The best campgrounds near Mediapolis, Iowa with a private bathroom

Camping near Mediapolis is straightforward if you want a site with toilets—there are over 700 choices in the area, so you won’t have to rough it. Sites average $30 a night, but you can snag a spot for as little as $20. Expect a mix of practical comforts: showers, pet-friendly rules, and campfires are standard. You’ll find sites tucked beside woods or open fields, with snow sports, hiking trails, and wildlife-watching right outside your tent. Locals swear by Railroad creek camp ground (46 reviews), Bellinger's Liberty Acres (11 reviews), and Whitetail Tent Camping (9 reviews) for their easy access, clean setups, and reliable facilities. If you like your camping with working toilets and a bit of peace, Mediapolis delivers.

97% (98)

Top-rated campgrounds near Mediapolis

Camping near Mediapolis is straightforward if you want a site with toilets—there are over 700 choices in the area, so you won’t have to rough it. Sites average $30 a night, but you can snag a spot for as little as $20. Expect a mix of practical comforts: showers, pet-friendly rules, and campfires are standard. You’ll find sites tucked beside woods or open fields, with snow sports, hiking trails, and wildlife-watching right outside your tent. Locals swear by Railroad creek camp ground (46 reviews), Bellinger's Liberty Acres (11 reviews), and Whitetail Tent Camping (9 reviews) for their easy access, clean setups, and reliable facilities. If you like your camping with working toilets and a bit of peace, Mediapolis delivers.

97% (98)

Top-rated campgrounds near Mediapolis

1. 1951 Dream

88%

(4)

49mi from Mediapolis · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This is an 82 acre property of approximately 65 percent old growth forest, 20 percent row crop and 15 percent of alfalfa/vegetable garden. It is a working farm which naturally takes people, but it is unlikely you will encounter any other campers. Please keep in mind, the only running water is the creek and the only electricity comes from a single solar panel. We truck water in for showers and provide enough port-a-potties to match the event.

2. Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool

94%

(18)

43mi from Mediapolis · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

Wildcat is a very nice campground operated by the Hamilton Park District in Hamilton IL. The Campground has 12 RV slots of various sizes and electric for tent camping. Water is also available at each camper site. There is also a dump station is on site. On the same property is a very nice public pool and one of the country's premier Disc Golf courses. Very quiet and peaceful surroundings. Just a half mile off of the Mississippi River. There is a single shower/restroom open for campers located on the North end of the pool house.

3. Railroad creek camp ground

95%

(67)

44mi from Mediapolis · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:Come enjoy primitive camping while you commune with nature and hunt geodes and fossils in the famous Keokuk Geode region. Property is within close proximity to Nauvoo, Illinois and within a very short distance to the Mississippi River. The camping area is level ground and surrounded by trees. The property has a hillside geode mine on it and there is a creek running through it that has a lot of geodes in it.

4. Geode State Park

100%

(1)

168 sites · Danville, Iowa

Discover Geode State Park's serene lake and lush trails.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Showers

5. Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

100%

(1)

152 sites · Hampton, Illinois

Discover the scenic splendor of Mississippi River - Pools 11-22.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

6. Captain's Cove Muscatine

100%

(1)

34mi from Mediapolis · 1 site · Lodging

Originally built with four ponds to accommodate a Catfish Farm and Shitake Mushroom Farm - this property has been in the family for four generations. We are pleased to share this amazing property with your family to continue the tradition of enjoying life's moments. We consider this place a small piece of heaven in Iowa and hope you will too. The activities available range from fishing, swimming or kayaking, in our private ponds, bonfires, outdoor grilling, sunrise or sunset watching, hiking around the property, and so much more. The property is just minutes away from Wild Cat Den State Park, bike paths and the Muscatine River Front.

