Bellevue State Park

4686 170th Street, Clinton, IA 52732

Tucked away along the mighty Mississippi River, Bulger's Hollow remains one of the region's best-kept secrets for outdoor enthusiasts. This tranquil riverside retreat beckons adventurers with its pristine primitive camping sites, where the gentle lapping of river waves provides nature's soundtrack. Whether you're casting a line into the productive waters, launching your boat for a day of exploration, or simply soaking in the picturesque river views from your campsite, Bulger's Hollow offers an authentic back-to-nature experience that feels worlds away from the everyday hustle.

1600 Lewis Avenue, Thomson, IL 61285

Escape to Thomson Causeway, where the mighty Mississippi River transforms into your personal island paradise. This unique campground seamlessly blends the romance of river island camping with the comfort of modern amenities, creating an extraordinary basecamp for adventurers seeking both relaxation and recreation. Wake to the gentle lapping of water against the shore and end your days watching spectacular sunsets paint the river in brilliant hues.

9688 Caves Rd, Maquoketa, Iowa, 52060, United States

Deep within Iowa's rolling countryside, Maquoketa Caves State Park campground serves as your basecamp for an underground adventure unlike any other. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with rugged natural beauty, where scenic hiking trails wind through ancient forests before plunging into a hidden world of limestone caverns. The legendary Dancehall Cave and the mysteriously named Rainy Day Cave await those brave enough to explore their shadowy depths, creating memories that will echo long after you've returned to the surface.

BLANDING LANDING RECREATION AREA, 5720 SOUTH RIVER ROAD, HANOVER, IL 61041

Thirteen miles south of historic Galena, Illinois, Blanding Landing emerges as a hidden riverside sanctuary where the mighty Mississippi slows into peaceful backwaters. This Army Corps of Engineers campground invites you to pitch your tent or park your RV on spacious, grassy sites beneath towering trees, with both electric and non-electric options available. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with natural beauty here—hot showers and flush toilets ensure convenience, while a well-maintained dump station serves RV travelers. Families will appreciate the playground where children can burn off energy between adventures, all while the river's gentle rhythms provide the soundtrack to your stay. Whether you're casting a line into miles of productive fishing waters or settling in with binoculars to spot rare waterfowl, Blanding Landing promises the kind of tranquil escape that feels worlds away from everyday life.

BLANDING LANDING RECREATION AREA, 5720 SOUTH RIVER ROAD, HANOVER, IL 61041

9688 Caves Rd, Maquoketa, Iowa, 52060, United States

4686 170th Street, Clinton, IA 52732

1480 130th St, Creston, Iowa, 50801, United States

Nestled in the heart of Iowa's countryside, Green Valley State Park Campground welcomes adventurers year-round with its diverse accommodation options. Whether you prefer the simplicity of non-electric sites, the convenience of electric hookups, or the comfort of full-service spots, this haven caters to every camping style. Modern amenities including spotless restrooms, hot showers, and a convenient dump station ensure your stay is comfortable. For those seeking a unique experience, the park's charming pine log cabins transport guests back in time, offering an authentic taste of pioneer living with just enough modern comfort to make your stay memorable.

1081 198th Place, Pella, IA 50219

Nestled in the shadow of the impressive Red Rock Dam, Howell Station Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with 143 spacious campsites, each equipped with 50-amp electric hookups to power your home away from home. Whether you're arriving in a luxury RV or a cozy travel trailer, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable stay, including modern flush toilets alongside traditional pit facilities, refreshing hot showers after a day of adventure, crystal-clear drinking water, convenient dump stations, and vibrant playgrounds where children's laughter mingles with birdsong.

34000 176th Ave. W., New Boston, IL 61272

Escape to Blanchard Island Recreation Area, where 15 riverside campsites await along the mighty Mississippi River. This hidden gem delivers an authentic backcountry experience without sacrificing essential amenities. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Modern concrete vault toilets, convenient potable water hydrants, and a full-service dump station ensure your stay remains comfortable. Whether you're casting a line into the river's legendary waters, scanning the skies for magnificent wildlife, or simply soaking in the profound peace of this riverine sanctuary, Blanchard Island offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE

Nestled below the impressive Coralville Lake Dam, Tailwater West Campground offers an intimate escape with 22 thoughtfully designed campsites. From fully-equipped RV spots to secluded walk-to tent sites, this modern facility serves as your gateway to exceptional fishing waters, scenic hiking trails, and the fascinating Devonian Fossil Gorge. Whether you're casting a line in the tailwaters or exploring 375-million-year-old sea floors, every stay promises discovery.

2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, IOWA CITY, IA, 52240-7820, USA

Perched above the sprawling waters of Coralville Lake, West Overlook Campground offers adventurers a perfect basecamp within the vibrant Dam Complex recreation area. This multi-faceted destination seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with environmental stewardship, where flood control meets forest conservation in perfect harmony. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, navigating scenic hiking trails, or discovering ancient secrets in the nearby Devonian Fossil Gorge, every day brings new possibilities for exploration. From peaceful morning paddles to exhilarating bike rides through wooded paths, West Overlook serves as your gateway to Iowa's most diverse outdoor playground.

SAYLORVILLE LAKE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, 5600 NW 78TH AVENUE, JOHNSTON, IA, 50131, USA

Perched atop a scenic wooded ridge overlooking the expansive Saylorville Lake, Cherry Glen Campground invites outdoor enthusiasts into a 13-acre haven where adventure meets tranquility. This intimate retreat serves as your gateway to the celebrated Neal Smith Trail and the shimmering waters of Saylorville Lake, where days unfold with endless possibilities for water sports, trail exploration, cycling adventures, and prime fishing spots waiting to be discovered.

Lake Red Rock

Nestled within the expansive shores of Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake, Roberts Creek East Campground offers an intimate gateway to one of the Midwest's premier outdoor destinations. This scenic campground sits in the shadow of the impressive Red Rock Dam, where engineering marvel meets natural beauty, creating a perfect basecamp for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

SAYLORVILLE LAKE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, 5600 NW 78TH AVENUE, JOHNSTON, IA, 50131-1941, USA

Nestled within the expansive Saylorville Lake Project, Prairie Flower Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to its 60-acre sanctuary where modern comfort meets natural splendor. This beloved camping destination features 153 thoughtfully designed family sites and 10 spacious group camping areas, each offering the perfect balance of wilderness and convenience. With full-service amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and engaging playgrounds for young adventurers, Prairie Flower ensures every member of your camping party feels at home. Adventure seekers will delight in the campground's direct access to the renowned Neal Smith Trail, where miles of scenic pathways await exploration by foot or bicycle.

4530 McClintock Rd, Palo, Iowa, 52324-0242, United States

Discover a hidden gem in the heart of Linn County where 410 acres of pristine lake waters meet rolling prairie landscapes. Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water recreation, wilderness exploration, and camping adventures. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, hiking through restored prairies, or cooling off at the sandy swimming beach, this versatile outdoor playground offers something for every nature lover. The expansive public hunting grounds and well-maintained campgrounds make it an ideal basecamp for those seeking authentic Iowa outdoor experiences.

22895 Lacey Trail, Keosauqua, Iowa, 52565, United States

Nestled along the winding Des Moines River, Lacey-Keosauqua State Park stands as Iowa's second-oldest state park, where generations of families have created memories beneath towering oak and hickory canopies. This treasured getaway beckons with its peaceful shaded campgrounds, miles of historic trails that whisper stories of the past, and a pristine swimming beach perfect for summer afternoons. Whether you're seeking adventure on woodland paths, relaxation in cozy cabins, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, this timeless park delivers an authentic Iowa outdoor experience.