The best glamping sites in Maquoketa Caves State Park, IA
100% (5)
Take a hike, go spelunking, and learn about bats.
The best glamping sites in Maquoketa Caves State Park, IA
#JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
1. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
100%
(115)
16mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging
Are you looking for the opportunity to be free and connect with nature naturally? A place to reconnect with your soul or reconnect with your significant other(s). Do you need to escape life for even just a little bit? A place to safely be your true self or selves. Our spaces are all about relaxing in nature peacefully. Perfect for first time clothing optional experiences. Maybe you just prefer a quiet natural low key space to relax.
Are you a regular camper who is tired of the busy big campgrounds? Need a overnight camping spot that is more nature and less people?
Looking for a place to relax in the sun naturally and just take some time for yourself or time with the special people in your life? Along with offering overnight camping sites, we offer day passes for those who just want some chill time within the day. A day pass gives you access to the property, relaxing chairs for that perfect moment in the sun and the woods to wander as you connect with nature. Perfect for a lunch break or just a step away from life for a few hours. Sneak away and take some moments to recharge yourself naturally. Day passes can be a bit tricky to book, reach out if you need help with the site.
We hope you will find that this is a place for everything listed above and so much more. A space to enjoy some downtime, quiet at peace with nature, and a place for restorative just-for-me time. Perfect for yoga in the woods or a natural spot to meditate. Not a commercial campground, just a piece of personal property that we are looking to share with others who enjoy time in nature. We enjoy our natural privacy and welcome you to experience the same. We are stewards of the property and are charged with taking care of all that Mother Nature has given us. If you need space to think, read a book, or just be you, this could be the right fit. Forget the news, forget work, forget city life, and just take in the moments; while listening to the birds sing, (Pull out your Merlin app) to see who's singing!
Your hosts are here if you need us, but we leave you to enjoy this beautiful place at your own pace. We give you privacy to enjoy your stay fully.
We have 15 acres of woods with a natural rock bluff, so many different spaces which allow you to fully bond with nature. Trails to wander and wildlife to see. Clothing is optional through out all of the property; overnight camping and sunbathing/day pass spots are available.
Located on the Wapsipinicon River. Camp sites are tucked away from life's stresses. Relax in the woods. Watch the cows and calves moo in the nearby pasture. Walk nature trails with native wildlife and flora. Great photo opportunities abound. Cast a line to catch dinner. Escape to nature is the key to this property; find yourself tucked away from city sounds and light pollution. Come out to see the sunset/sunrise, check out the stars, read a good book, lay out in your favorite hammock, find yourself, and be at peace. Great place for a nice camping fire; treat yourself to some smores. Peaceful sounds at night of the river flowing as you drift off to sleep in your tent. Perfect little spot for peaceful relaxation and just taking some time. Walk the trails in your natural skin, shoot photos of all the different plants, listen to the birds and animals scurry, enjoy the sunshine, and feel the warmth on all of your body. Put in your canoe or kayak at Olin for a 3-4 hour float to our camping area. There are lots of state parks within a short drive; visit the only Presidential library in Iowa; and tour some amazing caves in nearby parks. Enjoy the Great Jones County Fair only 30 mins away.. So much to do, and then come back to a space without crowds and just chill.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
1860's Botanical Homestead
2. 1860's Botanical Homestead
97%
(166)
20mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Happy to announce we’ve won "the best of" properties to visit in Iowa! We hope to keep striving and adding more amenities as we go! Thank you to our wonderful guests and hello to future guests! 👋🏽
Built in 1860 by its first caretaker botanist, this homestead was propagated over its many years of life and is busting at the seams with medicinal and edible herbs. We now run a flower farm and vegetable gardens on our homestead. If you’d like to learn about herbs or gardening/ homesteading, we love sharing our knowledge.
If you’d just like some farm fresh eggs and enjoy your time alone amongst the songbirds, that's just fine too :)
The property is built into the stone hillside allowing for breathtaking views but also stairs to get to the campsites. Please wear comfortable shoes (not flip flops 😉). If you have mobility issues property access will be difficult. Please no children under 5.
!CLASSES!