7. Bellinger's Liberty Acres

100%

(18)

28mi from Mediapolis · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Newly bulit private camp ground. Small and quite with only 5 spots. Farming Community off a paved road in the country. Close to railroad tracks so its perfect for train enthusiasts . Watch fainting goats and chickens on the farm. Sandbox for the kids. Far away from any big cities. 30 and 50 amp pull in spots. Outhouse bathroom. Potable water available. Dumping station and wifi. Pet friendly. Just minutes away from Monmouth IL, Burlington IA, Macomb,IL and Galesburg,IL.

8. Whitetail Tent Camping

100%

(10)

44mi from Mediapolis · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Camping, (Fishinfg at 2 of our sights) Enjoying a campfire and sometimes even petting Pedro the donkey! Learn more about this land: Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people)  You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing.  You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on.  If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite.  If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.

9. Lucky Star Farm

100%

(4)

49mi from Mediapolis · 1 site · Lodging

Located on a 20-acre stretch of land between Iowa City and Kalona, Lucky Star Farm is a working farm raising dairy goats, llamas, chickens, turkeys & ducks. We are dedicated to sharing local food, education and lodging with the community. Come visit our diverse, sustainable and entertaining farm! The farm is full of outdoor opportunities. Guests can stroll over to the pond and swim, explore, or relax on the sandy beach and dock. Guests are also welcome to fish (catch and release) or use the stand-up paddleboard (lifejackets provided). There is a fire pit, complimentary firewood, and roasting sticks for your use. At the barn you can visit the goats and see their kids playing in the spring. There is a half mile trail around the property that takes you past the restored prairie and llama pasture. Guests can see what's growing in the edible forest and circle through the mandala garden. Visit the chicken coop and see how farm fresh eggs are made!

10. Mississippi River

100%

(1)

97 sites · Iowa

Discover a scenic section of one of America's most iconic rivers.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

11. Nauvoo State Park

100%

(2)

30 sites · Nauvoo, Illinois

Situated peacefully on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, historic Nauvoo State Park has nature lovin’ folk jumping for joy at the sight of an expansive lake and sandy, mile-long shoreline. Take in some of the best views the park has to offer on the Locust Lane Trail. A 1.5-mile loop, the path winds around the lake, through the woods, and over prairie flower dotted hillsides. The campsites are many and the accommodations are vast. From spacious, individual sites, to a youth group area, all are centrally located and hook you up with VIP access to all adventurin’ possibilities.

Pets

Campfires

Showers

12. Wildcat Den State Park

100%

(1)

28 sites · Buffalo, Iowa

Discover the rugged beauty of Wildcat Den State Park.

Pets

13. Lake Darling State Park

85 sites · Pleasant Plain, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Darling State Park.

Pets

Showers

14. Cottage on the Bay

100%

(3)

15mi from Mediapolis · 1 site · Lodging

This Sears kit home was originally built in 1941 and has been remodeled to give it a more cabin like feel. It sits on 1.38 acres of land with mature trees and direct access to Boston Bay which connects to the Mississippi River. Enjoy the view from the new deck or take your boat or jet ski down the road to one of 3 public boat launches. This area is known for boating, fishing, hunting, camping and snowmobiling.

15. Well Within Farm Sanctuary

380mi from Mediapolis · 6 sites · Lodging

Well Within Farm Sanctuary is a forested 10 acres located minutes from hiking, biking, fishing and beautiful Traverse City, MI. Nestled 1/4 mile back from a main road but, only five minutes from The Village of Kingsley, MI with grocery store, gas station, brewery, shops, library, splash park, restaurants and more! You will stay at a rustic campsite with room for a tent or small RV. Recently we have added a 25 ft by 12 foot camping cabin. We provide one queen size air mattress and linens including pillows, sheets and a quilt. There is a private solar shower at each campsite. We do provide a clean well maintained port o potty for use.

16. Crossroads RV Park

19mi from Mediapolis · 11 sites

Nestled at the intersection of two major highways in Southeast Iowa, our family-owned RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience and charm that sets it apart from the rest. With easy access to local attractions and natural wonders, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Spanning a generous acreage, our park provides ample space for relaxation and privacy, ensuring a peaceful retreat for all our guests. Enjoy the serene surroundings while taking advantage of our special amenities, which include well-maintained facilities and recreational areas designed for family fun. Nearby, you'll find a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking trails to swimming holes, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Additionally, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, allowing you to explore the vibrant community while enjoying your stay. Come experience the warmth of our family-run RV Park, where unforgettable memories await!

