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.
Tent Camping near Oxford Junction, IA
Search destinations
Add dates
Tent campsites around Oxford Junction, Iowa provide a mix of primitive and established camping options along the Wapsipinicon and Cedar Rivers. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area offers walk-in tent camping with sites positioned along the Maquoketa River, while Draco Hill Farm and Prairie provides three reservable tent sites in a natural setting. Joinerville County Park permits primitive tent camping by advance permit application, though availability is limited.
Most tent campgrounds in the Oxford Junction region require campers to practice Leave No Trace principles, with many sites offering minimal amenities. Fire rings and picnic tables are available at Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area and Draco Hill, though drinking water is generally not provided at primitive sites. Vault toilets can be found at some locations, including Buzzard Ridge, but many areas require campers to pack out all waste. Access varies significantly - Buzzard Ridge features two parking areas from which campers must hike in to reach riverfront sites, while other locations may allow closer vehicle access to tent pads.
The natural setting is a primary draw for tent campers in this region, with riverside locations providing opportunities for fishing, paddling, and wildlife observation. Sites are typically surrounded by native forest and prairie vegetation, offering moderate privacy between camping areas. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area receives particular praise for its unique riverside setting. A review noted, "Unique hike or paddle primitive site. Native forbs and wildlife surrounding the area. Two parking sites to hike in or access by river. Site is along river, has table, fire ring, latrine." Most primitive tent sites in the region remain relatively uncrowded, even during peak summer months, making them suitable for campers seeking quiet natural experiences without extensive facilities.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Oxford Junction (19)
1. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
"Jungletown Ridge is perfect for those looking to get some space from others and enjoy some quiet nights int he woods. Check them out and share some pics from your stay!"
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $45 / night
2. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
"Charcoal grill, fire ring with wood supplied, picnic table, covered porch, trail head right next to cabin. After hours offers quite park, dark skies, and trails with wildlife."
"Cabin offers modern amenities: stove, oven,micro, dishwasher, refrigerator, coffee pot, toaster, ADA access, shower. AC/heat, covered porch, firewood, picnic table, Charcoal grill, trails."
Check Availabilityfrom $70 - $80 / night
3. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
"Unique hike or paddle primitive site. Native forbs and wildlife surrounding the area. Two parking sites to hike in or access by river. Site is along river, has table, fire ring, latrine."
4. Joinerville County Park
5. Cedar River Campground
"Convenient location a lot of amenities and activities"
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
from $35 - $50 / night
6. Koch's Meadow Lake Campground
"This CG is a full service CG for RVs with community buildings, gravel road lanes, pet friendly, and lake access for fishing, paddling and swimming."
7. Hidden River Campground
8. Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only
"People driving around the pond didn't even know we were there! The camping spot was beautiful (although you have to watch out for nettles). Great fishing while we were there too."
9. Draco Hill Farm and Prairie
Check Availabilityfrom $24 - $34 / night
10. Wakpicada Natural Area
"Campsites right next to the pond and good tree cover made the experience fun anyway. Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren’t right next to each other."
Drive Time
- 46 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 49 min from Davenport, IA
- 51 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 2 min from Iowa City, IA
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Oxford Junction, IA
3 Photos of 19 Oxford Junction Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tent Camping Reviews near Oxford Junction, IA
780 Reviews of 19 Oxford Junction 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!
Brenda Y.
RangerMorgan Creek County Park
Great little county park! Lots of back in sites; we found a pull-through that fit our 43' motorhome towing a truck with room to spare (site #20). $25 a night for water and elec is a fair price, and there's a dump station on the way out. My only reason for marking 4 stars is that trees could be trimmed back a bit more for big rigs to navigate without brushing up against them. (See couple pics). However it was late in the season -- we stayed Oct 22 and the park closes for winter on Oct 25, so maybe they'll be due for a trim next spring.
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
James M.LegendRock Creek County Marina and Campground
Neat county Park and campground in Mississippi River backwaters
This campground offers lots of amenities, including: gravel, pads, fire rings, firewood, on site, campground host, playgrounds, water, dump station, both tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. There’s a store for Supplies, and a grill serving food. The Eco tourism center includes interactive and educational displays and programs. The marina offers slips for rent, boat rentals of canoes and kayaks. The campground can get very buggy, considering seasons in Iowa.
