The countryside surrounding Oxford Junction, Iowa sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level in eastern Iowa's rolling hills. This area experiences seasonal variations with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Camping options near Oxford Junction include established campgrounds and more primitive sites, with several offering river access for fishing and paddling activities.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground offers unique spelunking opportunities with 13 distinct bat caves to explore. "For the rest of us outdoor enthusiasts who are simply looking for a great campground, then you've also struck the campground lottery, but if you are interested in staying here, I would STRONGLY encourage you to mind your dates taking note of when bat hibernation ends and begins," advises a camper at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground.
Kayak or tube the Wapsipinicon River: Rolin Wapsi Campground provides direct river access and equipment rentals. "They also offer Tubes, Kayaks, Canoes and a Shuttle service to float on the Wapsi River," notes a visitor. This campground gives campers easy water access without needing to bring their own equipment.
Fishing opportunities: Sherman Co Park provides access to the Wapsipinicon River for anglers. "Our favorite past time while we're there is to go tubing on the Wapsi River," shares a regular visitor. The park has both electric sites and primitive camping options along the water.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Eden Valley Refuge offers walk-in camping options away from the main campground. "It's a little hike in for the dispersed sites, but worth it to be in a secluded woodsy site. Was peaceful and relaxing," reports one camper. These sites require approximately a half-mile hike but provide greater privacy than the main campground.
Modern facilities: Bennett Park receives praise for its updated amenities. "The shower house and bathrooms are new and super nice. There are two playgrounds for the kids to play on, and a pond we were able to put some kayaks in!" shares a visitor. The park offers electric sites with gravel pads.
Night sky viewing: Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "No city light so night sky shines with stars," notes a reviewer. The center includes an observatory with sky programs for visitors interested in astronomy.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area operate on limited schedules. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground "is closed between December 1 thru February 28 each year," according to a visitor. Additionally, bat hibernation periods may restrict cave access even when the campground remains open.
Flooding potential: Low-lying campsites near rivers may experience flooding. At Walnut Grove Co Park, "individual sites along the river had a great view, but maybe retained a few memories and scars from the last flood," notes one camper. Always check weather forecasts and river levels before booking riverside sites.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. "These sites must be reserved online and are $13 a night," notes a visitor to Eden Valley Refuge regarding their hike-in sites. Booking ahead ensures availability, especially for weekend stays.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. "There's a nice newer playground for the kids and a few trail to explore," notes a visitor to Sherman Co Park. Consider campsite proximity to these areas when booking with children.
Educational opportunities: Central Park offers both recreation and learning experiences. "This park is well maintained with full service and primitive sites. Trails, nature center, shelters, restrooms/showers, and lake access for beach, paddling, fishing, etc," according to a visitor. The nature center provides indoor activities during inclement weather.
Swimming options: Bennett Park allows swimming in its small pond. "There's a pond that you can actually swim and fish and paddling," mentions a reviewer. This provides a cooling option during hot summer days when river conditions might be unsuitable for swimming.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, "All sites designated for RV's are back-in and range in driveway length between 31 and 68 feet." RVers should verify site length before booking to ensure their rig fits comfortably.
Dump station availability: Check campground amenities before arrival. "Only downfall is there is no dumping station," notes a visitor to Bennett Park, though this has reportedly been updated with a "newer dump station" according to a more recent review.
Electric options: Most campgrounds in the area offer electric hookups, but amperage varies. Central Park provides sites with power, and "The camping spots are nice and most have picnic tables," according to a visitor. Call ahead to confirm electrical service meets your RV requirements.
