96 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Southeastern Iowa's countryside surrounding New London features a mix of state parks, county recreation areas, and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Geode State Park Campground, located 15 miles south near Danville, offers both tent and RV camping with electrical hookups and modern facilities, operating from April through December. Big Hollow Recreation Area near Sperry provides a comprehensive camping experience with boat-in access, cabins, and both primitive and developed sites. Several private RV parks in Mount Pleasant cater specifically to larger rigs with full hookups, while river access points along the Skunk River and Mississippi River corridors provide more rustic camping opportunities with varying levels of amenities.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the New London area. Spring flooding can affect riverside campgrounds, particularly those along the Cedar and Skunk Rivers. As one camper noted, "When the Cedar River is high, it pushes Chicken Creek out of its banks which can mean potential closure of campgrounds." Most campgrounds operate from April through October, though several remain open year-round with reduced services during winter months. Cell service varies considerably across the region, with better coverage near towns and spotty reception in more remote areas. Reservation policies differ by location, with county parks typically operating on a first-come, first-served basis while state parks and private campgrounds often require advance booking, especially during summer weekends.
Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area exemplifies the area's water-oriented camping with sites along the Cedar River that provide fishing access and boat ramps. According to a recent visitor, "There are sites along the river, while others are larger tucked along the woods and not close to each other. Perfect getaway." Birdwatching opportunities abound, particularly in spring and fall migration seasons when warblers, herons, and eagles can be spotted. Train noise affects some Mississippi River campgrounds, with one camper warning that trains "come by about every hour behind the campsite and blow horns at crossings." Site spacing varies dramatically between locations, from the cramped quarters at some private RV parks to the well-spaced, shaded sites at state and county parks.
"The sites were close together and very close to a train track."
"Easy access and amazingly quite dispute the road nearby Clean and new facilities"
from $38 / night
Check Availability"We ventured south to Geode State Park near Burlington, IA. We are getting the travel trailer tweeked in. We weathered a rainy 🌧 day Saturday (all day)."
"I love this place good camping and a beautiful lake."
from $16 - $36 / night
Check Availability"Campgrounds also include a shooting range, beach, equestrian trails, canoe rentals, and launch, and I saw a sign for primitive cabins, though I didn't have time to check those out."
"If you want more privacy and easy access to the lake for kayaking I'd go for 14, 15, and 16. I'm in 32 and it is private and very pretty."
from $15 - $20 / night
Check Availability"Showed me around n where I could pitch for the night. Right by the pond. Very clean, very quiet n would go all over again!"
from $30 / night
Check Availability"Campsite is directly next to the river. Most sites have power but there are a few tent sits as well (those are right on the river). We'll maintained vault toilets. Site has a shared spicket."
"Amazing view of the skunk river and eagles flying nearby."
"Campground had all amenities you would expect with a beach, cabins, all on a small lake. Close to town for any camping needs."
"There is a walking trail that leads to a lake with ducks. Online only reservations."
from $17 / night
Check Availability"Did go to the creamery nearby. If you stay here and don’t visit the creamery, you’re definitely missing out!"
from $15 - $26 / night
Check Availability"I've stayed here every summer great place lots todo with the kids had a lake to fish, kayak, canoe. Has and outdoor skating rink next to the lake very neat"
ScoutLake Darling is by far the best, cleaners, friendliest campground I hand every stayed at.... Traveling all the way from New Mexico they really make everything easy and welcoming thanks Iowa for welcoming us
ScoutHas bathrooms that are clean... Beautiful landscape and quiet
ScoutCampground is clean and well maintained. The bathrooms are very clean and don’t smell like a typical campground bathroom the campground managers are easy to deal with and are very kind. If you like dad jokes the campground manager has plenty lol. Overall great experience.
LegendThere’s something wonderfully mesmerizing about camping beside the Mississippi River, where you can sit together and watch everything from great blue herons to enormous towboats slowly make their way past your campsite, and tiny Fairport State Recreation Area gives families a front-row seat to it all. Located about seven miles east of Muscatine and roughly 20 miles from Davenport, this intimate 42-site campground is decidedly more about the river than resort-style recreation, with every back-in campsite offering 20/30/50-amp electric service and many providing beautiful views across the water. Families will find modern restrooms and showers, accessible water, a dump station and small playground, while two boat ramps with docks make getting onto the Mississippi wonderfully EZ for an afternoon of boating or fishing for walleye and catfish. One of my favorite little pleasures here is simply pointing the chairs toward the river as evening arrives and watching the barges glide silently past while everyone tries to spot one more bird before darkness settles over the water. At Fairport, the Mississippi isn’t something you drive somewhere to see - it becomes part of your campsite. From what we saw, the best campsites are 37–42, where the western row puts you closest to the Mississippi and provides some of the campground’s prettiest river views. We would definitely recommend Fairport for families who love boating, fishing and life along the water because it’s small, wonderfully convenient and beautifully positioned on the Mississippi - just know that the nearby railroad provides last minute surprising loud sirens, including during the night, so light sleepers might want to pack earplugs along with the marshmallows.
ScoutQuiet place. Camp host was friendly. Bathroom needs a little care but overall great campground. As far as cellular service, I was only getting one bar, however Starlink worked great.
