The best campgrounds near Decorah, Iowa with climbing

Looking to go camping near Decorah, Iowa and indulge in some climbing? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 130 options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your climbing adventure. Whether you're looking for a rustic retreat or a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has you covered. Check out some of our top campsites with rave reviews: Ranch Retreat (226 reviews), 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (203 reviews), and Brye Cabin and Bad Axe Camping (65 reviews). Plus, you'll enjoy popular amenities like showers, toilets, and pet-friendly accommodations. Don't miss out on boating, swimming, and exploring historic sites while you're there. With an average price per night of $32 and options as low as $20, camping with Hipcamp is not only exciting, but also affordable. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

94% (403)

Top-rated campgrounds near Decorah

Looking to go camping near Decorah, Iowa and indulge in some climbing? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 130 options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your climbing adventure. Whether you're looking for a rustic retreat or a cozy cabin, Hipcamp has you covered. Check out some of our top campsites with rave reviews: Ranch Retreat (226 reviews), 🦫 Flutterby 🦋 Farm 👩🏽‍🌾 (203 reviews), and Brye Cabin and Bad Axe Camping (65 reviews). Plus, you'll enjoy popular amenities like showers, toilets, and pet-friendly accommodations. Don't miss out on boating, swimming, and exploring historic sites while you're there. With an average price per night of $32 and options as low as $20, camping with Hipcamp is not only exciting, but also affordable. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

94% (403)

Top-rated campgrounds near Decorah

1. Ranch Retreat Camping

99%

(406)

46mi from Decorah · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our ranch has been in our family for 15 years and, before that, belonged to one family for over 200 years. Jolene (me, - owner) and my two sons, Riley and Logan, put a lot of time and dedication into our ranch. Our ranch is located on 40 acres where anyone can find their little piece of “peace.” We pride ourselves on taking excellent care of our guests and making them feel at home when they step onto our land. We will do our best to accommodate your needs in any way possible. Our WIFI is not always 100% reliable. If you need WIFI during your stay, please bring another option with you, such as a hotspot on your cell phone, in case ours is not dependable. From the crew who loves to share a little piece of our life on Stone Roller Road, – Jolene, Riley, Logan, Scotch (the yellow lab), Hops (the chocolate lab), and Scrappy (the late ranch dog)

2. The Back 20

93%

(20)

39mi from Decorah · 1 site · Lodging

The Back 20 is is a cute and secluded place to rough it. Completely private half mile off the road. Please read entirety of description and how to access property before booking.The Back 20 is an ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK PROPERTY!!!!! There is uneven ground/terrain, trip hazards, valleys, loose stone, brush hazard to vehicles, no way for emergency vehicles to enter this property successfully type of hazards. We are not responsible for any injury/death you or your guests may incur while navigating property and by entering property you agree to such terms. This is a No Trespassing without permission property. Access To the Back 20: This is a HIKE IN ONLY PROPERTY! You are also welcome to ATV or Snomobile back there. Cabin is half mile off road, be prepared in case of inclement weather or tough conditions for the hike. There is parking area located just off the road before the trail starts to right.No HUNTING without permission!!! We manage this land properly for all hunters and non hunters to enjoy. That being said no hunting will be allowed on property of any sort unless you have prior permission. Guests caught hunting without permission will be considered Trespassers.This is a Dry cabin. There is no water on property. In warm conditions the water barrels may/may not be full. Feel free to use the water from them for dishes or bathing outside. It is not drinkable water and bringing your own drinking water in is necessary. There is an outhouse and a small boat toilet in the home. We prefer you to use the outhouse overall. If use inside toilet, you must rinse it outside and clean before leaving. No exceptions.Learn more about this land:Enrich yourself in this private retreat nestled away from the road within a beautiful hardwood valley. No internet, no tv, limited cell service with property..Deer, Fox, coyote, and eagles are just a small amount of wildlife you will see here. Great for a weekend unplugged to relax among the stars. Small dry cabin with 1 queenbed, and two cots with sleeping bags. Room for extra tents as well. Pit toilet with outside shower available in summer. Nearby trout stream 1 mile away. Cute and comfy spot to unwind and unplug. Bring your flashlight! It’s dark back here but oh the stars you’ll see on a clear night! Solar power will keep your phone charged in case of emergency. Large deck with picnic table and no one around. Completely private! Great spot to be in nature. Clothing optional!This property is like camping with a cabin. You will need to bring pots pans dishes cutlery as it is not provided.. Wood stove heat in winter. Must bring your own wood or scavenge on land. Very homey and wonderful way to rough it!

