Discover the best campgrounds near Elkader, Iowa with swimming

United States
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Iowa
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Elkader

99% (33 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Elkader

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

91%

(17)

Relax near the Mississippi

5 sites · RVs4 acres · Prairie Du Chien, WI

The Nature Nest

1 site · Tent40 acres · Greeley, IA

We invite you to come experience rest, reflection, and recreation as you connect, and enjoy the zen of the forest. The Nest is tucked away in a flourishing hardwood timber of Northeast Iowa. It’s a space to enjoy some downtime and quiet your heart from the extra noise of everyday life. This natural spot offers plenty of exploration, and adventures for all ages. We invite you to walk guided trails, and experience flowing creeks, rock formations, and natural springs. Enjoy many sit spots for resting, soaking in the native wildlife, and organic flora.

The Cook Heritage Farm Estate

1 site · Lodging200 acres · IA

The Cook Heritage Farm Estate, 1848 is located on 200 acres of prairie and timber in the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa. The land has been in the family for 173 years, passed on from generation to generation. The estate property borders the Turkey River and is nestled between rolling farmland and gentle bluffs leading to the mighty Mississippi. The Driftless Area of the upper American Midwest was never glaciated and is characterized by caves and cave systems, disappearing streams, blind valleys, underground streams, sinkholes, springs, and cold streams. The BeginningIn 1848, Henry and Mary Cook traveled from Bavaria to America for a better life. Their journey on American soil began in New Orleans where they traveled up the Mississippi River to McGregor, Iowa. They bought their initial 40 acres through the land grant office in McGregor, hooked up a team of oxen and traveled 30 miles overland to settle in Clayton County. To stake a claim of ownership for this land they built a sod hut and lived there for two years to satisfy the land requirements. Although their beginning was meager, their pioneer spirits were abundant with adventure and a willingness to endure hardships for the potential the land promised. Their pioneer spirits demonstrated a deep commitment to and stewardship for the land that eventually produced a rich legacy handed down for generations. Harsh winters and physical labor were offset by the beauty of the area. Henry and Mary and their descendants eventually found a harmony with one another. The Turkey River provided sustenance and its raging springtime surge demonstrated the tenuous balance between man and nature. A give and take that remains to this day. There are several options for accommodations on the acreage: each site will be added. The estate is also open to be full booked by one party - which can accommodate up to 40 over night guests including campers, RV's, house and guest lodge sites. The Country Home: This six-bedroom, two story home was built in 1917. Ninety percent of the design, woodwork, and stained glass are original. The home was plumbed and wired for electricity during the original build. A home generator was placed in the basement to supply battery energy. Radiators were the primary source of heat for every room. The lower level is still heated by radiant heat, and supplemented during fall and winter nights with a kitchen gas fireplace. The Crib Guest Lodge was once the main “corn crib” on the property, used for years to dry and store corn harvested from the farms’ fields. The Crib was renovated into a full kitchen, 2 bathrooms, a living room, and a sleeping loft. For two years the owners used this as their summer lodging while the restoration work continued in the main house. The sleeping loft has 4 queen beds. Enjoy your favorite morning beverage on the east patio deck and watch the sun rise over the prairie flower fields. Star gazing off the second-floor deck is a must. The Bin Bar adjacent to the Crib was also used for corn storage but abandoned years ago. In 2017, the bin was moved to the east side of the Crib and over the past few years has been fashioned into a gathering spot for late night storytelling and night caps. The Gazebo Fire Pit is built upon the site of the original log house ~ circa 1850. The log house had a water cistern, a conical shaped underground vessel, used to catch fresh rainwater. The water was pumped into the log house using a pitcher pump. The cistern remains and is located underneath the landscape on the west of the Gazebo. The Barn was the first structure built on the property. So, the story goes, “first take care of the livestock and horses to assure human survival”. The Barn is need of restoration. For your safety, the barn is off limits. Acreage Campsites: 6 RV campsites are available: 3 with sewer and electrical hook-ups and 3 electrical only Individual and group tent camping is also available on the beach and on the acreage. Porta potty available.Surrounding area: Iowa cities including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each city boasts its own fun for day and night entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining pleasures. The Cook Heritage Farm Estate sits between Elgin and Elkader and you can easily follow the ‘river road’ to get between the two destinations.

Rush Creek Retreat

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Ferryville, WI

Welcome to Rush Creek Retreat, a charming rustic cabin nestled on 3 acres in the heart of the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Situated just a stone's throw away from the mighty Mississippi River and a scenic 25-30 minute drive from Viroqua, Wisconsin, this Amish-built cabin offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While the cabin boasts rustic charm, it is equipped with a number of modern amenities to make your stay cozy and comfortable. There is no running water, but the cabin does have electricity, high-speed internet (52 Mbps) and an electric water cooler on site that offers both hot and cold water options (while there may be water in the container from previous guests, it is best to come prepared with your own water to fill the container). Additionally, you'll find a small refrigerator with freezer, microwave, two electric heaters for warmth, a hot water kettle, and a Chemex for your coffee brewing needs. Dishes and cookware are provided. You'll also find an array of options to keep you occupied during your stay. Lose yourself in the mini library of 250+ books, or spin your favorite vinyl on the record player (BYOR). The Amazon Echo is equipped with SiriusXM radio for music streaming, and the projector and pull-down screen offer a fun movie night experience. Dive into a game or puzzle, flip through magazines, or simply relax in the hammock and soak in the tranquil ambiance. For nature explorers, within easy reach are Rush Creek State Natural Area, Blackhawk Park, Mt. Hosmer (Lansing, IA), Wyalusing State Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park and more. Flush toilets and showers can be found at Blackhawk Park in De Soto, a 10-15 minute drive from the cabin. This property is located in a rural setting, so you can expect to hear occasional noise from passing farm equipment and trucks. Across the street, a hobby farm adds to the countryside charm, and you may hear the morning greeting of a rooster. And while we do our best to keep nature outside of the cabin, keep in mind that bugs and mice do occasionally happen. As a guest at Rush Creek Retreat, you're responsible for leaving the cabin in clean condition, ready for the next guests. There is no cleaning fee charged, and no cleaning services are available after your stay, so it is important to honor this agreement. Remember to wash all dishes, place all furniture in its original setting and remove all trash and recyclables from the property upon departure. Learn more about Driftless Wisconsin at driftlesswisconsin.com.

S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Viroqua, WI

Hey there Happy Campers! We welcome you to our small slice of Driftless heaven. This private campsite is located in prairie land, surrounded by agricultural and wooded property (it’s quiet). Within a few minutes drive you have access to some of the best trout streams a fishing license can buy. You're also in close proximity to amazing hiking and biking trails, agri-tourism (apple pickin' good times!), endless photography opportunities, wineries, birding, stargazing and visits to downtown Viroqua! After a long day of adventuring, come back to this quiet retreat, make some brandy old fashions and enjoy the ambiance of the stars and crackling camp fire! This site can accommodate 2 large tents with plenty of room for a camp kitchen, fire pit and seating area. There is newly constructed composting style outbuilding (please read instructions before using it) and a camp kitchen table along with solar powered lighting. Firewood and other supplies are conveniently available in downtown Viroqua. Be sure to check out the various retailers and restaurants while you're there! Hope you enjoy the camp and we just ask to please leave it better than you found it!

7 top campgrounds near Elkader with swimming

91%

(17)

