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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 Monmouth, IA
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Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground welcomes pets throughout its 30 campsites, offering both electric sites and walk-in tent areas where dogs can join their owners. Eden Valley Refuge extends pet-friendly accommodations across tent sites, RV spots, and cabins, making it one of the few locations near Monmouth that offers pet-approved cabin camping. Most campgrounds in the area maintain standard leash requirements, though several feature designated pet exercise areas. The dog park at Horseshoe Pond provides a dedicated space for off-leash play after a day of hiking or fishing. Campgrounds typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and electric hookups alongside their pet-friendly policies. ['The campground was very quiet with a family of cats that visit from a nearby dairy farm, providing an unexpected attraction for children while camping with dogs.'] Central Park in Center Junction maintains a 4.8 rating with pet-friendly sites for tents, RVs, and glamping options, though alcohol is prohibited.
Hiking trails throughout the region accommodate leashed dogs, with Wildcat Den State Park offering scenic pet-friendly paths through sandstone cliffs and tall pines. The Rock River at Lundeens Landing provides dogs water access in a riverside setting with designated pet areas. Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Monmouth feature small but clean dog parks where pets can run freely after being leashed at campsites. Overnight temperatures can drop significantly in spring and fall, requiring extra bedding for pets sleeping outside tents or RVs. Most campgrounds provide pet waste stations with bags and disposal areas, particularly at the Corps of Engineers sites along Coralville Lake. The wide-open spaces at West Overlook campground include hiking trails all around and easy access to nearby mountain bike trails, making it ideal for active dogs needing exercise during camping trips. Seasonal campgrounds typically open from April through October, with a few locations like Eden Valley Refuge remaining open year-round for winter camping with pets.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Monmouth (132)
1. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
"You really can't go wrong with any trail or cave. The kids enjoyed hiking between Lower- and Upper-Dancehall Caves. The trail goes underground and through some water. Window Cave was also a hit."
"Caves were closed but we had a great time hiking the trails. Very clean campground. Plenty of wood for campfires, just had a donation box. Electric campsites have plenty of shade."
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. Joinerville County Park
8. 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."
9. Massillon Park
Check Availabilityfrom $7 / night
10. Horseshoe Pond
Check Availabilityfrom $21 / 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 Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Monmouth, IA
88 Photos of 132 Monmouth Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
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Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members OnlyB
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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Monmouth, IA
825 Reviews of 132 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.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 Monmouth
Monmouth area camping offers diverse terrain along the Maquoketa River watershed with elevations between 800-900 feet above sea level. The region features a mix of wooded ravines and limestone formations typical of eastern Iowa's Driftless Area. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F, requiring year-round campers to prepare for seasonal extremes.
What to do
Cave exploration: Maquoketa Caves State Park provides unique underground adventures with 13 distinct bat caves to explore. "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," notes Stuart K. Visitors should "bring good hiking shoes, headlamps, proper long sleeve shirts and pants to keep the bugs and ticks away."
Fishing access: Massillon Park offers direct access to the Wapsipinicon River for anglers. The park features "primitive sites with fire rings, tables, restrooms nearby, shelters, boat ramp/Wapsipinicon River access," according to James M. This smaller county campground provides a quieter alternative for fishing enthusiasts.
River floating: Riverview Ridge organizes float trips directly from their property. "Two hour float trips on the North Fork Maquoketa River are available directly from the campground," reports Wayne K. The tent sites nearest the river offer natural launching points for water activities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate well-spaced accommodations at dog friendly campgrounds near Monmouth. At Riverview Ridge, "there were so many trees, that there was plenty of space between you and your neighbors (privacy is a must), and each site had a table and fire ring," explains Dani K. This spaciousness allows campers and their pets room to relax.
Wildlife viewing: Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area offers primitive camping in a natural setting. James M. describes it as a "unique hike or paddle primitive site. Native forbs and wildlife surrounding the area. Two parking sites to hike in or access by river." This free camping area requires visitors to pack in and out all supplies.
Off-site attractions: The region offers interesting day trips from your pet-friendly campsite. Near 6B's Campground, Stuart K. discovered "a simply sublime solo picnic table that has strategically been placed in one of the very large, abandoned bat caves, which makes for a very special picnic outing." Local restaurants like Bluff Lake Catfish Farm serve regional comfort food near many camping areas.
What you should know
Cave closures: Maquoketa Caves State Park operates on a seasonal schedule for cave access. "Due to concerns for wildlife (primarily bats) the caves close frequently, check the park website for details about when they will be open and respect the closures when they occur," advises Amanda F. The park typically closes completely between December 1 and February 28.
Pack-in requirements: Some pet-approved camping areas require self-sufficiency. At Eden Valley Refuge, "you need to bring all of your supplies including water. (Showers & modern facilities are 1/2 mile back at the main campground)," explains Linsey M. The walk-in sites require approximately a half-mile hike with gear.
Payment methods: Small campgrounds may have limited payment options. At 6B's Campground, "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," reports Stuart K. Call ahead to verify payment requirements at smaller pet-friendly locations.
Tips for camping with families
Youth group facilities: Families looking for pet-friendly group camping can utilize specialized areas at Maquoketa Caves State Park. "Maquoketa SP has you covered with not one 1, but 3 individual large group sized campsites with each accompanied by its own duo split restroom," notes Stuart K. These areas provide more space for families with both children and pets.
Play areas: Horseshoe Pond offers family-friendly amenities within Maquoketa city limits. The campground "has pond for fishing, shelter, dog park, playset, disc golf course," according to James M. This combination of recreation options keeps all family members entertained.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds feature nature centers for young visitors. Central Park offers "trails, nature center, shelters, restrooms/showers, and lake access for beach, paddling, fishing, etc. Prairie plantings mixed in the wooded areas," says James M. These learning spaces provide structured activities for children during pet-friendly camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: When choosing an RV spot at pet-friendly locations, consider specific site characteristics. At Maquoketa Caves, Stuart K. advises "you probably don't want sites 1 or 2, they are directly across from the dump site. The plus is they are directly across from the playground, picnic area and trail access."
Seasonal accessibility: RVers with pets should note varying seasonal operations. Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Monmouth operate on limited schedules. At Eden Valley Refuge, sites are "open year round" according to Linsey M., making it one of the few options for winter camping with pets in the area.
Site specifications: RV campers need accurate measurements when reserving spaces. At Maquoketa Caves State Park, "all sites designated for RV's are back-in and range in driveway length between 31 and 68 feet," according to Stuart K. This variation requires careful planning when selecting pet-friendly sites for larger vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
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campsite near Monmouth, IA?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Monmouth, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Monmouth, IA is Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.
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dog-friendly camping near
Monmouth, IA?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Monmouth, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 132 dog-friendly camping locations near Monmouth, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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