The Muscatine area sits at the confluence of the Mississippi and Cedar Rivers, creating a network of waterways ideal for fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing. Campgrounds near Muscatine, Iowa range from 400 to 600 feet in elevation with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F. Fall camping offers cooler temperatures but requires advance planning as many sites fill quickly, especially during September's bird migration season.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Explore the Mississippi River backwaters at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground where canoe and kayak rentals are available. "This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," notes Ryan.
Wildlife viewing: Visit the Eco Tourism Center at Rock Creek for educational programs about local ecosystems. "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," reports Chris F.
Biking trails: Access the Great River Bike Trail from Fishermans Corner campground. "From this campground you can go north, as far as Savanna. 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," shares Sebastian G.
What campers like
Level camping pads: Campers consistently praise the concrete pads at several campgrounds. At Fishermans Corner, one visitor noted, "Great overnight site. Paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas."
River views: Sites directly on the Mississippi River are most sought after. At Shady Creek, Donna T. recommends, "Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi. Very clean friendly stay."
Educational opportunities: The nature centers provide family learning experiences. "Great educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore. Showers are open until October 14 this year," explains Jeff and Linda L. about Rock Creek's facilities.
What you should know
Train noise: Railway tracks run near several riverside campgrounds. At Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River, one camper warns, "As with all the campgrounds along the Northern Illinois Great River Trail, it is alongside Rt. 84, and railroad tracks. That is a part of the Mississippi commerce."
Bugs and flooding: Low-lying areas near the rivers can be buggy and flood-prone. "Watch river levels for flooding, bugs can be bad since location is bottomland riverine forest," advises James M. about Rock Creek Marina.
Limited water hookups: While electric hookups are common, water access varies. One camper at Shady Creek notes, "Water was dispersed throughout the park, but often too far for a hose to reach."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Cedar River Campground offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "They had a great fireworks display for the fourth. Spots are tighter than what we prefer, but will be back again," shares Jenny.
Educational programs: Take advantage of nature centers for kids. At Rock Creek, "They also have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed," mentions Chris F.
Pet considerations: Most campgrounds allow pets, but policies vary. At Porth RV Park in Calamus, there are designated pet areas. "Sites are close together: gravel pads, onsite: water, firewood, fire pit, tables, food nearby, playground adjacent," notes James M.
Tips from RVers
Cell service: Verizon coverage is generally strong throughout the area. At Shady Creek, David D. reports, "Level cement pads. Strong Verizon access."
Overnight stops: For RV travelers passing through, Geneseo Campground provides convenient access. "Stayed one night. It is a nice place, easy to find canal for walking. Bathrooms were OK," shares Steven V.
Site selection strategy: When booking RV sites near Muscatine, Iowa, riverside spots fill first. Barbara P. advises, "Really enjoyed our stay, sites are large and staggered so you aren't staring at your neighbors and can enjoy the views."