3. Relax near the Mississippi

91%

(23)

36mi from Decorah · 5 sites · RVs

4. Backbone State Park

80%

(5)

124 sites · Dundee, Iowa

Discover the rugged beauty of Backbone State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Cedar Springs

93%

(21)

2.8mi from Decorah · 2 sites · Lodging

The property has been in my family for over 40 years and was originally settled in the mid 1800's. It is about 10 acres and is primarily wooded with Cedar, Oak, Maple, Hickory and Birch. The topography is diverse, having steep heights, easy flats and everything in between; which makes hiking fun and interesting. The lower College Drive side features a historic limestone homestead and quarry, also a fossil rich creek-bed and rustic (4WD) road to the top. The upper property (Hwy. 52 access) offers a secluded forest as well as a spacious meadow. The woods are filled with birds and many other indigenous wild animals. We are only a half mile from towns edge and two miles from its center (also a five minute drive from Luther College). The Decorah area is well known for its scenic natural beauty and has extensive hiking trails, biking trails, cross-country ski routes, rivers, creeks and hunting areas. People come here year round for our outdoor recreation and beauty. Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Tubing, X-country skiing, and Trail Riding are very popular activities around here. Bring a side-by-side or ATV and have a blast both on the property and around the area. Decorah has several museums, a movie theater, 2 golf courses and bowling alley in addition to dozens of charming shops and several restaurants. You'll never get bored staying at Cedar Springs.

6. Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0

95%

(10)

7.3mi from Decorah · 1 site · Lodging

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

7. Lil' Bit of Country RV Park

48mi from Decorah · 11 sites

Lil' Bit of Country RV Park stands out as a hidden gem in Northeast Iowa, nestled at the western edge of Strawberry Point along Highway 3, where the serene flatlands meet the majestic cliffs of the Mississippi River. This charming campground features 16 spacious full hookup campsites that are big rig friendly, offering both 30 and 50 amp options. Many sites are conveniently pull-through accessible, making your arrival and departure a breeze. Guests will appreciate the park's amenities, which include limited Wi-Fi, pet-friendly policies (with pets on a leash), and sewer hookups at every site. Each campsite is equipped with picnic tables and fire circles, perfect for enjoying evenings under the stars. Essential facilities such as restrooms with hot showers and laundry services are also available to enhance your stay. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers a wealth of activities, including biking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The local community features two banks, a grocery store, a hardware store, a pharmacy, and several dining options, including Casey's pizza and a historical hotel known for its ghostly tales. Just a scenic 40-mile drive away, the Mississippi River provides additional recreational opportunities, including a casino in Marquette, IA. Nearby attractions include Jakway Forest County Park, Backbone State Park

Public campgrounds near Decorah

100%

(3)

Six Pine Campground

49mi from Decorah · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Backbone State Park

South Lake Campground

50mi from Decorah · 99 sites · Tents, RVs · in Backbone State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Sabrina

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Very nice spot! Pastoral sounds of the creek and cows nearby. Would definitely camp here again.

Austin

October 2025

40 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Ranch Retreat Camping

Creekside Sounds campsite was a perfect retreat for us! The campsite was tidy and located right next to the creek, but also surrounded by a large open grass field. The space felt secluded while also not feeling any sort of confinement. Plenty of area for our dog to play and explore without bothering any one... or cows! Jolene was a great host and provided us with everything we needed to have a wonderful time on the farm! Although it was tucked off the main road and back in its own little area, it was not as far from town or other amenities as it typically would be for that type of seclusion. Would highly recommend Jolene and her campsites to anyone.... we even hope to return!

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Nicole

October 2025

23 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Ranch Retreat Camping

Big Trout Creek site did not disappoint! We had everything needed for a perfect stay and buying firewood right there was very convenient. Jolene checked in with us a couple times which was nice as well. Our pup wasn't sure about the cows the first day but by the end of our stay made peace with them!

