The best river, stream, or creek camping near Elkader

29mi from Elkader · 4 sites · Lodging · Sherrill, IA

(8)

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. 50 acres of trails,trees and wildlife.

4. Pikes Peak State Park

76 sites · Mc Gregor, Iowa

Check out the fall colors at this woodland park on the banks of the Mississippi.

99 sites · Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin

5. Wyalusing State Park

83%

(4)

Discover Wyalusing State Park's scenic vistas and outdoor adventures.

40mi from Elkader · 40 sites · RVs · Dorchester, IA

Campfires

6. Upper Iowa Resort RV 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

7. Twins Campground

49mi from Elkader · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Cresco, IA

This campground is located approximately two miles south of Cresco, Iowa on the Turkey River. It offers large sites with fire rings, some have landscaped patios, 50/30/20 amp service, walking trails, river views, playground area and fishing. It adjoins State of Iowa land. Pet friendly campground. Open all year, winter rates apply Oct. 31st to March 31st. Daily, weekly, monthly rates also available. Message for special rates.

8. Parkside At The GroveShack-Dogs Ok

49mi from Elkader · 1 site · Lodging · Soldiers Grove, WI

(3)

This is a quaint cottage along camping at the Soldier’s Grove park. It’s a great spot for folks that want to be near camping, but with more creature comforts. Everything you need is here for a relaxing stay in the Driftless. Recent custom build with craftsman details, antique features and artistic flair. Just the right amount of technology for you. Wifi is available. BYO your preferred devices. No phone on site. Well behaved dogs are welcome. Enjoy the parkside location. Please only leave your pup alone if you can be confident they will not have any accidents or bark in your absence. Walk to fish the Kickapoo River or put in a canoe (BYO). Well stocked kitchen with decent knives, cutting boards and cast iron. Limited baking supplies.

9. Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0

95%

43mi from Elkader · 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

10. Volga River State Recreation Area

82 sites · Fayette, Iowa

Discover the natural splendor of Volga River State Recreation Area.

Discover the rugged beauty of Backbone State Park.

Showers

11. Backbone State Park

80%

(5)

124 sites · Dundee, Iowa

12. Yellow River State Forest

139 sites · Harpers Ferry, Iowa

(7)

Discover the natural splendor of Yellow River State Forest.

13. Blackhawk Park

175 sites · De Soto, Wisconsin

Discover Blackhawk Park's scenic charm and outdoor adventures.

14. The Prairie Lodge

7.1mi from Elkader · 1 site · Lodging · Elkader, IA

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.

Camper favorites near Elkader

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites

40mi from Elkader · 40 sites · RVs · Dorchester, IA

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

Twins Campground

49mi from Elkader · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Cresco, IA

This campground is located approximately two miles south of Cresco, Iowa on the Turkey River. It offers large sites with fire rings, some have landscaped patios, 50/30/20 amp service, walking trails, river views, playground area and fishing. It adjoins State of Iowa land. Pet friendly campground. Open all year, winter rates apply Oct. 31st to March 31st. Daily, weekly, monthly rates also available. Message for special rates.

Parkside At The GroveShack-Dogs Ok

49mi from Elkader · 1 site · Lodging · Soldiers Grove, WI

(3)

This is a quaint cottage along camping at the Soldier’s Grove park. It’s a great spot for folks that want to be near camping, but with more creature comforts. Everything you need is here for a relaxing stay in the Driftless. Recent custom build with craftsman details, antique features and artistic flair. Just the right amount of technology for you. Wifi is available. BYO your preferred devices. No phone on site. Well behaved dogs are welcome. Enjoy the parkside location. Please only leave your pup alone if you can be confident they will not have any accidents or bark in your absence. Walk to fish the Kickapoo River or put in a canoe (BYO). Well stocked kitchen with decent knives, cutting boards and cast iron. Limited baking supplies.

Hideaway Camper by the Cave 2.0

95%

43mi from Elkader · 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

The Prairie Lodge

7.1mi from Elkader · 1 site · Lodging · Elkader, IA

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.

