Shady Creek

4.60

396 reviews

3550 HWY 22

Fishing

Featured in:Boating Camping Iowa#2 Spring Camping Iowa#2 Best Campgrounds Iowa#3 +8 more

Quick Facts

561 ft

Price

$14 - $26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

53 campsites

Season

Open May 1 to Octobe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Recreation.gov site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

561 ft

Price

$14 - $26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

53 campsites

Season

Open May 1 to Octobe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Recreation.gov site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Shady Creek

$14.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates include $26 for standard electric sites, $14 for tent-only non-electric sites, and $25 for group shelter electric sites. Rates do...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$25.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

563-419-0857

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What Campers Say

4.60

Top-Rated

Based on 396 reviews

143 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanrestroomsspacious

Some mention

noisetrain

"Shady Creek Campground is widely praised for its scenic views, clean facilities, and friendly host services. However, recurring complaints include issues with decorative lighting, barking dogs, and the need for improved shower facilities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

3550 HWY 22

Shady Creek

3550 HWY 22

Driving directionsFrom Davenport, Iowa, drive west on Highway 22 about 17 miles and turn at the Shady Creek sign.

Accessible year-round from a well-maintained highway (Highway 22). The approach is straightforward with clear signage.

Nearby places

Davenport (17 miles), Muscatine (7 miles), Iowa City (50 miles), Cedar Rapids (75 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries and supplies available in Muscatine (7 miles), including chain stores and local markets. Fuel stations available en route.

Best Time to Camp at Shady Creek

From the first warm days of May through the crisp evenings of late October, Shady Creek comes alive with perfect camping weather. Spring arrives with gentle breezes off the Mississippi, carrying the scent of wildflowers and new growth. Summer days invite lazy afternoons by the water, while cooling river winds provide natural air conditioning for comfortable nights. As autumn paints the canopy in brilliant golds and reds, the moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking and wildlife watching. When winter's chill arrives and snow blankets the landscape, the campground rests quietly, preparing for another season of adventures.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Most popular season; good weather and activities though flooding/muddy conditions sometimes occur.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open into late Oct; 'crisp evenings' and scenic fall colors make it an attractive season.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Open from May 1; late spring is pleasant but early spring is outside operating season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Closed in the off-season (Oct 26–Apr 30) for reservations.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 to October 25 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 1 to October 25 for reservations. Closed during off-season.
Current Alerts: Seasonal closures and flooding may impact usability. Boat ramp frequently reported as shallow and in need of dredging.

About Shady Creek

Nestled along 22 acres of pristine Mississippi riverfront, Shady Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern amenities and natural tranquility. Here, the gentle rhythm of the river sets the pace as campers settle into spacious electric sites beneath a canopy of mature trees. With convenient flush toilets, hot showers, and a well-maintained boat ramp, you'll find all the comforts needed for an unforgettable riverside retreat. Families gather at the playground while anglers launch their boats at dawn, all part of the timeless dance between river and shore that makes Shady Creek a cherished destination.

Shady Creek Campground caters to diverse camping needs. With options for tent camping, RV sites, and group facilities, it offers an inclusive camping experience.

Historical SignificanceShady Creek serves as your gateway to centuries of American heritage. Just a short drive away, the historic Pine Creek Grist Mill at Wildcat Den State Park stands as a testament to pioneer ingenuity, its weathered stones telling stories of settlers who once ground grain beside rushing waters. The nearby Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge connects you to the very landscapes that inspired America's greatest river chronicler, where the ecological richness that Twain celebrated continues to thrive. Here, cultural history and natural heritage intertwine, offering campers a deeper connection to the mighty Mississippi's enduring legacy.

Weather and SeasonsFrom the first warm days of May through the crisp evenings of late October, Shady Creek comes alive with perfect camping weather. Spring arrives with gentle breezes off the Mississippi, carrying the scent of wildflowers and new growth. Summer days invite lazy afternoons by the water, while cooling river winds provide natural air conditioning for comfortable nights. As autumn paints the canopy in brilliant golds and reds, the moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking and wildlife watching. When winter's chill arrives and snow blankets the landscape, the campground rests quietly, preparing for another season of adventures.

ElevationSituated within the ancient Mississippi floodplain, Shady Creek rests at the river's natural elevation, where the land has been shaped by countless seasons of rising and falling waters. This prime riverside position places you at the perfect vantage point to experience the river's many moods, from peaceful morning mists to dramatic sunset reflections dancing across the water.

Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of towering trees creates a natural sanctuary at Shady Creek, where dappled sunlight filters through the leaves to paint patterns on your campsite. The star attraction remains the magnificent Mississippi River views, where the ever-changing waterscape provides endless entertainment. Early risers are rewarded with woodpeckers drumming their morning songs, while patient observers might spot painted turtles sunning on fallen logs or catch a glimpse of industrious beavers working along the shoreline. This riverside haven offers front-row seats to nature's daily performances, where each sunrise brings new discoveries.

