Glamping options surround Maquoketa, Iowa, where the Cedar and Maquoketa Rivers wind through rolling Driftless Region terrain. Seasonal availability typically runs April through October, with winter options limited to Rock Creek Marina and Campground. Most sites feature electric hookups, with water access varying by location.
What to do
River paddling access: Rock Creek County Marina and Campground offers canoe and kayak rentals with numerous Mississippi backwater channels to explore. "Plenty of sites, boat landing, kayak/canoe rentals, naturalist programs, nature center with native animals including large fish aquarium, cabins, park store and kitchen, shower house, pontoon river cruises," notes James M. The educational Eco Center enhances the experience with guided river tours.
Fishing opportunities: At Blanding Landing, visitors can access the Mississippi River for fishing. "Overall nice campground. Hosts are friendly and I saw rangers driving through multiple times. Each site includes picnic table and fire pit. Most have electric," reports Mary S. The campground provides both riverfront and wooded sites with varying levels of shade.
Mini golf and swimming: Cedar River Campground maintains family activities beyond standard camping. "They have mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids," mentions Jackie J. The campground sits along the Cedar River with boat access and provides recreational facilities for campers seeking additional activities.
What campers like
Accessible natural areas: Swiss Valley County Park provides multiple outdoor environments in one location. "Campground is well maintained, restrooms, showers, recycling station, fire wood available, campground host onsite, resident park ranger, standard RV sites, some electric tent sites otherwise primitive with fire rings and tables. Trout stream (Catfish Creek) runs through campground and park and is stocked by Iowa DNR, has Swiss Valley Nature center with trails," writes James M.
Educational opportunities: Central Park provides learning experiences alongside recreation. "This campground has a beautiful little lake. The museum is fun afternoon trip to hike to and visit. There are a few times when the Boy Scouts take this park over for council events. A great time for the family to get out and enjoy the outdoors," notes Robert F. The park combines recreational opportunities with educational resources.
Site amenities: Campgrounds in the Maquoketa region typically provide basic facilities with varying levels of services. Michael S. explains that at Swiss Valley County Park, "We stayed there during the week and it seemed pretty quiet. The shower facilities weren't bad but they have sulfites in the water so it stinks a little. Fishing seemed popular in catfish creek about 50 feet away from our sight."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds near Maquoketa experience periodic train disruptions. At Blanding Landing, Ruth M. advises, "Quiet, relaxing small campground with super clean hot showers and flush toilets in shower house. Boat ramp, dock fishing, tall trees all over. Shady sites, water pump faucets, dump station. Our first night here the many trains were loud and woke us up, but if you can laugh instead of being annoyed, it is fine."
Water quality variations: Several campgrounds report distinct water characteristics. Andi A. mentions about Swiss Valley, "The toilets can use a little cleaning but the showers stunk so bad I wasn't sure I wanted to shower in them." This appears consistent across several locations where mineral content affects water smell.
Winter camping limitations: For yurt camping near Maquoketa, Iowa during colder months, options become restricted. James M. notes, "Wilderness campground is closed for the winter" at Scott County Park. Similar seasonal closures affect most glamping structures, with only Rock Creek Marina maintaining year-round availability.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Facilities for children vary significantly between locations. "Campground offers host, nicely maintained heated showers and restrooms, play area, firewood, available on site," James M. reports about Woodside Campground. Playgrounds provide entertainment options for families with children.
Swimming options: Camelot Campground (formerly Quad Cities KOA) offers swimming facilities. Dan B. reports, "Fantastic campground. Facilities were well maintained and the staff was great! Traveling with 3 younger kids and they enjoyed all the activities." The pool provides water recreation when river access is unavailable or undesirable.
Educational programs: Many campgrounds provide nature programs specifically designed for children. Crystal R. says of Rock Creek County Marina, "Gorgeous surrounding, something for everyone. No strict rules. Environmental center for kids and adults alike and a cafe." The environmental education component enhances family camping experiences with structured learning opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. At Blanding Landing, Tony D. cautions, "Not the worst but not one of the best COE campgrounds. No nice gravel or concrete pads anywhere. Many sites are not real level." RVers should bring leveling blocks when visiting most locations.
Winter accessibility: Seasonal services vary for those seeking yurt camping in Maquoketa area during colder months. While most glamping structures close, select campgrounds maintain limited winter services with restricted amenities. James M. observes Woodside Campground has "Newer CG offers RVs including big rigs basics like electric, water, sewer, fire rings, hard pads. Not much shade though trees are planted."
