Top Tent Camping near Sabula, IA

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Sabula and then fall asleep in your tent? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Sabula, including sites, reviews, and tips. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Sabula, Iowa's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Sabula, IA (11)

    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

      2. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

      5 Reviews
      63 Photos
      5 Saves

      The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center is located along the Wapsipinicon River and consists of 225 acres of upland and bottomland forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The Wapsi Center, along with Sherman Park across the river, provide a 432-acre complex offering a wide variety of uses. The larger of the two campsites at the Center, Elm Campsite is offered to Scouts and to special event participants as a primitive camp site. The site offers flat ground for many tents, two fire pits, picnic tables, trash cans, and two sets of horseshoe pits. In return for Scout use, a service project is suggested and may be coordinated with the Center Director. Pack-in and pack-out ethics are observed at this site. Vincent Campsite is offered to Scouts and to special event participants as a primitive camp site offering a fire pit, picnic tables, and trash can. In return for Scout use, a service project is suggested and may be coordinated with the Center Director. Pack-in and pack-out ethics are observed at this site.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group

      $17 - $80 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Castle Rock State Park

      3. Castle Rock State Park

      7 Reviews
      26 Photos
      65 Saves

      Castle Rock State Park is located along the west bank of the Rock River in Ogle County, three miles south of Oregon, on Ill. Rt. 2. Castle Rock camping is centrally located in the Rock River Hills region of Illinois, and its rolling topography is drained by the Rock River. The park is representative of the Rock River Hills area with rock formations, ravines and unique northern plant associations. A sandstone bluff, adjacent to the river, has given the park its name.​​​​

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Trash

      $6 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Joinerville County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

      5. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

      1 Review
      9 Photos
      10 Saves

      The 273-acre area is located along the South Fork of the Maquoketa River. The unique beauty of Northeast Iowa is very evident here with limestone rock outcroppings, upland timber, flood plain, wildlife, and panoramic scenery. Wildlife food plots are planted throughout the area to help wildlife survive harsh winters. Primitive camping is available by the river with restroom facilities nearby. This area is a convenient stop for canoeists traveling down the Maquoketa River.

      primitive camping (walk-in or paddle-in, tent only) pit toilets

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Toilets
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Blackhawk Memorial Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Blackhawk Memorial Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Blackhawk Memorial Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Blackhawk Memorial Park

      6. Blackhawk Memorial Park

      4 Reviews
      4 Photos
      17 Saves
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • Tent Cabin
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
      Camper-submitted photo from #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

      7. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

      1 Review
      26 Photos
      13 Saves

      Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax.

      Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people?

      Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site.

      We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing!

      Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully.

      We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available.

      Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill.

      Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely.

      **Property Owner is certified in Massage, offering sessions at the property.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Picnic Table

      $20 - $45 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center
      Camper-submitted photo from Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center

      8. Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center

      1 Review
      2 Photos
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Cabins
      Camper-submitted photo from Goatland
      Camper-submitted photo from Goatland
      Camper-submitted photo from Goatland
      Camper-submitted photo from Goatland
      Camper-submitted photo from Goatland
      Camper-submitted photo from Goatland

      9. Goatland

      Be the first to review!
      9 Photos
      9 Saves

      It's not a huge place, but the goats, sheep, and a very bossy donkey will keep you company as you bake in the sun, or read under a tree by the creek. Close hwy access, but far enough from that, and in most cases the house, to afford privacy. This is a working farm.

      I have several locations for campers based upon multiple factors like weather, phase of hay growth, whether you have kids, want sun or shade, or animals in your space. I limit the number of people here at one time - there is only one bathroom.

      We're happy to have you, to answer any questions you may have, and to introduce you to the animals. We mind our own business unless you need something. If you require a lot of attention, manicured lawns, electrical service at your site, a grill at your disposal, and parking at your tent, you probably wouldn't be happy here, but if you like animals, quiet, and open space, we may be just what you're looking for.

      Reasonable driving distance to Le-Aqua-Na, Apple River Canyon, Krape and Read Parks, Cadiz Springs, Pecatonica Forest Preserve, and Head Gates Park. About an hour from the Mississippi to the southwest, Galena to the west. There's also a popular walking/biking trail less than 5 mins away.

