect for family outings.
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan activities that everyone can enjoy. A camper at Wyalusing State Park Campground said, “Great hiking trails, overall a great place to stay,” which can keep the whole family entertained.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along essentials like snacks and games. One visitor at Rustic Barn Campground RV Park appreciated the “cute little area with outside games like corn hole and yard checkers.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Dimensions: Make sure to check the dimensions of your site. A reviewer at Governor Dodge State Park advised, “Pay attention to the drive-in dimensions posted,” especially for larger rigs.
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. At Cox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park, one camper noted, “Easy access to the campsite,” which is a plus for RV travelers.
  • Plan for Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A visitor at Backbone State Park mentioned, “TMobile strong 5G signal,” but this may vary by location.

Camping near Guttenberg, Iowa, has something for everyone, from scenic views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions