Tree-lined campground sites along a quiet riverbank at golden hour

Iowa City · Est. Riverside Retreat

Your River-Side Escape
Among the Cottonwoods

Tucked along the Iowa River, Cottonwood Campground offers a quiet, tree-shaded retreat just minutes from town — where the only thing rushing is the water.

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Shaded campground path winding through mature cottonwood trees

Riverside

Camping in Iowa City

Our Story

A Quiet Place to Unplug —
Right Near Town

Cottonwood Campground sits on the quiet edge of Iowa City, where mature cottonwood trees form a natural canopy over every site. We've been welcoming campers for years — families, hikers, paddlers, and anyone looking to trade the noise of daily life for the sound of running water and rustling leaves.

Whether you're here for a single night or a whole week, our grounds are kept clean, our sites are level and shaded, and our location makes it easy to enjoy both the river and the city. No fuss, no crowds — just a good campsite done right.

Tree-Shaded Sites Iowa River Access Open Seasonally

Camping Options

Find Your Perfect Campsite

From tent pads nestled under old oaks to full hookups for your travel trailer, we have a spot that fits your style.

Tent camping site under tall cottonwood trees with dappled sunlight

Popular

Tent Sites

Level, grassy pads shaded by mature cottonwoods. Each site includes a fire ring and is surrounded by natural privacy from the tree line.

Fire ring at every site
Shade & natural privacy
Close to restroom facilities

Full Hookups

RV Sites

Spacious sites with full electrical, water, and sewer hookups. Perfect for travel trailers and fifth wheels — pull right in and settle in.

30/50 amp electrical
Water & sewer hookups
Pull-through availability

Campers relaxing by the calm Iowa River with canoes nearby

Riverside

Riverside Sites

Our most sought-after spots — right on the Iowa River. Wake up to the sound of water and cast a line from your doorstep.

Direct river frontage
Prime for fishing & paddling
Limited sites — book early

Call (319) 338-3543 to Reserve Your Site

What We Offer

Everything You Need,
Nothing You Don't

Clean facilities, thoughtful amenities, and a well-kept grounds — so you can focus on relaxing.

Clean Restrooms

Well-maintained bathroom facilities with hot showers for your comfort after a day outdoors.

Potable Water

Fresh, clean drinking water available throughout the campground — no need to haul it in.

Firewood Available

Running low on firewood? We sell locally sourced firewood on-site so you can keep the fire going.

Pet-Friendly

Your four-legged friends are welcome too. Bring your dog — just keep them on a leash and clean up after them.

Picnic Tables

Every site comes with a sturdy picnic table — perfect for meals, card games, or just watching the world go by.

Quiet Hours

We respect our guests' need for rest. Quiet hours are observed so everyone enjoys a peaceful night's sleep.

Fishing & Hiking

The Iowa River is right outside your door. Fish, kayak, or hike nearby trails — all from your campsite.

Easy Access

Just minutes from downtown Iowa City and major highways. The perfect basecamp for exploring the area.

Sunset view over the Iowa River from the campground

Campfire glowing at dusk among tall trees

Morning mist rising from the river near the campground

A peaceful tent site surrounded by green foliage

Find Us

Easy to Find,
Hard to Leave

Address

4089 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE
Iowa City, IA 52240

Phone

(319) 338-3543

Call to check availability and rates

Office Hours

Monday – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Seasonal operation — call ahead

Call to Reserve Get Directions

Ready to Escape to the River?

Sites fill up fast during peak season. Call us today to reserve your spot along the Iowa River — we'd love to welcome you.

(319) 338-3543 Review Our Sites

Your River-Side Escape Among the Cottonwoods

A Quiet Place to Unplug — Right Near Town