Geological RegionShady Creek occupies a fascinating position along the Upper Mississippi River, where millennia of geological forces have created one of North America's most diverse ecosystems. The campground sits within a rich tapestry of riparian woodlands and floodplain habitats, where the river's seasonal rhythms have nurtured an extraordinary web of life. These thick riverine forests serve as crucial corridors for wildlife, while the nutrient-rich soils deposited by ancient floods support a biodiversity that rivals any natural area in the region. Here, campers witness firsthand the powerful partnership between water and land that defines the Mississippi River ecosystem.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Number of guests not explicitly stated, likely depends on site size.

Groups

Group sites offer electric hookups and appear to accommodate larger groups effectively. Specific details about the maximum capacity of group sites were not available.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites laid out in loops with spacing suitable for privacy. All sites have concrete pads.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov website and app, or by calling the contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit information on walk-up availability provided; reservations are strongly recommended during peak season.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to check-in incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee in addition to the $10 fee. No-show penalties include a $20 fee plus forfeiture of first night's fees.

AccessibilityAccessible parking and showers are available, supporting campers with disabilities. Some reviews highlight the ease of moving between sites and the overall accessibility of the campground.

Site SizeSites are described as large with concrete pads that are level, spacious, and clean. One user noted, 'Nice big level concrete sites' while another remarked, 'Large sites with good spacing.

PrivacySites generally offer sufficient privacy with good spacing. Reviews mention, 'Spacing was adequate,' and 'Sites were spacious and not cramped.

Total Campsites53 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites closer to the river for scenic views and shade (e.g., #13, #34). Avoid sites #22, #23 during high water levels due to flooding risks.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Shady Creek offers an array of recreational opportunities centered around its picturesque location by the Mississippi River. Popular activities include fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground also features a playground and horseshoe pits for casual leisure.

HikingHiking trails are available at nearby Wildcat Den State Park, which is noted for its historic Pine Creek Grist Mill and scenic routes. A user commented, 'Hiking at Wildcat Den State Park close by was excellent.'

FishingFishing is highly popular at Shady Creek, with species such as channel catfish, bluegill, walleye, and northern pike available in the Mississippi River. One reviewer stated, 'The Mississippi River draws many anglers annually.'

BikingBiking trails can be accessed from nearby locations such as Beautiful Weed Park in Muscatine and Credit Island in Davenport. One reviewer mentioned, 'Great bike riding trails from Beautiful Weed park and Credit Island.'

BoatingA boat ramp is available at the campground, although several reviews highlight the need for dredging due to low water levels. One user shared, 'The boat dock area needs to be dredged... there is about 6 inches of water for 200 ft in all directions.'

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight, with species like woodpeckers, turtles, and beavers frequently observed. One user remarked, 'We watched the Beaver's swim around, Turtle sun themselves, and the woodpeckers on the trees.'

Cultural and Educational ProgramsEducational experiences are available, such as visiting the Muscatine County Environmental Learning Center and the Arboretum. One reviewer noted, 'Best thing is the Muscatine County Environmental Learning Center!'

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include train noise and excessive lighting from neighboring campsites, as mentioned in user reviews. Rising water levels may also affect low-lying campgrounds during floods.

Active AlertsSeasonal closures and flooding may impact usability. Boat ramp frequently reported as shallow and in need of dredging.

Fire PolicyCampfires permitted within designated rings. Firewood sales are available on-site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours enforced but specific times not mentioned.

Emergency ServicesClosest hospital: Trinity Muscatine (7 miles); closest police station: Muscatine Police Department (7 miles); closest ranger station: null

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are available, but some users reported issues during peak times, such as overfilled dumpsters. Recycling options were not mentioned explicitly.

Water FeaturesDirectly adjacent to the Mississippi River. A boat ramp is available but frequently noted as shallow.

Camp HostHosts Gina and Glen are widely praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. Hosts ensure clean facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Weather at Shady Creek

Reviews

4.6

396 reviews

Top-Rated

Shady Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Shady Creek Campground is widely praised for its scenic views, clean facilities, and friendly host services. However, recurring complaints include issues with decorative lighting, barking dogs, and the need for improved shower facilities.

Review Summaries

Based on 396 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the cleanliness of the campground, spacious and level sites, and proximity to the Mississippi River. Reviews such as 'Beautiful campground on the...

Based on 396 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of sewer hookups, issues with water temperature in showers, barking dogs, and overly bright decorative lighting at night. One user stated, 'There should be a lights...

Based on 396 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from users include bringing extra hooks for the shower house, filling water tanks before arriving due to spigot placement, and avoiding certain sites during high water levels. A user shared,...

Based on 396 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season for camping due to the pleasant weather and access to recreational activities like fishing and boating. However, rainfall and muddy conditions are noted after...

Based on 396 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The camp host attendants are really nice people.' - DEWAYNE Z 'Nice clean sites and amenities. Friendly camp host.' - JACK W 'Watching barges on the river is always a pleasure.' - LYNN S 'Flush...

Based on 396 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific campsites such as #34 and #13 are praised for their river views and spaciousness. Negative reviews include campsite #5 for issues with decorative lighting and campsite #23 for flooding risks.

Based on 396 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible parking and showers support campers with disabilities, but detailed reviews from users with accessibility needs are limited.

Based on 396 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but multiple reviews highlight issues with barking dogs and overcrowding of pets. Some suggest limiting the number of pets per site.

Based on 396 reviews

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