Stephen R.
Guide
GuideBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Very nice camp grounds and nice trails and beach
Camping near Oxford Junction, IA
9 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Eastern Iowa's countryside surrounding Oxford Junction features several established campgrounds within a short drive. Eden Valley Refuge, located near Lost Nation and Oxford Junction, provides year-round camping with RV hookups, tent sites, and cabins. The area also includes Central Park in Center Junction with electric sites for tents and RVs, and Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground offering a unique landscape with caves and natural features. Most developed campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water, with many offering electric hookups for RVs.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with many campgrounds operating from April through October. Flooding can impact accessibility, particularly at sites near rivers and creeks. Eden Valley Refuge and Central Park remain popular choices, with Central Park operating mid-April through mid-October. Facilities range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots with 30/50 amp service. Several campgrounds provide shower houses and modern restrooms, though some more remote areas offer only vault toilets. A visitor noted that "Eden Valley County Refuge is an unexpected find in rural, eastern Iowa. The camping areas have expanded with plenty of hook-ups for RVs, but there are also some backcountry, hike-in sites off of the main trail."
Campers consistently mention the natural attractions as highlights of the region. Maquoketa Caves State Park draws visitors with its unique cave system and hiking trails through wooded terrain. Eden Valley Refuge features a swinging bridge and observation tower as main structural attractions, along with several caves scattered throughout the property. The region offers a mix of recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Water features like the Wapsipinicon River provide additional activities for campers. According to one review, "Near Lost Nation, Oxford Junction, and Wyoming, IA this park is an unexpected find in rural, eastern Iowa... Overall, very enjoyable and there aren't a lot of places like this nearby. Worth a stop if you're in the area."
Best Campgrounds near Oxford Junction (161)
1. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
"cave system of Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa."
"This is a great weekend stay, with short trails that show some beautiful and unusual scenery for central Iowa. The natural bridge is incredible, and the sites are well spaced out."
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. Walnut Grove Co Park
5. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $45 / night
6. Sherman Co Park
"There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling."
"Primitive sites include gravel entrance, picnic tables, fire rings only. There is a boat ramp for the Wapsipinicon river with access for fishing, paddling, etc."
7. Massillon Park
Check Availabilityfrom $7 / night
8. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
"Charcoal grill, fire ring with wood supplied, picnic table, covered porch, trail head right next to cabin. After hours offers quite park, dark skies, and trails with wildlife."
"AC/heat, covered porch, firewood, picnic table, Charcoal grill, trails. Park is also site of nature center with live animals, an observatory, access to Wapsipinicon River."
Check Availabilityfrom $70 - $80 / night
9. Bennett Park
"CG has open sites with fire pits, tables, dump station, firewood, restrooms. 2 shelters to rent, playground, trails, lake for fishing."
"Park has small lake for paddling and fishing."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 - $15 / night
10. Rolin Wapsi Campground
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $25 / night
Drive Time
- 46 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 49 min from Davenport, IA
- 51 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 2 min from Iowa City, IA
Recent Camping Photos near Oxford Junction, IA
164 Photos of 161 Oxford Junction Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Eden Valley Refuge
Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
Sherman Co Park
Wapsipinicon State Park Campground
Riverview Ridge
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Monticello
Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground
Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members OnlyB
Primitive South Campground — Lake Macbride State ParkM
Swiss Valley County Park
Pinicon Ridge Park
Recent Reviews near Oxford Junction, IA
820 Reviews of 161 Oxford Junction Campgrounds
- GGreg F.
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.
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.LegendCabin 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.
Guide to Oxford Junction
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recreational activities are available at Oxford Junction?
What recreational activities are available at Oxford Junction?
The Oxford Junction area offers diverse recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. At Eden Valley Refuge, visitors can enjoy hiking through eastern Iowa's scenic countryside, wildlife viewing, and fishing. The nearby Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground provides secluded hiking trails with beautiful views. The region also features boating and fishing access at several local waterways, playgrounds for children, and nature observation opportunities. Central Park near Center Junction offers additional hiking trails and water activities, making Oxford Junction an unexpected recreational gem in rural eastern Iowa.
What is the best time of year to camp at Oxford Junction?
What is the best time of year to camp at Oxford Junction?
The best time to camp around Oxford Junction is from late spring through early fall (May to October), when temperatures are most comfortable and facilities are fully operational. Sugar Bottom Campground offers a beautiful setting during this period with ample wildlife viewing opportunities. Cottonwood Campground is particularly pleasant in late summer and early fall when the tent areas among trees provide natural shade. Be aware that Iowa occasionally experiences severe weather, including thunderstorms and wind events that may temporarily affect campgrounds. Early fall offers particularly pleasant camping conditions with fewer insects and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Are there RV camping facilities at Oxford Junction?
Are there RV camping facilities at Oxford Junction?
Yes, the Oxford Junction area accommodates RV camping at several locations. West Overlook Campground offers electric hookups with convenient dump and water stations at the park entrance. Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow provides RV-friendly sites just minutes from I-80. For those seeking local options, Central Park and Bennett Park offer drive-in sites with big-rig-friendly facilities and basic amenities like water and toilets. Many campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during peak season, so booking ahead is recommended for RV travelers visiting Oxford Junction.
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