Best Campgrounds near Princeton, IA

Princeton, Iowa sits along the Mississippi River corridor with camping options spanning both Iowa and Illinois shorelines. The area features several established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive, including Fishermans Corner on the Illinois side and Rock Creek County Marina and Campground in Iowa. Scott County Park, located northwest of Princeton, offers multiple campground areas including Wilderness, Pine Grove, Sac-Fox, and Woodside, each providing different levels of amenities and privacy. Campsites range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV locations, with many facilities offering river access for boating and fishing. Several campgrounds provide cabin rentals and glamping options for those seeking alternatives to traditional camping.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this area, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. Spring flooding along the Mississippi and its tributaries occasionally affects riverfront campsites, as one camper noted: "The one downfall to this park is the possibility for flooding. When the Cedar River is high, it pushes Chicken Creek out of its banks which can mean potential closure of campgrounds." Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions. Many campgrounds require reservations during peak summer weekends, though some maintain first-come, first-served sites. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region except in some river valley locations.

Riverside camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly for fishing access and scenic views. According to one visitor at Fishermans Corner: "Some sites are directly on the river. Site 13 seemed to be one of the best situated. We stayed in Site 12 which had a beautiful, unobstructed view of the river." Train noise affects some campgrounds near railroad tracks, with one camper at Riverview City Park noting: "The one negative is noise from trains. One seems to go by every few hours." Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles along the Mississippi during winter months, while summer brings monarch butterflies and various bird species to restored prairie areas. Campers frequently mention the quality of sunsets over the water as a highlight of their stays in the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Princeton, Iowa (112)

    1. Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

    23 Reviews
    Bettendorf, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 259-3628

    $14 - $26 / night

    "Site 13 seemed to be one of the best situated. We stayed in Site 12 which had a beautiful, unobstructed view of the river."

    "As with all the campgrounds along the Northern Illinois Great River Trail, it is along side Rt. 84, and railroad tracks."

    2. Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

    18 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 328-3282

    $17 - $36 / night

    "Enjoyed almost 2 weeks at West Lake Park, part of the Scott County, IA park system. Helpful staff, park rangers make daily patrols, nice spots, many with shade trees & decent room."

    "Although theres a small "lake" here, Ive never had great luck catching much. Pool is nice and updated. Park rangers are always frequently present and patrolling."

    3. Illiniwek Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bettendorf, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 496-2620

    "The campground is also right next to a biking trail. There was public and private bathrooms. The private ones were only accessible to campers that received a key from the park office."

    "There is a section of the campground where you can camp right on the edge of the Mississippi River which is nice, but you must deal with people fishing the entire time."

    4. Rock Creek County Marina and Campground

    7 Reviews
    Princeton, IA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 259-1876

    $14 - $18 / night

    "Sites include fire rings, tables, gravel backing pads, electric with some right near water edge."

    "Turn at quarry off Great River Road/Highway 67."

    5. Geneseo Campground

    15 Reviews
    Geneseo, IL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 442-2662

    $40 - $95 / night

    "The tent sites are nicely tucked away from the RVs, with a row of bushes to separate you from your neighbor. Nice shade."

    "will be surrounded by."

    6. Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park

    6 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    9 miles
    Website

    $15 - $23 / night

    "I met include restrooms and showers, campground host with firewood, available, trash, bins, playground area, trails nearby, I shelter to rent, a golf course across from the entrance, And the park has a"

    "CG offers primitive site amenities: tables, fire rings, some hammock structures, spacious sites, shelter to rent, seasonal host with fire wood and golf course like cated at entrance."

    7. Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park

    5 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    10 miles
    Website

    $15 - $23 / night

    "The campground has a seasonal host offering firewood on site, showers and restrooms, play area, trails, and overflow parking just adjacent for the entrance."

    "Unlike either nearby Woodside or Bald Eagle campgrounds, which are more geared for the RV driving and 5th Wheel hauling camping community, Wilderness CG isn’t very level, has decent natural barriers like"

    8. Pine Grove Campground, Scott Co Park

    5 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    9 miles
    Website

    $15 - $23 / night

    "Primitive tent sites include: tables, fire rings, parking, water and firewood nearby, shelter for rent, seasonal host, visitor parking, 2 modern cabins adjacent."

    "Beautiful area that is well secluded, especially since it is so close to the city."

    9. Woodside Campground, Scott County Park Iowa

    5 Reviews
    Long Grove, IA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 328-3282

    $17 - $36 / night

    "If you wanted to tent camp here, you could, although I would recommend nearby Incahias or Sac-Fox as better for tent campers."

    "CG is well maintained, Rangers are seen regularly, has standard RV sites, nice shower/restrooms, wood available, near trails, short drive to Pride Lake for paddling and fishing, golf course with clubhouse"

    10. Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA

    17 Reviews
    Rock Island, IL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 787-0665

    "My wife, son, and I recently stayed here on our trip back home from Iowa. The campground was clean and quiet."

