Anglers and river enthusiasts find direct access to the Mississippi River at Grant River Recreation Area, where most campsites overlook the water from their position along the Wisconsin shoreline. This Army Corps of Engineers campground operates from May through October, offering both tent sites and RV accommodations with electric and water hookups for rigs up to 90 feet.
The campground sits directly adjacent to an active railroad mainline, with trains passing approximately every 30 minutes until midnight, then every couple hours through the night. "A railroad mainline ran along the campground," notes Lyle B., who found his site about 100 feet from the tracks where trains blow their whistles. Several campers mention being awakened by train horns at 3 AM, though the consistent schedule helps some visitors adjust to the noise pattern.
Sites feature concrete pads and picnic tables, with many offering direct river views. The campground provides vault toilets, which campers consistently describe as clean, plus shower facilities with push-button controls that limit water pressure and temperature. Tent sites offer ample space for dogs on long leashes, with plenty of shade throughout the grounds. Push-button showers and close site spacing characterize the facility layout.
The campground sits two miles from Potosi, Wisconsin, where visitors can find a brewery and restaurant. Senior pass holders receive half-price camping rates through the Army Corps discount program. Reservations are available for the seasonal operation, and the facility accommodates walk-in tent campers as well as larger RVs requiring full hookups.
For campers exploring broader Mississippi River camping options, places to camp near Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 provide additional choices along this scenic waterway corridor.
Description
Overview
Spread along the banks of the Upper Mississippi River, the Grant River Campground, located in the "Catfish Capital of Wisconsin," is a modern campground that offers a plethora of outdoor and recreational activities.
Recreation
The famous fishing on the Mississippi River draws crowds of anglers each year. The most popular species is the channel catfish, earning the city of Potosi the nickname "Catfish Capital of Wisconsin." Other species include bluegill, walleye, crappie, northern pike and bass. Best to try your luck in the spring before the rice field grows up. There is boat ramp access within the campground, but can be chalenging for larger vessels as water levels drop and aquatic vegetation grows up.
Facilities
Picnic shelter and a playgrounds create an ideal environment for a small party or family get-together. Both tent and RV sites are available, and amenities like showers, drinking water and flush toilets offer a comfortable camping experience.
Natural Features
Surrounding the large campsite is a lush river landscape with towering bluffs and beautiful sunsets, creating a nature experience for visitors without losing the comforts of modern camping.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (563) 582-0881.
Nearby Attractions
Potosi Brewing Company Restauraunt & Museum (Potosi, WI - 2 miles) Lock and Dam 11 (Dubuque, IA - 19 miles) National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (Dubuque, IA - 20 miles) Diamond Jo Casino & The Q Casino (Dubuque, IA - 20 miles) Historic sites, Antiques, Fine Dining (Galena, IL - 28 miles)
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Our phone lines are down. If you have questions, please send us an email: mvrodmn11@usace.army.mil
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsGrant River Recreation Area is located in Wisconsin near Dubuque
Directions
From WI-133, Turn East on River Lane (two miles south of Potosi) and follow the directional signs approximately two miles to the campground. From US-61/WI-35, Turn S on River Lane and follow directional signs to campground.
Address
Grant River Recreation Area
3990 Park Lane
Potosi, WI 53820
Coordinates
42.6594444 N
90.7097222 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 30 min from Dubuque, IA
- 1 hr 26 min from Madison, WI
- 1 hr 29 min from Davenport, IA
- 1 hr 37 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
