G
Greg F.
Traveler
TravelerVel Terra
Great little campground in rural setting. The owner was great. We stayed in Oct 25 while doing a fall color/wine tasting/Galena trip. It was a perfect central location for us.
Dog-Friendly Camping near Maquoketa, IA
8 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground welcomes dogs throughout its 24 electric campsites and 5 walk-in tent sites. Pets must be leashed at all times while exploring the park's trail system and cave entrances. Eden Valley Refuge offers pet-friendly accommodations across tent sites, RV spaces with electric hookups, and cabin rentals, providing multiple options for camping with animal companions. Other pet-accepting campgrounds near Maquoketa include Horseshoe Pond, 6B's Campground, and Jackson County Fairgrounds, each with varying amenities for campers with dogs. Most sites feature picnic tables and fire rings where pets can relax with their owners during meals. The campground at Maquoketa Caves remains relatively quiet during weekdays, making it ideal for dogs sensitive to noise and crowds. Campground data and reviews near Maquoketa, Iowa is regularly updated on The Dyrt.
Trails connecting the 13 caves at Maquoketa Caves State Park provide excellent walking opportunities for leashed dogs, though pet owners should note that some cave passages require crawling and may be challenging to navigate with dogs. The nearby Maquoketa River at 6B's Campground offers water access where dogs can cool off during summer months. Several campgrounds feature grassy areas suitable for pet exercise, though no dedicated dog parks exist within the immediate camping facilities. When exploring caves with pets, headlamps are essential for both human and animal safety. Horseshoe Pond includes a fishing area and small dog park adjacent to the camping area, providing additional recreational space for pets. The area experiences temperatures ranging from 60s-80s during summer camping season, ideal for outdoor activities with pets, though flies can be persistent around campsites according to visitor reports.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Maquoketa (124)
1. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
"Fire wood is available near the bathrooms with a donation box. Best part of this campsite was the walking distance from Maquoketa Caves State Park site with beautiful hiking trails easy to explore."
"Hand’s down, this is one of Iowa’s best state parks, so if you’ve never made your way here to Maquoketa Caves SP, you need to start making your plans."
11 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $15 - $25 / night
2. Eden Valley Refuge
"Near Lost Nation, Oxford Junction, and Wyoming, IA this park is an unexpected find in rural, eastern Iowa. The camping areas have expanded."
"Well we found a pretty good one that is relatively close to our home and is rarely reserved. Its only 1 hour North of the Quad Cities where I live & open year round!"
3. 6B's Campground
"Following up on my review from over a year ago, here’s a refreshed look at this warm, unpretentious, and delightfully layered campground just east of Maquoketa Caves State Park."
"My twin brother and I discovered this little hidden gem of a campground outpost just a mile or so east of Maquoketa Caves SP."
4. Horseshoe Pond
Check Availabilityfrom $21 / night
5. Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground
"Hidden gem near the iowa/illinois border. Secluded and beautiful."
"It has trails for walking and lots of concrete for riding bikes. We did both. The park is close to the River and has plenty of places to put your boat in across the highway."
6. Bellevue State Park Campground — Dyas Unit
"We had stayed there because we couldn't get a site at Maquoketa Caves State Park and ended up quite happy."
"CG site atop river bluff with pads, fire rings, tables, RR, recycling, trails, shelters nearby. Sites are close to each other but plenty to do."
44 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $12 - $20 / night
7. Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
"One of the 6 campgrounds that you will have to choose from here at Scott County Park, Bald Eagle CG & Cabins is one that is more geared for the RV driving and trailer toting tribes as each site has"
"Enjoyed almost 2 weeks at West Lake Park, part of the Scott County, IA park system. Helpful staff, park rangers make daily patrols, nice spots, many with shade trees & decent room."
Check Availabilityfrom $17 - $36 / night
8. Joinerville County Park
9. Walnut Grove Co Park
10. Jackson County Iowa Fairgrounds
Drive Time
- 33 min from Dubuque, IA
- 34 min from Davenport, IA
- 1 hr 7 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 1 hr 20 min from Iowa City, IA
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Maquoketa, IA
81 Photos of 124 Maquoketa Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
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Maquoketa Caves State Park CampgroundD
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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Maquoketa, IA
736 Reviews of 124 Maquoketa Campgrounds
Cyndi R.
ScoutBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Clean, quiet and nice facilities but the placement of the fire rings borders on the absurd. These are obviously RV sites so there's already little expectation of privacy but they're good size and leave ample space behind your camper. The site we were on was tree-lined in the back. Perfect for a fire ring, right? Nah. Instead they're out front 5 ft from the road. I've never seen anything like it. 🥴
- Stuart K.