17. Battle of Athens State Historic Site

29 sites · Missouri

Explore Civil War history and riverfront landscapes at this park in northeastern Missouri.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

18. Argyle Lake State Park

112 sites · Colchester, Illinois

Fall in love with fishing at this lake in western Illinois.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

19. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

82 sites · Keosauqua, Iowa

Discover the serene beauty of Lacey-Keosauqua State Park.

Pets

Showers

Potable water

Camper favorites near Mediapolis

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Captain's Cove Muscatine

100%

(1)

34mi from Mediapolis · 1 site · Lodging

Originally built with four ponds to accommodate a Catfish Farm and Shitake Mushroom Farm - this property has been in the family for four generations. We are pleased to share this amazing property with your family to continue the tradition of enjoying life's moments. We consider this place a small piece of heaven in Iowa and hope you will too. The activities available range from fishing, swimming or kayaking, in our private ponds, bonfires, outdoor grilling, sunrise or sunset watching, hiking around the property, and so much more. The property is just minutes away from Wild Cat Den State Park, bike paths and the Muscatine River Front.

Bellinger's Liberty Acres

100%

(18)

28mi from Mediapolis · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Newly bulit private camp ground. Small and quite with only 5 spots. Farming Community off a paved road in the country. Close to railroad tracks so its perfect for train enthusiasts . Watch fainting goats and chickens on the farm. Sandbox for the kids. Far away from any big cities. 30 and 50 amp pull in spots. Outhouse bathroom. Potable water available. Dumping station and wifi. Pet friendly. Just minutes away from Monmouth IL, Burlington IA, Macomb,IL and Galesburg,IL.

Whitetail Tent Camping

100%

(10)

44mi from Mediapolis · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Camping, (Fishinfg at 2 of our sights) Enjoying a campfire and sometimes even petting Pedro the donkey! Learn more about this land: Nestled into the center of historic and scenic Van Buren County (where there are more Whitetail Deer than people)  You are a 5 minute drive away from The Des Moines River which is great for kayaking, boating and fishing.  You’re also 5 minutes away from Lacey State Park, which has a 30 acre lake. Lacey Lake also has a sandy beach area and over 13 miles of trails to hike on.  If you like to go fishing and boating, Lake Sugema, a 579 acre lake, is a 10 minute drive from this campsite.  If you’re into horseback riding, you’ll be camping 19 miles from where you can rent a horse and ride on 25 miles of trails in Shimek State Forest, just east of Farmington, Iowa.

Lucky Star Farm

100%

(4)

49mi from Mediapolis · 1 site · Lodging

Located on a 20-acre stretch of land between Iowa City and Kalona, Lucky Star Farm is a working farm raising dairy goats, llamas, chickens, turkeys & ducks. We are dedicated to sharing local food, education and lodging with the community. Come visit our diverse, sustainable and entertaining farm! The farm is full of outdoor opportunities. Guests can stroll over to the pond and swim, explore, or relax on the sandy beach and dock. Guests are also welcome to fish (catch and release) or use the stand-up paddleboard (lifejackets provided). There is a fire pit, complimentary firewood, and roasting sticks for your use. At the barn you can visit the goats and see their kids playing in the spring. There is a half mile trail around the property that takes you past the restored prairie and llama pasture. Guests can see what's growing in the edible forest and circle through the mandala garden. Visit the chicken coop and see how farm fresh eggs are made!

Cottage on the Bay

100%

(3)

15mi from Mediapolis · 1 site · Lodging

This Sears kit home was originally built in 1941 and has been remodeled to give it a more cabin like feel. It sits on 1.38 acres of land with mature trees and direct access to Boston Bay which connects to the Mississippi River. Enjoy the view from the new deck or take your boat or jet ski down the road to one of 3 public boat launches. This area is known for boating, fishing, hunting, camping and snowmobiling.