    "Close to stores, and resturants. A casino close by."

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Recent Reviews near Princeton, IA

534 Reviews of 112 Princeton Campgrounds


  • 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

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground

    Nice quiet place

    Water was available on my visit 10-7 thru 10-10. The place is clean and well kept, including the pit toilets. Plenty of hiking along the canal and 10 miles away from most stores. Fee is $8 however if you’re an Illinois resident over 62 camping is free Sunday through Thursday nights.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    Trails, Tales & a Big Round Barn at Johnson Sauk Trail State Park

    If you like your camping served with a side of quirk, Johnson Sauk Trail State Park near Kewanee, Illinois, delivers in spades. First impressions are of rolling hills, shady hardwoods, and wide-open prairie that feels like someone took a painter’s brush to the Midwest and got carried away. It’s big, it’s woodsy, and it has just enough old-fashioned charm to make you think you’ve stumbled into a summer postcard here in the heart of the Prairie State. Families and weekend wanderers flock here, but the atmosphere stays laid-back and the kind of place where you can still hear the wind in the trees over the laughter and screaming of kids chasing fireflies.

    The campground itself is no slouch, with more than 70 sites ranging from rustic tent pads (25 in total) to electric hook-up spots that keep RVs humming happily. Sites are generally roomy and shaded, each with picnic tables and fire rings that dare you to try out your best s’mores engineering skills. Bathhouses are clean and close, with flush toilets and showers that (miracle of miracles) actually have good water pressure. Roads are paved and very easy to navigate, though keep an eye on turns if you’re wrangling a bigger rig. Pets are welcome, kids have plenty of room to roam, and the general feel is safe and easygoing.

    And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who ‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.And then there’s the Ryan Round Barn, the park’s crown jewel and conversation piece. Built in 1910 by Dr. Laurence Ryan, who was a local physician with a big brain and apparently had a thing for circles, this 180 degree structure is one of the largest round barns in the entire country. This wooden wonder stands 80 feet tall and 85 feet across, with four levels that once housed 50 dairy cows, horses, and enough hay to feed a small army. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, and even kids who‘don’t like history’ will be impressed once they realize it’s basically a giant barn spaceship from 100 years ago.

    Outside the campground, Johnson Lake offers paddleboat rentals, fishing piers, and calm waters for paddling, which is ideal for wearing out the kids while you pretend you’re training for a kayak marathon! Trails wind through forest and prairie with wildlife sightings being frequent enough that you’ll start feeling like you’re starring in your own nature documentary. When hunger hits, Kewanee is just down the road, with options ranging from old-school diners to pizza joints. And don’t skip The Coop, a local gem in the hamlet of Annawan with an ice cream parlor and baked goods like cinnamon rolls, iced cookies and chocolate chunk brownies so good you’ll briefly consider moving to town just to live closer.

    Insider tips? Yep, here’s a handful: (1) Book a site in the lake loop(of which there’s some 7 or slots to choose from) for quick access to Johnson Lake, where despite a short trek to the water’s edge, you’ll get fewer complaints from the kids when it’s time to haul gear to the water and you’ll also be treated to unbeatable sunset views from one of the scattered benches along the lakefront; (2) For food, check out Cerno’s Bar & Grill in Kewanee, which was established in 1898 BTW and feels like you’re stepping back in time for massive burgers and a family-friendly vibe, Good’s Furniture for surprisingly solid sit-down meals (yes, furniture and food under one roof), and The Coop for ice cream and baked goods that will tempt you back two days in a row; (3) Don’t miss touring the Ryan Round Barn with it’s four stories of history, architecture and oddball charm that kids and adults alike will find fascinating. Just remember: it’s round, so if you get lost inside, maybe camping isn’t your sport; and (4) Bring a kayak or canoe for Johnson Lake as the calm water is great for families, fishing will likely net some channel catfish, largemouth bass and white crappie and you’ll likely spot turtles, herons and maybe even a beaver supervising your paddling skills.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Geneseo Izaak Walton League Campground - Members Only

    Hidden Gem Along the Hennepin Canal

    This is the Geneseo Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America, which coming across one fine Autumn day, I was completely unaware of this organization, which apparently is America’s oldest and most successful conservation organizations. This particular chapter in Geneseo was chartered back in 1952 and shortly thereafter founded Ike’s Park located right along the Hennepin Canal, which features among other things: picnic facilities, fishing, boating and kayaking, a boat ramp, handicapped accessible fishing pier as well as a community lodge that you can book in advance, in addition to a primitive style campground offering up some 20 or so sites on a first-come, first served basis.

