Best Campgrounds near New Vienna, IA

New Vienna, Iowa sits adjacent to several established campgrounds with varying amenities and natural features. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can access county parks like New Wine Park with its 29 sites along the North Fork Maquoketa River, and Twin Bridges County Park on Elk Creek. The campgrounds in this area predominantly support both tent and RV camping, with a few locations like Backbone State Park also offering cabin accommodations. Mixed-use campgrounds are common throughout the region, with many facilities maintaining primitive sites alongside electric hookups and water access points.

Reservations are recommended at most developed campgrounds, especially during summer months when visitation peaks. New Wine Park operates with nine reservable sites while keeping the remainder available for first-come, first-served camping. Winter camping is possible at several locations that remain open year-round, including Swiss Valley County Park near Dubuque. Most campgrounds in the area maintain moderate to good road access suitable for standard vehicles, though some primitive areas may present challenges during wet weather. Cell service varies significantly, with more remote locations like Fountain Springs County Park offering minimal connectivity. A visitor noted: "Free up to two weeks, very primitive, all I could do was text from my AT&T phone. You'll want a hard copy of your directions if you stay the night."

Many campgrounds throughout the region feature water proximity as a key attraction. The Mississippi River forms the eastern boundary of the broader region, with Nelson Dewey State Park providing bluff-top views across the water. Fountain Springs County Park receives positive reviews for its trout fishing opportunities directly adjacent to campsites. Campground amenities vary substantially, with more developed locations offering shower facilities, dump stations, and electric hookups, while others maintain a more primitive experience. Visitor feedback frequently mentions the peacefulness of the area's campgrounds, particularly during weekdays when usage drops. According to a recent review, New Wine Park is "very nice at reasonable price. We stayed just after Labor Day and we were one of 6 trailers in the entire park."

Best Camping Sites Near New Vienna, Iowa (139)

    1. Nelson Dewey State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Cassville, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 725-5374

    $33 / night

    "The site itself was sloped away from the road making it feel tucked into the trees. The downside was that the only flat space for the tent was very close to the fire pit."

    "Friendly Crowds and secluded spot despite us staying next to the main road for the camping area. Sunsets were beautiful looking west over the Mississippi River."

    2. New Wine Park Dubuque County Park

    7 Reviews
    New Vienna, IA
    1 mile
    +1 (563) 921-3475

    "General: This is a small (29-site) county park campground situated along the North Fork Maquoketa River. Nine of the sites are reservable, and the rest are first-come, first-served."

    "Great campground near Dyersville, IA (home to The Field Of Dreams site). The campground is a lollipop loop with sites on one side along the creek and on the other along woods."

    3. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park

    29 Reviews
    Dundee, IA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 924-2527

    $12 - $25 / night

    "Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa. There are two campgrounds."

    "The lake was super gross, with excessive floating moss (probably a weather issue) and EXCESSIVE goose poop everywhere. The beach was basically unusable, with goose bombs everywhere."

    4. Wyalusing State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    McGregor, IA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (608) 996-2261

    $15 - $35 / night

    "A very nice park located close to the Iowa border. Close to Effigy Mounds & Pikes Peak! It has great trails & campsites & lots of geocaching! Come one New Years for the annual carp drop :)"

    "Camp sites are far enough away from neighbors that there is some privacy. Need a state park sticker to access. Illinois Minnesota and Iowa are all short drives away."

    5. Fountain Springs County Park

    5 Reviews
    Greeley, IA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 927-3410

    "It is off of the beaten path and is usually not too busy.  This has become a favorite of our Scouting BSA Troop."

    6. Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only

    1 Review
    Dyersville, IA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 590-2704

    "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."

    7. Twin Bridges County Park

    1 Review
    Colesburg, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 927-3410

    $35 / night

    "Along Elk Creek, about half of the campground has sites on the Creek, but very few actually have access to the creek. All of the sites have nice trees and shade."

    8. Baileys Ford

    4 Reviews
    Delhi, IA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 927-3410

    "The RV/pull behind spots here fill up VERY fast. This was no big deal for us since we went for a long tent camping weekend, there are plenty of sites if you are ok without all the hookups."

    "The tent camping sites are quiet, well shaded and good access to the fishing stream. Running water Bathrooms closed due to covid but the vault toilets are fine."

    9. Grant River Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Dubuque, IA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 582-0881

    $14 - $26 / night

    "Train tracks border the campground and train horns are loud. Has sites with views of the Mississippi."

    "Railroad tracks border the campground. Train horns are loud and was awaken at 3 am. It does have a nice view of the Mississippi and you can see the river from many camp sites."

    10. Swiss Valley County Park

    9 Reviews
    Dubuque, IA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 556-6745

    "Trout stream (Catfish Creek) runs through campground and park and is stocked by Iowa DNR, has Swiss Valley Nature center with trails."

