Yellow River State Forest

4.58

105 reviews

729 State Forest Road, Harpers Ferry, Iowa, 52146, United States

Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsPeace & QuietFishing

Featured in:Forest Camping Iowa#1 Fall Camping Iowa#1 Hiking Camping Iowa#1 +5 more

Quick Facts

909 ft

Price

$6 - $12/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

79 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

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Quick Facts

909 ft

Price

$6 - $12/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

79 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Yellow River State Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Yellow River State Forest

$6.00 - $12.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $6 to $12 per night. Group camping sites, equestrian camping sites, and the Firetower Cabin may have additional fees.

Standard Site Fee$12.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$6.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.58

Top-Rated

Based on 105 reviews

605 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanwell-maintained

"User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the campground's natural beauty, extensive trail system, and excellent trout fishing opportunities. Common praises include the clean facilities, scenic views, and off-grid experience. A few users mentioned the lack of modern amenities like showers and cell service as downsides."

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Campground Map

729 State Forest Road, Harpers Ferry, Iowa, 52146, United States

Yellow River State Forest

729 State Forest Road, Harpers Ferry, Iowa, 52146, United States

Driving directionsThe entrance to Yellow River State Forest is located on Hwy 76. The forest is located 15 miles north of Marquette on Hwy. 76. The entrance will be on the right side of the road. This road is called State Forest Road or B25. If traveling from the north the entrance is located 10 miles south of Waukon on Hwy 76. The entrance of the forest from Waukon will be on the left. There is also an alternative entrance located west of Harpers Ferry approximately 2 miles from town on county road X42, again look for State Forest Road or B25 on the left side of X42. Do not take the Donahue Road entrance as this is a level B road.

Accessible via paved highways (Hwy 76 and County Road X42). A warning is provided that the Donahue Road entrance is unsuitable as it is a level B road.

Nearby places

Harpers Ferry (7.5 miles), Marquette (13 miles), Waukon, IA (15 miles), Prairie du Chien, WI (15 miles).

Nearby supplies

Within 10 miles: ATM/cash machine, church, fuel, firewood, ice, retail stores. Greater than 10 miles: grocery store, motel.

Best Time to Camp at Yellow River State Forest

Four distinct seasons paint Yellow River State Forest in ever-changing colors. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with crisp, dry conditions perfect for snow-covered adventures. Spring awakens the forest with gentle warmth and refreshing rains, while summer invites long days of exploration under the sun. But it's autumn that truly steals the show – when the entire forest erupts in a breathtaking display of gold, crimson, and amber that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer praised for activities but can be hot and crowded per reviews.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 1% in IA

Autumn highly recommended for scenic foliage; reviewers consistently praise fall colors.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 3% in IA

Spring praised for mild weather, blooming flowers and good hiking/fishing conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Top 9% in IA

Winter offers crystalline, snowy scenery and year-round access but limited services.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Unspecified peak season date ranges, but autumn is highly recommended for scenic foliage.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round access for camping. Cabin rentals are available from April 15th to October 31st.

About Yellow River State Forest

Escape to Yellow River State Forest, where adventure awaits in every direction. Whether you're pitching a tent under starlit skies, arriving on horseback for an equestrian adventure, or settling into a cozy rustic cabin, this diverse wilderness playground welcomes all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Each camping option offers its own unique way to experience Iowa's most spectacular forest landscape.

Yellow River State Forest offers primitive and equestrian camping, along with a rustic cabin for seasonal rental. Backpacking sites are available for those seeking a backcountry experience.

Historical SignificanceJust moments away lies the sacred Effigy Mounds National Monument, where ancient earthen sculptures rise from the landscape like whispers from the past. These remarkable figural mounds, crafted by indigenous cultures centuries ago, stand as powerful testaments to the deep spiritual connection between people and this extraordinary land.

Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint Yellow River State Forest in ever-changing colors. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with crisp, dry conditions perfect for snow-covered adventures. Spring awakens the forest with gentle warmth and refreshing rains, while summer invites long days of exploration under the sun. But it's autumn that truly steals the show – when the entire forest erupts in a breathtaking display of gold, crimson, and amber that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region.

ElevationNestled within a protected valley in Iowa's remarkable driftless region, the campground rests like a natural amphitheater surrounded by dramatic hills and towering bluffs. This unique topography creates intimate camping spaces while offering adventurous souls the chance to climb to spectacular vantage points above.

Natural Features and SceneryDiscover Iowa's best-kept secret in the heart of the driftless area, where pristine trout streams dance between ancient bluffs untouched by glaciers. Towering conifers mingle with hardwood forests, creating a tapestry of green that frames scenic overlooks at every turn. Visitors consistently describe this place as a 'hidden gem' blessed with 'unbeatable scenery' – and once you experience the magic yourself, you'll understand why.