    To put it bluntly, this place is incredibly simple and basic, which is its beauty in a nutshell. This undiscovered little gem will make you feel as though you’ve just hit the primitive camping lottery jackpot as very few folks outside of Geneseo even know of this place. So if you’re coming from slightly further afield, you’ll appreciate getting in on something special. Upon arrival from Route 82, which if you are coming from the nearest major highway of I80, you’d be heading northbound, you need to simply hang a right onto a very modest gravel road that has an immediate declining slope upon entry. Once you turn into Izaak Walton Park, you’ll feel embraced by something truly special with mature maples and oaks surrounding you before coming across a sign marking this territory as Ike’s Place with the community lodge on the right. If you continue on, just about 30 yards further you’ll come across the self-check-in kiosk where you just need to fill out the required information and drop your$10(member) or$20(non-members) in an envelope and you can set up wherever you’d like.

    As you are literally right next to the Hennepin Canal, you’ll want to set up as near the canal as you can get, although, you could sit back a bit further south if you’d like under the canopy of a mature treeline. Beyond the beautiful, scenic riverview, there’s just a couple of community shelters, basic restroom facilities with vault toilets, a fishing pier and a large area that faces a larger swath of the Hennepin Canal that for a short bit resembles a lake, although when you are on the water, you’ll learn it’s just the bend in the river. Here at Izaak Walton Park alongside the property immediately to the south, Geneseo Prairie Park, there’s lots of decent hilly hiking trails to keep you occupied. And of course, if you’re an angler, you’ll appreciate the quick and easy access to casting a line where you’ll be able to catch panfish, small- and large-mouth bass as well as catfish.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) While you are north of Geneseo, you shouldn’t have too much problem with cell coverage out in these parts– we got 4 bars with Verizon and 3 bars with AT&T;(2) Not all of the sites are level, so you definitely want to check out a number of the sites before deciding upon which to choose from– where you’ll also want to keep in mind that not all of the sites have electricity, so either plant yourself near an outlet or bring a long electrical cord;(3) While there is a dump station on-site, when we were there, it was locked, so while we were able to place most of our trash in the garbage receptables, be prepared to haul yours out with you before leaving; and(4) You’ll want to take note that you are sitting alongside the Hennepin Canal, which if you haven’t been to before, provides about 100 miles worth of some pretty amazing slow-moving current that is excellent for kayaks and canoes, so if you’ve got one, bring it, but if not, the good folks at Geneseo Campground just due north of this location across the river will rent you one.

    Happy Camping!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Summit Campground - West Lake Park

    Nice Break

    We are headed to North Carolina and needed a break from the back-to-back travel days. This campground was clean and quiet while we’re were there. We did stay from Monday to Wednesday so it might be busier on the weekends.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park

    The Brady Bunch of Campgrounds

    SOC-Fox Campground is like the middle child in a family of seven - yes, count 'em seven - campgrounds within Scott County Park. Think Brady Bunch, but with fire pits and RV hookups instead of bell bottoms and avocado-colored kitchens. It’s not the flashiest sibling, but it’s got that reliable Midwest charm that makes you go,'Yep, it's not the most attractive, but it will get the job done.' First impression? Clean, organized and incredibly less chaotic than you’d expect from the Jan of the camping family.

    The sites here are roomy, shaded, and well-behaved, just like campers who say 'please' and 'thank you' everywhere you go, well, because you're in the Midwest. You’ve got a mix of electric and FHU options, so everyone from RV royalty to tent campers with coolers full of questionable lunch meat can settle in comfortably. Roads are wide enough that you won’t have to close one eye and pray when maneuvering your rig. Bathhouses? Shockingly nice. Like, did a spa consultant sneak in here when no one was looking?!  Nice. Fire rings and picnic tables come standard, and the pet-friendly vibe means your dog will probably make more friends than you do.  There's some shade, but most of it is on the treeline on the perimeter.

    And let’s talk about Scott County Park itself, which is like the Disney World of county parks. You want hiking? Got it. Equestrian trails? Saddle up. Disc golf? Fore! Playground for the kids? Absolutely. And then there’s the aquatic center. Not a pool. Not a splash pad. A full-on aquatic wonderland with waterslides, diving boards and enough chlorine to strip a small car of paint. Meanwhile, other campgrounds are out here bragging about their kiddie swings. Weak, right?!

    Insider Tips?  Here's a handful: (1) Shady sites near the woods are perfect for naps and hiding from the in-laws, while open sites are better if you need your daily satellite news fix; (2) Hungry? Roll into nearby Eldridge for The Rustic Ridge, where the burgers are taller than your nephew’s science project and fries are an entire food group all to itself; (3) Kayak fans can float the Wapsipinicon River where it’s calm, scenic and you’ll get to wave at locals fishing with that 'I’ve lived here since 1842' energy; and (4) Don’t skip the aquatic center as your kids will cannonball themselves into exhaustion while you finally finish that camp chair beer in peace.

