Best known for its rich farming history, Iowa is also rich and diverse in nature, with a multitude of destinations to camp and hike. If you’re planning on camping in Iowa, you’re in luck.


Effigy Mounds National Monument is situated on the bank of the Mississippi River at the eastern border of Iowa. Part of the “driftless” region of Iowa that was left untouched by the passing glaciers thousands of years ago, the area’s bluffs, forests, and other habitats host diverse ecosystems to explore and admire.


More than that, Effigy Mounds is notable for its historic settlement by the Native American Effigy Moundbuilders, who build massive sets of mounds that, from a bird’s eye view, form the shape of animals such as bears, cats, and birds. These nature-inspired monuments blend well with the natural scenery, making it an ideal site for camping.


Another excellent site for camping in Iowa is Maquoketa Caves State Park. Located next to the eastern Iowa town of Maquoketa, the 370-acre park contains amazing caves weaving throughout the limestone bedrock of the bluffs. Spelunkers and nature-enthusiasts alike will enjoy exploring the caverns, such as the 800-foot long Dancehall Cave.


Even if you’re not up for venturing into the caverns, there are plenty of other things to do at Maquoketa Caves. Hikers can walk along six miles of trails throughout the park, passing by habitats ranging from bluffs to woodlands to prairies. Unfortunately, the campgrounds are closed until October 2018 for renovations to the camping facilities, but when it is open again you should definitely consider a visit.


Camping in Iowa is diverse and plentiful, there are countless campsites and trails that you may wish to consider. Once you start exploring Iowa’s natural ecosystems, you’ll begin to see the true beauty of the vibrant state.

Iowa

The Best Camping in Iowa | 100+ IA Campgrounds

Looking for the best campgrounds near Little Groves, IA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Little Groves. Discover great camping spots near Little Groves, reviewed by campers like you.

Little Groves

The Best Camping Near Little Groves, Iowa

Camp along the Cedar River amidst a perennial, natural food farm just a few miles north of I-80 in East Central Iowa. River valley views, including amazing sunrises and sunsets, turkeys, deer, pheasants and more. Tent and van camping with a fire ring, a bundle of firewood and picnic table provided.



Draco Hill Farm and Prairie

We are a seasonal campground open April 15 thru October 15. We have seasonal, monthly, weekly, and overnight rates. We have planned activities as well as many amenities. River frontage, canoe/ tube rental, mini golf, pool and so much more.



Cedar River Campground

## Overview

Shady Creek Campground is a 22-acre park where campers enjoy getaways on the banks of the Mississippi River. A nature trail, shore fishing and fantastic bird watching are offered at Shady Creek.

## Recreation

The Mississippi River draws many anglers annually. The most popular fish species is the channel catfish; bluegill, walleye and northern pike are also found in the river.  
  
Picnicking and playing horseshoes is a popular activity in the park.

## Facilities

The park's campsites contain 50-amp electric hookups, campfire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets and showers are provided. A boat ramp and playground are on-site.

## Natural Features

The park has spectacular views of the Mississippi River. Many trees throughout the campground provide great places to lounge in the shade.  
  
The Upper Mississippi River begins at the headwaters of Lake Itasca, Minnesota and flows 1,250 miles to Cairo, Illinois where it joins the Ohio River. 

## Nearby Attractions

Wildcat Den State Park is just north of Shady Creek, offering hiking trails and the historic Pine Creek Grist Mill built in 1848.  
  
The Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge is a 40-minute drive downstream. Trails and observation decks are open to the public. Hunting and fishing are allowed in many area of the refuge.

Shady Creek

This 11 acre park is a popular Class A campground along the Mississippi River.  It has 45 concrete sites all with 50 amp electrical service and many with great views of the river.  The park is shaded by large mature trees and recently landscaped planters to provide that relaxing atmosphere that camping promotes.  Many of these campsites can accommodate large RV’s, and most sites also offer much “green space” between you and your neighbor’s campsite. 

This busy recreation area is open from May 1 through the fourth Sunday in October.  Making reservations well in advance are encouraged to guarantee you have a spot to camp when you arrive.   This is especially true for holiday weekends and for local area special events held throughout the recreation season. The park is accessible to day users only and no camping is allowed during the seasonal closure.