LegendPark Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
Quad Cities Sweet Camping Retreat
Just minutes west of Davenport, Park Terrace Campground is a delightful county-operated camping destination nestled within the sprawling 620-acre West Lake Park. With four picturesque lakes, rolling green lawns, mature shade trees and an impressive assortment of recreational activities, this is much more than your average roadside CG. Whether you're passing through the Quad Cities or settling in for a relaxing weekend, there's plenty to keep you entertained, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, disc golf and a seasonal swimming beach. It's an especially appealing destination for families who appreciate having a little adventure right outside their camper door.
The campground itself features approximately 77 campsites, including spacious RV sites with 50-amp electrical service, water and sewer hookups, plus 13 primitive tent sites tucked toward the wooded perimeter in the rear - so for those tent campers that like to be somewhat removed from the RV crowd, this is an excellent option. Most RV sites are reasonably level, with gravel parking pads, picnic tables and fire rings, although spacing can be a little cozy (er, tight) in places. Mature trees provide welcome shade throughout portions of the campground, while the modern bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Additional conveniences include a dump station, playground, seasonal campground host and firewood availability. Best of all, the CG delivers an impressive collection of amenities without the hefty price tag of a commercial RV resort.
A few things worth knowing before arriving: the CG is accessed through Gate 5 off 110th Avenue, and water hookups are generally seasonal despite the CG's year-round designation. Some sites are more exposed than others, and the relatively close spacing means privacy isn't necessarily its strongest selling point. Nevertheless, for RV travelers, tent campers and families seeking affordable accommodations with outstanding recreational opportunities, Park Terrace is a terrific little discovery.
Insider's Tip: Tent campers should head toward the designated wooded camping area toward the back of the CG for a more traditional outdoor experience. RV travelers should bring an extra-long drinking-water hose, as some sites share water connections positioned several campsites apart. Also, the park gates close overnight, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Happy Camping!
Nicole R.
GuideMiller Riverview City Park
Right on the river
We came towards the end of season so we were one of the few people staying there. The spaces are close together but we had no one near us so we didn’t mind. We had a great experience with the host, very friendly. However, it is a bit noisy since the highway is right there and you do constantly hear the trains. Also, there are some questionable people roaming through the campground.
- mmaryellen S.Guide
Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek)
I arrived after dark. Crept in slowly as its dark. Loop B. Found a spot easy. I’ll drop the envelope on the way out. Some minor road noise. Dark! Quiet! So far, excellent. I plan to head out early. I would stay here again. $25water/electric. Cash in iron ranger. Haven’t used the restroom. Perhaps in the morning. Lovely clear night sky
Amy B.ScoutCrow Valley Campground
Avoid this Campground at all cost
Seasonal Stay Review Overall Rating:⭐☆☆☆☆ Our experience as seasonal campers at this campground was deeply disappointing due to unprofessional management, inconsistent rule enforcement, premature lease violations, and a toxic atmosphere. Management& Atmosphere The campground owner frequently engaged in inappropriate behaviors, including spreading gossip, making disrespectful comments, and actively bullying campers both in person and on social media platforms. Rather than fostering a welcoming community, the leadership promoted a divisive culture marked by clear favoritism. Inconsistent Rule Enforcement Rules were applied arbitrarily. Certain seasonal campers were permitted to disregard campground policies without consequence, while others were singled out, micromanaged, and targeted for minor or non-existent issues. Unprofessional Conduct Regarding Minors Most concerning was management’s unacceptable conduct toward children. The owner actively made a ten-year-old child feel unwelcome by making inappropriate insinuations regarding his friendship with a nearly thirteen-year-old girl, claiming a platonic friendship between a boy and a girl of those ages was somehow improper. Targeting young children and policing harmless childhood friendships crosses a line that no family should have to deal with while on vacation. Breach of Contract& Property Damage To make matters worse, management prematurely cut off electricity to our campsite prior to the end of our contractual agreement. This lack of power led to a total loss of all refrigerated food items and caused significant interior damage to our camper when the freezer thawed and the ice inside it melted and leaked onto the flooring. Additionally, management unlawfully removed personal property from our campsite before our lease term had expired and failed to return it. Conclusion While a seasonal site should offer a relaxing environment for families, the current ownership creates an uncomfortable, hostile, and unethical environment. Between the emotional hostility and the direct financial loss caused by management's actions, I strongly advise others to avoid this campground.
- James M.Legend
Cabin 4, Rock Creek Marina & Campground
The camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people and include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags;All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent-- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, boat ramp, paddling rentals, store with grill, Eco Tourism Center pontoon rides, and nature center with displays and programs.
- James M.Legend
Cabin 1, Rock Creek Marina & Campground
The camping cabins are provided with twin size bunks for four people that include air conditioning, heat, and a small refrigerator and microwave oven. A fire ring and picnic table are provided for each cabin. One tent is allowed on site.
SUPPLIES PROVIDED: Broom & dustpan. Refuse must be removed to nearby dumpster
*RENTER WILL NEED TO BRING:*Complete bedding with pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags; All camping supplies; All bath linens & toiletries(Shower house located inside the park);Lawn chairs (if desired)
Rent- $50/night payable by Visa or Mastercard. Sorry, but we are currently unable to accept Discover cards. Any questions please call 563-259-1876. Park offers playground, store and grill, paddle rentals, nature center too.