      We are a safe space for LGBTQ+ folks.

      Lambs are born in March. Kids are born in April or May. Most are gone, or mature enough to be less fun, by Oct.

      Contact me with any inquiries, or questions.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Trash
      • Firewood Available

      $35 - $55 / night

      • No image available
      Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

      Recent Tent Reviews In Sabula

      511 Reviews of 11 Sabula Campgrounds


      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Pond
        Oct. 9, 2024

        Horseshoe Pond

        Nice smaller CG in City of Maquoketa, Iowa

        CG offers gravel pads, tables, fire rings, electric, sump station, water, small pond with fishing, paddling, dog park. Close to stores for supplies, dining, fuel.

      • Brian O.
        Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park
        Oct. 2, 2024

        Maquoketa Caves State Park

        Nice campground, fun caves, older established state park

        My mom remembers visiting this park in the 40's. Not a surprise since Grampa was a Geologist.
        This is a small campground for such an old park, only 34 sites, walk-ins included. All sites are along one road with a turnaround at the end. There is only one building with toilets, showers and no pit toilets. These are clean and well maintained.
        There is a playground near the entrance that is shared with the caves entrance area, a bit of a walk.
        The caves themselves are down a long hill from the campground. There are facilities there too, and a concession stand with limited hours/ days. The caves are fun to explore, but not ADA accessible. Bring flashlights and in some areas watch your head.
        The Visitor's center at the park entrance is staffed by volunteers and only open on weekends.
        Once you've done the caves, there's not much else to see within the park. But visit the Hurstville interpretive center for a nice nature center and trails.

      • Jeff and Linda L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
        Sep. 20, 2024

        Grant River Recreation Area

        Feet from the Mississippi

        The park is on the beautiful might Mississippi river. It’s 2 miles from Potosi, WI with a large brewery with good food as well. Army Corps so half price with America The Beautiful senior discount card. If you like trains you will see many, close and going fast.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.
        Sep. 19, 2024

        Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr.

        Very nice County cabin near Wapsi River

        Cabin sleeps 6, has all amenities including firewood at no cost! Education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year round, Wapsipinicon River below bluff offers paddling, fishing. Menke Observatory offers sky programs.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Park
        Sep. 19, 2024

        Bennett Park

        Nice small County CG with pond

        Campground is nice with a few newer amenities, including shower house and handicap campsite. Gravel pads at sites include tables, fire, pits, electric,. There’s a dump station, play area, shelters for rent, and a pond that you can actually swim and fish and paddling.

      • .! E !.
        Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island-Quad Cities KOA
        Sep. 5, 2024

        Rock Island-Quad Cities KOA

        Perfect!

        Very nice, affordable and peaceful campsite. Stayed one night for tent camping, campsite was clean and accommodating with fire pit, picnic table, lights, Wi-Fi, and power plug. Bathrooms and showers were clean. Perfect camping site.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Mississippi Palisades State Park
        Sep. 4, 2024

        Mississippi Palisades State Park

        Super cheap for what you get.

        I got a primitive tent site in an area all to myself, with a shower house just down the road, in a beautiful and quiet campground for $10 cash. You really can’t beat that. Campground is separate from the park so you don’t have to pay a park entrance fee to stay here.

      • Brent A.
        Camper-submitted photo from Vel Terra
        Sep. 3, 2024

        Vel Terra

        Wonderful Little Campground

        We stayed at this campground over Labor Day. The owner intentionally doesn't fill all of the sites in order to give people more space- a great luxury over a holiday like this. The sites are pretty small and only one 'sleeping structure' is allowed on each site but we found that Jeff was very willing to let us put up two tents (one for my wife & I 

        + one for the kids) because we were in the same family.

        The bathrooms and showers were very neat and well maintained. We didn't use the showers because they were paid but our friends did and had good things to say about them.

        The campground has a very nice playground (the favorite of the trip for one of my kids) and a lounge where anyone staying at the campground can rest with A/C, wifi, a phone charging area, and some board games.