RangerIt’s a small gravel turnaround and not very level in the grasses but if you have a pick of the spots you’ll be able to settle. There is very little shade and we’re here in 95° but there is a slight breeze. Nice, quiet, secluded spot to spend a couple of days. But watch out for the ticks in the long grass
GuideSite 12. June 11. Good for a night if driving I-80. Nice view of the river from this site. It had rained and there were many puddles making tent camping impossible, so I didn't bother setting up my "mandatory" tent and slept on the cot in my SUV. Standing water, so mosquitoes were active. This campground caters to RVs. Trains at night are loud. Bring ear plugs. Restrooms were old and not clean. I had stayed here before a few years ago, and they were very clean, so it just depends on the host.
ScoutMay have dispersed tent sites for $10. Tent at an RV cute is $20. Nice clean bathrooms with private showers worth the extra $10 to me. Nice quiet camp area.
TravelerWater pressure not great. Location by the river very nice. Great boat access and parking. Could’ve done without the trains but overall an ok place to stay, especially for river access. Recommend Lighthouse Grill and Bar- cool atmosphere and cheap drinks.
Camping near New London, Iowa offers options across a 30-mile radius with varying levels of lake access, trail connectivity, and amenities. The area features several small recreation areas situated along the Skunk River watershed, with elevations ranging from 550-700 feet. Summers can bring high humidity with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F, while spring camping often contends with seasonal flooding along riverfront sites.
Fishing opportunities: Geode State Park Campground has been undergoing lake restoration. "The lake itself has been drained for about 3 years now and shows no signs of being filled again. Though they say it will be," notes one camper. Still, the nearby wooded areas offer exploration options during rainy days.
River access: At Lower Augusta Skunk River Access, campsites sit directly beside the water. "When I woke up the view was amazing! Beautiful little river runs right by the campground," shares a visitor who discovered this location by chance. The sites provide prime viewing of eagles flying overhead.
Nature exploration: Primitive camping at Welter Recreation Area puts you on the riverbank with fallen trees creating natural exploration areas. While maintenance appears minimal, the location provides "a wonderful view of the river and is directly on the banks. Because there are fallen trees, firewood is plentiful," according to a recent visitor.
Affordable rates: Wilson Lake Park offers concrete pads with full hookups at reasonable prices. "Nice concrete slabs and all hook ups. Will go back for sure," mentions one camper who paid $20 per night. The park includes a fishing pond and convenient access to local attractions.
Clean facilities: Updog RV & Camping receives praise for its maintenance. "Very clean restrooms and showers," notes one visitor. Another adds, "Lots of trees for great shade in these hot days. Nice pond for some fun fishing."
Spacious sites: Big Hollow Recreation Area features well-designed camping areas. "The campground is well laid out. If you are in a group you can reserve spots 8 and 9 together or there are some long spots in the Eastern part for double occupancy if you want. If you want more privacy and easy access to the lake for kayaking I'd go for 14, 15, and 16," recommends a camper.
Train noise: Some campgrounds near New London experience significant rail disturbances. At Crossroads RV Park, one camper warns of "Constant train traffic all night! Horns blaring! The tracks are less than 1/4-mile away. And quite a bit of freeway noise, too!"
Primitive options: For those seeking basic accommodations, Virginia Grove Recreation Area provides a quieter alternative. "This is a small campground with electric camper spots. I didn't see any dump station. It features a playground and has vault toilets. There is a walking trail that leads to a lake with ducks," notes a visitor.
Seasonal closures: Most public campgrounds operate from April through October, with reduced services in shoulder seasons. At Spring Lake Campground, getting reservations is essential during peak summer months: "Get there early or make reservations fills fast!"
Water activities: Multiple options exist for family swimming and boating. "The park is clean and family friendly. The beach is a great addition for some family fun," says a visitor to Pollmiller Park. Another camper adds, "They have a good swimming area were u can rent canoes and different things which isnt very expensive!!"
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Wilson Lake Park offers cement pads near a playground, while Big Hollow Recreation Area boasts "a large playground and shower house. Campgrounds also include a shooting range, beach, equestrian trails, canoe rentals, and launch."
Range of accommodations: Families can choose between tent sites, RV spots, or cabins at multiple locations. Big Hollow Recreation Area offers "primitive single and group camping sites" alongside developed options, providing flexibility for different family camping styles.
Site selection: At Crossroads RV Park, be strategic about which site you choose. "Very nice personnel and clean, updated facilities. There are some long-term residents, but everyone seems very kind and helpful," shares one RVer. However, site spacing can be tight, as another notes: "This was a nice spot for an overnight stay... I wouldn't stay longer than an overnight."
Hookup availability: Full-service options vary significantly. Big Hollow Recreation Area provides comprehensive amenities: "Sites are pretty level and easy to get parked. Full hookup!!! There is a good sized lake that we have kayaked and swam in. The conservation officers are very nice and usually stop by to make sure everything is going great."
Overnight stays: Several campgrounds specifically cater to travelers passing through the New London area. "Good clean campground. Easy access. Very clean bathrooms and showers," mentions a camper about Crossroads RV Park, highlighting its convenience for overnight stops rather than extended stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near New London, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, New London, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 96 campgrounds and RV parks near New London, IA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near New London, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near New London, IA is Crossroads RV Park - Iowa with a 4-star rating from 6 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near New London, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near New London, IA.
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