- James M.Legend
Pintail Cabin- Rock Creek Marina
Neat County park in Mississippi River backwaters
Park has multiple cabins. Pintail Cabin is an ADA compliant, fully accessible cabin that sleeps up to 6 people. The cabin includes a queen-size adjustable bed that raises and lowers for easy access, twin size bunk bed, a full-size sofa sleeper, table/chairs. Kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, electric cook top, sink. Central Heat/AC. Bathroom has accessible roll-in shower. There is also has a large deck and an accessible picnic table and fire ring outside. Bedding, towels, and kitchen cookware and utensils are not provided. The cabin has an ADA compliant access ramp. Tents are not permitted on this site. There is a playground, boat ramp, paddle rentals, Eco Tourism Center with small store and grill, and a nature center offering programs! The Blue Heron pontoon boat offers tours on the water too!
Guide to Maquoketa
Maquoketa, Iowa sits within rolling hills and limestone bluffs, with camping areas located between 700-900 feet in elevation. The region features numerous small waterways including the Maquoketa River and Bear Creek, creating diverse ecosystems for wildlife. Summer nighttime temperatures typically drop into the 50s even when daytime highs reach the 80s, making extra layers essential for evening campfires.
What to do
Explore limestone caves: Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground offers 6 miles of hiking trails connecting 13 caves. "The trails have sign posts and the map in a VERY general way gives you some idea as to where you are at BUT there are trails criss crossing everywhere so make sure you have your map tracker on," advises camper Shelly S.
River paddling: 6B's Campground provides direct river access for kayakers and canoeists. "The lower level straddles the Maquoketa River and offers up splendid waterfront views of the slow-moving, fresh-water creek variety," notes Stuart K., who appreciated the convenient boat access.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies near campgrounds provide fishing options. At Walnut Grove Co Park, campers enjoy "good fishing and paddling" on the Wapsipinicon River, according to James M., who noted the river access ramp makes getting watercraft in and out convenient.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: For those seeking privacy, Eden Valley Refuge offers hike-in options away from the main campground. "It's a little hike in for the dispersed sites, but worth it to be in a secluded woodsy site. Was peaceful and relaxing," reports Carissa V., who appreciated the pit toilets near these remote sites.
Clean facilities: Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins maintains exceptional restroom facilities. "The bathroom/shower facilities with great HOT running water and are about as impeccably clean as can be," notes Stuart K., highlighting an important comfort factor for many campers.
Unique geological features: The natural bridge at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground draws visitors. "The natural bridge is incredible, and the sites are well spaced out," says Andrew Y., mentioning this distinctive limestone formation that spans across a ravine within the park.
What you should know
Cave closures: Check ahead for bat hibernation periods at Maquoketa Caves. "I would STRONGLY encourage you to mind your dates taking note of when bat hibernation ends and begins," recommends Stuart K., who arrived to find caves closed.
Limited tent options: Some campgrounds primarily cater to RVs. "Bald Eagle kind of lives up to its name as there's not much in the way of tree cover or brush," notes Stuart K. about the exposed nature of certain camping areas.
Wildlife encounters: Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground provides wildlife viewing opportunities. "Expect to see whitetail deer as they love to make the park home," reports Kimberly W., highlighting the abundant wildlife in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Maquoketa feature play areas. "If you have kids and want to be planted near the playground, you might want to target sites #26-#28, where the spacious kids playground sets right behind these sites," suggests Stuart K. about Maquoketa Caves State Park.
Historical attractions: Pioneer villages offer educational opportunities. "We would definitely recommend stopping by [Pioneer Village], and definitely stop in the ice-cream shop and get a cone!" encourages M E. after visiting the historic site near Bald Eagle Campground.
Swimming options: Seasonal pools provide relief during summer heat. "The pool was open while we were there but we did not partake. It was really hot out so the pool was packed! It looks really nice from the road, it has 2 water slides and a small child area fashioned similar to a splash park," notes M E.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At pet-accommodating campgrounds in the Maquoketa area, location matters. "You probably don't want sites 1 or 2, they are directly across from the dump site," advises Shelly S. about Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground.
Year-round options: Horseshoe Pond provides camping near town conveniences. The campground offers "gravel pads, tables, fire rings, electric, sump station, water, small pond with fishing, paddling, dog park. Close to stores for supplies, dining, fuel," according to James M.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts the camping experience significantly. "I think if we were here when it is less buggy, we would have enjoyed it much more but at the end of May, we saw a guy wearing a head net he said he wouldn't sell to us for a $100," reports Lee D. about seasonal insect challenges at Bellevue State Park Campground.
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Maquoketa, IA is Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 124 dog-friendly camping locations near Maquoketa, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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