        The primary drawback is that there isn't a lot of outdoor activities to do in the area. All the land is private so there's not great hiking (a little in the state park about 20 min drive away), IL law allows waterways to be privately owned so you can't kayak the river, etc. Galena is nearby if you want to go shopping and we really enjoyed going to Terrapin Apple Orchard and picking some apples (if you're there in the Fall). But all in all I would say this is a great campground to rest and relax at- probably not ideal for outdoor adventures.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Sherman Co Park
        Aug. 28, 2024

        Sherman Co Park

        Scenic County park along Wapsipinicon River

        The campground offers to camp areas: one better suited for RVs, and the other area is better suited for primitive tent, camping. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings, our recites include electric. There is a campground host, shower house, shelter and playground area there too. The tent sites are prone to flooding occasionally from the gun river. There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
        Aug. 28, 2024

        Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

        Nice modern cabin in County campground

        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. Has fire pit, wood available in campground, tables, and gas grill with rental. Playground nearby, park has seasonal pool, garden of course, trails, Pride Lake for fishing and paddling.

      • W
        Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
        Aug. 24, 2024

        Riverview Ridge

        Unique River and Trail Access Campground

        Two hour float trips on the North Fork Maquoketa River are available directly from the campground. There is a mix of permanent and temporary campers. The tent sites, nearest the river, are well spaced with flush toilets. Apparently there are also good trails, as many of the campers have ATV’s parked at their sites. The shower house, under the office, was spacious and clean.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Interstate RV Park
        Aug. 22, 2024

        Interstate RV Park

        Overnight stop along I-80

        Campground has gravel lanes, roads pads, appears to have annual residence, campground office, pool is clean, planes, farm, and fleet nearby for Supplies. Sites include tables, water, electric, though need updating.

      • Dj Y.
        Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
        Aug. 19, 2024

        Grant River Recreation Area

        Sandy and Gentleman worker=AMAZING

        I was hitchhiking thru, was dropped off by a ride that said he was buying a $14 tent site for me, come to find out he never did, I just was honest with sandy and the gentleman worker and offered the only 8$ I had, no sir, they said please stay for free and just enjoy. WONDERFUL PPL THAT CARE ABOUT OTHERS!! THANKS YALL

      • Sarah B.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Yellowstone Lake State Park
        Jul. 19, 2024

        Yellowstone Lake State Park

        Def do not recommend for summer 2024!

        I wanted so badly to love this campground experience, but just didn't. Site 19 was an easy walk-in that theoretically had nearby vault toilets, parking, and water.

        Each site only had space for one car to park before walking in. Not a huge deal, but annoying as there were 2 of us who drove separate and we had to problem solve. When we got to the site I was shocked to see that what was labeled as a tent site had literally NO flat space to actually set up a tent. Spacious site, but fully sloped.

        Also, what I would have loved to know, is that the vault toilets are closed because they are doing construction to build something new in that space. Construction that starts loudly each day at 7am. Honestly every site from about #35 down was affected by the noise because the construction is happening in the middle of the loop (and actually blocking some of the one-way road as well).

        The park in general was okay. Per the usual, the pet areas were lacking. No beach at all, just grass covered in goose poop and one cut out on the raised shore between tall grasses and foliage where a dog could potentially jump in. Certainly nowhere for a human to enjoy the water with their pups unfortunately.

      • Christie B.
        Camper-submitted photo from Green County Fairgrounds
        Jul. 10, 2024

        Green County Fairgrounds

        Ok but you have to work around the events going on because you have to leave when they are going on!

        Nice quiet place no neighbors usually bothering you showers and toilets could be better but overall ok

      • Charles M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Maquoketa Caves State Park
        Jun. 13, 2024

        Maquoketa Caves State Park

        Beautiful State Park

        This park is beautiful and perfect for an adventurous hike. The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son and his friends. We would definitely go back.