We run our small school/business: HOMESTEAD and HAMMER from the property and are bringing classes to YOU! Look in the "EXTRAS" for classes you can partake in on your visit OR for more information on what's included on class weekends check out our website below! Classes include, forAging wild edibles, mushroom identification, homesteading skills, soap making, forging metals and many more!
Website: www.homesteadandhammer.com
*For guest and host safety property managed 24-7 by video and security services*
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$30
/ night
Wooded Retreat Tiny House
3. Wooded Retreat Tiny House
100%
(11)
20mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 1 site
Imagine this: a wooded creekside. Bird song and wildflowers. Campfire and starlight. Our 8' x 16' tiny house offers the essentials for a back-to-nature getaway without the trouble. We provide a full bed, cookstove, basic cooking and eating utensils, 2 gallons drinking water, outdoor eating area, firepit, and hammock. Bath facilities are on the rustic side including a shower bag and port-a-potty. Short hiking path into the woods and up to the meadow are marked. Creek stomping and fossil hunting are encouraged. Caves, state and county nature areas, canoeing and kayaking are all nearby.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$67
/ night
New Hope Farm
4. New Hope Farm
100%
(13)
20mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 1 site
This farm is ancestral land of the Sauk and Fox peoples and has been our home since 2001.
It offers diverse natural beauty including fresh springs and the Tetes des Morts
Creek, quiet woods on sloping bluffs, various songbirds and other wildlife. We tend a few sheep and a flock of 20 laying hens, a small orchard and large vegetable gardens. Our black Labrador retriever wanders around here freely.
The tiny house is equipped with a camp cookstove with an extra propane bottle, cooking and eating utensils, press coffee pot, 2 gallons drinking water, full bed, rocking chair, writing table, woodstove for winter heat. It has a back porch and front deck with patio furniture. There’s a firepit with two Adirondack chairs. Firewood provided for $5/bundle.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$81
/ night
Vintage Spring Lake Campground
5. Vintage Spring Lake Campground
98%
(125)
34mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Spring Lake Campground was est. in 1943. This “vintage campground” has provided a place for families to relax in nature and make memories for generations. The lake is a backwater Mississippi River wildlife and fish refuge, so there is always something to see and learn about. The Great River Bike Trail runs right through, so bring your bike! It’s a beautiful ride from the campground to nearby Savanna, IL. We rent kayaks and canoes through September here as well. (The lake closes for all boat traffic Oct 1 to provide a refuge for migrating birds during duck hunting season,. If you enjoy birding, plan a trip during October) There is so much to do in the surrounding area: hiking and climbing at Palisades State Park, restaurants, bars and shopping in Savanna, museums and more. But enjoying a peaceful time at the campground, having a bonfire, watching the sunset on the lake and seeing the stars at night is really what it’s about. True old school camping, enjoying the wildlife sanctuary. Instead of pavement, we have trees. Our best amenity is nature! Get outside, unplug and relax.
*We DO allow small campers on the peninsula like teardrops and Scamps but no generators please.
*We ask that our campers please arrive before dark to find their site and set up to avoid disrupting other campers. It gets really dark! We do not have street lights so people can see the stars.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$27
/ night
RWH Farm
6. RWH Farm
100%
(15)
39mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 24 sites · Tents, Lodging
This property is a 150 year old working farm, which has seen six generations. We are happy to share a piece of land with you. Whether you are a first time or experienced camper wanting to sleep outdoors. We have the perfect spot for you to rest, relax, and recharge while camping under the stars surrounded by trees in a four acre wooded area located on a quiet country road within a vast working farm in the heart of Jo Daviess, County. Listen to the sounds of nature white spotting a variety of wildlife. Watch the sunrises, sunsets, comets, meteor showers, sometimes the northern lights, and the full moon rising over the hills. Watch the leaves turn color in autumn.
We offer three types of sites: basic Glamping, preset tent, and rustic. Check out the descriptions of the sites to see which site is for you. Limited sites - first come basis. We try to make each site as secluded as possible.. There are firewood stations throughout the sites with attached fire extinguisher. We are creating a gravel trek around the sites with two entrances and gravel parking planned be completed by 2028. We are working on flushable outhouses and possible showers. Children’s play area by 2027. There isn’t any swimming or fishing available on the farm property. There is a private lake three miles from the sites - see details under extras.