## Overview

Clarks Ferry is a outdoor lovers delight, with fantastic bird watching and lots of shore fishing opportunities with our new accessible fishing dock! The park has plenty of trees to lounge under while taking in the spectacular views of the mighty Mississippi River. 

## Recreation

Take the kids to one of the two playgrounds, play a game of horseshoes, volleyball, or go boating. The Mississippi River draws crowds of anglers for channel catfish, bluegill, walleye, crappie and northern pike.

## Facilities

Picnic tables, campfire rings, and 50-amp electric hookups are provided at every campsite. A boat ramp, dump station, and picnic shelter are also onsite.

## Natural Features

The park is surrounded by large mature trees along the Iowa side of the Upper Mississippi River. The Upper Mississippi is the section of the river that starts in the headwaters of Lake Itasca, Minnesota and flows 1,250 miles to Cairo, Illinois, where it joins with the Ohio River. 

## Nearby Attractions

Clarks Ferry is near the Shady Creek Recreation Area and the Wildcat Den State Park.

Clarks Ferry

Park Terrace Campground is open year-round during seasonal park hours. The restroom is open year-round. Due to weather conditions, water is available to the camp sites from mid April to mid October (weather dependent). Water is always available at the dump station.

Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park 

Rock Island-Quad Cities KOA

Scott County Park

Summit Cabin Features:

    1176 sq. feet of living space (28’ x 42’ cabin)
    ADA accessible
    Modern bathroom with shower
    Two bedrooms. One with queen size bed and twin-size bunk beds, another with a queensize bed only. Fold-out queen-size sofa bed in main room - sleeps 8.
    Full Kitchen – stove/oven, microwave, refrigerator, sink, dishwasher, table & 8 chairs with place settings, coffee pot, toaster, pots, pans, and cooking utensils
    Gas fireplace, gas heat & air conditioning
    Covered porch, picnic table and fire ring
    Vehicle parking for 2 vehicles only
    Wireless Internet Access available
    Firewood can be purchased at the park

Supplies Provided:

    Toilet tissue, dish soap, & cleaning supplies
    Broom, dustpan & mop
    Waste baskets and garbage bags

Renter Will Need to Bring:

    Complete bedding with pillows, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags
    Dish cloth and towels
    All food & beverage supplies
    All bath linens and toiletries
    Specialty cooking utensils
    TV, radio, alarm clock (optional)
    Lawn chairs (recommended)


Summit Cabin 1

Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park

Two historical attractions both have active friends groups. One is the "turn of the century" Melpine one-room schoolhouse, which is located in the park and offers visitors a glimpse of Iowa's past.

The other historical attraction is the Pine Creek Grist Mill, which was built in 1848. The mill was built by Benjamin Nye, one of Muscatine County's first settlers. He also built the county's first store and post office in 1838. The mill is one of the finest examples of mid-19th century mills left in the country and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The mill is being restored to its original condition. Great strides have been made at the mill and it is now grinding corn for the first time in more than 75 years.

Wildcat Den is a great place for a family to "get away from it all" for a weekend or a family vacation. Campsites can be reserved in the non-modern campground which has water and vault toilets. There are no showers and there is no electrical service to the campsites.



Wildcat Den State Park

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Jacksonville. Jacksonville is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Jacksonville and user-submitted reviews.

Jacksonville

The Best Camping Near Jacksonville, Iowa

Des Moines is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Des Moines campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Des Moines

The Best Camping Near Des Moines, Iowa

Are you in need of a campground near Cedar Rapids, IA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Iowa camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Cedar Rapids

The Best Camping Near Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Davenport is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Davenport, reviewed by campers like you.

Davenport

The Best Camping Near Davenport, Iowa

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Sioux City

The Best Camping Near Sioux City, Iowa

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Waterloo

The Best Camping Near Waterloo, Iowa

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Iowa City, IA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Iowa City, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Iowa City camping trip.

Iowa City

The Best Camping Near Iowa City, Iowa

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Council Bluffs

The Best Camping Near Council Bluffs, Iowa

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Ames

The Best Camping Near Ames, Iowa

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Dubuque

The Best Camping Near Dubuque, Iowa

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Lake Red Rock

The Best Camping Near Lake Red Rock, Iowa

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Rathbun Lake

The Best Camping Near Rathbun Lake, Iowa

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Coralville Lake

The Best Camping Near Coralville Lake, Iowa

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The Best Camping in Little Groves

Top Campgrounds in Little Groves (124)

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