Camping sites near Bettendorf, Iowa span both sides of the Mississippi River, with most locations offering seasonal operation from April through October when temperatures range from 65-85°F during summer months. The region features a mix of county-managed parks and private campgrounds, with Scott County Park maintaining multiple campground options across its 1,280 acres of woodland and prairie terrain. Water levels in the Mississippi can fluctuate significantly during spring, affecting riverside camping conditions.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Scott County Park provides extensive trail networks for outdoor enthusiasts. "Park offers miles of trails, fishing at pride Lake, a historical Pioneer Village within the park at the north, equestrian trails, bicycle trails," notes a visitor at Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins.
Fishing at multiple lakes: The region offers several fishing opportunities beyond the Mississippi. "Park offers 4 lakes to fish, paddle, and a seasonal beach for swimming with concessions. Park has hiking trails, world-class disc golf course, playgrounds, picnicking, shelter rentals," according to a camper at Park Terrace Campground.
Paddling the waterways: Canoes and kayaks are popular on both the Mississippi and inland waterways. "From this campground you can go north, as far as Savanna. Going south will take you through Hampton, East Moline, Moline, Rock Island, and you can cross over to Davenport, circle Credit Island, and pick up other paths in Iowa," explains a paddler at Fishermans Corner.
Visit Pioneer Village: The historical attraction at Scott County Park provides a glimpse into regional history. "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," recalls a camper from Pine Grove Campground.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many campgrounds offer sites with natural buffers. "For tent camping, I preferred Wilderness over Incahaias mainly because Wilderness feels much more private, as some of the individual sights towards the back are surrounded by bushes/trees," mentions a camper at Pine Grove Campground.
Reasonable pricing: The area's campgrounds generally offer good value. "Affordable campground that's minutes off of I80 in Davenport IA. The sites are nice wooded sites. A mix of gravel and pavement," notes a visitor to Interstate RV Park.
River views: Mississippi River access remains a major draw. "The sunsets on the Mississippi were beautiful each evening!" reports a camper at Illiniwek Campground, which provides riverside camping options.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. "Bathhouses? Shockingly nice. Like, did a spa consultant sneak in here when no one was looking?! Nice," remarks a visitor to Sac-Fox Campground about Scott County Park's facilities.
What you should know
Weather and insects: Seasonal conditions can affect camping comfort. "Bugs were not too bad when we were there (October) which was surprising as it was so close to the river and still warm," notes a camper at Fishermans Corner.
Train noise: Railroad tracks parallel the Mississippi, affecting some riverside locations. "There's a train but it was infrequent so it did not disrupt our sleep, in fact, all four of us accidentally slept VERY late!" reports a visitor at Fishermans Corner.
Water quality varies: Tap water can be inconsistent across campgrounds. "The water at the sites tastes funky so we opted to buy jugs of water from the store," mentions a camper at Illiniwek Campground.
Weekend crowding: Occupancy patterns follow predictable weekly cycles. "During the week it seems to be only 20% full," shares a camper about site availability at riverside campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin accommodations: Several parks offer cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort. "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," describes a visitor at Bald Eagle Campground.
Playground access: Many campgrounds include play areas. "The campground had firewood for sale and a nice playground for kids. The campground is also right next to a biking trail," notes a family staying at Illiniwek Campground.
Swimming options: Seasonal pools provide relief from summer heat. "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," observes a family at Camelot Campground.
Budget-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer inclusive amenities. "Fantastic campground. Facilities were well maintained and the staff was great! Traveling with 3 younger kids and they enjoyed all the activities. We'll be back here again, for sure," shares a parent who visited Camelot Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing varies: Check campground maps before booking. "The sites have decent spacing, and during the week it seems to be only 20% full. Bathrooms with showers. Some road noise, but overall a great spot to fishing or just relax," advises an RVer at Illiniwek Campground.
Utility connections: Full hookup availability differs between campgrounds. "Sites have electric, water, hard pads, firewood, available, heated shower house, very clean, Recycling bins, overflow parking, electric vehicle charge station, wheelchair, charging station," notes a visitor at Bald Eagle Campground about the amenities.
Dump station access: Multiple locations provide dump facilities. "There are 2 dump stations so no congestion to dump. Potable water between sites (not for fixed hookup) and good electric," shares an RVer at Fishermans Corner regarding the convenient utilities.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds have limited winter availability. "The campground is open year-round but they shut of the water spigots around the end of October (depending on the weather)," notes a visitor to Park Terrace Campground about seasonal considerations.
