Dundee's camping region sits along Iowa's Paleozoic Plateau, characterized by steep limestone bluffs and deep river valleys unlike most of Iowa's flat terrain. The area's unique geology creates diverse camping environments, from wooded ridge-top sites to riverside campgrounds. Winter camping is available at several campgrounds though water systems are typically winterized from October through April.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: Fountain Springs County Park offers access to a regularly stocked trout stream just yards from primitive campsites. "This campground also goes by the name of Holbert. Small campground but free with a handful of picnic tables and campfires. This campground is next to a pretty little creek that you can play and fish in," notes Annie C. about Fountain Springs County Park.
Trail exploration: The park system near Dundee features numerous educational hiking paths. Kerry M. mentions, "The several times I have camped, there have been at most a few other sites with people camping. Often, I have been alone in the campground, which is perfect for those seeking solitude." Wildlife viewing includes turkeys, woodpeckers, whitetail deer, and occasionally raccoons or skunks.
Disc golf: Multiple campgrounds in the area offer disc golf courses as recreational options. Jakway County Park includes "Horse shoes, disc golf, woodland trails, and a playground. There is also a historical site - the Richardson-Jakway home built in the 1850's," according to Carolyn M. at Jakway County Park.
What campers like
Creek access for children: Bailey's Ford Park provides safe water play opportunities for families with young children. Chantal C. from Baileys Ford reports, "The park has the river on one end and cold water springs all around the other side. There are restrooms which are well taken care of...There are multiple playgrounds with grills and shelter, and tons of easy hiking for families with kids."
Clean, modern facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high-standard restrooms and shower facilities. At New Wine Park, Russell B. shared, "Very nice campground at reasonable price. Water/Elec was $18 dollars night. We stayed just after Labor Day and we were one of 6 trailers in the entire park." This county park offers both electric and primitive sites.
Wildlife observation: Camping sites near Dundee, Iowa provide natural habitats for various wildlife. At Fountain Springs, Kerry notes, "Usually, I hear (or see) turkeys and woodpeckers. Other camp visitors include whitetail deer, squirrels, raccoons, and the occasional skunk."
What you should know
Seasonal variations in water quality: Some water recreation areas have fluctuating conditions. Cheryl V. noted about Backbone State Park, "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it. Campsites are close together w no privacy." This contrasts with stream and river access points which typically maintain better quality.
Reservation systems vary: County parks in the area have different booking policies. Annie C. explains about New Wine Park, "The local sheriff's office regularly sends a trooper through to patrol the campground and collect the fee envelopes from the drop box. It was nice visiting with him."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. At Fountain Springs, Tammie C. reports, "Free up to two weeks, very primitive, all I could do was text from my AT&T phone. Very odd wormy looking things falling from the trees. I forgot where my morning destination was and had to use GPS to feel my way out until I had service again."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple camping areas feature playgrounds designed specifically for children. Elizabeth K. from New Wine Park Dubuque County Park shares, "Nice, smaller campground! No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together. Newer playground that my kids love, sand so that's an extra play optional. Small creek runs through the park and a fun place for kids to explore and play in."
Group-friendly layouts: Some campgrounds accommodate family gatherings better than others. Rachel H. notes about Six Pines Campground, "I went with a group of entering sixth grade Girl Scouts on a weekend tent camping trip to this park. The campsites were simple to access and the grounds were easy to navigate. We hiked on the famous Backbone trail - a really fun hike that isn't too incredibly long."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature centers and historical sites. Therese T. recommends, "The tent camping sites are quiet, well shaded and good access to the fishing stream. Running water Bathrooms closed due to covid but the vault toilets are fine. Hiking trails are absolutely gorgeous, 3 playgrounds for the kids. Little nature center was nice. Staff there were great."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electrical service varies across camping options near Dundee. Edward B. from South Lake Campground — Backbone State Park advises, "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available."
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles better than others. Douglas B. notes about New Wine Park, "Cannot say enough about this campground. Good clean restrooms. Plenty of space. Quiet. LOTS of shade. Fun place to be in a thunder storm!" The campground features well-spaced sites with gravel parking pads.
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds provide sanitary disposal services. Russell B. mentions, "The showers and restrooms are what you might expect for an unattended camp ground. We did see a sign in front of a trailer that said camp host but they must have had the night off. If I was coming back to the area I would definitely come back to this campground."
