Camping options near Strawberry Point, Iowa concentrate around the upper Turkey River watershed area between 1,100-1,200 feet elevation in the Paleozoic Plateau. This region has limestone bluffs, cold-water streams, and hardwood forests that distinguish it from most of Iowa's landscape. Winter temperatures typically drop to single digits with occasional subzero readings, while summer camping season sees daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trout fishing access points: Motor Mill Historic Site provides easy Turkey River access with primitive tent sites in an open field area. The site features historic structures including "a really neat historical Mill building that is open a few hours a week for tours" and "an amazing old bridge with a wood plank roadbed that you can still drive across," according to visitor Annie C.
Riverside hiking: Pikes Peak State Park Campground offers multiple trail options with views of the Mississippi. David H. reports it's "not as secluded as I would like from a state campground," but Tori K. notes interesting features along the trails: "a half-mile wooden boardwalk to one of the park's glens to the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls. On your way to the falls, just north of the main overlook, you will notice Bear Mound, an effigy built by ancient American Indians."
Playground access: Delaware County Coffins Grove Park provides a "newer playground that my kids love, sand so that's an extra play optional. Small creek runs through the park (on the edge of the campground) and a fun place for kids to explore and play in," according to Elizabeth K.
What campers like
Scenic views: Wyalusing State Park Campground offers views from high bluffs. Mike H. describes it as "a gem overlooking the Mississippi! Lovely drive in to the park and then to pull up to an immaculate campsite was a treat. Fireflies emerged as we began to setup camp and we watched the sunset over the Mississippi before calling it a night."
Modern facilities: Baileys Ford receives high marks for clean amenities. Ashley F. reports, "The facilities were clean even for a vault toilet (regular toilets and showers available at the main building which were extremely clean) the showers had hot water and real on and off handles NOT the push to start ones."
Off-season camping: Backbone State Park offers camping beyond summer months. Larissa C. describes, "We went camping at Backbone for a friend's wedding that was taking place at the park's lodge. While most of the wedding guests stayed in town, we opted to camp, during October. It was gorgeous! We loved waking up in the morning and going for a walk along the many trails."
What you should know
Water contamination issues: Some bodies of water in the region may have periodic safety concerns. At Backbone State Park, Cheryl V. noted "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it."
Limited cell coverage: Remote camping areas may lack reliable service. At Fountain Springs County Park, Tammie C. warns "very primitive, all I could do was text from my AT&T phone...You'll want a hard copy of your directions if you stay the night."
Train noise: Nelson Dewey State Park Campground sits near active rail lines. Steph P. cautions: "This site sits on a ridge above a county highway and freight train tracks...When trains are blowing their horns miles away, the sound carries. When they go past the site, it's incredibly loud! Bring ear plugs, trains rolled through until just after midnight and started up around 5am."
Tips for camping with families
Multi-use trails: Elkader City Park provides trails connecting camping to town amenities. Ryan S. notes, "Across the street is a walking & biking trail that will take you straight to downtown, where you'll find a coffee shop, a few restaurants, and other shopping. It's less than a 5 minute bike ride to get there."
Group camping setup: Delaware County Coffins Grove Park accommodates family gatherings. Elizabeth K. mentions, "No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion)."
Educational opportunities: Pet friendly camping near Strawberry Point includes historic sites for family learning. Diane A. reports at Pikes Peak State Park you can "rent cabins, shelters, tent and RV camp, hike the trails especially the 'Backbone', explore the cave, fish trout streams, visit fish hatchery, swim at the beach, canoe, kayak or just have a picnic."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: South Lake Campground at Backbone State Park offers power options but requires preparation. Edward B. advises, "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available."
Dump station conditions: Elkader City Park provides basic services with limitations. Ryan S. reports, "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."
Site leveling requirements: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain. At Pikes Peak State Park, Grace D. found their "Nice pull-through, large enough for our 36' 5th Wheel and pickup tow vehicle, needed more leveling than some. Some sites have power and water, ours only power. There's a water pipe and dump station on the way out."
Traveler
