Best Camping in and near Mississippi Palisades State Park

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See the mighty Mississippi River from a unique vantage point at this state park.

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Stay at a public campground in Mississippi Palisades State Park

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Mississippi Palisades Campground

241 sites · RVs, Tents In Mississippi Palisades State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Mississippi Palisades State Park

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1860's Botanical Paradise

2 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Bellevue, IA

Happy to announce we’ve won 2nd best property to visit in Iowa! We hope to keep striving and adding more amenities as we go! Thank you to our wonderful guests and hello to future guests! 👋🏽 Built in 1860 by its first caretaker botanist, this homestead was propagated over its many years of life and is busting at the seams with medicinal and edible herbs. We now run a flower farm and vegetable gardens on our homestead. If you’d like to learn about herbs or gardening/ homesteading, we love sharing our knowledge. If you’d just like some farm fresh eggs for breakfast and enjoy your time alone amongst the songbirds, that's just fine too :) The property is built into the stone hillside allowing for breathtaking views but also stairs to get to the campsites. Please wear comfortable shoes (not flip flops 😉). If you have mobility issues property access will be difficult. !CLASSES! We run our small school/business: HOMESTEAD and HAMMER from the property and are bringing classes to YOU in the 2022 Season! Look in the "EXTRAS" for classes you can partake in on your visit OR for more information on what's included on class weekends check out our website below! Classes include, forAging wild edibles, mushroom identification, homesteading skills, soap making, forging metals and many more! Website: www.homesteadandhammer.com *For guest and host safety property managed 24-7 by video and security services*

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Vintage Spring Lake Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Savanna, IL

Spring Lake Campground was est. in 1943. The lake is fed by the Mississippi River and there is access to the lake and directly to the river for kayaking/boating and fishing, which is a popular reason people come to the campground. Another popular draw is that the Great River Bike Trail runs right through! It’s a beautiful ride from the campground to nearby Savanna, IL. There is so much to do in the surrounding area: hiking and climbing at Palisades State Park, restaurants, bars and shopping in Savanna, museums and more. But enjoying a peaceful time at the campground, having a bonfire, watching the sunset on the lake and seeing the stars at night is really what it’s about. True old school camping-enjoying the wildlife sanctuary. Get outside and relax. *We ask that our campers please arrive before dark to find their site and set up to avoid disrupting other campers. It gets really dark! We do not have street lights so people can see the stars. Learn more about this land: A Vintage campground est. 1943. Known for kayaking and fishing, this is a true campground. Instead of pavement, we have grass and trees but our best "amenity" is the peaceful outdoors! The Great River Bike Trail runs right through our campground. Rent a canoe or kayak (through October 1st) Historical Savanna, IL is close by. Enjoy Illinois!

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Linden Camprground

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Apple River, IL

We bought the farmette with much work outside and home interior remodel to complete. We slowly turned the property into our family oasis. We neighbor a pasture with cows. There are free range chickens running around during the day. Geese greet us every evening and morning at the pond...as do the many bullfrogs. Occasionally you'll hear the coyotes, but then keep their distance. The stars shine peacefully and the sunsets are picturesque (most afternoons). The pond is a great place to swim and fish. The hillside is a nice walk for exercise or take the easier route and sit under the great oak tree in the other pasture. Campsites are off the road, behind our main home. You won't find a sign...we keep it simple.

Honey Bee & Bee Homestead

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Hanover, IL

Escape from the ordinary as you immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of our hidden sanctuary. Tucked away on a sprawling 40-acre haven of natural beauty just outside Galena, Illinois, our retreat unfolds in the heart of the stunning Driftless Area. Embrace tranquility by the serene pond, explore the meandering trails through 26 acres of protected forestry, and encounter the delightful presence of our charming residents - from chickens and guinea fowl to the gentle hum of honey bees. Meet Oxford, our friendly Great Pyrenees, who adds an extra touch of warmth to our idyllic setting. The Driftless Area beckons with its renowned geological wonders, presenting a captivating landscape of rolling hills, picturesque bluffs, and unparalleled scenic beauty. Delight your senses with the award-winning flavors of local Galena wines at nearby vineyards, where each sip is a celebration of the region's rich terroir.