Shannon

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

This is my 7th time camping at Creekside sounds, its one of my favorite places to camp. I usually camp in a travel trailer with my hubby but he was unable to make this trip, so I decided I would go solo and pitch a tent. I have camped for 35yrs but I had never gone by myself. Jolene's place is the perfect spot for solo females wanting to get out. Its safe, the host lives on the property and always introduces herself(and is a lovely person), neighbors are friendly, fellow campers are always nice, clean porta- potty and no bears. Sit back and enjoy the creek sounds and birds. Things to do, nothing just relax, hike at Great River Bluffs SP, explore the Mississippi River, drive the Apple Blossom scenic Byway, bike the Root River Trail.

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!

Eddie

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Great place to stay. Jolene and sons were great hosts. We really enjoyed our stay. Definitely would recommend.

Sydney

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Ranch Retreat Camping

Jolene's land took a piece of my soul. Seriously. Between the open space, perfect campfire ring, stargazing and burbling of the creek this was easily my favorite stay so far. The soft grass and sounds of the creek had my entire family sleeping soundly. No one wanted to leave this spot and we will be back. There was truly something serene and restful here.

M

Mike

September 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Quiet and peaceful location. Mostly level location. Some rv leveling will be required. Be sure to ask about availability of 30amp vs. 110 for your electric. Cleanest porta-potty you will ever find, kid you not. Helpful and friendly hosts.

Craig

September 2025

16 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Ranch Retreat Camping

Wonderful place to step away from the world for a little while. Jolene is a great host! Look forward to my return trip(s) next year.

Abigail

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Beautiful site! Very peaceful setting. Property is well kept up and gorgeous!

T

Troy

September 2025

30 ft Class A

1 night at Ranch Retreat Camping

Great place. Super quiet and beautiful. Flat grassy area next to a pretty stream. The nightlights were a nice touch. Couldn't have asked for a better stop as we finish our trip. Thank you!

L

Leigh

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Jolene and her boys have a gem of a property that we Jolene and her sons take such great care of this wonderful property. Jolene is a wonderful and communicative host. My family is grateful for the experience and plan to return! While relaxing at Trout Creek site, we enjoyed playing yard games, walking the property, playing in the creek, and sharing laughs around the fire. My boys were quite amused with hearing/ experiencing coyote howling.

N

Nabeel

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

We stayed at the Big Trout Creek site and had a wonderful experience. It was easy to find, set on a grassy patch right next to a cold, clear-running creek that made the setting feel calm and refreshing. Jolene, our host, came by shortly after we arrived—warm, kind, and thoughtful—checking if we needed anything and then leaving us to enjoy our stay, which struck a perfect balance between hospitality and privacy. The site itself was well cared for, with an extension cord already run out for us since we’d requested electric. A nearby barn had a patio for sitting, plus camper games like cornhole and plenty of little touches—extra cords, seating, and accessories—that showed how much attention goes into maintaining the place. A port-a-potty was available as well, though we didn’t need it with our camper. Another site shares the area, but the spacing meant it never felt crowded. Overall, this is a quiet, relaxing spot that’s perfect if you want to unwind by the water. There aren’t trails directly on the property, so plan to drive out if you’re looking to hike, but for downtime, fresh air, and a beautiful setting, it couldn’t be better.

F

Fiona

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Ranch Retreat Camping

I loved camping at Creekside sounds with my partner and dog. The water lulled us to sleep. The cows were cute. The field was beautiful and comfortable and peaceful. 10/10 would recommend

Erin

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

This creekside spot is very well maintained and Jolene was a good communicator. Thank you for hosting me!

S

Sarah

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

It is too precious to give up any information about how awesome it is!!

T

Troy

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

We loved camping at Scrappin On The Ranch! Creekside Sounds was the very picture of peace and tranquility. My 6 year old loved playing in the cold spring fed trout creek, the sand pile, and made some new friends (Jolene's cows) 🐄. Jolene treats her campers great and it was like we were family. We definitely plan to return in the future.

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!

M

MYT

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Ranch Retreat Camping

Property owner was very informative and nice. We good amount of space between sites which helps with privacy. Creek was perfect for the kids and kept them cool. Area was clean and bugs were very minimam. Overall great experience.