We are located ten miles from the Wisconsin border and villages with their unique shops and museums. 20 minutes from Galena, 45 minutes from the Mississippi River and Dubuque. Iowa. Three hours from Chicago. DNR - department of natural resources have properties a mile north of the farm with nice trails to walk near the Apple river, which is stocked twice a year for fishing tournaments. As well as the Boy Scout campgrounds located nearby. Locals have caught crayfish and swam in the Apple river, we are unfamiliar with current spots. People have tubed and canoed down the Apple river. There are numerous state parks within driving distance for hiking, sight seeing, eagle watching etc. Immerse yourself in the vast history of the area. Again we encourage you to come rest relax and recharge in this peaceful spot.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$33
/ night
Linden Camprground
7. Linden Camprground
96%
(733)
44mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We bought the farmette with much work outside and home interior remodel to complete. We slowly turned the property into our family oasis. We neighbor a pasture with cows. There are free range chickens running around during the day. Geese greet us every evening and morning at the pond...as do the many bullfrogs. Occasionally you'll hear the coyotes, but they keep their distance. The stars shine peacefully and the sunsets are picturesque (most afternoons). The pond is a great place to swim and fish. The hillside is a nice walk for exercise or take the easier route and sit under the great oak tree in the other pasture. Campsites are off the road, behind our main home. You won't find a sign...we keep it simple.
We allow pets at the sites for a $5 per pet/per night. If you would like to bring a pet, please add the Pet Fee which is listed on the Extra during the booking process.
We have firewood available for sale, $5.55/bundle. This is located in the Extra section during the booking process.
Lastly, there is free range chicken eggs available for purchase, $3.50/dozen. This is also located in the Extra section during the booking process.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$28
/ night
River Lodge
8. River Lodge
34mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 1 site
The River Lodge at Wide River Winery is a spacious three-bedroom home with spectacular views of the Mississippi River. Guests are invited to the winery to sample our award-winning wines and to select a complimentary bottle to enjoy during their stay.
A Bluff Trail is available for hiking, and guests may tour the vineyard and winery to see where it all happens.
Dogs are welcome to stay for an additional fee. Please provide detailed information regarding the number of pets and guests in your party.
The space
The home features three bedrooms:
The master suite has a king bed and an adjoining bathroom.
The second bedroom has a queen bed.
The third bedroom has two twin beds.
There is also a second full bathroom located in the hallway.
Guest access
Guests have use of the entire house, including the front terrace overlooking the Mississippi River and the back terrace, which features a charcoal Weber grill.
Other things to note
We have a strict no smoking policy.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$377
/ night
RidgeRiverView Acres
9. RidgeRiverView Acres
100%
(8)
37mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 4 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$145
/ night
Heritage Hollow
10. Heritage Hollow
42mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 1 site
Heritage Hollow is a beautiful hobby farm set in a private, picturesque valley in southeastern Jo Daviess County. What makes us unique is that you have exclusive access to the farm and its inhabitants; your group will be the only guests on the property during your stay.
Whether it be relaxation, adventure, or inspiration, find what you are looking for at Heritage Hollow.
Stroll along the paths under the towering canopy of hardwood timber. Enjoy a hike to the top of the hill and explore the wildflowers and the accompanying nature in our very own prairie. Get a line wet while fishing at our stocked pond. Stargaze by the warmth of a bonfire. Get hands-on with the farm animals and make a new friend.
Relax in your very own farmhouse filled with natural light. Get comfortable in a cozy window nook and take in the wildflower gardens and distant farm fields. Let the sounds of nature soothe your soul.
Thirty acres of scenic property await exploration. Enjoy a walk under the towering canopies of century-old trees. Hike the hill to the Top 5, Heritage Hollow's very own prairie, complete with wildflowers, birds, dragonflies, and more. Watch the water flow from one of the spring-fed creeks, or observe the inhabitants of our artesian bog.
Our farm animals provide plenty of entertainment,t whether you are up close and personal, or appreciating their beauty and antics at a short distance. Fabulous farm dog Scout and protege' Sugar watch over everything with a keen eye. Choose to watch or even participate in evening chore time. Join us in the big red barn to interact closely with our friendly horses and sheep.
