Northeastern Iowa campgrounds near Strawberry Point offer varied terrain within the Driftless Area, where limestone bluffs and spring-fed streams create unique camping opportunities. Winter camping options remain limited to a few parks with year-round access, though water services typically close October through April. Most campgrounds provide site-specific amenities ranging from primitive tent-only spots to full-hookup RV pads.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fountain Springs County Park features a small stocked trout stream directly accessible from campsites. "This primative campground has a small stocked trout stream running through it. It is off of the beaten path and is usually not too busy," notes Robert F. in his review of Fountain Springs County Park.
Trail exploration: Walk the famous Backbone trail in Backbone State Park for a unique geological experience. "I went with a group of entering sixth grade Girl Scouts on a weekend tent camping trip to this park. The campsites were simple to access and the grounds were easy to navigate. We hiked on the famous Backbone trail - a really fun hike that isn't too incredibly long," shares Rachel H. about her experience at Six Pines Campground.
River activities: Tube or kayak in the Grant River near Nelson Dewey State Park during summer months. "Grant River near by to go tubing on hot summer days," reports Renee W. in her review of Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, making this one of the best places to camp near Strawberry Point, Iowa for water recreation.
What campers like
Quiet solitude: Fountain Springs offers secluded camping ideal for those seeking peace and minimal crowds. "I have been coming to Fountain Spring for the trout fishing for years. More recently, for the last two years, this has become my go-to spot for camping. Camping is free and there are several sites to choose from, most (literally) a few yards from the trout stream," explains Kerry M. about his experiences at Fountain Springs County Park.
Clean facilities: Elkader City Park provides well-maintained shower facilities and convenient access to town. "The facilities are newer and pretty nice. The showers are the single-button kind with no temperature adjustment. If you wait a while, the water does get barely warm enough for a comfortable shower," notes Ryan S. in his review of Elkader City Park.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe diverse wildlife. "Usually, I hear (or see) turkeys and woodpeckers. Other camp visitors include whitetail deer, squirrels, raccoons, and the occasional skunk," shares Kerry M. about Fountain Springs County Park, making it among the top camping destinations near Strawberry Point.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Campers at Nelson Dewey State Park should prepare for train disturbances. "HUGE caveat - this site sits on a ridge above a county highway and freight train tracks. There are also train tracks on the other side of the river. When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries. When they go past the site, it's incredibly loud!" warns Steph P. about the walk-in sites.
Site selection considerations: Campsite terrain varies significantly within the region. "The site itself was sloped away from the road making it feel tucked into the trees. The downside was that the only flat space for the tent was very close to the fire pit. As a hammock camper, this was not a good site," explains Rene about site 18 at Nelson Dewey State Park.
Cell service limitations: Limited connectivity exists at some campgrounds. "Free up to two weeks, very primitive, all I could do was text from my AT&T phone. Very odd wormy looking things falling from the trees. I forgot where my morning destination was and had to use GPS to feel my way out until I had service again," reports Tammie C. about her experience at Fountain Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Baileys Ford Park offers extensive play areas for children. "Plenty of things for kids to do volleyball ball court, softball field, and several playgrounds! Many shelters available for larger gatherings. This place even had an outdoor chapel," reports Ashley F. in her review of Baileys Ford.
Educational opportunities: Osborne Conservation Center provides hands-on learning for children near camping areas. "This is a great place for kids to explore. Well maintained and the animal exhibit is amazing!!" shares Dustin B. about the Osborne Conservation Center.
Group camping accommodations: Coffins Grove Park allows flexible camping arrangements for family gatherings. "Nice, smaller campground! No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion). Newer playground that my kids love, sand so that's an extra play optional," explains Elizabeth K. about her experience at Delaware County Coffins Grove Park.
Tips from RVers
Booking requirements: Some parks require minimum stays during peak season. "FYI When we made reservations this site required a two-night minimum stay. Don't know if that is for all seasons. Nice pull-through, large enough for our 36' 5th Wheel and pickup tow vehicle, needed more leveling than some," explains Grace D. about her stay at Pikes Peak State Park Campground.
Affordable rates: Iowa state parks offer competitive pricing compared to neighboring states. "Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa's state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers. Many sites have full hook-up, most if not all have electric. I paid $25 a night. Full week is $150!!" reports Danny J. about Pikes Peak State Park.
Dump station access: Dump station quality varies between campgrounds. "The downside to this campground is the dump station. It is just a hole in a manhole cover. It's in a dirt/weedy area and smells terrible. It's located across the street from the campground," warns Ryan S. about Elkader City Park.