- James M.Legend
Wildcat Den State Park Campground
Great State Park with Great trails and mature forests.
This campground has basic amenities, including tables, fire pits, water on site, restrooms. There is also a larger group campsite across from the standard campground. There are many trails throughout the limestone Bluffs and pine Creek credited through. There is a historical site known as Pine Creek Brit Mill, pioneer cemetery, and a cabin and school site.
- James M.Legend
Buffalo Shores County Park
Nice county campground on the Mississippi River
This campground is well located on Highway 22 in Buffalo, Iowa. Sitting along the banks of the Mississippi river, sites include hard pads, fire rings, electric, water, showers, and restrooms, campground Office, seasonal host with wood. There is a playground, volleyball, Sandy beaches, boat ramps. This campground recently connected to City water instead of septic.
Guide to Oxford Junction
Tent camping near Oxford Junction, Iowa offers both riverside and wooded experiences within a network of county-managed wildlife areas and parks. The region sits at approximately 720 feet above sea level in the gently rolling terrain of eastern Iowa's river valleys. Most primitive sites require advance permits or reservations during the peak summer camping season from May through September.
What to do
Fishing access points: Cedar River Campground provides direct access for shore fishing with multiple species available. "Convenient location a lot of amenities and activities," notes a visitor to the campground, highlighting its accessibility for day activities.
Water recreation: Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. offers paddling opportunities along a scenic stretch of the Wapsipinicon River. A reviewer mentioned, "Wapsipinicon River below bluff offers paddling, fishing. Menke Observatory offers sky programs."
Nature observation: Visitors to Draco Hill Farm and Prairie can explore restored prairie habitats during the warmer months. The three tent sites provide an opportunity to observe native Iowa vegetation and wildlife in a protected setting.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: JTRidge Sites receives positive reviews for its secluded setting. As one camper noted, "Jungletown Ridge is perfect for those looking to get some space from others and enjoy some quiet nights int he woods."
Dark skies for stargazing: Worthington Sportsman's Club offers exceptional nighttime viewing away from light pollution. According to one reviewer, "The camping spot was beautiful (although you have to watch out for nettles). Great fishing while we were there too."
Swimming opportunities: Koch's Meadow Lake Campground features a swim area in its lake during summer months. A visitor describes it as "a full service CG for RVs with community buildings, gravel road lanes, pet friendly, and lake access for fishing, paddling and swimming."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Many primitive sites require advance permits, including Joinerville County Park. A reviewer notes, "CG is day use year-round though primitive camping is by approved permit application 1 month in advance of stay."
Seasonal openings: Most campgrounds operate from mid-April through mid-October. At Hidden River Campground, a visitor observed, "They're open from April 15-October 15. Close to I-80 if you need somewhere to stay during your travels."
Limited facilities: Pack accordingly for primitive sites. Koch's Meadow Lake offers water and electrical hookups, but many others have minimal amenities. One camper at Hidden River Campground stated, "Very rustic, older shower/bathrooms that could use an update."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. offers nature programming suitable for children. A reviewer reported, "Education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year round."
Swimming options: Cedar River Campground maintains a swimming pool for children. One visitor wrote, "We had the kids down for the weekend and we thought a campsite with a pool and mini golf would be a fun break from the norm."
Potential hazards: Watch for stinging nettles at Worthington Sportsman's Club according to one visitor who warned, "Great camping, but you have to watch out for nettles."
Tips from RVers
Noise considerations: Cedar River Campground sits near the highway, which affects some campsites. A camper observed, "Very standard rv spots feet from the highway. Hosts are very amicable. Perfect for what we needed, a quick stop on our drive across country."
Length limits: Most RV-friendly campgrounds in the area accommodate mid-sized rigs, with limited options for larger vehicles. Cedar River Campground can handle larger rigs according to their amenity list.
Hookup availability: Hidden River Campground offers full-hookup sites for extended stays. A reviewer notes, "Many people seem to take advantage of the year round rates and stay all summer."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Oxford Junction, IA?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Oxford Junction, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Oxford Junction, IA is #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Oxford Junction, IA?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Oxford Junction, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 19 tent camping locations near Oxford Junction, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring