The best waterfall campgrounds in Iowa

In Iowa, you’ll find over 440 camping options near waterfalls, each offering a front-row seat to the state’s hidden cascades and cool, shaded trails. Expect campsites that let you wake up to the sound of water, with fishing, hiking, and swimming right out your door. If you’re after a unique stay, Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0 (6 reviews) puts you steps from a cave and a trickling creek—ideal for unplugging without sacrificing comfort. Most sites welcome pets and offer showers and toilets, so you don’t have to rough it. Prices start at $125 per night, with an average around that mark. For anyone chasing waterfalls and a bit of wild in Iowa, these spots make it easy to dive in—literally and figuratively.

94% (8)

Top-rated campgrounds near Iowa

In Iowa, you’ll find over 440 camping options near waterfalls, each offering a front-row seat to the state’s hidden cascades and cool, shaded trails. Expect campsites that let you wake up to the sound of water, with fishing, hiking, and swimming right out your door. If you’re after a unique stay, Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0 (6 reviews) puts you steps from a cave and a trickling creek—ideal for unplugging without sacrificing comfort. Most sites welcome pets and offer showers and toilets, so you don’t have to rough it. Prices start at $125 per night, with an average around that mark. For anyone chasing waterfalls and a bit of wild in Iowa, these spots make it easy to dive in—literally and figuratively.

94% (8)

Top-rated campgrounds near Iowa

1. Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0

95%

(10)

1 site · Lodging · Decorah, IA

Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0 is a clean & quiet camper that is located just a few feet from your private cave & waterfall! KAYAK & CANOE RENTALS AVAILABLE ON SITE by Uncle Jon. A gem that you cannot find anywhere else in Decorah! A secret hideaway for photos, hiking, sightseeing & connecting to nature. A secluded area for easy R&R while listening to water flow, chirping birds & watching deer & horses pass by. 1 queen bed sleeps 2, 1 twin bed sleeps 1, and 2 full bunk beds sleep 2-4. We charge a $25 non-refundable pet fee. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings & have fun! Uncle Jon & Rose

2. Maquoketa Caves State Park

100%

(5)

29 sites · Baldwin, Iowa

Take a hike, go spelunking, and learn about bats.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

3. Rathbun Lake

100%

(1)

391 sites · Rathbun, Iowa

Discover Rathbun Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

4. Dolliver Memorial State Park

24 sites · Lehigh, Iowa

Discover the rugged beauty of Dolliver Memorial State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Public campgrounds in Iowa

100%

(5)

Maquoketa Caves Campground

29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Maquoketa Caves State Park

100%

(1)

Prairie Ridge Park Campground

55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Dolliver Campground

24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dolliver Memorial State Park

Bridgeview Park Campground

106 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Buck Creek Campground

42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Island View Campground

188 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rathbun Lake

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

L

Lauren

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0

My boyfriend and I loved this spot. A quiet camper with a waterfall and horses close. Very relaxing if that’s what you’re looking for. John is extremely accommodating and quick to respond to needs. Definitely coming back!

Heather

August 2025

With kids

3 nights at Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0

What a beautiful hidden gem in the rolling hills of Iowa! We enjoyed the waterfall, the beautiful property, the well stocked RV and the customer service. Thanks for having us!