Yurts near Davenport with a private bathroom
Explore Mississippi River country on a camping trip from Davenport.
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- Davenport
Popular camping styles for Davenport
Yurts near Davenport with a private bathroom guide
Overview
Davenport is a cultural hot spot in the Quad Cities region. Spanning the Mississippi River, the city is defined by large bridges connecting Iowa to Illinois, which makes for great boating, fishing, and waterside exploration. Whether visiting by campervan, RV, or car, visitors will also find trails, state parks, and camping opportunities in the surrounding area—think private tent sites, RV parks, and cabin stays with fire rings and in some cases even wifi. Plan on seeing the sights, enjoying the food, and experiencing the good Midwestern vibes on your next camping trip through Davenport.
Where to go
Wildcat Den State Park
Wildcat Den State Park is one of the closest state parks to Davenport, just a 25-minute drive southwest. Here, campers can hit hiking trails through rocky bluffs and see a historic grist mill. The Loud Thunder Forest Preserve is just across the river, too.
Buffalo Shores Park
On the banks of the Mississippi River, Buffalo Shores has 65 campsites for tent camping and RVs. Electric hookups and water are available, but RVers will find a convenient dump station as well. Tent campers love the hot showers and beachfront campsites on the river. Take advantage of the boat ramp for motor-powered watercraft or hand launch a canoe or kayak right from the beach.
Scott County Park
Situated 20 minutes north of Davenport, the 1,280-acre Scott County Park is a popular outdoor destination with camping facilities, an equestrian area, hiking trails, and a number of picnic table areas with grills and fire pits. The RV campsites are prime for big rigs. Hit the heated swimming pool in summer, or head out for sledding and cross-country skiing come winter.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa Caves State Park features 13 stunning limestone caves and hiking trails linking them, plus a small seasonal campground for overnight stays. The Maquoketa River Water Trail nearby offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and camping along the river.
Lake Macbride State Park
Although the Mississippi River runs east of town, Lake Macbride State Park is another popular water hot spot to the west. Here campers can hit the lake for boating, hiking, and fishing—look out for catfish, muskies, and spotted bass.
Mississippi Palisades State Park
Another Mississippi River spot, this state park is reachable from Davenport via about a 75-minute drive north. Come for water fun, Native American history, massive rock formations, and nearly 250 campsites available for reservation.
When to go
Around Davenport, summer is all about camping on the river and nearby lakes. This trend continues into the fall as well, but spring is more difficult for visits due to melting snow and the potential for river flooding. Some parks and campgrounds close when the river rises.