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Stunning View at Galena River Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent600 acres · Galena, IL

Learn more about this land:A peaceful respite with a breathtaking view of the Galena and Mississippi River valleys. The secluded campsite is situated on a high point on Pilot Knob that overlooks the entire valley with 180 degree views to the South, West and North. The tent site is a flat 20'x20' spot next to a Birch tree, fire ring and table; plenty of room for two tents and a car or two. In the foreground is a natural field with small Cedar trees, Scrub Oak, Sumac and prairie grasses where deer often eat and bed. The site is situated on about 25 acres - plenty of space to take a walk through the fields. Further out are natural woods, and in the distance is the entire Mississippi River valley South to Bellevue, IA and North of Dubuque, IA. Sunsets are absolutely breathtaking from this vantage point.

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#JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

11 sites · Tents15 acres · IA

Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about privacy and relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax. Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people? Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site. We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Very private and peaceful, perfect for those looking for some alone time or time with family/friends. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing! Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully. We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available. Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are very private and tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill. Welcoming to all, we love to meet new people and let them share in the joy of bonding with nature freely.

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RWH Farm

5 sites · Lodging, Tents360 acres · Apple Canyon Lake, IL

Rich history in this property. The land was purchased from the railroad in 1865 through 1869. Also purchased land from neighboring farms. It was establishes as a farm under the Roberts name in 1872. Our family has seen six generations born and raised on this land in the past 150 years. American Indian tribes use the land for their burial ground ceremonies. Elders from a Wisconsin tribe came to the farm through the 1960s to trek the land and perform a ceremony to honor their ancestors. Many arrow heads were found in the fields of the land. The American Indians told stories of how the little spring fed creek running through our land was a small river flowing towards the Apple River which flows into the Mississippi River. The Apple river runs northwest of the farm. In 2001, the land hosted a small budget film crew for the scenes and setting of the 2002 film “Stray dogs” with Genevieve Turner. Learn more about this land: Hiking and camping under the stars surrounded by trees with the sounds of nature. Spotting variety of wildlife. Watching the most spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and the moon rising over the hills. Classified as “D” for dry camping or boondocking. Upgrades will be made available with interest. For more info about how to check out campendium.com. Feel free to ask about long term discounts on all available sites.

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Pecatonica River Trails Park

30 sites · RVsDarlington, WI

The campground is located along the Pecatonica River and Tri-County Recreational Trail. Ride and enjoy the many sights along the famous Cheese Country ATV Trail and local Darlington ATV Club Trails. Visit Mathys Ace Hardware for your non-resident trail pass, if needed. Launch your canoe and paddle the Pecatonica River or fish & swim along the banks of the river. Take a stroll along the lighted walking path. Just sit and relax and enjoy the wildlife along the water’s edge! Don’t forget to enjoy shopping and eating in Darlington, or travel a short distance to historic Shullsburg or Mineral Point. The possibilities are endless! Free parking for daily trail users is available.

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Del Boca Vista

1 site · RV8 acres · Pearl City, IL

Surround yourself in rural Stephenson County with farm fields and woods. Secluded level full hook up 40 ft RV site located on functioning farmette. Picnic table, fire pit and charcoal barbeque grill. 2 miles to Lake Carrol ATV trail. (Access for LCA members only). 4 Miles to Pub's in Loran and 5 Miles to Pearl City. Bring your mountain bike and explore miles of gravel roads. 1/2 Court Concrete Basket Ball and Badminton sand lot to use. Sewer, Water and 120V 15amp connection is included in base nightly rental. There is a nightly fee for 50Amp RV connection. See "extras" to include this, If you don't have an RV you can rent ours! See "experiences". No dogs of any size in or outside are allowed. There are Free Ranging chickens and wildlife on the property, Please enjoy the farm fresh eggs!