    Happy Camping!

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Summit Cabin 2, West Lake Park

    Nice modern cabin along lake

    Cabin has on-site parking as well as overflow parking nearby, hard surface with picnic table, and firing, gas grill, covered porch with Lakeview, sleeps eight, fireplace and full kitchen amenities, ADA accessible restroom. Park offers seasonal swimming beach, for lakes to paddle and fish at, disc golf course, Concessions in season, and lots of trails.

  • Michael P.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Fairport State Recreation Area Campground

    Host not friendly very rude woman would not recommend staying here at all

    Would not recommend fairport camping  in muscatine iowa at all the host is rude and non caring personality more like two faced   i would recommend  shady creek  or one of the others on the same hwy if looking for nice and great host

    On the note dnr are great thou

  • Jorge F.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Cedar River Campground

    Good place to go camping with friends and family.

    “This place became my wife’s and daughters’ favorite this year. It is a place where everyone who visits is very kind and respectful. The managers are always courteous and attentive.”


Guide to Princeton

Princeton area campgrounds offer direct access to the Mississippi River with most sites located within 10-25 minutes of town. The region experiences seasonal temperature fluctuations with summer highs reaching 90°F while spring camping can be affected by river levels. Several campgrounds remain open year-round for visitors seeking off-season solitude.

What to do

Hiking and biking trails: Scott County Park features an extensive trail network with connections from Wilderness Campground. Trails accommodate multiple activities as noted by one visitor: "The park offers miles of trails, a historical Pioneer Village within the park at the north, equestrian trails, bicycle trails."

Paddling opportunities: The Mississippi backwaters provide calm water exploration from Rock Creek Marina and Campground with equipment available on-site. "This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife," explains one camper.

Historical exploration: Visit the Walnut Grove Pioneer Village for a step back in time. "I loved climbing around in the train cars, eating icecream/candy canes, and watching the blacksmith work. Sometimes they'll have shootouts in the street which was always a blast pun intended!" shares a visitor who hiked to the village from Pine Grove campground.

What campers like

River views: Waterfront sites at Illiniwek Campground offer direct Mississippi access. One camper notes: "Some sites are right on the river with views - worth it to try to get those. Our spot was last min and just a short walk from river - still beautiful."

Affordable rates: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value at Fishermans Corner. "Stayed one night as we were traveling west. Very well kept nice and quiet; concrete pad and electric. Only $20! Pretty view of the Mississippi," reports one reviewer.

Wildlife viewing: Seasonal deer sightings are common throughout the area campgrounds. "Expect to see whitetail deer as they love to make the park home," mentions a camper at Bald Eagle Campground, while other campers report seeing numerous bird species along the water.

What you should know

Flooding potential: River sites can be affected by seasonal water levels. "The campgrounds are on backwaters of the Mississippi so there are boat ramps, docks, and areas to fish," explains a Rock Creek Marina visitor, but notes facilities may close during high water.

Train noise: Railroad tracks near Geneseo Campground and other riverside locations create periodic noise. "One negative is noise from trains," mentions a reviewer, though many campers report the sound doesn't significantly disrupt sleep.

Bugs can be problematic: Proximity to water means insect management is necessary. "This campground has gnats that are a real pest, but at the camp office they sell a gnat replant that works great. If you go pick some up while you are signing in," advises a Scott County Park visitor.

Tips for camping with families

Educational centers: Visit the nature facilities at Rock Creek. "They have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed. The grounds are on backwaters of the Mississippi so there are boat ramps, docks, and areas to fish," explains a family camper.

Multiple activity options: Scott County Park offers diverse recreational facilities. "Scott County Park has been the standard from which I judge all other campgrounds... We played a lot on the playground there and rode our bikes wherever," shares a visitor who frequently camped there as a child.

Swimming options: The heated pool at Scott County Park provides water fun even on cooler days. "The pool was open while we were there but we did not partake. It was really hot out so the pool was packed! It looks really nice from the road, it has 2 water slides and a small child area fashioned similar to a splash park."

Tips from RVers

Site selection matters: Choose Camelot Campground pull-through sites for larger rigs. "Sites are small however pull through sites are 2x as big, but they cost a little more," advises an RVer, noting the additional space is worth the premium.

Levelness varies by campground: Scott County Park's Woodside Campground offers the best level sites for RVs. "RVs including big rigs basics like electric, water, sewer, fire rings, hard pads. Not much shade though trees are planted," explains a reviewer noting the newer solar-assisted facilities.

Seasonal water limitations: Some campgrounds shut off water during colder months. "The website did not mention that the premium patio site with full hook up would not have water service while we were there," warns a camper who visited during early spring, suggesting campers call ahead to confirm available utilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Princeton, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Princeton, IA is Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River with a 4-star rating from 23 reviews.