G
Greg F.
Traveler
TravelerVel Terra
Great little campground in rural setting. The owner was great. We stayed in Oct 25 while doing a fall color/wine tasting/Galena trip. It was a perfect central location for us.
Camping near Delmar, IA
7 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Search destinations
Add dates
Eastern Iowa's landscape around Delmar features a mix of established campgrounds and riverside camping options within a 30-mile radius. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, located about 15 miles northeast of Delmar, offers well-spaced electric sites with both drive-in and walk-in access for tents and RVs. The park is known for its unique cave system and hiking trails through wooded terrain. Eden Valley Refuge in Baldwin provides year-round camping with full hookups and cabin options, while county parks like Sherman Park in Calamus and Walnut Grove Park near Wheatland offer more rustic experiences along the Wapsipinicon River. Several campgrounds in the area support both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of amenities from primitive sites to full-service facilities.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the region, with most state parks operating from April through December. Maquoketa Caves State Park's season runs April 1 to December 31, matching Bellevue State Park's operational calendar. Weather patterns typically bring warm summers with temperatures in the 80s during day and 60s overnight, as noted by campers visiting in August. Spring flooding can impact riverside campgrounds, particularly those along the Cedar and Wapsipinicon Rivers. "A call ahead to the conservation office to check on closures is a good idea," advises one camper who found water covering access roads to primitive sites. Cell service varies throughout the area, with better coverage near towns and more limited connectivity in rural locations.
Campers consistently highlight the natural features that distinguish this region from typical Midwestern landscapes. "The park was incredibly beautiful for the middle of nowhere in Iowa," notes one visitor to Maquoketa Caves, describing the contrast between the park's wooded ravines and the surrounding cornfields. The caves and rock formations receive particular attention in reviews, with visitors recommending headlamps and waterproof footwear for cave exploration. River access points for fishing and boating are common amenities at county parks, while train noise affects some riverside locations. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles along the Mississippi River during colder months, and various bird species throughout the warmer seasons. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water.
Best Campgrounds near Delmar (133)
1. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
"cave system of Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa."
"This is a great weekend stay, with short trails that show some beautiful and unusual scenery for central Iowa. The natural bridge is incredible, and the sites are well spaced out."
13 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $15 - $25 / night
2. Eden Valley Refuge
"Near Lost Nation, Oxford Junction, and Wyoming, IA this park is an unexpected find in rural, eastern Iowa. The camping areas have expanded."
"Well we found a pretty good one that is relatively close to our home and is rarely reserved. Its only 1 hour North of the Quad Cities where I live & open year round!"
3. Bald Eagle Campground and 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."
Check Availabilityfrom $17 - $36 / night
4. Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground
"Hidden gem near the iowa/illinois border. Secluded and beautiful."
"It has trails for walking and lots of concrete for riding bikes. We did both. The park is close to the River and has plenty of places to put your boat in across the highway."
5. Horseshoe Pond
Check Availabilityfrom $21 / night
6. 6B's Campground
"Massive bonus points for the location of this campground, which apart from rural country farmers and bat cave tourist passerby traffic, there was virtually no noise pollution to battle with."
"platform and calm waters for kayaking or just floating; (4) The peace and quiet are unbeatable, with the only background noise being a chorus of crickets and the soft babble of the river; and (5) Location-wise"
7. Sherman Co Park
"There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling."
"Primitive sites include gravel entrance, picnic tables, fire rings only. There is a boat ramp for the Wapsipinicon river with access for fishing, paddling, etc."
8. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
"Charcoal grill, fire ring with wood supplied, picnic table, covered porch, trail head right next to cabin. After hours offers quite park, dark skies, and trails with wildlife."
"AC/heat, covered porch, firewood, picnic table, Charcoal grill, trails. Park is also site of nature center with live animals, an observatory, access to Wapsipinicon River."
Check Availabilityfrom $70 - $80 / night
9. Porth RV Park
10. Bellevue State Park Campground — Dyas Unit
"CG site atop river bluff with pads, fire rings, tables, RR, recycling, trails, shelters nearby. Sites are close to each other but plenty to do."
"The site our friends had next to us was uninhabitable due to mud and sloping but the rangers let them switch sites no problem."
44 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $12 - $20 / night
Drive Time
- 32 min from Davenport, IA
- 40 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 8 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
- 1 hr 17 min from Iowa City, IA
Recent Camping Photos near Delmar, IA
147 Photos of 133 Delmar Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
Eden Valley Refuge
Sherman Co Park
Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area — Mississippi River Pools 11 22
Blanding Landing
Rock Creek County Marina and Campground
Gary McDermott RV Park
Mississippi Palisades State Park CampgroundJ
Spring Lake Campground
Thomson Causeway
Riverview Ridge
Recent Reviews near Delmar, IA
708 Reviews of 133 Delmar Campgrounds
Cyndi R.
ScoutBald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Clean, quiet and nice facilities but the placement of the fire rings borders on the absurd. These are obviously RV sites so there's already little expectation of privacy but they're good size and leave ample space behind your camper. The site we were on was tree-lined in the back. Perfect for a fire ring, right? Nah. Instead they're out front 5 ft from the road. I've never seen anything like it. 🥴
Stuart K.
LegendPark 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!
Nicole R.
