Iowa / Muscatine County

Shady Creek

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground operates May 1 through October 25. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Shady Creek Campground is a 22-acre recreation area operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the Mississippi River near Muscatine, Iowa. The campground features 53 concrete RV sites with 50-amp electric hookups, along with two tent-only sites in the Downriver Loop. All campsites include picnic tables and campfire rings. The park has spectacular views of the Mississippi River with many mature trees providing shade throughout the campground. The Mississippi River draws anglers from across the region. Channel catfish are the most popular species, with bluegill, walleye, and northern pike also abundant. A boat ramp provides direct river access. Shore fishing along the riverbank is excellent. The campground includes a nature trail for hiking and bird watching, as the Mississippi River flyway attracts diverse bird species. A playground and horseshoe pits provide additional recreation. Nearby attractions include Wildcat Den State Park just north of the campground, offering hiking trails and the historic Pine Creek Grist Mill built in 1848. The Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge is a 40-minute drive downstream with trails, observation decks, and hunting and fishing opportunities. The campground is located along Highway 22, part of the Great River Road scenic byway.

Directions

From Davenport, Iowa, drive west on Highway 22 about 17 miles and turn at the Shady Creek sign. The main entrance is across railroad tracks just off Highway 22.

Nearby Campgrounds