Camping options near Maquoketa, Iowa include sites along the Mississippi River backwaters and inland locations with varying terrain. The region sits within the Driftless Area, characterized by steep bluffs and rolling landscapes untouched by glaciers. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Paddle the backwaters: Rock Creek County Marina and Campground offers kayak and canoe rentals with access to Mississippi River backwaters. "The grounds are on backwaters of the Mississippi so there are boat ramps, docks, and areas to fish. The camp store also offers canoe, kayak, and other boat rentals," notes Chris F.
Bike the Great River Trail: Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River connects to extensive biking opportunities. "We spent the morning biking the Great River Bike trail as we enjoyed the perfect weather," shares Scott M. Sebastian G. adds, "Going south will take you through Hampton, East Moline, Moline, Rock Island, and you can cross over to Davenport, circle Credit Island, and pick up other paths in Iowa."
Explore educational centers: The Eco Tourism Center at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground provides nature programs and exhibits. "Nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore," reports Jeff and Linda L. James M. describes it as having a "nature center with native animals including large fish aquarium."
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: Several rv campgrounds near Maquoketa feature level concrete surfaces. Gary P. from Shady Creek notes, "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one. Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed throughout the park."
Riverfront camping views: Shady Creek provides premium Mississippi River vantage points. "Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi," says Donna T. Elisha L. from Fishermans Corner adds, "There are a few non-electric tent only sites as well. We were disappointed that we could stay one night due to our schedule."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. At Rustic Barn Campground RV Park, Tina N. reports, "Some of the cleanest bath/shower houses you'll find anywhere." Tom N. describes Geneseo Campground as having "nice shower rooms and amenities and very reasonably priced."
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Railroad tracks near riverfront campgrounds create noise disruptions. Ruth M. at Blanding Landing shares, "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." Sarah C. from Fishermans Corner notes, "There's a train but it was infrequent so it did not disrupt our sleep."
Weather conditions: Spring flooding and summer storms can affect camping experiences. Juli H. at Spruce Creek Park encountered challenges: "When our camp site was ankle deep in water...When our camp was destroyed the next night from the storm."
Connectivity varies: Cell reception differs across the region. Mary S. at Blanding Landing mentions, "As a note, we have ATT and had decent cell service here." Other campgrounds report varying levels of WiFi access, with Geneseo Campground advertising "WiFi everywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Many Maquoketa area rv campgrounds include play areas for children. Crystal R. from Rock Creek County Marina says, "Gorgeous surrounding, something for everyone. Environmental center for kids and adults alike and a cafe." Chris F. adds, "They also have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed."
Kid-friendly recreation: Geneseo Campground offers unique activities for children. Stuart K. describes, "There's an amazing kid's playground, well-stocked camp store, propane refueling station, kayak & canoe rental, gas grill rental, e-bike, pedal carts & fat tire bike rental." Elizabeth R. confirms, "Pedal bikes for kids (and grown ups), a spray ground, and more!"
Pet considerations: Most campgrounds allow pets but have varying policies. Victoria R. from Blanding Landing shares, "I was a solo female traveler with my two service dogs...The other campers were friendly, and the one site neighbor we had even came to visit and meet my dogs and gave them organic dog treats." Rustic Barn Campground features "a huge grassy area for walking the dog and several stations set up with poop bags/garbage."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose spots based on specific preferences and needs. At Off Shore RV Park, James M. notes, "Sites have hard surfaces, fire rings, water, electric. No shade since trees have not been planted as of this date." For Interstate RV Park, Dan L. advises, "The sites are nice wooded sites. A mix of gravel and pavement."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Spruce Creek Park operates from April through October, while Rock Creek County Marina and Campground remains open year-round. Check schedules before planning trips.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the region. Kaitlynn B. from Interstate RV Park uses helpful symbols to indicate, "50 ⚡️💩👍💧👍" representing 50-amp power, sewer, water hookups. At Porth RV Park, James M. describes, "Basic pull in sites include water, electric, tables, gravel throughout, with a central dump station."