Geological RegionYellow River State Forest occupies one of the Midwest's most fascinating geological wonders – Iowa's northeastern driftless area, a rugged landscape that miraculously escaped the grinding glaciers of the last ice age. This ancient refuge preserves a primordial world of steep-walled valleys, soaring limestone bluffs, and crystal-clear streams flowing through forests where hardwoods and conifers create a living cathedral of green.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Cabin rentals require a minimum 2-night stay. Other stay limits unspecified.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Most campsites allow up to 6 people.

Groups

The Little Paint Campground has two sites designated exclusively for chaperoned organized youth groups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutTwo main camping areas: Little Paint and Big Paint campgrounds, along with equestrian camping at Creekside and Frontier. Backpacking campsites scattered throughout the forest.

Reservation PlatformsUnspecified reservation platforms.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability for standard sites is likely, no overflow camping permitted.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not specified.

AccessibilityThere is limited mention of accessibility features. One user highlighted the need for more handicap-friendly facilities and a designated area for RVs/generators for those with medical needs.

Site SizeSites vary in size, accommodating RVs up to 125 feet in the equestrian section and standard non-electric sites for tents and smaller setups.

PrivacyPrivacy levels are generally considered moderate to high, with some reviews describing the campgrounds as 'fairly private,' though others note crowding during peak times like Memorial Day weekends.

Total Campsites79 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near streams are highly recommended for trout fishing. Backpacking campsites feature solitude and scenic surroundings.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Yellow River State Forest is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with opportunities for hiking, trout fishing, equestrian activities, and scenic viewing. It is especially popular with backpackers and horse riders.

HikingOver 45 miles of trails are available, including routes for equestrian use and backpacking. The Paint Creek Unit features designated hiking trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty. Reviews frequently praise the trail system as 'well-marked,' 'diverse,' and 'stunning.'

FishingSeven miles of trout streams are stocked from April to October. Popular species include brown, rainbow, and brook trout. The fishing experience is highly rated, with multiple reviews calling it 'great for trout fishing.' A trout stamp is required.

BikingMountain biking is allowed on equestrian trails. Reviews do not frequently mention biking, suggesting it may be a secondary activity.

Wildlife viewingThe forest is home to a variety of wildlife, making it an excellent spot for bird watching and general wildlife observation. Streams and wooded areas are particularly recommended.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRaccoons are frequently mentioned in user reviews as nighttime visitors. Other hazards include the absence of drinking water at campsites and primitive facilities (pit toilets).

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyStrict firewood regulations apply due to USDA APHIS quarantine. Fire rings are provided at campsites.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Unspecified, but user reviews complain about generators running past 11 PM in primitive camping areas.

Emergency ServicesGreater than 10 miles: hospital, medical clinic.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the facility, but there is no specific mention of recycling facilities.

Water Features7 miles of trout streams and access to the Mississippi River (5 miles away).

Camp HostCampground hosts are available; user review praises ranger assistance during Memorial Day weekend.

Weather at Yellow River State Forest

Reviews

4.6

105 reviews

Top-Rated

Yellow River State Forest is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the campground's natural beauty, extensive trail system, and excellent trout fishing opportunities. Common praises include the clean facilities, scenic views, and off-grid experience. A few users mentioned the lack of modern amenities like showers and cell service as downsides.

Review Summaries

Based on 105 reviews

What Campers Love

The campground is praised for its well-maintained trails, clean vault toilets, and ample trout fishing opportunities. Many reviewers appreciate the quiet, secluded atmosphere and describe the area as...

Based on 105 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of showers, no flush toilets, limited handicap accessibility, and occasional crowding during peak seasons. Some reviews also mention noise from generators in...

Based on 105 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of drinking water as it is available only at a centralized location. Pack for off-grid conditions as there is no electricity, cell service, or RV hookups. Avoid peak times like Memorial...

Based on 105 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall receive the most praise for their mild weather and scenic natural changes, such as blooming flowers and fall foliage. Summer reviews mention crowding and heat, while winter visitors...

Based on 105 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'We love everything about the area.' (Ken Ostert) 2. 'Yellow River State Forest is unbeatable.' (Nolan Jessen) 3. 'No cell signal and no electricity—great for memories under the stars.' (Andrew...

Based on 105 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Big Paint Campground is highlighted for its quiet, scenic location. The Little Paint Campground is noted for its picturesque creek crossings and family-friendly atmosphere. Equestrian sites like...

Based on 105 reviews

Accessibility Features

A few reviews note the need for improved handicap accessibility, including easier access to fishing areas and designated sites for RVs with medical equipment.

Based on 105 reviews