Clarks Ferry
4.45132 reviews3860 Sunset Beach
Clarks Ferry
$25.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$26.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$25.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Electric sites are $26 per night during peak season (May 1st - October 25th). Group Shelter sites charge $25 per night.
About this campground
Perched along the mighty Mississippi River, Clarks Ferry beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning riverfront vistas and towering canopy of mature trees that create natural shade corridors throughout the grounds. This riverside haven seamlessly blends recreation and relaxation, featuring well-appointed playgrounds where children's laughter mingles with the gentle lapping of river waves, inviting picnic shelters perfect for family gatherings, and a convenient boat ramp that serves as your gateway to Mississippi River adventures. While the rhythmic rumble of passing trains adds an authentic touch of American river commerce to the soundscape, the campground's scenic beauty and abundant amenities create an atmosphere where memories are made beneath ancient trees and endless sky.
Clarks Ferry supports both RV and tent camping. All campsites are equipped with concrete pads and 50-amp electric hookups. Sites vary in their proximity to the Mississippi River and the nearby railroad tracks.
Historical SignificanceClarks Ferry stands as a living testament to the Mississippi River's enduring role as America's great waterway, where centuries of river commerce have shaped both landscape and culture. This storied location connects visitors to the rich tapestry of river life, from the era of paddle wheelers and river pilots to modern-day barges that continue the tradition of Mississippi commerce. The campground serves as a window into the local heritage of river communities, where generations have lived in harmony with the rhythms of this mighty waterway, creating a cultural landscape as rich as the natural scenery that surrounds it.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle transition of seasons at Clarks Ferry, where autumn arrives with crisp mornings hovering in the low 40s before warming to comfortable afternoons in the low 70s. Summer brings those perfect camping days when the river breeze whispers through the trees, while occasional rain showers refresh the landscape and create that distinctive earthy aroma beloved by outdoor enthusiasts. The dynamic weather patterns of the Upper Mississippi keep each visit unique, from misty mornings that shroud the river in mystery to wind-swept afternoons that set the tree canopy dancing overhead.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath a majestic cathedral of mature trees that frame spectacular Mississippi River views, Clarks Ferry reveals nature's artistry at every turn. The campground's position along the river creates a front-row seat to one of North America's most diverse ecosystems, where lucky visitors might spot magnificent bald eagles soaring overhead or catch the brilliant flash of indigo buntings darting through the understory. The interplay of ancient trees and flowing water creates ever-changing vistas, from dawn's golden light filtering through the canopy to sunset's reflection dancing on the river's surface, while the surrounding habitats showcase the unique biodiversity that makes the Upper Mississippi region a naturalist's paradise.
Geological RegionNestled on the Iowa shoreline of the legendary Upper Mississippi River, Clarks Ferry occupies a prime position along one of North America's most storied waterways. Here, mature trees stand sentinel over a landscape shaped by countless centuries of river flow, part of the magnificent 1,250-mile journey the Mississippi makes from its humble beginnings at Lake Itasca, Minnesota, to its grand finale at Cairo, Illinois. This section of the Upper Mississippi showcases the river's middle reaches, where the waterway has matured into a powerful force that has carved valleys, created floodplains, and nurtured the lush riparian forests that provide both beauty and shelter for campers today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking and a new fishing dock designed for shore fishing provide improved accessibility options.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and well-laid-out. "Spacious campsites, great place to enjoy the Mississippi River," one user noted.
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews regarding privacy—some sites are described as more secluded than others. "The sites along the river were a little closer together than the other sites but I didn’t feel like we were on top of each other."
Total Campsites45 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites as far from the train tracks as possible for reduced noise. Riverfront sites provide better views but are closer to the tracks.
Best CampsitesSite 10 is highly recommended for its proximity to the river and concrete pads. Sites near the river offer better views but may experience train noise.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM.
Check-out
12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 consecutive nights per visit, and 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized in loops with concrete pads; electric hookups are available but water is shared between sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1st to October 25th for reservations; closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website, mobile app, or call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampsites are available by reservation only. Visitors must scan a QR code or use Recreation.gov to confirm availability before setting up.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date. Late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Clarks Ferry offers a variety of activities, from shore fishing at the accessible dock to bird watching. Recreational facilities include two playgrounds, a horseshoe pit, volleyball courts, and access to boating. Reviews highlight the scenic views of the Mississippi River and engaging wildlife experiences: "Watching the barges steaming down the river was fun," and "We had the perfect site from which to watch the river barges!"
Fishing
Fishing is a well-loved activity at Clarks Ferry, with anglers targeting channel catfish, bluegill, walleye, crappie, and northern pike. "The platform for fishing was very convenient," noted one user.Boating
Boating is supported by the on-site boat ramp. "There is a boat ramp next door," noted one reviewer.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching and observing barges on the river are popular activities. "Watching eagles flying and blue indigo birds" was a highlight for one camper.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated campfire rings.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned, but train noise persists through the night.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to active train tracks; trains pass frequently and use horns at crossings near the entrance. Occasional flooding and swampy conditions after heavy rain.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital in Muscatine (~10 miles); local police station and ranger services available.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1st to October 25th.
Trash and recyclingThe dump station area is available, with some complaints about its accessibility for RV users. "The dump station is overrun with bushes," noted one reviewer.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the Mississippi River, offering fishing docks, barge views, and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsTrain noise is a frequent complaint, along with barking dogs and lack of rule enforcement for vehicle overcrowding.
HostHosts are praised for being friendly and accommodating. Volunteers assist with cleaning and maintenance.
Campground Map
3860 Sunset Beach
Driving directionsFrom Davenport, Iowa, drive west on Hwy 22 about 15 miles and turn at Clark's Ferry Sign (in Montpelier).
Accessible via paved roads. The entrance is near railroad tracks, which may require caution when trains are passing.Nearby places
Davenport: 15 miles (~30 minutes)
Muscatine: ~10 miles
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in nearby Muscatine (~10 miles) or Davenport (~15 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.5
132 reviews
Clarks Ferry is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Clarks Ferry are generally positive, highlighting its scenic location along the Mississippi River, clean facilities, and spacious campsites. However, the nearby railroad and train noise are frequent concerns. "Great location, excellent facilities, friendly camp host," noted one camper. "Would have been 5 stars except for the trains."
Review Summaries
Based on 132 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious campsites, new shower facilities, scenic views of the Mississippi River, friendly and accommodating hosts, and proximity to attractions like Wildcat Den State Park.
Based on 132 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent train noise throughout the day and night, occasional lack of rule enforcement, shower water pressure issues, and accessibility challenges at the dump station.
Based on 132 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend selecting sites away from the railroad for quieter stays and sites closer to the river for scenic views. "Book Site 10 if you can," noted one user. Another advised, "Watch your...
Based on 132 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are highlighted for their optimal weather and scenic river views, but train noise is a consistent drawback regardless of season.
Based on 132 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Spacious campsites, great place to enjoy the Mississippi River." "The bathrooms are very clean and very large." "Watching the barges steaming down the river was fun." "Great location, excellent...
Based on 132 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is frequently praised for its proximity to the river and scenic views: "Book Site 10 if you can." Site 9 also receives positive feedback: "We could sit under our awning and watch the tugs and...
Based on 132 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible features like parking and the fishing dock are appreciated. However, issues with water pressure in showers and some challenges at the dump station were noted.
Based on 132 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed experiences with pets—some campers enjoyed the pet-friendly atmosphere, while others were disturbed by barking dogs.
Based on 132 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025