Top Free Dispersed Camping near Princeton, IA

Camping near Princeton, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous 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."
• Enjoy the Mississippi River: Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River offers a lovely riverside experience. A camper mentioned, "It felt like we had escaped to a riverside sanctuary."
• Disc Golf and Play Areas: At West Overlook Campground, you can enjoy disc golf and playgrounds. One reviewer noted, "There is disc golf as well."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathrooms. One visitor at Thomson Causeway said, "The facilities are very good and impeccably clean."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Shady Creek, have spacious sites. A reviewer shared, "The sites are spacious and angled for ease of backing into."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. At Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground, one camper said, "The best camp hosts ever!!!"

What you should know:

• Insect Awareness: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Thomson Causeway warned, "I should’ve taken the other reviews more seriously about the number of insects."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River, lack showers. A visitor noted, "The bathrooms are a little dated, but very clean."
• Site Proximity: Campsites can be close together. One camper at White Pines Forest State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is absolutely jammed with campsites."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. West Overlook Campground has a kids' play area, making it a great spot for families.
• Plan for Quiet Hours: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours, which can be a plus for families with young kids. A camper at Lowden State Park Campground said, "Everyone was respectful of quiet hours and very friendly."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. One visitor at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground mentioned, "The good news is that likely due to the bats, there were no gnats or mosquitos."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Chief Keokuk Campground noted, "The sites are pretty even; some had a slight slope but not too bad."
• Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. One camper at Camelot Campground Quad Cities USA said, "The sites are close packed with small patios between the rigs."
• Plan for Dump Stations: Ensure you know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Thomson Causeway mentioned, "Dump Station: Yes, Belford entering the campground."

Camping near Princeton, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!