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The Lichen Pod - 26' 1974 Argosy

2 sites · Lodging49 acres · Freeport, IL

Learn more about this land:The southern Driftless Area is one of rolling hills of farmland, prairie and woodlands. The camper is parked near a line of pines with both beautiful light and fresh breezes, located on a working ecological farm.

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Whispering Pines Events & Lodging

47 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Geneseo, IL

Welcome to Whispering Pines, a family focused campground to help you get away from the daily grind. Surround yourself amongst tall pine trees as you hear the wind whisper tranquility all around you. We are a family owned campground with a heart to serve people and provide a peaceful environment where families and individuals can enjoy making new memories. Whispering Pines is an event and retreat center that offers lodging and camping amenities. We also have a chapel ready to host your ceremony. We have RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, a lodge, and an event center. We can help you create a package to fit your needs and budget.

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Circle M Farm Stay Camp n Glamp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Blanchardville, WI

Camp in style on a beautiful Driftless Farmstead! This tiny valley farm once had stanchions to milk 8 cows in the barn. That was in 1890. Now we are home to dozens of sheep, steers, goats, hogs, cats, dogs, chickens and geese and myriad wild critters and pollinators and migrators. We are a conservation farm and on a mission to heal our wetland, improve our trout stream and bring people out to the land. We are in Driftless Southwest Wisconsin - gorgeous hills and quilted cropland bisected by oak woods and switchback rivers. Pitch your tent, park a small camper/rv, or stay in our vintage camper as close as the backyard or further away by the sheep pasture or frog pond. You will share an indoor bathroom, or our open-to-the-sky hot outdoor shower, and an outdoor sink with other campers. We have a Cedar Sauna you can reserve. This is easy camping with a view of the stars, nestled in a farm-to-table farm community with lots of goods to buy. We LOVE our Driftless neighborhood in SW Wisconsin and can recommend many amazing activities for everyone from fisherman to families! We live on a 20 acre farm bisected by a small river and a great trout stream, adjacent to 150 acres of restored prairie. We're close to shopping, antiquing, Amishing and good eating. We're within a half hour of 3 great rail trails, two state parks and one amazing ATV rental. Go to an old-fashioned drive in movie, a local farmers market, dirt-track stock care races, tractor pulls, a u-pick apple farm or a Toy Train Museum. Go tubing, kayaking, boating or biking - you can rent what you need. Or sit on one of the porches to watch the chickens peck and the pigs dig. We can't wait to introduce you to all the livestock, cats, our Great Pyrrannees pups, Waylon and Willie, and our Border Heeler, Dolly! We are a five minute walk from our cute downtown with a playground, library and several great places to eat. Ten minutes from New Glarus Brewery and Argyle (Pec Time Tubing). A half hour from Mineral Point (Fall Art Tour), Mount Horeb (Troll Way), Dodgeville (House on the Rock) and Monroe (Cheese Days). Fifteen minutes from hiking, fishing and boating at Yellowstone Lake State Park. Campfire with s'mores every night, coffee and scones in the morning. Wifi is reliable on some spots on the property, and a sure thing on the front breakfast porch. We do require a two-night minimum to stay in the campers. Tent camping we have no minimum. Please reach out to us on the app to see what is available.

The best camping near Mississippi Palisades State Park guide

Overview

About

Visit a state park located near the confluence of the Mississippi and Apple Rivers in northwestern Illinois. This park is rich in Native American history. Marvel at the steep cliffs, or natural palisades, that line the rivers.

Hike along trails in the southern part of the park to retrace a thousand years of history. These paths are the same ones native people used to migrate through the area. Imagine what they felt and saw as tribes looked out over the vast river system. Spend an entire day traversing the 15 miles of trails.

Make time for the strenuous hikes that take you past impressive rock formations. The treks are definitely worth it! Twin Sisters looks like two human figures on a rocky platform. Indian Head looks like an eagle, arrowhead, or someone's head.

Walk to Lookout Point at sunset for stunning views. Definitely plan a fall foliage hike in early to mid-October. Reserve your campsite early. More than 240 sites fill up fast, with 110 sites having electricity.