Relax near the Mississippi

5 sites · RVs4 acres · Prairie Du Chien, WI

The Cook Heritage Farm Estate

1 site · Lodging200 acres · IA

The Cook Heritage Farm Estate, 1848 is located on 200 acres of prairie and timber in the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa. The land has been in the family for 173 years, passed on from generation to generation. The estate property borders the Turkey River and is nestled between rolling farmland and gentle bluffs leading to the mighty Mississippi. The Driftless Area of the upper American Midwest was never glaciated and is characterized by caves and cave systems, disappearing streams, blind valleys, underground streams, sinkholes, springs, and cold streams. The BeginningIn 1848, Henry and Mary Cook traveled from Bavaria to America for a better life. Their journey on American soil began in New Orleans where they traveled up the Mississippi River to McGregor, Iowa. They bought their initial 40 acres through the land grant office in McGregor, hooked up a team of oxen and traveled 30 miles overland to settle in Clayton County. To stake a claim of ownership for this land they built a sod hut and lived there for two years to satisfy the land requirements. Although their beginning was meager, their pioneer spirits were abundant with adventure and a willingness to endure hardships for the potential the land promised. Their pioneer spirits demonstrated a deep commitment to and stewardship for the land that eventually produced a rich legacy handed down for generations. Harsh winters and physical labor were offset by the beauty of the area. Henry and Mary and their descendants eventually found a harmony with one another. The Turkey River provided sustenance and its raging springtime surge demonstrated the tenuous balance between man and nature. A give and take that remains to this day. There are several options for accommodations on the acreage: each site will be added. The estate is also open to be full booked by one party - which can accommodate up to 40 over night guests including campers, RV's, house and guest lodge sites. The Country Home: This six-bedroom, two story home was built in 1917. Ninety percent of the design, woodwork, and stained glass are original. The home was plumbed and wired for electricity during the original build. A home generator was placed in the basement to supply battery energy. Radiators were the primary source of heat for every room. The lower level is still heated by radiant heat, and supplemented during fall and winter nights with a kitchen gas fireplace. The Crib Guest Lodge was once the main “corn crib” on the property, used for years to dry and store corn harvested from the farms’ fields. The Crib was renovated into a full kitchen, 2 bathrooms, a living room, and a sleeping loft. For two years the owners used this as their summer lodging while the restoration work continued in the main house. The sleeping loft has 4 queen beds. Enjoy your favorite morning beverage on the east patio deck and watch the sun rise over the prairie flower fields. Star gazing off the second-floor deck is a must. The Bin Bar adjacent to the Crib was also used for corn storage but abandoned years ago. In 2017, the bin was moved to the east side of the Crib and over the past few years has been fashioned into a gathering spot for late night storytelling and night caps. The Gazebo Fire Pit is built upon the site of the original log house ~ circa 1850. The log house had a water cistern, a conical shaped underground vessel, used to catch fresh rainwater. The water was pumped into the log house using a pitcher pump. The cistern remains and is located underneath the landscape on the west of the Gazebo. The Barn was the first structure built on the property. So, the story goes, “first take care of the livestock and horses to assure human survival”. The Barn is need of restoration. For your safety, the barn is off limits. Acreage Campsites: 6 RV campsites are available: 3 with sewer and electrical hook-ups and 3 electrical only Individual and group tent camping is also available on the beach and on the acreage. Porta potty available.Surrounding area: Iowa cities including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each city boasts its own fun for day and night entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining pleasures. The Cook Heritage Farm Estate sits between Elgin and Elkader and you can easily follow the ‘river road’ to get between the two destinations.

RidgeRiverView Acres

3 sites · Lodging47 acres · Sherrill, IA

160 y/o six generation farm that has been documented and illustrated in both National Geographic and Picture magazines. Site of original log cabin. 20' deep spring fed pond excavated in 2010. 47 acres of trails,trees and wildlife.

S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Viroqua, WI

Hey there Happy Campers! We welcome you to our small slice of Driftless heaven. This private campsite is located in prairie land, surrounded by agricultural and wooded property (it’s quiet). Within a few minutes drive you have access to some of the best trout streams a fishing license can buy. You're also in close proximity to amazing hiking and biking trails, agri-tourism (apple pickin' good times!), endless photography opportunities, wineries, birding, stargazing and visits to downtown Viroqua! After a long day of adventuring, come back to this quiet retreat, make some brandy old fashions and enjoy the ambiance of the stars and crackling camp fire! This site can accommodate 2 large tents with plenty of room for a camp kitchen, fire pit and seating area. There is newly constructed composting style outbuilding (please read instructions before using it) and a camp kitchen table along with solar powered lighting. Firewood and other supplies are conveniently available in downtown Viroqua. Be sure to check out the various retailers and restaurants while you're there! Hope you enjoy the camp and we just ask to please leave it better than you found it!