Well Within Farm Sanctuary

380mi from Mediapolis · 6 sites · Lodging

Well Within Farm Sanctuary is a forested 10 acres located minutes from hiking, biking, fishing and beautiful Traverse City, MI. Nestled 1/4 mile back from a main road but, only five minutes from The Village of Kingsley, MI with grocery store, gas station, brewery, shops, library, splash park, restaurants and more! You will stay at a rustic campsite with room for a tent or small RV. Recently we have added a 25 ft by 12 foot camping cabin. We provide one queen size air mattress and linens including pillows, sheets and a quilt. There is a private solar shower at each campsite. We do provide a clean well maintained port o potty for use.

Crossroads RV Park

19mi from Mediapolis · 11 sites

Nestled at the intersection of two major highways in Southeast Iowa, our family-owned RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience and charm that sets it apart from the rest. With easy access to local attractions and natural wonders, our campground serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Spanning a generous acreage, our park provides ample space for relaxation and privacy, ensuring a peaceful retreat for all our guests. Enjoy the serene surroundings while taking advantage of our special amenities, which include well-maintained facilities and recreational areas designed for family fun. Nearby, you'll find a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking trails to swimming holes, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Additionally, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, allowing you to explore the vibrant community while enjoying your stay. Come experience the warmth of our family-run RV Park, where unforgettable memories await!

Public campgrounds near Mediapolis

100%

(1)

Geode Campground

17mi from Mediapolis · 168 sites · Tents, RVs · in Geode State Park

Blanchard Island Campground

24mi from Mediapolis · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

100%

(1)

Shady Creek Campground

34mi from Mediapolis · 53 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississippi River

100%

(2)

Nauvoo Campground

34mi from Mediapolis · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nauvoo State Park

100%

(1)

Wildcat Den Campground

35mi from Mediapolis · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wildcat Den State Park

Andalusia Slough Campground

36mi from Mediapolis · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

Clarks Ferry Campground

37mi from Mediapolis · 44 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mississippi River

Lake Darling Campground

40mi from Mediapolis · 85 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Darling State Park

Battle of Athens State Historic Site Campground

41mi from Mediapolis · 29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Battle of Athens State Historic Site

Twin Oaks Campground

43mi from Mediapolis · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Argyle Lake State Park

Twisted Oak Campground

43mi from Mediapolis · 64 sites · Tents, RVs · in Argyle Lake State Park

100%

(1)

Big Oak Campground

43mi from Mediapolis · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Argyle Lake State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

R

Robert

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bellinger's Liberty Acres

Great place, not far off the beaten path. Very convenient and friendly. There are trains.

Welcome to Betty! Our darling 68' Comet camper ❤

J

Jay

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Lucky Star Farm

Such a beautiful place! The camper was perfect for our weekend in Iowa City, and the farm setting was more amazing than we imagined. Susan was a great host, and everything was just as we had hoped. We’ll be back!

H

Holly

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bellinger's Liberty Acres

We stayed in the Santa Fe site and it was perfect. Easy to pull into, nice level lot. Just what we needed to be able to plug in for a night.

S

Steven

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Bellinger's Liberty Acres

Awesome place! Easy to find plenty of space and beautiful views! Loved the cat I miss him already! He’s like the camp host sidekick! Host was easy to communicate with and place was quiet and clean!

J

James

September 2025

10 ft travel trailer

1 night at Bellinger's Liberty Acres

We had a nice stay at Wesley‘s, he was very welcoming. The property is beautiful. He had he had a lot of knowledge of the area. It was fun hanging out with the goats and with his very friendly cat. If you needed groceries, it was not too far away..

Britney

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to 1951 Dream

Beautiful property, easy communication with owners, and lots of space for a large group. Will definitely be going back!

M

Mel

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Railroad creek camp ground

Tent camping was great. beautiful creek. We took back two sites so we had plenty of room to spread out. Pit toilet is by the geode mine area so take the site before the bridge if that's important to you.