GuideMiller Riverview City Park
Right on the river
We came towards the end of season so we were one of the few people staying there. The spaces are close together but we had no one near us so we didn’t mind. We had a great experience with the host, very friendly. However, it is a bit noisy since the highway is right there and you do constantly hear the trains. Also, there are some questionable people roaming through the campground.
- mmaryellen S.Guide
Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek)
I arrived after dark. Crept in slowly as its dark. Loop B. Found a spot easy. I’ll drop the envelope on the way out. Some minor road noise. Dark! Quiet! So far, excellent. I plan to head out early. I would stay here again. $25water/electric. Cash in iron ranger. Haven’t used the restroom. Perhaps in the morning. Lovely clear night sky
Amy B.ScoutCrow 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.Legend
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.Legend
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.Legend
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!
Guide to Delmar
Camping sites near Delmar, Iowa range from riverside primitive camping to full-service RV parks with electric hookups, all situated within a landscape of rolling hills, limestone outcroppings, and river valleys. The area averages 36 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush woodland environments interspersed with prairie remnants. Several campgrounds remain open year-round, though facilities like showers may close during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Cave exploration with proper gear: At Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground, visitors need headlamps for safely navigating the cave system. "If you've never gone spelunking before – and trust me, if you come here to Maquoketa SP, you're going to want to – then make sure you bring the right gear: headlamp, good sturdy hiking boots, pants to keep the bugs, spiders and ticks away as well as plenty of water to stay hydrated," advises one camper.
Paddling on local rivers: The Wapsipinicon River offers multiple access points for kayaking and canoeing. At Sherman Co Park, "Our favorite past time while we're there is to go tubing on the Wapsi River," reports a regular visitor.
Night sky observation: Several campgrounds provide excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "It is absolutely pitch black. PERFECT for stargazing on a clear night," notes a camper who stayed at Eden Valley Refuge.
Trail hiking year-round: Multiple interconnected trail systems provide hiking opportunities through various ecosystems. "The trails have sign posts and the map in a VERY general way gives you some idea as to where you are at BUT there are trails criss crossing everywhere so make sure you have your map tracker on. The trails/scenery are AMAZING!" shares a camper at Maquoketa Caves.
What campers like
Historic attractions: The Pioneer Village at Scott County Park offers a glimpse into the area's past. "Pioneer village if you've never been was the absolute bees knees as a kid to go to, especially since you can hike to get there! I loved climbing around in the train cars, eating icecream/candy canes, and watching the blacksmith work."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. "Bathrooms are clean and nice. The soap smells really good! They have showers which were clean. I thought they'd be cold water showers but they were warm! Such a delight," reports a camper at Bellevue State Park.
Diverse camping options: The region offers everything from primitive hike-in sites to full-hookup RV spots. At Eden Valley Refuge, "To get to both the pack in sites you have to hike a 1/2 mile. You need to bring all of your supplies including water. (Showers & modern facilities are 1/2 mile back at the main campground)."
Wildlife viewing: Seasonal wildlife observation opportunities abound throughout the area. At Scott County Park, visitors can "Expect to see whitetail deer as they love to make the park home."
What you should know
Seasonal cave closures: Due to bat conservation efforts, caves may close unexpectedly. "Due to concerns for wildlife (primarily bats) the caves close frequently, check the park website for details about when they will be open and respect the closures when they occur."
Flooding risks: Spring and early summer rains can impact riverside campsites. "The tent sites are prone to flooding occasionally from the gun river," notes a reviewer at Sherman Park.
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. "The cellphone signal was good; at least it passed the test of FaceTiming my wife to check for lag," reports a camper at Walnut Grove Co Park.
Cash-only policies: Some smaller private campgrounds don't accept card payments. "This camping outpost only accepts cash, money order or checks, which was a major bummer for us as we didn't have any of those with us," warns a visitor to 6B's Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Nature centers provide learning opportunities for children. The Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. "specializes in environmental education and the Eagle View Eco Center with exhibits and native live animals, trails, prairie, observatory, amphitheater, 1 mile stretch of the Wapsipinicon River with paddling access."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature well-maintained play areas. At Scott County Park, "We played a lot on the playground there and rode our bikes wherever."
Cabin options: For families wanting more comfort, cabin rentals provide full amenities. At Wapsi River Environmental Center, the cabin "sleeps 6, has all amenities including firewood at no cost! Education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year-round."
Bug preparation: The area's humidity supports healthy insect populations. At Mississippi Palisades State Park, one camper warns "We were eaten alive by chiggers when we sat out for awhile to relax," suggesting proper insect repellent.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds feature varied terrain requiring leveling equipment. At Bellevue State Park, "most of the nonelectric/tent were down at the bottom of slopes."
Electric hookup availability: Electric sites are widely available but vary in amperage. Maquoketa Caves State Park offers "24 offering 20/30/50 amp electric" according to a visitor.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have dump stations on premises. At Sherman Park, campers appreciate that there's "a nice newer playground for the kids and a few trail to explore" but note the limited facilities.
Back-in site specifications: Most RV sites require back-in parking. "The land is incredibly flat, back-in slots are spacious, hard and very level grounds are incredibly well-organized," notes a visitor to Scott County Park's Bald Eagle Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Delmar, IA?
Which is the most popular campground near Delmar, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Delmar, IA is Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.
Keep Exploring