Rush Creek Retreat

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Ferryville, WI

Welcome to Rush Creek Retreat, a charming rustic cabin nestled on 3 acres in the heart of the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Situated just a stone's throw away from the mighty Mississippi River and a scenic 25-30 minute drive from Viroqua, Wisconsin, this Amish-built cabin offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While the cabin boasts rustic charm, it is equipped with a number of modern amenities to make your stay cozy and comfortable. There is no running water, but the cabin does have electricity, high-speed internet (52 Mbps) and an electric water cooler on site that offers both hot and cold water options (while there may be water in the container from previous guests, it is best to come prepared with your own water to fill the container). Additionally, you'll find a small refrigerator with freezer, microwave, two electric heaters for warmth, a hot water kettle, and a Chemex for your coffee brewing needs. Dishes and cookware are provided. You'll also find an array of options to keep you occupied during your stay. Lose yourself in the mini library of 250+ books, or spin your favorite vinyl on the record player (BYOR). The Amazon Echo is equipped with SiriusXM radio for music streaming, and the projector and pull-down screen offer a fun movie night experience. Dive into a game or puzzle, flip through magazines, or simply relax in the hammock and soak in the tranquil ambiance. For nature explorers, within easy reach are Rush Creek State Natural Area, Blackhawk Park, Mt. Hosmer (Lansing, IA), Wyalusing State Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park and more. Flush toilets and showers can be found at Blackhawk Park in De Soto, a 10-15 minute drive from the cabin. This property is located in a rural setting, so you can expect to hear occasional noise from passing farm equipment and trucks. Across the street, a hobby farm adds to the countryside charm, and you may hear the morning greeting of a rooster. And while we do our best to keep nature outside of the cabin, keep in mind that bugs and mice do occasionally happen. As a guest at Rush Creek Retreat, you're responsible for leaving the cabin in clean condition, ready for the next guests. There is no cleaning fee charged, and no cleaning services are available after your stay, so it is important to honor this agreement. Remember to wash all dishes, place all furniture in its original setting and remove all trash and recyclables from the property upon departure. Learn more about Driftless Wisconsin at driftlesswisconsin.com.

The Nature Nest

1 site · Tent40 acres · Greeley, IA

We invite you to come experience rest, reflection, and recreation as you connect, and enjoy the zen of the forest. The Nest is tucked away in a flourishing hardwood timber of Northeast Iowa. It’s a space to enjoy some downtime and quiet your heart from the extra noise of everyday life. This natural spot offers plenty of exploration, and adventures for all ages. We invite you to walk guided trails, and experience flowing creeks, rock formations, and natural springs. Enjoy many sit spots for resting, soaking in the native wildlife, and organic flora.

Windy Ridge Retreat

1 site · Lodging45 acres · Fennimore, WI

The cabin sits on a beautiful ridge. You will have a great view of the sky. Birds and wildlife watching along with listening to them. The property is a second farm that has been in my family's history since the 1960's. We are a working crop, horses and beef cattle farm. We raise crops on this property. We have a main farm down the road that if you would like to visit, we can try setting that up so you can see the animals. We have direct access to the property for ATV/UTV's for the public road use on the back roads. You can travel from town to town and sight see. The property is close to places to see and things to do, driftless area history, wineries, caves, hiking, canoeing and more.

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Camping near Elkader with swimming guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Elkader, Iowa? Hipcamp has over 350 options for you to choose from. Whether you're into glamping, RV camping, or tent camping, we've got you covered. With an average price per night of $48 and options as low as $10, there's something for every budget. Check out our top campsites with rave reviews: Windy Goat Acres (208 reviews), Draco Hill Farm (192 reviews), Folk School Farm Stay (135 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and pet-friendly sites. And if you're into whitewater paddling, paddling, or surfing, you're in luck - these are popular activities in the area. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!