The best camping in Volga River State Recreation Area, IA

·
50% (1)

Discover the natural splendor of Volga River State Recreation Area.  

The best camping in Volga River State Recreation Area, IA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Roy's Acres

3. Roy's Acres

100%
(25)
7.5mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Randalia, IA
Our expansive 360-acre farm, in the family for nearly 80 years, has undergone significant transformation. What was once a grove of trees and a borrow pit for highway construction has evolved into a welcoming campground. Amidst this landscape, we've erected two buildings, one of which is a shop equipped with a restroom and a charming porch. Nestled on this porch, my wife and I delight in evenings spent observing the deer and other wildlife, fostering a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Originally conceived as a space for family enjoyment and camping, we've now decided to extend this hospitality to others, embarking on further campground development. Our campground offers a variety of spots, some equipped with electricity for convenience, while others offer a more primitive experience, allowing guests to disconnect and embrace the tranquility of nature. While relaxation is our specialty, we have other outdoor activities to enjoy. With a pond for fishing and paddle boating, as well as close access to the Volga River for canoeing and kayaking, there’s plenty to explore. The Volga River State Recreation Area is only 10 miles away and offers more fishing, boating and hiking opportunities.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
facing south

4. Cedar Springs

93%
(21)
33mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · Decorah, IA
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$88
 / night
Driftless Retreat 🍃 🎶 📚

8. Driftless Retreat 🍃 🎶 📚

100%
(20)
49mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Ferryville, WI
Welcome to Driftless Retreat, a charming Amish-built, Scandinavian-influenced cabin nestled on 3 acres in the heart of the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Tucked away high on a Mississippi River bluff, the property offers privacy and seclusion in a rural setting, but is within easy reach of quaint river towns and villages, major hubs and some of the best spots in the Driftless area. - 5 minutes from Ferryville / Mississippi River - 12 minutes from Lansing, Iowa - 25 minutes from the vibrant, eclectic destination town of Viroqua - 45 minutes from western Wisconsin's largest city, La Crosse - 2 hours from Madison, WI - 3 hours from Minneapolis, MN - 4 hours from Chicago, IL While the cabin is rustic and simple, it is equipped with a number of modern amenities and thoughtful extras to make your stay cozy and comfortable. The ideal spot for bibliophiles and music lovers alike, the cabin has a record player (byo vinyl), an Amazon Echo with SiriusXM, a large collection of reading materials, including 200+ books and 100+ magazines ranging on topics from nature, music, health and wellness, mindfulness, sustainable living and more. There is also a variety of games, puzzles and coloring books and two yoga mats + blocks. The cabin is equipped with a reliable 52 Mbps fiber optic internet connection, perfect for remote work or for those seeking a secluded retreat while staying connected. An Epson projector and pull-down screen make for an intimate home theater experience (byo laptop). Sleeping options include a pullout sofa (full-sized bed) with futon mattress to lay on top for comfort, as well as an Exped self-inflating air mattress if needed. There is NO RUNNING WATER, but the cabin does have an electric water cooler on site that offers both hot and cold water options (bring your own water to fill the 5-gallon container). Additionally, you'll find a small refrigerator with freezer, microwave, two electric heaters for warmth, a hot water kettle, and a Chemex for your coffee brewing needs. Dishes, cookware, blankets and pillows provided (byo sheet set). ***As of August 2024, the property now features a portable toilet ('porta potty') for your convenience, and the compostable toilet is no longer available. Feel free to explore the 3-acre property and discover nearby attractions like Rush Creek State Natural Area, Blackhawk Park, Mt. Hosmer, Effigy Mounds National Monument, Wyalusing State Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park, and more. This property is located in a rural setting, so you can expect to hear occasional noise from passing farm equipment and trucks. Across the street, a hobby farm adds to the countryside charm, and you may hear the morning greeting of a rooster and honking of geese. It's not uncommon to see deer on the lawn, as there is an orchard neighboring the south end of the property that they like to frequent, and you'll likely hear coyotes howling in the distance at night. Also note that while we do our best to keep nature outside the cabin, be aware that bugs and mice do sometimes happen. As a guest at Driftless Retreat, you're responsible for leaving the cabin in clean condition. Please wash all dishes, place all furniture in its original setting and remove all trash and recyclables from the property upon departure (take extra care to make sure there is absolutely no food left in the cabin). Driftless Retreat is best suited for solo travelers or pairs. Detailed Guide to Driftless Retreat: https://bit.ly/3XqzmEK Learn more about Driftless Wisconsin at driftlesswisconsin.com.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
The Prairie Lodge

9. The Prairie Lodge

100%
(1)
14mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$176
 / night
Gearhead Gulch Campground

11. Gearhead Gulch Campground

27mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Waukon, IA
Off-Road Park & Camping – 6 Acres of Trails & Obstacles in Rural Iowa! Looking for a place to wheel and camp for the weekend? We’re renting out 6 acres of off-road terrain with two private campsites designed for off-roaders! 🏕 Campsites: Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, parking for one Jeep, Truck, or SUV, and access to a shared porta potty $25 per site per night (weekends only) Firewood bundles available for $5 each Located on a quiet dead-end road, just 5 minutes from Waukon, IA, where you’ll find restaurants, fuel, and entertainment 🚜 Off-Road Park: A variety of mud trails, flex tests, ramps, log trails, and more! $30 per day for access On-site shop rental available in case of breakdowns Recovery services offered—go ahead and test your rig’s limits! 🔧 Additional Info: Sign a release of liability before entry Wrench anywhere in the park or rent the shop if needed 📍 Location: Rural Iowa (near Waukon) 📅 Weekends only Message for reservations or more details!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites

15. Upper Iowa Resort RV Sites

41mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
Unity Campsites

16. Unity Campsites

42mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Cresco, IA
Unity Campsites offers camper hookups at our building site with access to a large yard, walking trails, a playset, and a pond. The property is located just northwest of Cresco, Iowa, making it a great home base for exploring Northeast Iowa and Southeast Minnesota. A washer and dryer are provided for your convenience. These sites are ideal for both short stays while passing through and extended camping for traveling workers. Extended-stay rates are available. Nearby Trails & Parks : Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail A 20-mile asphalt trail connecting Cresco, Ridgeway, and Calmar. Perfect for biking, hiking, jogging, nature viewing, and even cross-country skiing in winter. Prairie Springs Recreational Trail A 3.5-mile paved trail that runs from downtown Cresco at Balk Park to Vernon Springs. Great for easy walks or short runs close to town. Kendallville Park & Campground Located about 6 miles north of Cresco, this scenic park is a nice spot for camping, fishing, and enjoying the Upper Iowa River. Howard County Conservation Parks & Nature Areas Howard County manages several smaller parks and natural areas, including Prairie’s Edge Nature Center in Cresco. These spots are perfect for birdwatching, light hiking, picnicking, and soaking up the outdoors.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Prairie Horizon