Please see our Enhance Your Stay page for other fun farm activities.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$465
/ night
Captain's Cove Muscatine
11. Captain's Cove Muscatine
100%
(1)
45mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 1 site
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$150
/ night
Sun Retreats Rock River
12. Sun Retreats Rock River
49mi from Maquoketa Caves State Park · 253 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Sun Retreats Rock River, formerly known as Sunset Lakes Resort, provides a premiere camping experience in Hillsdale, Illinois. At this award-winning resort, campers can set up their RV on our new seasonal sites with concrete pads and patios. You can also stay in one of our fully furnished two-bedroom vacation cottages.
Cool off in our huge outdoor swimming pool, or stay active with outdoor recreations like a gem mining, basketball, horseshoes, tennis, and our rolle bolle court. Our pet-friendly campground also features a dog park for your four-legged family members. You'll find exciting attractions in The Quad Cities including riverboat cruises on the along the Mississippi River, just 15 minutes away.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$48
/ night
100% (5)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
E
Erik
December 2025
2 nights at New Hope Farm
Finding a place to unwind from urban jungle is hard to find, especially during the dead of winter, but Mary's cabin is a golden nugget just accross the Mississippi. I had a wonderful time at her Wifi free cabin, as it allowed me to read books, relax, and disconnect from my regular hustle. Mary's cabin is cozy and comfortable. With the firestove, it warmed my body and warmed my soul. I am glad to have found her cabin. I will be returning to Mary's cabin either in a warmer time or back again for another wintry retreat. Also being greeting by their dog, Cleo, is a wonderful delight in the morning. Thank you again Mary for your hospitality. I hope to talk to you again.
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m
margaret
November 2025
1 night at 1860's Botanical Homestead
I wish we could have stayed a bit longer. The town was lovely; the room was sweet; the property was fascinating; and Jessica could not have been kinder. I’d love to stay there again if I get the chance. Highly recommend.
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L
Lucille
November 2025
Weekend Trip to New Hope Farm
This was a perfect, off the grid cozy stay. It was pretty chilly while we there, but we were still able to see a variety of birds and wildlife!
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m
mark
October 2025
With kids
Great site with a ton of trails and water activities available. Went fishing and caught some bass. Breathtaking views l.
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megan
October 2025
Weekend Trip to 1860's Botanical Homestead
We really enjoyed our stay at the Bunkie! The homestead is lovely and the room was cozy and comfy!
See moreK
Kitty
October 2025
1 night at 1860's Botanical Homestead
Jessica greeted us when we arrived and gave us a short and sweet tour and made sure we had what we needed. The Bunkie was super thoughtfully stocked and Jessica and her family were very hospitable.
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L
Lee
October 2025
3 nights at Wooded Retreat Tiny House
The tiny house was so cozy, with everything we needed. We loved being able to dabble in the creek, and watch the sunset over the meadow. It was a great spot to stay while we visited the many awesome local parks.
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K
Karma
October 2025
4 nights at #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
If there was a doctor to prescribe spiritual isolation, this cabin is the perfect answer! No ayauasca needed! I couldn't get back here fast enough. My spirit needed more, more time experiencing this woodland magickal place. I needed time and a place to gather my thoughts, and let my thoughts roam. The Eagle's Nest was perfect. I can't thank you enough for hosting me again and sharing your property with me. <3
See moreK
Karma
September 2025
Weekend Trip to #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
What started as booking one night turned into three! The cabin was perfect for this beginner. Scott and Kimberly were great hosts, and I felt very comfortable. I couldn't have picked a better place to start my camping adventures.
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Carissa
August 2025
Weekend Trip to #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
Scott and Kimberly were super accommodating. I rented a tent site that I couldn’t get to and they suggested a small cabin which worked out better. Absolutely beautiful property by the river. If your in the area make sure to go to this place.
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Brenda
August 2025
With kids
We really enjoyed staying at Joan’s and jean’s! The farmhouse has everything you need games, basketball, a full stocked kitchen! We enjoyed being in a rural area and looking at the stars. Joan and Jean were super nice and helpful with everything. We enjoyed seeing the cows so close! And teddy the dog who hanged out with us and was super friendly and adorable 🥰
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B
Barry
August 2025
Weekend Trip to 1860's Botanical Homestead
Amazing little place to stay- private little sitting area with firepit, small frog pond, and room for tent camping right up the hill for bigger get togethers. Lovely big windows looking out on the sitting area, and nice outdoor shower. We are recommending to friends already!
