100% (238) • 19 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Decorah
Shady Rest Acres
1. Shady Rest Acres
100%
(316)
36mi from Decorah · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota.
Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to
the sixty-seven foot deep cave that
once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only.
Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond.
The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by
the Brew Master's wife.
We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive.
Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever
in the
Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders
were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They
clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals.
The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species.
Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and
started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving.
Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$40
/ night
Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites
2. Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites
16mi from Decorah · 40 sites
Discover the unique charm of Upper Iowa Resort, nestled in the picturesque Northeast Iowa along the banks of the stunning Upper Iowa River, conveniently located between Dorchester and Waukon. This serene getaway offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring cozy cabins, spacious campsites, and convenient river rentals.
At Upper Iowa Resort, you'll find a variety of amenities designed for family fun and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our spring-fed swimming pool, complete with a sandy beach, or let the kids explore multiple playgrounds. Engage in friendly competition on our basketball court or sand volleyball court. For those seeking adventure, we offer canoe and kayak rentals, along with shuttle services to enhance your river experience and just be sure to book in advance!
Unplug and unwind in this tranquil setting, where cell phone service is limited, allowing you to truly connect with nature. If you need to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available.
Explore the surrounding area for even more outdoor activities. Visit local shops, wineries, and breweries in nearby towns, or embark on a hiking adventure at Mt. Hosmer in Lansing, which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. You can also find scenic trails in Waukon and Decorah. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole to cast a line
Pets
Full hookups
from
$39
/ night
Bollman Bluffs River Camp
3. Bollman Bluffs River Camp
17mi from Decorah · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the Driftless Region like never before at Fossilstone Camp, tucked along the Upper Iowa River. Pitch your tent or park your camper near the spacious beach and tranquil pond, refresh in the outdoor shower, and wander the trails that wind through the property.
Evenings come alive with crickets, wildlife, and rolling fog, creating the perfect backdrop for a stunning stargazing night. Fossilstone Camp is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful riverside escape.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$43
/ night
Blackhawk Park
4. Blackhawk Park
100%
(1)
Park 30mi from Decorah · 175 sites
Discover Blackhawk Park's scenic charm and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
5. Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
100%
(6)
State forest 90mi from Decorah · 174 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Prairie Lodge
6. The Prairie Lodge
100%
(1)
30mi from Decorah · 1 site
Welcome to The Prairie Lodge — A Rustic Retreat on Historic Land
Nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, The Prairie Lodge sits on 200 acres of native prairie and timber as part of the Cook Heritage Farm Estate. This cherished family property has been passed down through generations for over 173 years. The property borders the scenic Turkey River and is surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle bluffs that lead toward the mighty Mississippi River. Rich in natural beauty, the Driftless Area is geologically unique—never touched by glaciers—and is known for its caves, underground streams, blind valleys, sinkholes, and cold spring-fed creeks.
The Prairie Lodge, once the main “corn crib” used for drying and storing harvested corn, has been thoughtfully renovated into a comfortable and charming retreat. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a cozy living room, and an open loft with four queen beds. The loft comfortably sleeps eight and can accommodate up to ten guests with a blow-up mattress if needed.
Step onto the east-facing patio deck with your morning beverage and watch the sunrise over fields of blooming prairie flowers. Wildlife is abundant—deer, rabbits, songbirds, pheasants, and even eagles are frequent visitors. As night falls, the second-floor deck becomes the perfect spot for stargazing and listening to the calls of coyotes echoing across the land.
Next door to the Lodge, you’ll find the Bin Bar—a once-abandoned grain bin transformed in 2017 into a unique gathering space ideal for late-night storytelling and nightcaps under the stars.
For those traveling with a larger group, RV campsites with full water, sewer, and electrical hookups are available near the Lodge. If additional accommodations are needed beyond the Prairie Lodge, please contact your Hipcamp host for details and availability.
Activities nearby: Iowa towns including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each town boasts its own fun for day and evening entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining spots.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$176
/ night
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
7. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
100%
(2)
State park 31mi from Decorah · 135 sites
Discover the allure of Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Louise State Park
8. Lake Louise State Park
100%
(1)
State park 40mi from Decorah · 39 sites
Discover the natural charm of Lake Louise State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Goose Island Park
9. Goose Island Park
100%
(1)
Park 41mi from Decorah · 400 sites
Discover Goose Island Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Great River Bluffs State Park
10. Great River Bluffs State Park
100%
(6)
State park 49mi from Decorah · 31 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Great River Bluffs State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Backbone State Park
11. Backbone State Park
80%
(5)
State park 49mi from Decorah · 124 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Backbone State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
100% (238) • 19 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Decorah
Shady Rest Acres
1. Shady Rest Acres
100%
(316)
36mi from Decorah · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Once the site of the historic V.J. Fetzner Brewery from the late 19th Century. The land is now used as a hobby farm, honey bee sanctuary and nursery to a unique tree species normally not found in Southeastern Minnesota.
Remnants of the brewery are still visible. Foundation walls outline the massive structure of the brewery. Nestled in the center of the foundation is the entrance to
the sixty-seven foot deep cave that
once held barrels of beer and can be accessed by canoe only.
Hops have been located on the property and are believed to be ancestors of those raised to make the beer once stored in the cave. The pond that provides access to the cave was dug out in the early 1990's to create a fish out for the Spring Falls Trout Farm that used to exist across the highway. Some of the original brood stock still exist and continue to naturally stock the pond. It is not uncommon to see fish that are five to ten pounds in size. We do not allow fishing from our pond.
The residents house is built to scale to the original brew master's house. While the house is only twenty-four years old it looks as though you have taken a step back in time. The name Shady Rest was given to the house by
the Brew Master's wife.
We thought it was appropriate to keep the name alive.
Shady Rest Acres is comprised of twenty-three acres of beautiful woodlands and pasture that are protected forever
in the
Minnesota Land Trust. The pasture is home to Scottish Highlander cows, two miniature donkeys, five sheep, four goats, honey bees and a flock of chickens. Scottish Highlanders
were selected for both their grazing and browsing abilities. They are very docile and make excellent pasture mates to the smaller species sharing the pasture. The cows are excellent forest managers. They
clear out invasive species such as Honey Suckle, Buckthorn, and Barberry which can often be difficult to manage. A guided tour with the host can be taken to meet the pasture animals.
The forest is comprised of many tree species. Some are unique in that they normally do not grow in this region of Minnesota. The yellow birch is a species normally found in Northern Minnesota. It's bark is golden in color and glistens when the sun hits it just right. We have a cluster of several yellow birch including one that is so big that the bark no longer looks golden but instead is grey and very rough. Years ago the largest of these trees made excellent wood for turning bowls. Blue Beech (musclewood) can also be found on the property. As the name indicates the bark is shaped like muscles. Songbirds and some other species will use different parts of the tree as a food source. Towering white pines also speckle the landscape. Mother pine requires at least two humans arm lengths to encircle the whole tree. She is a favorite resting spot for the barred owl. There is oak, elm, maple, ceders, poplars and numerous other species.
Honey bees are an integral part of the landscape. We partnered with a friend and
started raising honey bees two years ago in order to do our part to keep pollinators thriving.
Their hives are located in the pasture where it has the perfect amount of early morning sun to get them moving and afternoon shade to balance out the summer heat. It is not uncommon to see them pollinating garden plants, trees and wild flowers around the property. One of their favorite feeding spots is the acre and a half prairie which offers a range of plants including big blue stem, wild indigo and baby blue stem, to name a few. Not only are honey bees essential to the food chain but they also provide a very enriching experience when they are observed moving about their hives. There is nothing more relaxing and fascinating than watching these amazing creatures.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$40
/ night
Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites
2. Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites
16mi from Decorah · 40 sites
Discover the unique charm of Upper Iowa Resort, nestled in the picturesque Northeast Iowa along the banks of the stunning Upper Iowa River, conveniently located between Dorchester and Waukon. This serene getaway offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring cozy cabins, spacious campsites, and convenient river rentals.
At Upper Iowa Resort, you'll find a variety of amenities designed for family fun and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our spring-fed swimming pool, complete with a sandy beach, or let the kids explore multiple playgrounds. Engage in friendly competition on our basketball court or sand volleyball court. For those seeking adventure, we offer canoe and kayak rentals, along with shuttle services to enhance your river experience and just be sure to book in advance!
Unplug and unwind in this tranquil setting, where cell phone service is limited, allowing you to truly connect with nature. If you need to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available.
Explore the surrounding area for even more outdoor activities. Visit local shops, wineries, and breweries in nearby towns, or embark on a hiking adventure at Mt. Hosmer in Lansing, which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. You can also find scenic trails in Waukon and Decorah. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole to cast a line
Pets
Full hookups
from
$39
/ night
Bollman Bluffs River Camp
3. Bollman Bluffs River Camp
17mi from Decorah · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the Driftless Region like never before at Fossilstone Camp, tucked along the Upper Iowa River. Pitch your tent or park your camper near the spacious beach and tranquil pond, refresh in the outdoor shower, and wander the trails that wind through the property.
Evenings come alive with crickets, wildlife, and rolling fog, creating the perfect backdrop for a stunning stargazing night. Fossilstone Camp is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful riverside escape.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$43
/ night
Blackhawk Park
4. Blackhawk Park
100%
(1)
Park 30mi from Decorah · 175 sites
Discover Blackhawk Park's scenic charm and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
5. Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
100%
(6)
State forest 90mi from Decorah · 174 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Prairie Lodge
6. The Prairie Lodge
100%
(1)
30mi from Decorah · 1 site
Welcome to The Prairie Lodge — A Rustic Retreat on Historic Land
Nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, The Prairie Lodge sits on 200 acres of native prairie and timber as part of the Cook Heritage Farm Estate. This cherished family property has been passed down through generations for over 173 years. The property borders the scenic Turkey River and is surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle bluffs that lead toward the mighty Mississippi River. Rich in natural beauty, the Driftless Area is geologically unique—never touched by glaciers—and is known for its caves, underground streams, blind valleys, sinkholes, and cold spring-fed creeks.
The Prairie Lodge, once the main “corn crib” used for drying and storing harvested corn, has been thoughtfully renovated into a comfortable and charming retreat. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a cozy living room, and an open loft with four queen beds. The loft comfortably sleeps eight and can accommodate up to ten guests with a blow-up mattress if needed.
Step onto the east-facing patio deck with your morning beverage and watch the sunrise over fields of blooming prairie flowers. Wildlife is abundant—deer, rabbits, songbirds, pheasants, and even eagles are frequent visitors. As night falls, the second-floor deck becomes the perfect spot for stargazing and listening to the calls of coyotes echoing across the land.
Next door to the Lodge, you’ll find the Bin Bar—a once-abandoned grain bin transformed in 2017 into a unique gathering space ideal for late-night storytelling and nightcaps under the stars.
For those traveling with a larger group, RV campsites with full water, sewer, and electrical hookups are available near the Lodge. If additional accommodations are needed beyond the Prairie Lodge, please contact your Hipcamp host for details and availability.
Activities nearby: Iowa towns including Decorah, Clermont, Elgin, Elkader, and Prairie Du Chen, Wisconsin are within driving distance. Each town boasts its own fun for day and evening entertainment including local artisan wares, antiquing, hiking, biking, golfing, water recreation, breweries, and dining spots.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$176
/ night
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
7. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
100%
(2)
State park 31mi from Decorah · 135 sites
Discover the allure of Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Louise State Park
8. Lake Louise State Park
100%
(1)
State park 40mi from Decorah · 39 sites
Discover the natural charm of Lake Louise State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Goose Island Park
9. Goose Island Park
100%
(1)
Park 41mi from Decorah · 400 sites
Discover Goose Island Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Great River Bluffs State Park
10. Great River Bluffs State Park
100%
(6)
State park 49mi from Decorah · 31 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Great River Bluffs State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Backbone State Park
11. Backbone State Park
80%
(5)
State park 49mi from Decorah · 124 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Backbone State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Kyle
October 2025
Tent
Patty and Michelle are awesome hosts. Very available and acommodating if you need anything but totally out of your hair otherwise. Heart's Content was a lovely spot where you could hear the soft trickle of water flowing from pond to pond as you slept. Very close to a lot of cool spots including a great bluff hike in Reno, MN, and great boating/island hopping opportunities at Goose Island in LaCrosse, WI. The farm animals were all very chill and friendly and were very respectful of our space at the campsite, like not wandering in and being all up on us while we prepped meals or anything like that. They'd sometimes graze on the underbrush that rings the site. The goats loved being fed food scraps like carrot/potato skins, banana peels, etc. There was a very clean and well maintained outhouse on the premises and a water spigot nearby with very clean water. Great price on a generous amount of firewood that is stored in a dry shelter. Buy it in person, not through the app. ;)
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E
Ethan
August 2025
Tent
Shady Rest Acres was amazing. I had high expectations and they were exceeded. The donkeys and goats were really friendly when they approached you to check things out and the cows were great to watch. The hosts were super friendly and answered any questions right away with helpful information. Secluded area which was very peaceful and where I could check out the milky way at night. 12/10 would book again
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Andrew
August 2025
3 nights at Shady Rest Acres
Perfect place to decompress, with a touch of the farm life. The hosts were kind and available, letting us know how to approach the animals on our own time.
See moreJ
Jeffrey
August 2025
Tent
We asked if they could supply us with some beverages using hipcamp messaging since we bike packed to the location and they gladly helped us out.
The camp site was great, well maintained and easy to find!
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A
Abbey Renee
August 2025
Tent
Wonderful site adjacent to a farm featuring goats, donkeys, and ducks. Friendly hosts who were welcoming, providing am overview of the amenities. For a quiet getaway in a great location be sure to book with Michelle & Patty.
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P
Pamela
August 2025
Tent
Camped at Life is good site right by the farm animals which were super friendly. Fairly private and serene with beautiful stars at night and sunrises. There were a lot of flies but that’s to be expected around animals. Hosts were super friendly.
See moreC
Carrie
July 2025
With kids
Another lovely stay at Patty and Michelle's cabin. It is a great way to enjoy all of the beautiful nature of the area with fewer mosquitos! We stargazed, spent quality time with the cats, goats, and made friends with the turkeys. Looking forward to coming back later this fall.
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B
Britt
July 2025
Tent
Group trip
Patty and Michelle were lovely hosts. Gave us lots of ideas upon arrival for local attractions and when there was a possibility of severe weather, briefed us clearly on procedures. Thankfully, we didn't need them!
The campsite is very well maintained and defined; plenty of wood chopped and ready to be used (for a very reasonable fee); delightful cast of critter characters around the farm; in the stillness of the night you can hear the water running into the pond below. Our group of 5 had three tents set up and there was plenty of room. The cooking grate on the fire was clutch!
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S
Sarah
July 2025
With kids
This place is stunning beyond words. It’s absolutely gorgeous. As soon as we arrived, we regretted only booking for two nights and made up our minds right then and there that we’re coming back more prepared next time and booking the place for at least 5 nights.
Patty and Michelle are very kind. They went out of their way to make sure we’re comfortable and have everything we need, and helped us order pizza.
The farm, the animals and the scenery are simply outstanding. This place is perfect for both families and couples. It’s all incredibly beautiful and a real nice retreat from the city.
See moreM
Matt
June 2025
Tent
Group trip
Tremendous experience- lovely place to stay - hosts were great!
See moreR
Rae
June 2025
Tent
Amazing hosts with an even better property. It was so cozy and peaceful, giving that “in the woods” feel without being too remote. Couldn’t recommend more!
See moreC
Carrie
June 2025
Group trip
A wonderful place to unwind and connect with nature. I enjoyed looking through the reading material and listening to some of the vinyl records. My kids had a nice time petting all the sweet animals. The studio had plenty of space for the 4 of us. Keep in mind that many of the businesses in the small surrounding communities are not open midweek if that is of interest. Would stay here again!
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Sarah
June 2025
Tent
Patrick and I really enjoyed our time at Shady Rest Acres, a beautiful and well cared for nook of field and forest. The hosts were very friendly and we were happy we followed up on the advice they gave us regarding hiking and food in the local area. Their animals were also very friendly and caused us to laugh many times with their antics but did not disturb us. At night the stars were visible when clear, and owls called back and forth. The sunrise over the Mississippi or behind the bluffs is gorgeous if you are up to witness it. A unique experience we had on their land was canoeing into the old beer cellar, which is actually a cave. We would highly recommend this Hipcamp! Thank you Patty and Michelle!
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C
Chris
June 2025
Tent
We had a wonderful stay and would love to return. Their land is gorgeous and extremely well maintained. Patty and Michelle were lovely and helpful hosts.
Also, my girlfriend says that they have the cleanest Porto she has ever seen. 😂
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