      • Charles M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Bellevue State Park
        Jun. 13, 2024

        Bellevue State Park

        Campsite Was Average at Best

        I took my son and one of his friends campjng to Bellvue State Park, however, we did not visit the actual park itself. The camp sites were close to one another, many had almost no privacy from the other campsites. We were at campsite 40, which had a severe incline. Also, if you prefer to hammock camp you may not be able to do so. I was able to find one tree and hook the other side up to my vehicle.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Porth RV Park
        Apr. 29, 2024

        Porth RV Park

        Small rural cg in town

        Sites are close together: gravel pads, onsite: water, firewood, fire pit, tables, food nearby, playground adjacent, near Highway 30.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
        Mar. 26, 2024

        Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins

        Good County CG with amenities

        CG is open all year offering: hard pads, fire rings, tables, water, electric, dump station, shades spots, RR/showers, firewood, seasonal host, trails nearby, overflow parking, and large cabin for rent. Park offers gold, hike/bike/horse trails, Pride Lake for fishing and paddling, swim pool, concessions. Pioneer Village at North end of park.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Summit Campground - West Lake Park
        Mar. 13, 2024

        Summit Campground - West Lake Park

        Good County CG and Park with amenities

        CG is being updated today connect with Lisa cal sewer system. Sites offer: tables, fire rings, hard drive through pads, electric, water, showers/RR, play areas, horse shoes, trails, and 2 cabins adjacent to CG. Overflow/visitor parking. Park offers trails, 4 lakes for paddling, fishing, and swim beach in season, concessions, disc golf.

      • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park
        Mar. 7, 2024

        Park Terrace Campground - West Lake Park

        Great Country CG with amenities

        CG open yest round with sites offering: fire ring/ firewood, tables, water, electric, pads, office, seasonal host, recycling. Park offers 4 lakes to fish, paddle, disc golf course, shelters to rent, trails, cabins, concessions at swimming beach. Play areas, volleyball, bags and horseshoes, dump station. New playground being installed.



      Guide to Sabula

      Camping near Sabula, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes 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: Visit Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground for a unique experience. One camper said, "The caves make this a unique place to visit but the hiking is rigorous. It proved to be tons of fun for me, my son and his friends."
      • Hiking Trails: Check out the trails at Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "We hiked the Windy Ridge trail and the Prairie Loop trail. Both were well maintained and enjoyable trails."
      • Fishing and Boating: At Shady Creek, you can enjoy fishing and boating on the Mississippi River. One visitor noted, "Nice boat launch. Right on the Mississippi."

      What campers like:

      • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities. A review for Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River stated, "Bathrooms were quite clean. Water was a little hard to get, depending on the site."
      • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful environment. A camper at Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground said, "Very clean park and it was incredibly quiet."
      • Secluded Sites: Campers love the privacy at some sites. A review for Chief Keokuk Campground mentioned, "Had the tent section nearest the lake to ourselves... perfect!"

      What you should know:

      • Highway Noise: If you choose New Glarus State Park Campground, be prepared for some noise. One camper said, "These sites are right next to the highway... it was jarring, and we barely slept."
      • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A review for Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground noted, "The handicapped stall was closed and... there was a lot of mud tracked into the bathroom."
      • Secluded Sites May Be Challenging: At Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground, some sites are secluded but can be tricky. A camper mentioned, "Some sites are so secluded that they are bi-level."

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for sites that offer plenty of room. A family at Lowden State Park Campground said, "Massive site with lots of space and privacy, flat and level for the tent."
      • Engage in Nature Activities: Encourage kids to explore the trails. One parent at New Glarus State Park Campground shared, "Beautiful area. Trails are well groomed and easy hikes."
      • Plan for Quiet Hours: Make sure to respect quiet hours to keep the peace. A camper at Mississippi Palisades State Park Campground noted, "Everyone was respectful of quiet hours and very friendly."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Chief Keokuk Campground mentioned, "The sites are pretty even; some had a slight slope but not too bad."
      • Bring Your Own Water: Some campgrounds may not have water hookups. A visitor at Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River said, "There aren’t water hookups for each site, but there are a coils of spots to fill up potable water."
      • Be Prepared for Bugs: Depending on the season, bugs can be a nuisance. A camper at Shady Creek noted, "Wild Cat Den State Park just up US61."

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

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Sabula, IA?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Sabula, IA is Lock and Dam 13 with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Sabula, IA?

        TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Sabula, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.