Camping near Wheatland, Iowa offers several options along the Mississippi River and Cedar River, with elevations ranging from 580 to 700 feet above sea level. The area experiences humid continental climate with seasonal temperature variations from below freezing in winter to 80s°F in summer. Weather conditions can impact campsite usability, particularly for riverside locations during spring rain events.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: At Ferry Landing, campers can fish where the Iowa and Mississippi rivers meet. "Great isolated camping at river edge where Iowa and Mississippi rivers meet! Paddling, fishing, hiking in bottom land forests," notes one visitor to Ferry Landing - Mississippi River.
Biking trails: The Hennepin Canal area offers extensive biking options. "If you're reeling, you should expect to catch blue gill, catfish, bass and crappie, and while you can throw your line from the Geneseo Campground property, I would highly recommend you cross the canal to Izaak Walton Park on its east side where there's a large open canal/lake to cast in," suggests a camper at Geneseo Campground.
Environmental education: Rock Creek Marina offers nature programs and wildlife viewing. "CG is spread out along bottomland river forest and includes camping cabins, tent and RV sites, RR/showers, playground, dump and water stations, Eco Tourism store/grill, paddling rentals, Blue Heron Cruises, nature center," states a review of Rock Creek County Marina and Campground.
What Campers Like
River views: Many sites offer direct Mississippi River access. "Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi. Very clean friendly stay," shares a camper at Shady Creek.
Level camping pads: Concrete pads make setup easier at several locations. "Never seen a park where every pad was level like this one. Electric was 30/50 at each site and water was dispersed through out the park, but often too far for a hose to reach," reports a visitor to Shady Creek.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. "Really enjoyed our stay, sites are large and staggered so you aren't staring at your neighbors and can enjoy the views," notes a camper about Shady Creek.
What You Should Know
Train noise: Railroad tracks near several campgrounds can disrupt sleep. "Down side is railroad tracks on one side, which came through at 3:30 am blowing his horns, and the Mississippi on the other, a couple during the night with their loud engines," explains a visitor to Fishermans Corner - Mississippi River.
Water hookup limitations: Check water access details before arrival. "As stated water is shared by 4 sites and was 30 ft away," mentions a camper at Shady Creek.
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on provider and location. "Our cell phone provider is Sprint and we had zero service. The campground is close to Muscatine if you need to make a run but far enough out to feel like you're really camping," reports a visitor to Shady Creek.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds need advance booking. "Make your reservations as early as you can the spots go quick! The campground even has a military spot!" advises a camper about Shady Creek.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly facilities. "This campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife. Great place for the family," shares a visitor to Rock Creek County Marina and Campground.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning activities. "Nice educational center with canoe and kayak rentals, with lots of Mississippi backwater to explore," notes a camper at Rock Creek County Marina.
Kid-friendly rentals: Some parks offer recreational equipment. "Pedal bikes for kids (and grown ups), a spray ground, and more!" mentions a visitor to Geneseo Campground.
Tent camping with kids: Look for secluded tent areas. "The tent sites are nicely tucked away from the RVs, with a row of bushes to separate you from your neighbor. Nice shade," advises a camper at Geneseo Campground.
Tips from RVers
RV pad types: Surface materials vary between campgrounds. "Sites are close together: gravel pads, onsite: water, firewood, fire pit, tables, food nearby, playground adjacent, near Highway 30," notes a visitor to Porth RV Park.
Electrical options: Most rv sites near Wheatland, Iowa offer electrical hookups. "Sites include tables, water, electric, though need updating," reports a camper at Interstate RV Park.
Seasonal limitations: Many campgrounds close for winter. "Great campground. Sewer, water, electricity. It rained a lot while we were there no flooding issues at all. Very friendly and very well maintained," shares a visitor to Porth RV Park, which operates from April 1 to October 31.
RV dump stations: Availability varies between parks. "Two dump stations so no congestion to dump. Potable water between sites (not for fixed hookup) and good electric," explains a camper at Fishermans Corner.