M

Mel

August 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Railroad creek camp ground

Got there early and took the back two sites so tents were farthest back from the one other site in the vicinity and we used the fire and picnic table in the other one. The creek is beautiful and all solid rock in the creek bed so you can hunt for all kinds of cool fossils and geodes without getting muddy. The only pit toilet is up by the gate/entrance where the geode mine is so if you're thinking you want to be close than take the first site before the little bridge but be aware people showing up to the geode mine early in the morning might make noise with their pickaxes.

K

Kyle & Nola

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool

Site 6 was well shaded. The single bathroom/shower was a short walk from our campsite. The door is propped open so no code is needed. Friday night the campground was fairly deserted. It got more lively the next night! The mosquitoes were fairly aggressive until the breeze came up on Saturday. Unfortunately, the pool closed last weekend. I was glad we found that out when we called before we arrived. (We booked our site, #6 but the confirmation recorded it as #1 so we called to check on that and were told that it is a glitch but not to worry.). We appreciated the free firewood since the site is a bit more than we usually spend. There were street lights and cameras nearby. Disc golfers came through every so often. There was fairly regular foot and car traffic below our site. We explored Keokuk and Hamilton. Be sure to check out the view from Rand Park!

J

Jager

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Whitetail Tent Camping

Me and my wife really enjoyed our stay at whitetail tent camping. It was a cool setup right next to a beautiful pond and nice and secluded from everything.

J

Jennifer

August 2025

1 night at Lucky Star Farm

Susan greeted us outside the camper when we arrived & we instantly felt at home. She has such a lovely presence & Lucky Star Farm is truly magical! Their vintage camper, “Betty” is adorable, meticulously clean, & thoughtfully stocked. We were quickly greeted by several resident barn cats & could see llamas, goats, & sheep from our little patio. We loved everything about our stay & definitely plan to visit again with our kids! Thank you so much, Susan & Rich! Hope to see you again soon!

C

Cj

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Railroad creek camp ground

We Loved the place. We were the only people camping... definitely primitive camping!!! But that is what we were looking for. Clean, safe. Talked to some people who were digging on land and they found bucket full of geodes..... definitely going back!!!

D

David

July 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bellinger's Liberty Acres

Great host! Enjoyable evening. Would definitely return when in the area. Loved the cat and farm animals.

S

Sammy

July 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool

This was nice enough, because we were able to use the pool shower and bathroom. Very quiet and beautiful campground. Lots of cars coming and going but not bad enough to not enjoy this spot.👍🏻

T

Teresa

July 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

3 nights at Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool

Great camper spots, nice and clean, and quiet. Enjoy camping here when we can

J

JODI

July 2025

27 ft fifth wheel

3 nights at Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool

Wildcat City Park Campground is clean and well maintained. Did not have any issues. Other campers were courteous, no loud music/noise even with it being a holiday weekend. Some tree branches near drive need to be trimmed. Understand why the shorter hose on the dump station, but it could be a bit longer.

D

Daimon

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool

Small simple camp with pool and nice trails, very clean and lots to do in the surrounding towns

J

Jessica

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Railroad creek camp ground

Amazing geodes, peaceful site full of frog and cricket songs.

T

Tara

June 2025

32 ft Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wildcat Springs Campground And Pool

We enjoyed our trip. Loved the walking trails, the park for the kids. Was disappointed that the pool was not accessible except 1 to 6 as we weren't able to utilize it at all. We booked site 3 but on our confirmation it said site 1, which was fine but thee were no other campers there so we were confused to why that occurred. Over a very nice area and we would visit again

S

Susan

June 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Bellinger's Liberty Acres

We were in the area visiting family during a heat wave and needed a 30amp outlet to charge our campervan overnight. Wesley was very accommodating, letting me book in the afternoon on the same day of the stay. The site is very level and clean, and the area was recently mowed. I found our stay quite peaceful and did not mind the nighttime rumbling of the train. I would definitely recommend!