Camping options near Riverside, Iowa span across Johnson and Washington counties, featuring a mix of Corps of Engineers, county conservation, and state park facilities. The area sits where the Iowa River watershed meets prairie highlands, creating diverse terrain from riverside lowlands to wooded bluffs. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with seasonal closures typically occurring after the first hard freeze in late fall.
What to do
Water recreation access: Hills Access Campground provides direct access to the Iowa River. "Awesome place by the Iowa river.. clean and quiet, no drinking water," reports one camper who tent camped for five days at Hills Access Campground.
Hiking trails and wildlife viewing: F.W. Kent Park offers multiple habitat types for nature exploration. "Forest, prairie, wetland habitats. Not far from town for quick trip if needed," notes a reviewer who appreciated the F.W. Kent Park conservation education center that offers seasonal programs.
Fossil exploration: The Devonian Fossil Gorge near West Overlook Campground contains ancient marine fossils exposed during the 1993 flood. "This recreation area also includes campgrounds and river recreation downstream of the dam, including a gorge of geologic interest that is filled with Devonian fossils exposed in the flood of 1993," explains a camper who visited in May 2025.
Fall color viewing: October camping provides unique seasonal views around Coralville Lake. "We enjoy the peace and quiet especially with the views of the lake and the fall colors," notes a visitor to West Overlook Campground.
What campers like
Privacy options: While many campgrounds feature open layouts, F.W. Kent Park offers more secluded spots. "Unique mix of RV and tent sites in a variety of sizes. Some close together would be good for groups and some remote," mentions a reviewer who appreciated the varied site options.
Budget-friendly amenities: Sugar Bottom Campground provides unexpected value for tent campers. "Great campground, cheap sites with electric and water even for tent campers. Fantastic amenities including hot showers and nice bathrooms and a cleaning station with sink basin for camping dishes," reports a satisfied visitor.
Wildlife sightings: Multiple campgrounds offer wildlife viewing opportunities. At Lake Macbride State Park, one camper noted they "saw wild turkeys and dear almost ever day walking the camp grounds," during their extended 10-week camping stay.
Camping close to urban amenities: For those wanting civilization nearby, several options exist. "It is also a nice and inexpensive basecamp for folks visiting Iowa City or the University of Iowa, only about a 15-20 minute drive away," explains a West Overlook Campground visitor.
What you should know
Water quality varies significantly: Some campgrounds have reported water issues. At Marr Park, one camper warned, "Bring plenty of bottled water for consumption. The water has an awful smell."
Flooding potential: One downfall affecting several area campgrounds is seasonal flooding. Hills Access sits directly on the Iowa River and may experience closures during high water events.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow, a visitor noted, "Busy on the weekend. Bring a lot of leveling blocks. Most sites are slanted in both planes."
Reservation requirements vary: While some campgrounds require reservations, others operate on a first-come basis. At West Overlook, a visitor emphasized, "The campground is popular... reservations are a must."
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Windmill Ridge Campground operates only from April 1 to November 1, making seasonal planning essential.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: West Overlook Campground offers multiple play areas for children. "There is a bathroom/shower house near sites 1-33 and a second bathroom/shower house near sites 39-60... Horsehoe pits and 2 playgrounds in the campground," notes a visitor who documented the facilities.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming access. Sugar Bottom provides "a nice beach swimming area. Fun for all," according to one visitor, making it ideal for summer family outings.
Educational opportunities: Kent Park offers conservation programs suitable for children. "Conservation education center open seasonally with programs offered," mentions a visitor who appreciated the additional learning opportunities.
Trail accessibility: Marr Park features trails designed for all mobility levels. "Trails are concrete so people with mobility concerns can easily get around," explains a camper, making this park suitable for multi-generational family groups.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal site selection: Little Bear Campground provides convenient highway access for travelers. "Very conveniently located off I-80, Fair price, full hook up and pull through site $33.00," mentions an RVer who appreciated the ease of access.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Dump station, drinking water, filling station, trash dumpsters and fish cleaning station are on the right just before the campground entrance," notes a West Overlook visitor, providing important logistics information.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites at some campgrounds can feel cramped. At West Overlook Campground, an RVer observed that "the sites are too visible and usually too close to each other for our liking," which might be important for those seeking more privacy.
Internet connectivity: For RVers needing to stay connected, Marr Park offers a solution. "There is WiFi available at the Conservation Center and if you grab at camping site at the end you can get the WiFi," shares a helpful reviewer.