18. Prairie Horizon

100%
(3)
43mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 1 site · RV · Waterloo, IA
Acreage on a gravel road with many shade trees surrounded by farm land. Easy access from Highway 20, Interstate 380, and Avenue of the Saints making it great for an overnight stop from your travels. Wake up to a symphony of song birds (check your Merlin app to see who is singing) and enjoy morning views with your coffee. Beautiful sunrise and sunset views and clear stargazing. You would never guess that within 10 miles you will find hiking and biking trails, municipal golf course, water park, amusement park, casino, shopping (grocery, gas, Target, Walmart, restaurants), Cedar Valley Arboretum, and John Deer tractor museum and factory tours. Our Hound Dog will alert us of your arrival. Not to worry though, he is restrained. We are happy to share garden produce, herbs and flowers that are grown in our gardens. The acreage is also home to several antique tractors. We can accommodate travel trailor, fifth wheel, popup campers (with toilet) and RV's. 1 site, back in. Accommodates slide outs. Surface type - gravel, grass Surface levelness - fairly level Electrical hookup - 30 amp Water hookup - hose for tank fill available Generators allowed - no Sewage hookup - no TV hookup - no Toilets available - no Campfire allowed in fire pit as weather permits. Firewood provided. Pets allowed on leash. Must follow safety and sanitation rules. Pet on leash and pick up poop. Trash bin - yes Picnic table - yes Wifi - no Laundry - no Hot tub - no Check in - after 2:00 pm Check out - before 12:00 pm Cancellation - flexible Minimum nights - 1 Accepts bookings - 4 months out
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
50% (1)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Volga River State Recreation Area adventure.

Camper favorites near Volga River State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Roy's Acres

100%
(25)
7.5mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Randalia, IA
Our expansive 360-acre farm, in the family for nearly 80 years, has undergone significant transformation. What was once a grove of trees and a borrow pit for highway construction has evolved into a welcoming campground. Amidst this landscape, we've erected two buildings, one of which is a shop equipped with a restroom and a charming porch. Nestled on this porch, my wife and I delight in evenings spent observing the deer and other wildlife, fostering a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Originally conceived as a space for family enjoyment and camping, we've now decided to extend this hospitality to others, embarking on further campground development. Our campground offers a variety of spots, some equipped with electricity for convenience, while others offer a more primitive experience, allowing guests to disconnect and embrace the tranquility of nature. While relaxation is our specialty, we have other outdoor activities to enjoy. With a pond for fishing and paddle boating, as well as close access to the Volga River for canoeing and kayaking, there’s plenty to explore. The Volga River State Recreation Area is only 10 miles away and offers more fishing, boating and hiking opportunities.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

Cedar Springs

93%
(21)
33mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · Decorah, IA
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$88
 / night

Driftless Retreat 🍃 🎶 📚

100%
(20)
49mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Ferryville, WI
Welcome to Driftless Retreat, a charming Amish-built, Scandinavian-influenced cabin nestled on 3 acres in the heart of the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Tucked away high on a Mississippi River bluff, the property offers privacy and seclusion in a rural setting, but is within easy reach of quaint river towns and villages, major hubs and some of the best spots in the Driftless area. - 5 minutes from Ferryville / Mississippi River - 12 minutes from Lansing, Iowa - 25 minutes from the vibrant, eclectic destination town of Viroqua - 45 minutes from western Wisconsin's largest city, La Crosse - 2 hours from Madison, WI - 3 hours from Minneapolis, MN - 4 hours from Chicago, IL While the cabin is rustic and simple, it is equipped with a number of modern amenities and thoughtful extras to make your stay cozy and comfortable. The ideal spot for bibliophiles and music lovers alike, the cabin has a record player (byo vinyl), an Amazon Echo with SiriusXM, a large collection of reading materials, including 200+ books and 100+ magazines ranging on topics from nature, music, health and wellness, mindfulness, sustainable living and more. There is also a variety of games, puzzles and coloring books and two yoga mats + blocks. The cabin is equipped with a reliable 52 Mbps fiber optic internet connection, perfect for remote work or for those seeking a secluded retreat while staying connected. An Epson projector and pull-down screen make for an intimate home theater experience (byo laptop). Sleeping options include a pullout sofa (full-sized bed) with futon mattress to lay on top for comfort, as well as an Exped self-inflating air mattress if needed. There is NO RUNNING WATER, but the cabin does have an electric water cooler on site that offers both hot and cold water options (bring your own water to fill the 5-gallon container). Additionally, you'll find a small refrigerator with freezer, microwave, two electric heaters for warmth, a hot water kettle, and a Chemex for your coffee brewing needs. Dishes, cookware, blankets and pillows provided (byo sheet set). ***As of August 2024, the property now features a portable toilet ('porta potty') for your convenience, and the compostable toilet is no longer available. Feel free to explore the 3-acre property and discover nearby attractions like Rush Creek State Natural Area, Blackhawk Park, Mt. Hosmer, Effigy Mounds National Monument, Wyalusing State Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park, and more. This property is located in a rural setting, so you can expect to hear occasional noise from passing farm equipment and trucks. Across the street, a hobby farm adds to the countryside charm, and you may hear the morning greeting of a rooster and honking of geese. It's not uncommon to see deer on the lawn, as there is an orchard neighboring the south end of the property that they like to frequent, and you'll likely hear coyotes howling in the distance at night. Also note that while we do our best to keep nature outside the cabin, be aware that bugs and mice do sometimes happen. As a guest at Driftless Retreat, you're responsible for leaving the cabin in clean condition. Please wash all dishes, place all furniture in its original setting and remove all trash and recyclables from the property upon departure (take extra care to make sure there is absolutely no food left in the cabin). Driftless Retreat is best suited for solo travelers or pairs. Detailed Guide to Driftless Retreat: https://bit.ly/3XqzmEK Learn more about Driftless Wisconsin at driftlesswisconsin.com.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night

