Camping near Princeton, IA

118 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

Search destinations
    Add dates

    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 Campgrounds near Princeton (118)

      1. Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River

      4.0(26)8mi from Princeton56 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $14 - $26 / night

      Check Availability

      2. Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

      4.5(19)9mi from PrincetonRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      from $17 - $36 / night

      Check Availability

      3. Illiniwek Campground

      4.3(14)8mi from PrincetonRVs, Tents

      "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

      4.1(8)3mi from PrincetonRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "The campground can get very buggy, considering seasons in Iowa."

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

      from $14 - $18 / night

      Check Availability

      5. Geneseo Campground

      4.0(18)17mi from Princeton6 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

      from $40 - $95 / night

      Check Availability

      6. Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park

      4.7(7)10mi from PrincetonRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Surrounded by mature hardwood forest, generous-sized campsites with decent privacy and miles of interconnected hiking trails, this campground delivers a camping experience that feels far more secluded"

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

      from $15 - $23 / night

      Check Availability

      7. Pine Grove Campground, Scott Co Park

      4.3(7)9mi from PrincetonRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Pine Grove Campground is situated in Scott County Park."

      "Another upside to Pine Grove is that it has a single hiking trail heading west that will connect you with a wider network of hiking & biking trails."

      from $15 - $23 / night

      Check Availability

      8. Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park

      3.9(7)9mi from PrincetonRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $15 - $23 / night

      Check Availability

      9. Woodside Campground, Scott County Park Iowa

      4.0(6)10mi from PrincetonRVs, Tents

      "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"

      from $17 - $36 / night

      Check Availability

      10. Scott County Park- South East Corner Campground

      3.3(6)9mi from PrincetonRVs, Tents

      "Site is located in the very SE corner of the park with: charcoal grill, fire ring, outhouse, picnic table, recycle station adjacent, tie-up, hard surface for RV. No water onsite. Trails available."

      "Tucked away in the southeast corner of Scott County Park – yes, the same park that already has more campgrounds than a camping catalog – lurks a little-known equestrian primitive campground."

      from $15 / night

      Check Availability

    2026 Explorer Giveaway

    Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

    Enter to Win

    Drive Time



    Recent Reviews near Princeton, IA

    613 Reviews of 118 Princeton Campgrounds

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 24, 2026

      Park 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!

    • Amy B.
      Oct. 15, 2026

      Crow Valley Campground

      Avoid this Campground at all cost

      Seasonal Stay Review Overall Rating:⭐☆☆☆☆ Our experience as seasonal campers at this campground was deeply disappointing due to unprofessional management, inconsistent rule enforcement, premature lease violations, and a toxic atmosphere. Management& Atmosphere The campground owner frequently engaged in inappropriate behaviors, including spreading gossip, making disrespectful comments, and actively bullying campers both in person and on social media platforms. Rather than fostering a welcoming community, the leadership promoted a divisive culture marked by clear favoritism. Inconsistent Rule Enforcement Rules were applied arbitrarily. Certain seasonal campers were permitted to disregard campground policies without consequence, while others were singled out, micromanaged, and targeted for minor or non-existent issues. Unprofessional Conduct Regarding Minors Most concerning was management’s unacceptable conduct toward children. The owner actively made a ten-year-old child feel unwelcome by making inappropriate insinuations regarding his friendship with a nearly thirteen-year-old girl, claiming a platonic friendship between a boy and a girl of those ages was somehow improper. Targeting young children and policing harmless childhood friendships crosses a line that no family should have to deal with while on vacation. Breach of Contract& Property Damage To make matters worse, management prematurely cut off electricity to our campsite prior to the end of our contractual agreement. This lack of power led to a total loss of all refrigerated food items and caused significant interior damage to our camper when the freezer thawed and the ice inside it melted and leaked onto the flooring. Additionally, management unlawfully removed personal property from our campsite before our lease term had expired and failed to return it. Conclusion While a seasonal site should offer a relaxing environment for families, the current ownership creates an uncomfortable, hostile, and unethical environment. Between the emotional hostility and the direct financial loss caused by management's actions, I strongly advise others to avoid this campground.

    • James M.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 15, 2026

      Cabin 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.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 15, 2026

      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.

    • James M.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 15, 2026

      Pintail Cabin- Rock Creek Marina

      Neat County park in Mississippi River backwaters

      Park has multiple cabins. Pintail Cabin is an ADA compliant, fully accessible cabin that sleeps up to 6 people. The cabin includes a queen-size adjustable bed that raises and lowers for easy access, twin size bunk bed, a full-size sofa sleeper, table/chairs. Kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, electric cook top, sink. Central Heat/AC. Bathroom has accessible roll-in shower. There is also has a large deck and an accessible picnic table and fire ring outside. Bedding, towels, and kitchen cookware and utensils are not provided. The cabin has an ADA compliant access ramp. Tents are not permitted on this site. There is a playground, boat ramp, paddle rentals, Eco Tourism Center with small store and grill, and a nature center offering programs! The Blue Heron pontoon boat offers tours on the water too!

    • James M.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 13, 2026

      Rock Creek County Marina and Campground

      Neat county Park and campground in Mississippi River backwaters

      This campground offers lots of amenities, including: gravel, pads, fire rings, firewood, on site, campground host, playgrounds, water, dump station, both tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. There’s a store for Supplies, and a grill serving food. The Eco tourism center includes interactive and educational displays and programs. The marina offers slips for rent, boat rentals of canoes and kayaks. The campground can get very buggy, considering seasons in Iowa.

    • James M.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 10, 2026

      Wildcat Den State Park Campground

      Great State Park with Great trails and mature forests.

      This campground has basic amenities, including tables, fire pits, water on site, restrooms. There is also a larger group campsite across from the standard campground. There are many trails throughout the limestone Bluffs and pine Creek credited through. There is a historical site known as Pine Creek Brit Mill, pioneer cemetery, and a cabin and school site.

    • James M.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 9, 2026

      Buffalo Shores County Park

      Nice county campground on the Mississippi River

      This campground is well located on Highway 22 in Buffalo, Iowa. Sitting along the banks of the Mississippi river, sites include hard pads, fire rings, electric, water, showers, and restrooms, campground Office, seasonal host with wood. There is a playground, volleyball, Sandy beaches, boat ramps. This campground recently connected to City water instead of septic.

    • tThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 29, 2026

      Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

      Grea clean campground

      Tons to do, trails, the caves, playground, picnic areas The sites are average The caves are amazing Water, power, bathrooms and dumping station

    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 26 reviews.