Campgrounds near Bettendorf, Iowa offer diverse options along the Mississippi River with several access points for boating and fishing. Many sites provide electric hookups and basic amenities for RVers, with most facilities open seasonally from April through October. The Hennepin Canal area offers paddlers 100 miles of slow-moving current that connects several camping areas, creating opportunities for water-based recreation.
What to do
Fishing access points: Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River provides excellent fishing opportunities directly on the water. "Sites are shaded, with services, fire pits, wood available, site volunteer. Access along river for fishing," notes James M., who also mentions the nearby railroad that "can be loud."
Paddle the Hennepin Canal: The waterways near Geneseo offer extensive paddling routes. "There's 72 miles of biking trails as well as miles and miles of nicely paved empty country roads to pedal on," explains Stuart K. at Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground, who adds that visitors can "bring a kayak or canoe to explore the Hennepin Canal."
Wildlife viewing: Rock Creek County Marina and Campground features an environmental center with educational displays. "Nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore," writes Jeff and Linda L. The center includes "native animals including large fish aquarium" according to James M.
What campers like
River views: Many campers appreciate sites that overlook the Mississippi River. "The sites have electric, water to fill your tanks with dispersed throughout the campground, and a dump station. The sites are well spaced and the campground itself feels more like a park that happens to have RV parking," explains Elisha L. about their experience at Fishermans Corner.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained restrooms at area campgrounds. "Bathhouse: The bath/shower house was decent (flush toilets, soap dispensers) and it was clean," notes Lee D. at Fishermans Corner, while Tom N. says Geneseo Campground has "very clean shower rooms and amenities and very reasonably priced."
Level sites: Concrete pads at many rv parks near Bettendorf provide stable foundations. "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one," writes Gary P. about Shady Creek, while Al K. appreciates that Fishermans Corner has "paved everywhere, level concrete pads. Corps of Engineers takes really good care of their recreation areas."
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run alongside several campgrounds in the area. "The road leading in was very rutted so take it slow... Train only went by once!" shares Barbara P. about Shady Creek. At Blanding Landing, Mary S. notes that "trains are noisy—we slept through them but are also used to living by a train station. Your mileage may vary."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Bettendorf area operate from spring to fall. Geneseo Campground runs "Apr 1 to Oct 31" with 72 sites including full hookups, while Shady Creek operates from "May 2 to October 26" with seasonal water access.
Flooding potential: Due to proximity to rivers, some campgrounds may experience high water. Crystal R. notes that Rock Creek County Marina "can flood" during high water periods, while James M. advises visitors to "watch river levels for flooding" since the location is in a "bottomland riverine forest."
Tips for camping with families
Environmental education: The eco center at Rock Creek County Marina offers family learning opportunities. "The Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed," writes Chris F., adding that "the camp store also offers canoe, kayak, and other boat rentals."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "There was a playground, showers, pit toilets, and even a small amphitheater next to the river," notes Elisha L., while Cedar River Campground features "a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids" according to Jackie J.
Dog-friendly policies: Many campgrounds welcome pets, but rules vary. Victoria R. at Blanding Landing shares: "I was a solo female traveler with my two service dogs. The other campers were friendly, and the one site neighbor we had even came to visit and meet my dogs and gave them organic dog treats."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most rv campgrounds near Bettendorf offer electric, with some providing water and sewer connections. "Site 40 had an electric hookup site with a generous sized level concrete pad, picnic table, and fire grate," explains Lee D., while Gary P. notes "Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed throughout the park, but often too far for a hose to reach."
Space considerations: Site sizes and spacing vary significantly between campgrounds. Andrew S. mentions that at Fishermans Corner, "sites are packed tightly together and more suited for RVs than tents," while Barbara P. appreciates that at Shady Creek, "sites are large and staggered so you aren't staring at your neighbors and can enjoy the views."
Dump stations: Most campgrounds provide dump facilities rather than full sewer hookups. Sarah C. notes that at Fishermans Corner there are "2 dump stations so no congestion to dump. Potable water between sites (not for fixed hookup) and good electric."