Public campgrounds near Elkader

16mi from Elkader · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pikes Peak State Park

Pikes Peak Campground

83%

(4)

Wyalusing Campground

17mi from Elkader · 99 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wyalusing State Park

Albany Campground

18mi from Elkader · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Volga River State Recreation Area

Lakeview Campground

19mi from Elkader · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Volga River State Recreation Area

South Lake Campground

19mi from Elkader · 99 sites · Tents, RVs · in Backbone State Park

19mi from Elkader · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Backbone State Park

(3)

Six Pine Campground

24mi from Elkader · 139 sites · Tents, RVs · in Yellow River State Forest

(7)

Big Paint Campground

43mi from Elkader · 175 sites · Tents, RVs · in Blackhawk Park

Blackhawk Park Campground

Stories from the community

E

Edward

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Parkside At The GroveShack-Dogs Ok

Very easy to find, great communication with the host . Very quiet and a fun place with everything you would ever need. Great fire pit with plenty of dry firewood, would definitely stay again a fun eclectic little home!

L

Lauren

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

The site is located in such a peaceful area and we were greeted by cows throughout the day! Travis had a nice picnic table, outdoor lights, and wall barrier to help with the wind! Great stay!

J

Jesse

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

Fairly private site. It is next to a not well traveled gravel road. No shade, so if you're planning on hanging out at the site during the day, bring a canopy. Very responsive owner.

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!

Jody

September 2025

10 ft campervan

This was a nice property but with no privacy as it was next to a public road.

K

Kimberly

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

This site was exactly what I was hoping for! It's secluded and set in beautiful, rolling hills. If you're looking for a very peaceful camping spot this is the right one for you.

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!

G

Gage

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

Great spot! The area was well maintained and a beautiful spot nestled into the countryside.

Paige

July 2025

Tent

We ended up not staying here but the place looks great!

S

Sharon

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Parkside At The GroveShack-Dogs Ok

I love the house and the decor! Nice to have all the amenities when away from home. I was also allowed to bring my dog which is a huge plus because not a lot of places allow.

R

Ryan

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

One word: Solitude! This site is quiet and scenic.

There is a great paved pad to park on. It accommodated my van very well!

J

Jeff

July 2025

27 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Relax near the Mississippi

Good place to stop for a couple days. The price was excellent with Electric and water. Camp host was friendly and accommodating.

D

David

June 2025

Tent

What an awesome camp site! Very quiet, secluded. Plan n staying again on my way back!

g

greg

June 2025

Tent

Very cool site. I enjoyed the wildlife. I was shielded well from the wind with the location and design of the campsite. Nicely maintained and private. Would recommend to those who don't want the cookie cutter camp ground experience. Thanks!

M

Mary

June 2025

Tent

2 nights at S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

I had a great experience tent camping here at Turtle head, hiking at Kickapoo Valley Reserve, visiting a winery, and enjoying an indulgently delicious tenderloin dinner at the driftless cafe in Viroqua. The camp site is off a quiet gravel road (minimal traffic, great for a run) nestled between two hills and easily navigable. The bathroom/shower set up are so convenient, just BYO soap and water. The string lights bring a cozy aesthetic to the campsite. My only downside was that the ground is very lumpy and slightly uneven so consider bringing extra padding or an air mattress if you’re tent camping.

B

Beth

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

Great spot near Viroqua. I was looking for a place to bike from that was near some gravel roads and this spot was easy for access to a route. It was on a quiet gravel road. It had the basic things I needed. Unfortunately there was a burn ban when I was there so I couldn't have a campfire, but I was glad I was informed of that before I went.

E

Erik

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to S-Camp at Turtle Head Rock

Nice a remote. Cool little place. Had a couple deer to keep me company. Slept like baby

Claire

March 2025

32 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Relax near the Mississippi

This is such a nice little spot to park an RV in the area. The landlord, Amy was incredibly helpful and kind. She was quick to respond to all my questions and helped us out when we had some specific questions about how to work the water on site. Would for sure stay here again! Thank you again for all your help!

o

outdoorbobby

January 2025

Tent