Best Campgrounds near Maquoketa, IA

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

What to do:

• Explore caves: Visit Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground for a unique experience. One camper mentioned, "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."
• Hiking trails: Check out Backbone State Park for stunning trails. A visitor shared, "There are tons of trails, specifically the spot we camped at was right by the trail so we had easy access."
• Fishing and boating: At Lake Macbride State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. One reviewer noted, "The park offers lake fishing, paddling, swimming beach, trails, education center."

What campers like:

• Scenic views: Campers at Nelson Dewey State Park rave about the views. One camper said, "The trails were enchanting and abundant in life... it was such an unexpected delight."
• Clean facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at F. W. Kent Park mentioned, "Bathrooms were spotless and water is drinkable."
• Quiet atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of places like Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River. One reviewer stated, "Place was calm, relaxing, and even quiet, despite the holiday weekend."

What you should know:

• Train noise: If you camp at Nelson Dewey State Park, be prepared for train sounds. A camper warned, "When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries... it's incredibly loud!"
• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Sugar Bottom Campground, lack certain amenities. A visitor noted, "There’s no place to buy firewood nearby so come prepared."
• Secluded sites: Campers at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground found some sites very secluded. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground provided a quieter respite."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose flat sites: Look for level camping spots, especially at White Pines Forest State Park. A camper advised, "I wouldn’t recommend any on the hilly side, but sites 20-26 are fabulous!"
• Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Lake Macbride State Park Campground enjoyed the "quiet nearby trail within walking distance."
• Pack snacks and meals: Campers at F. W. Kent Park appreciated the amenities nearby. One said, "Easy to get to amenities and grocery stores."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site sizes: RVers at Sugar Bottom Campground found some sites close together. One noted, "Most of the sites back up to your neighbors and a lot of sites were very close together."
• Be prepared for limited service: Campers at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground mentioned spotty cell service. A visitor shared, "Verizon service was not great in the area but could still stay connected for the most part."
• Bring extra supplies: At Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River, one camper suggested, "You do get some traffic noise... bring your own firewood."

Camping near Maquoketa, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!