Best Campgrounds near Harpers Ferry, IA

Camping near Harpers Ferry, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails around Pikes Peak State Park Campground. “This campground is a short hike away from beautiful trails that overlook the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers,” says one happy camper.
• Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Bloody Run County Park is a great spot. One visitor mentioned, “Caught plenty of German brown trout and cooked over the fire pits at the site.”
• Kayaking: The backwaters of the Mississippi are perfect for kayaking. Campers at Wyalusing State Park Campground rave about the access to these waters, saying, “Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi.”

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers love the stunning views at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground. One reviewer shared, “Campsite D's views were unbeatable. A storm rolled in over the Mississippi as we were heading to bed; it was a magical experience.”
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry. A camper noted, “The park has a great feeling of isolation and wilderness that can be absent from other places.”
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers at Pulpit Rock Campground mention the cleanliness of the facilities. “Bathrooms were warm and really clean, staff was really great,” said one visitor.

What you should know:

• Train Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, be aware that some campgrounds, like Bloody Run County Park, are near train tracks. One camper mentioned, “A train comes through at 10pm and 3am every night almost.”
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Big Paint Campground, have limited amenities. A visitor noted, “The sites there are pretty spacious and level, but they don't feel very private because this campground is essentially just an open field.”
• Primitive Camping: If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, Camp Glen Wendel offers primitive sites. A reviewer said, “Sites have fire rings and benches, some more spacious than others.”

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds. Pikes Peak State Park Campground has trails that are great for family hikes. One family shared, “Hiking was phenomenal at Pikes Peak! We will never forget those views!”
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. Campers at Goose Island enjoyed fishing and boating, saying, “This campground is ideal for boating, fishing and camping.”
• Pack for Comfort: Bring insect repellent and comfortable seating. A camper at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground mentioned, “Be prepared for humidity and bugs, it’s right by the river.”

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: RVers should check the size of the sites before booking. One reviewer at Blackhawk Park noted, “The electric sites are like a typical RV park, not much space or privacy.”
• Use a Fan for Bugs: To keep bugs away, consider using a fan at your campsite. A camper at Goose Island mentioned, “We use a fan at the campsite which really kept most of them away.”
• Plan for Dump Stations: Make sure to know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Pulpit Rock Campground appreciated the availability of a dump station, saying, “Very Easy to use dump station.”

Camping near Harpers Ferry, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. With beautiful parks and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature.