Top Tent Camping near Preston, IA

Are you planning a tent camping trip to Preston? We've got you covered. You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Preston campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Preston, IA (16)

    Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

    1. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

    5 Reviews
    63 Photos
    5 Saves

    The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center is located along the Wapsipinicon River and consists of 225 acres of upland and bottomland forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The Wapsi Center, along with Sherman Park across the river, provide a 432-acre complex offering a wide variety of uses. The larger of the two campsites at the Center, Elm Campsite is offered to Scouts and to special event participants as a primitive camp site. The site offers flat ground for many tents, two fire pits, picnic tables, trash cans, and two sets of horseshoe pits. In return for Scout use, a service project is suggested and may be coordinated with the Center Director. Pack-in and pack-out ethics are observed at this site. Vincent Campsite is offered to Scouts and to special event participants as a primitive camp site offering a fire pit, picnic tables, and trash can. In return for Scout use, a service project is suggested and may be coordinated with the Center Director. Pack-in and pack-out ethics are observed at this site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $17 - $80 / night

    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

      4. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

      1 Review
      9 Photos
      10 Saves

      The 273-acre area is located along the South Fork of the Maquoketa River. The unique beauty of Northeast Iowa is very evident here with limestone rock outcroppings, upland timber, flood plain, wildlife, and panoramic scenery. Wildlife food plots are planted throughout the area to help wildlife survive harsh winters. Primitive camping is available by the river with restroom facilities nearby. This area is a convenient stop for canoeists traveling down the Maquoketa River.

      primitive camping (walk-in or paddle-in, tent only) pit toilets

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Toilets
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park

      5. Wildcat Den State Park

      9 Reviews
      69 Photos
      63 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs
      • Tents

      $6 - $9 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

      6. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

      1 Review
      26 Photos
      13 Saves

      Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax.

      Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people?

      Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site.

      We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing!

      Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully.

      We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available.

      Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill.

      Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely.

      **Property Owner is certified in Massage, offering sessions at the property.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Picnic Table

      $20 - $45 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground

      7. Cedar River Campground

      8 Reviews
      17 Photos
      32 Saves

      We are a seasonal campground open April 15 thru October 15. We have seasonal, monthly, weekly, and overnight rates. We have planned activities as well as many amenities. River frontage, canoe/ tube rental, mini golf, pool and so much more.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents

      $35 - $50 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Koch's Meadow Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Koch's Meadow Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Koch's Meadow Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Koch's Meadow Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Koch's Meadow Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Koch's Meadow Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Blackhawk Memorial Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Blackhawk Memorial Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Blackhawk Memorial Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Blackhawk Memorial Park

      9. Blackhawk Memorial Park

      4 Reviews
      4 Photos
      17 Saves
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • Tent Cabin
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve
      Camper-submitted photo from Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve

      10. Indian Meadows Campground - Loud Thunder Forest Preserve

      2 Reviews
      15 Photos
      3 Saves

      20 primitive campsites with shower building and water access

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Trash

      $14 - $32 / night

    Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews In Preston

    510 Reviews of 16 Preston Campgrounds


    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Pond
      Oct. 9, 2024

      Horseshoe Pond

      Nice smaller CG in City of Maquoketa, Iowa

      CG offers gravel pads, tables, fire rings, electric, sump station, water, small pond with fishing, paddling, dog park. Close to stores for supplies, dining, fuel.

    • Brian O.
      Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park
      Oct. 2, 2024

      Maquoketa Caves State Park

      Nice campground, fun caves, older established state park

      My mom remembers visiting this park in the 40's. Not a surprise since Grampa was a Geologist.
      This is a small campground for such an old park, only 34 sites, walk-ins included. All sites are along one road with a turnaround at the end. There is only one building with toilets, showers and no pit toilets. These are clean and well maintained.
      There is a playground near the entrance that is shared with the caves entrance area, a bit of a walk.
      The caves themselves are down a long hill from the campground. There are facilities there too, and a concession stand with limited hours/ days. The caves are fun to explore, but not ADA accessible. Bring flashlights and in some areas watch your head.
      The Visitor's center at the park entrance is staffed by volunteers and only open on weekends.
      Once you've done the caves, there's not much else to see within the park. But visit the Hurstville interpretive center for a nice nature center and trails.

    • Jeff and Linda L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
      Sep. 20, 2024

      Grant River Recreation Area

      Feet from the Mississippi

      The park is on the beautiful might Mississippi river. It’s 2 miles from Potosi, WI with a large brewery with good food as well. Army Corps so half price with America The Beautiful senior discount card. If you like trains you will see many, close and going fast.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Sep. 19, 2024

      Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

      Very nice County cabin near Wapsi River

      Cabin sleeps 6, has all amenities including firewood at no cost! Education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year round, Wapsipinicon River below bluff offers paddling, fishing. Menke Observatory offers sky programs.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Park
      Sep. 19, 2024

      Bennett Park

      Nice small County CG with pond

      Campground is nice with a few newer amenities, including shower house and handicap campsite. Gravel pads at sites include tables, fire, pits, electric,. There’s a dump station, play area, shelters for rent, and a pond that you can actually swim and fish and paddling.

    • .! E !.
      Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island-Quad Cities KOA
      Sep. 5, 2024

      Rock Island-Quad Cities KOA

      Perfect!

      Very nice, affordable and peaceful campsite. Stayed one night for tent camping, campsite was clean and accommodating with fire pit, picnic table, lights, Wi-Fi, and power plug. Bathrooms and showers were clean. Perfect camping site.

    • CThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Mississippi Palisades State Park
      Sep. 4, 2024

      Mississippi Palisades State Park

      Super cheap for what you get.

      I got a primitive tent site in an area all to myself, with a shower house just down the road, in a beautiful and quiet campground for $10 cash. You really can’t beat that. Campground is separate from the park so you don’t have to pay a park entrance fee to stay here.

    • Brent A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Vel Terra
      Sep. 3, 2024

      Vel Terra

      Wonderful Little Campground

      We stayed at this campground over Labor Day. The owner intentionally doesn't fill all of the sites in order to give people more space- a great luxury over a holiday like this. The sites are pretty small and only one 'sleeping structure' is allowed on each site but we found that Jeff was very willing to let us put up two tents (one for my wife & I 

      + one for the kids) because we were in the same family.

      The bathrooms and showers were very neat and well maintained. We didn't use the showers because they were paid but our friends did and had good things to say about them.

      The campground has a very nice playground (the favorite of the trip for one of my kids) and a lounge where anyone staying at the campground can rest with A/C, wifi, a phone charging area, and some board games.

      The primary drawback is that there isn't a lot of outdoor activities to do in the area. All the land is private so there's not great hiking (a little in the state park about 20 min drive away), IL law allows waterways to be privately owned so you can't kayak the river, etc. Galena is nearby if you want to go shopping and we really enjoyed going to Terrapin Apple Orchard and picking some apples (if you're there in the Fall). But all in all I would say this is a great campground to rest and relax at- probably not ideal for outdoor adventures.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sherman Co Park
      Aug. 28, 2024

      Sherman Co Park

      Scenic County park along Wapsipinicon River

      The campground offers to camp areas: one better suited for RVs, and the other area is better suited for primitive tent, camping. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings, our recites include electric. There is a campground host, shower house, shelter and playground area there too. The tent sites are prone to flooding occasionally from the gun river. There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
      Aug. 28, 2024

      Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

      Nice modern cabin in County campground

      Cabin sits at end of campground lane with covered porch, parking for 3 cars, ADA accessible. Cabin has 2 sleeping rooms, sleeping loft, and sofa. Capacity is 10, with all kitchen amenities. Has fire pit, wood available in campground, tables, and gas grill with rental. Playground nearby, park has seasonal pool, garden of course, trails, Pride Lake for fishing and paddling.

    • W
      Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
      Aug. 24, 2024

      Riverview Ridge

      Unique River and Trail Access Campground

      Two hour float trips on the North Fork Maquoketa River are available directly from the campground. There is a mix of permanent and temporary campers. The tent sites, nearest the river, are well spaced with flush toilets. Apparently there are also good trails, as many of the campers have ATV’s parked at their sites. The shower house, under the office, was spacious and clean.

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
      Aug. 22, 2024

      Interstate RV Park

      Overnight stop along I-80

      Campground has gravel lanes, roads pads, appears to have annual residence, campground office, pool is clean, planes, farm, and fleet nearby for Supplies. Sites include tables, water, electric, though need updating.

    • Dj Y.
      Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
      Aug. 19, 2024

      Grant River Recreation Area

      Sandy and Gentleman worker=AMAZING

      I was hitchhiking thru, was dropped off by a ride that said he was buying a $14 tent site for me, come to find out he never did, I just was honest with sandy and the gentleman worker and offered the only 8$ I had, no sir, they said please stay for free and just enjoy. WONDERFUL PPL THAT CARE ABOUT OTHERS!! THANKS YALL

    • AThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Den State Park
      Jul. 10, 2024

      Wildcat Den State Park

      Lovely hidden space

      Found by hiking at the Wildcat Den State Park. Lovely little campside with 19 places, rustical without electricity, dump etc. But got one waterstation and toilets. Every space with picknicktable and fireplace, surrounded by trees. Places are gras. Sorry for my english, Camp from Germany :-)

    • Robert P.
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Inn Campground
      Jun. 26, 2024

      Blue Inn Campground

      Reservations

      I made a reservation back in April 20 q24 June 26th 6 days before vacation I received a refund notice from them not in the full amount I paid less than a half

    • Charles M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park
      Jun. 13, 2024

      Maquoketa Caves State Park

      Beautiful State Park

      This park is beautiful and perfect for an adventurous hike. The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son and his friends. We would definitely go back.

    • Charles M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Bellevue State Park
      Jun. 13, 2024

      Bellevue State Park

      Campsite Was Average at Best

      I took my son and one of his friends campjng to Bellvue State Park, however, we did not visit the actual park itself. The camp sites were close to one another, many had almost no privacy from the other campsites. We were at campsite 40, which had a severe incline. Also, if you prefer to hammock camp you may not be able to do so. I was able to find one tree and hook the other side up to my vehicle.

    • E
      Camper-submitted photo from Clarks Ferry
      May. 9, 2024

      Clarks Ferry

      Great campground

      This campground sits between the Mississippi River with barge traffic and busy rail road tracks. I knew this up front because you can see it on the map. To me this just means people are working which is great. I know the horns blow all night and day long but i choose to ignore it. The campsites are great. The hosts are warm and welcoming also very helpful. I missed a great photo opportunity last night. Birds were migrating to the north and flying very close to the river. It was awesome to watch. We love this campground!

    • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Porth RV Park
      Apr. 29, 2024

      Porth RV Park

      Small rural cg in town

      Sites are close together: gravel pads, onsite: water, firewood, fire pit, tables, food nearby, playground adjacent, near Highway 30.

    • Big D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Cedar River Campground
      Apr. 27, 2024

      Cedar River Campground

      Cedar river campground

      Camped there for years. Never again. Last 2 years under current owners\ management, I would not spend another dime there. They are nothing but drama. Behind office towards owners home looks like a salvage yard. They have removed families who have camped there for years. Only ones left are scared, no place to move to, or suck up to them for special privileges. Last two years were horrible. Will only return if sold to again new owners who care about campers vs money.



    Guide to Preston

    Camping near Preston, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do

    • Explore the Caves: At Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, you can hike through unique caves. One visitor said, “The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son and his friends.”
    • Enjoy Water Activities: Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground has a large lake with boat launches and fishing piers. A reviewer mentioned, “There’s a boat rental place run by the nearby Cork Down Saloon.”
    • Hiking Trails: Many campgrounds, like Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground, offer well-maintained trails. One camper noted, “The trails are well kept, clean bathrooms, nice campsites and the best camp hosts ever!!!”

    What campers like

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate clean restrooms and showers. A visitor at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River said, “The bathrooms were quite clean. Water was a little hard to get, depending on the site.”
    • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One reviewer at Shady Creek mentioned, “Nice quiet spot on the Mississippi.”
    • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their hospitality. A camper at Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA said, “The staff were great!”

    What you should know

    • Train Noise: Some campgrounds, like Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, are near train tracks. A visitor warned, “When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries. It’s incredibly loud!”
    • Site Selection: Choosing the right site is important. A camper at White Pines Forest State Park Campground advised, “This is the type of campground you go and check your spot out before you reserve it.”
    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have stores or markets nearby. A reviewer at Chief Keokuk Campground noted, “The restaurant and rental building is closed until future notice.”

    Tips for camping with families

    • Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. One camper at Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground mentioned, “The playground was nice for the kiddos.”
    • Plan for Bugs: Be prepared for insects, especially near water. A visitor at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground suggested, “Insect repelling incense and spray kept us comfortable.”
    • Bring Entertainment: Pack games or outdoor activities to keep kids engaged. A camper at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River shared, “We loved walking the campground as well as the bike path nearby.”

    Tips from RVers

    • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground noted, “The campground provided a quieter respite.”
    • Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric sites. A visitor at Shady Creek said, “Good cell reception. We have Verizon. Clean showers and 50 amp sites.”
    • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds may have noise from nearby roads or trains. A camper at Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA mentioned, “There may be some full-timers, but not in our area.”

    Camping near Preston, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the specifics of each campground to make the most of your trip!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Preston, IA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Preston, IA is Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find tent camping near Preston, IA?

      TheDyrt.com has all 16 tent camping locations near Preston, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.