The Prairie Lodge

100%
(1)
14mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$176
 / night

Gearhead Gulch Campground

27mi from Volga River State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Waukon, IA
Off-Road Park & Camping – 6 Acres of Trails & Obstacles in Rural Iowa! Looking for a place to wheel and camp for the weekend? We’re renting out 6 acres of off-road terrain with two private campsites designed for off-roaders! 🏕 Campsites: Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, parking for one Jeep, Truck, or SUV, and access to a shared porta potty $25 per site per night (weekends only) Firewood bundles available for $5 each Located on a quiet dead-end road, just 5 minutes from Waukon, IA, where you’ll find restaurants, fuel, and entertainment 🚜 Off-Road Park: A variety of mud trails, flex tests, ramps, log trails, and more! $30 per day for access On-site shop rental available in case of breakdowns Recovery services offered—go ahead and test your rig’s limits! 🔧 Additional Info: Sign a release of liability before entry Wrench anywhere in the park or rent the shop if needed 📍 Location: Rural Iowa (near Waukon) 📅 Weekends only Message for reservations or more details!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

Other options near Volga River State Recreation Area

The best camping in Volga River State Recreation Area, IA guide

Overview

About

Volga River State Recreation Area is the epitome of classic outdoor adventure. Canoe the Volga River, or fish its shores for bass! Plus, the stunning bluff views are enough to keep you there for days. Over 25 miles of trails are waiting to be explored by foot, bike, or horseback, even winter lovers can hop in on some snowmobile action! If you’ve got an inner cowboy waiting to get out, equestrian campgrounds (along with rad regular spots) will have you sippin’ sassparilla and telling’ stories late into the night. The picturesque woodland hills and breezy summer days keep even the fairweather adventurers coming back for more at Volga River.

Notable campgrounds

  • Volga River Equestrian Campground - A favorite for horse enthusiasts with spacious sites and direct trail access.
  • Lakeview Campground - Offers stunning views and modern facilities, perfect for families and anglers.
  • Alger's Landing Campground - Ideal for those seeking a rustic camping experience close to the river.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak season weekends, as sites fill up quickly.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back for last-minute openings.
  • Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a spot.

When to go

The best time to visit Volga River State Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm days perfect for exploring, though it can be busy. Winters are harsh and may limit access to some park facilities.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast and prepare for changing conditions, especially if you're planning to camp.
  • Some areas of the park may be subject to seasonal closures; verify current access before your trip.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking or horseback riding on the park's varied terrain.
  • Remember to pack out all trash and respect the park's natural environment.
  • Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but it's wise to bring extra supplies.
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