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Scott
August 2025
3 nights at #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
There were some nice updates to the cabin since my last visit. Steps were added going down to the cabin rather than just a path. Other additions included a new magnetic screen door, a cabinet hung on the wall to hold your gear/food stuffs etc., some reading materials and a guest book, a love seat and table inside and a hand sink on the deck. There was a solar light added to the W.C. but im not sure it gets enough sunlight to charge because it didn't go on. There is also a new cloth fence heading down to the river sites blocking the neighbors view and an outdoor shower is now available for $5/5gal. All very nice additions to an already beautiful, quiet piece of property! And don't forget to book a massage! It is next level! I will definately be back...I think this is my new "Happy Place"!!
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Eric
August 2025
Weekend Trip to 1860's Botanical Homestead
This is a wonderful little hideaway on a beautiful property. Lots of nearby hiking trails. I really enjoyed the apothecary and chicken classes. Jessica is a fantastic host.
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A
Antoine
August 2025
Group trip
We loved our stay at this peaceful countryside ranch! The setting was absolutely gorgeous, with rolling fields and farm animals adding to the charm. The fully renovated ranch was cozy, comfortable, and beautifully maintained, blending modern amenities with a quaint, rustic feel. We came to stargaze for the Perseid meteor shower, and the clear, dark skies made for an unforgettable night under the stars. It was the perfect spot to relax, unplug, and enjoy the quiet. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a serene getaway.
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Jay
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Wooded Retreat Tiny House
I can’t say enough good about this place, I had a phenomenal experience, from the hospitality to the general upkeep of the cabin. I was lucky enough to catch two amazing moonrises that lit up the entire valley. Visits from various birds including hummingbirds to the feeder near the deck. Cool, clear and calming evenings. Mary and Rick were extremely kind and responsive to questions along the way. Highly recommended.
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D
Denise
August 2025
2 nights at Vintage Spring Lake Campground
My 12-year-old granddaughter and I enjoyed it very much. It was quiet, unique, close to bike trail and most importantly beautiful natural surroundings of the Mississippi river area.
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K
Kylie
August 2025
Weekend Trip to 1860's Botanical Homestead
Lovely space! Bunkie was cozy and had just enough for me to get by and be comfortable. The space is quiet and beautiful And the hosts are so wonderful and welcoming!
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Beth
August 2025
3 nights at New Hope Farm
For me it was a time to see all types of wildlife. I saw small birds as the harry woodpeckers and large as the great blue heron. A mink even came to visit from the stream. Two lovely dogs also came for a short visit as well. I place catch with one of them. The cabin is immaculate and ready to meet your needs. The hosts communicate with you and willing to help in anyway possible.
There is a small library and my favorite were the Flannery O’Conner stories. I sat in the hammock outside as I read. At night I sat by a fire and watched the half moon rise.
The cabin is private and looks out on a meadow on the front and the back screened in porch has a view of the stream gently flowing. You can walk the land and find a path leading into the woods then to a huge meadow. It is a wonderful get away from it all place just to Be.
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Bruce
July 2025
Weekend Trip to #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional
Stayed in the eagles nest cabin , good thing because it rained ! Great property, river side camping , hammocks, sunning lawn , fire pits. Great camping experience. Oh and Owls , Screech and Hoot .
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5 ratings · 2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
16 ft campervan ·
Maquoketa Caves Campground
Was only there one night, but wish i could've stayed longer. Very nice campsite. Decent space between sites, so feels decently private without being remote. Showers were clean and warm. The trail to the caves is beautiful and really cool to explore. It was my first time out and camping in my car. All in all, I had a great time.
F
Faith H.
7 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2017
The caves alone are worth a visit, and camping was fantastic. I went with a group of five of my best friends. Although it rained, the hiking was spectacular—we found a few really great hidden water spots. This was also the first time I ever had a pizza sandwich cooked over the fire. It changed my life. Haha! <3
Amanda M.
8 years on Hipcamp