    "Fishing seemed popular in catfish creek about 50 feet away from our sight. There is a sign that states firewood is for sale at 6pm but the ranger was about 45 min late bc he tends to two other parks."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 139 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near New Vienna, IA

454 Reviews of 139 New Vienna Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Central Park

    Late Season Camping

    Great weather.. The sites were clean.. Small lake to fish and kayak!

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Spruce Creek Park

    Great place to camp

    One of my favorites. Right on the water. Nice shower house and close to bike trail that leads to Bellevue

  • Susan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Creek Valley Campground

    Trip to Mackinac

    A little cramped, nice people. We didn't use the pool but it had adults only after dark. Our site backed up to the forest, there's a short trail thru the trees. Most sites have FHU, most are back-in. We had one of the sites with only water and electric. There is a dump station, small concession, playground. A small creek runs around much of the outside of the property.

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Blanding Landing

    Safe, peaceful and friendly! Will definitely be back!

    I stayed at site 36 over the Labor Day weekend, and it was incredible. I was a solo female traveler with my two service dogs. When I arrived, the site was clean, and we had a site with an open site on one side making it feel twice as big. The other campers were friendly, and the one site neighbor we had (a young couple about my age with a pup too!) even came to visit and meet my dogs and gave them organic dog treats.🥹 The icing on the cake was the woman who monitored the sites, Anne. She was so kind and welcoming, and made me feel comfortable and safe. I can’t wait to come back and visit again. Highly recommend!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    Great campground

    Beautiful park. The campground has less than 30 sites, most of which have power. The walk in sites are very private but still less than 75 yards from your car. You are in thick forest and will hear lots of animal sounds at night.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Gorgeous sunsets

    Clean and beautiful campsite. Dry firewood and kindling available. The toilets were clean. The ridge view sites are spectacular but not for those with a fear of heights.

  • D
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Wyalusing State Park Campground

    Beautiful views

    Clean sites with some privacy. Great showers and clean bathrooms. There are lots of places to walk the dogs and great hiking.

    Even if you have an inside or non cliff side site, there are plenty of places to sit and watch the sunsets.

  • Ray J.
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Palace Campground

    Great campground well kept

    Stayed many times. All different times of year Recommended!!

  • Chad R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area Campground

    Great Experience

    This is a great campground.  The camp sites were nice and the restrooms were not bad.  There is plenty of access to the lake for fishing whether it's from shore or on a boat.


Guide to New Vienna

Camping near New Vienna, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Enjoy the scenic trails at Wyalusing State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Great hiking trails, overall a great place to stay," highlighting the beautiful views and trails available.
  • Caving: Visit Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground for a unique experience exploring caves. A visitor shared, "The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous," making it a fun challenge for adventurous families.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Grant River Recreation Area, you can fish or enjoy the river views. One reviewer noted, "Nice view at the Mississippi River," perfect for a relaxing day by the water.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. One camper at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground said, "Campsite D's views were unbeatable," emphasizing the beauty of the area.
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Rustic Barn Campground RV Park remarked, "Very clean and well-maintained," which is a big plus for families.
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. One reviewer at Pinicon Ridge Park said, "Great place to kick back and relax," highlighting the friendly environment.

What you should know:

  • Train Noise: Some campgrounds, like Grant River Recreation Area, are near train tracks. A camper noted, "Trains went by about every 1/2 hour," which might be a concern for light sleepers.
  • Site Privacy: Campers at Swiss Valley County Park mentioned that sites can feel close together. One camper said, "It’s just not for us; we like to be a little secluded," so consider this if you prefer more space.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, may have fewer amenities. A visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms were not cleaned as often as other places," so be prepared for that.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Site: Look for sites with shade and space for kids to play. A camper at Pikes Peak State Park Campground said, "Easy level sites, and helpful neighbors," which can make a family stay more enjoyable.
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a mix of activities. One family at Backbone State Park enjoyed hiking and canoeing, saying, "Great hiking couldn’t swim on our stay but nice beach canoe rentals."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and activities. A camper at Pinicon Ridge Park mentioned, "The playground is fantastic and keeps the kids entertained all day," so having snacks can help keep the fun going.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Rustic Barn Campground RV Park said, "Sites are gravel for the RV, reasonably level, and well maintained," which is important for a comfortable stay.
  • Use Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. One camper at Palace Campground appreciated the "full hookup" sites, making their stay easier.
  • Plan for Noise: Be aware of potential noise from nearby roads or trains. A camper at Grant River Recreation Area noted, "Train horns are loud," so consider this when choosing your campground.

Camping near New Vienna, Iowa, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near New Vienna, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near New Vienna, IA is Nelson Dewey State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 20 reviews.