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.
Camping near Monmouth, IA
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The area around Monmouth, Iowa includes access to various types of camping and campgrounds. Nearby options include Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, Eden Valley Refuge, and Central Park in Center Junction, offering a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Most established campgrounds provide electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, with several offering shower facilities and modern restrooms. Eden Valley Refuge stands out with cabin options, while Central Park features glamping opportunities for those seeking more comfort. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area provides more primitive camping for those looking to get away from developed sites. Campers browse The Dyrt when exploring the best sites near Monmouth to find detailed information about amenities and seasonal availability.
"This campground is maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers as part of an outdoor recreation complex around a large dam on the Iowa River," noted one visitor about a nearby camping area. Seasonal considerations affect camping in the Monmouth area, with many campgrounds operating from April through October or early November. Flooding can impact accessibility, particularly at sites near the Mississippi and Iowa Rivers. Several campgrounds, including Maquoketa Caves State Park, operate from April 1 to December 31, while others like Eden Valley Refuge remain open year-round. Visitors should check ahead during spring months when water levels may be high. Winter camping options are limited, with only a few sites maintaining services during colder months. Road access to most campgrounds is generally good, with paved or well-maintained gravel roads leading to most established sites.
Campers report high satisfaction with sites that offer water access and natural features. Maquoketa Caves State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its unique cave system and hiking trails, with one visitor describing it as a "secluded gem" with "beautiful hiking trails easy to explore." The park's campground provides a convenient base for exploring the caves, though visitors are advised to bring headlamps and prepare for wet conditions when exploring the cave system. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with several campgrounds situated near wildlife management areas. Fishing access is another highlight mentioned in reviews, particularly at campgrounds along the Cedar River and Mississippi River. Sites with more privacy and shade tend to receive higher ratings, with walk-in tent sites often providing more seclusion than RV-accessible locations.
Best Campgrounds near Monmouth (159)
1. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
"cave system of Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa."
"This is a great weekend stay, with short trails that show some beautiful and unusual scenery for central Iowa. The natural bridge is incredible, and the sites are well spaced out."
12 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. Central Park
"Trails, nature center, shelters, restrooms/showers, and lake access for beach, paddling, fishing, etc. Prairie plantings mixed in the wooded areas."
"Small lake to fish and kayak!"
4. 6B's Campground
"Massive bonus points for the location of this campground, which apart from rural country farmers and bat cave tourist passerby traffic, there was virtually no noise pollution to battle with."
"platform and calm waters for kayaking or just floating; (4) The peace and quiet are unbeatable, with the only background noise being a chorus of crickets and the soft babble of the river; and (5) Location-wise"
5. Walnut Grove Co Park
6. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
"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. Pack in, pack out and Leave No Trace."
7. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $45 / night
8. Joinerville County Park
9. Riverview Ridge
"Apparently there are also good trails, as many of the campers have ATV’s parked at their sites. The shower house, under the office, was spacious and clean."
10. Massillon Park
Check Availabilityfrom $7 / night
Drive Time
- 42 min from Dubuque, IA
- 48 min from Davenport, IA
- 55 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 1 hr 11 min from Iowa City, IA
Recent Camping Photos near Monmouth, IA
182 Photos of 159 Monmouth Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Eden Valley Refuge
Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
Riverview Ridge
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Monticello
Sherman Co Park
Wapsipinicon State Park Campground
Swiss Valley County Park
Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members OnlyB- Olde Massey Campground and RV Parkr
Blanding Landing
Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Miller Riverview City Park
Recent Reviews near Monmouth, IA
825 Reviews of 159 Monmouth 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.LegendCabin 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 Monmouth
Campsites near Monmouth, Iowa offer diverse terrain options with elevations ranging from 700 to 950 feet along the rolling hills and waterways of eastern Iowa. The area sits within the Paleozoic Plateau landform region, characterized by limestone bluffs, caves, and spring-fed streams. Camping season typically extends from April through October with July temperatures averaging 85°F during the day and 65°F at night.
What to do
Cave exploration at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground: Pack headlamps and sturdy footwear for the 13 caves located within the 370-acre park. One visitor advises, "This Iowa SP campground is simply AMAZING and if you are a bat cave spelunker, you are going to be absolutely excited by this place. For the rest of us outdoor enthusiasts who are simply looking for a great campground, then you've also struck the campground lottery."
Fishing access at multiple sites: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in different waterways, including the Maquoketa River and Bear Creek. A visitor to Eden Valley Refuge noted, "If you bring a base camp filtration system the creek is not a very far walk to retrieve water. There are about 5 trails to explore nearby."
Stargazing from elevated points: Take advantage of minimal light pollution at several campgrounds. As one Eden Valley visitor described, "At night you can hike about a 1/2 mile to the Watchtower and watch the beautiful sun set over the horizon of treetops and if you stay long enough you can stargaze. It is absolutely pitch black. PERFECT for stargazing on a clear night."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Walk-in tent sites often provide more privacy than drive-up locations. A camper at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground reported, "If you can forgo electricity and don't mind a 50yd walk, the walk in sites are enclosed in beautiful groves of trees."
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and open spaces keep children entertained. At Central Park, one camper appreciated "a beautiful little lake. Nice beach area. Camping sites pretty level. Park has free WiFi."
Natural features beyond campsites: Unique geological formations make the area distinctive. A Maquoketa Caves visitor shared, "Maquoketa Caves is a must visit destination for camping! There are several factors to take into consideration when planning a trip here; due to concerns for wildlife (primarily bats) the caves close frequently, check the park website for details about when they will be open."
What you should know
Seasonal cave closures: Bat hibernation periods restrict cave access at certain times. "I would STRONGLY encourage you to mind your dates taking note of when bat hibernation ends and begins – for what it's worth, my brother and I drove all the way here only to find out that hibernation began the day of our arrival," reported one Maquoketa Caves visitor.
Water level fluctuations: River and creek access points can change with rainfall. At Massillon Park, primitive sites include "fire rings with grates, and picnic tables. There is a small play area, and a shelter to rent. The boat ramp offers access to the Wapsipinicon River for fishing and paddling."
Payment methods vary: Some locations require cash only. A visitor to 6B's Campground noted, "This camping outpost only accepts cash, money order or checks, which was a major bummer for us as we didn't have any of those with us and while there were banks nearby, we weren't members of the bank."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience. At Maquoketa Caves, "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."
Beginner-friendly caves: Assess cave difficulty levels before bringing children. A camper shared about 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."
Beach access for hot days: Central Park offers swimming options. "Beautiful little lake. Nice beach area," wrote one camper, while another mentioned, "This campground has a beautiful museum. The museum is fun afternoon trip to hike to and visit."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Back-in sites vary in size and accessibility. At Maquoketa Caves, "All sites designated for RV's are back-in and range in driveway length between 31 and 68 feet."
Water and electric hookups: Availability differs between campgrounds. A visitor to Walnut Grove Co Park described it as "Basic cg with open and shaded sites with $17 or w/o electric $12. Restrooms with showers and soda machine, cg host onsite, river access, playground."
Two-level camping at specialty sites: Some locations offer different experiences within the same property. As described at 6B's Campground, "This nature-infested outpost is split into 2 levels with an upper plateau section that is more geared towards the tent-pitchin' bredren of my tribe, while the lower level straddles the Maquoketa River and offers up splendid waterfront views."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Monmouth, IA?
Which is the most popular campground near Monmouth, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Monmouth, IA is Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.
What parks are near Monmouth, IA?
What parks are near Monmouth, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Monmouth, IA that allow camping, notably Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 and Coralville Lake.
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