Facilities

Club House

Laundry Room

Swimming Pool

Hot Tub

Fitness Center

Game Room

Rec Hall

Pavilion

Exercise Room

Restroom/Shower

Restroom Only

Shower Only

Restaurant

Groceries

RV Supplies

ATM Machine

WiFi

Dog Park

Cocktail Lounge

Dog Washing Station

Pit Toilet

Snack Bar

Play Ground

Sites

Water

20 Amp

30 Amp

50 Amp

Sewer

Cable TV

Services

Escort to Site

Self-Service RV Wash

Metered LP Gas

Firewood

Fishing Supplies

Pet Supplies

Onsite Rentals

Worship Services

Golf Carts

Fishing Guides

Onsite RV Service

Staffed RV Wash

Fishing Licenses

Complimentary Breakfast

Recreational activities in or near the park

Recreational Activities

Archery Range

ATV Riding

Biking

Boating

Body Of Water

Casino

Climbing

Dock

Driving Range

Fishing

Golf

Heated Pool

Hiking

Horseback Riding

Horseshoes

Kayaking

Lawn Bowling

Mini Golf

Paddle Boats

Pickle Ball

Putting Green

Ramp

Sauna

Shuffleboard

Snow Sports

Splash Pad

Swimming

Tennis

Wading Pool

Water Slide

Water Sports

Water Umbrella

Whitewater Rafting

Policies

RV Age Restrictions

Pets Welcome

Pet Restrictions

Pet Restriction on Quantity

Pet Restriction on Breed

Pet Restriction on Size

No Pets

Tent Camping Allowed

Folding Tent Campers Allowed

No Tents

No Overnight Guests

<h2>Overview</h2><p>Bankston Park is a serene, 120-acre natural retreat managed by Dubuque County Conservation. It offers a distinct escape into the <strong>Driftless Area</strong> of northeast Iowa, a region known for its rugged terrain that escaped the flattening effects of the last ice age. Unlike busier commercial campgrounds, this destination focuses on preserving the natural landscape, featuring steep timbered hills and deep, cool valleys. It is a place where travelers go to disconnect and enjoy the rhythmic sounds of the Iowa wilderness.</p><h2>Location & Surroundings</h2><p>Located just south of Holy Cross, Iowa, the park is defined by its striking <strong>limestone bluffs</strong> and the winding Bankston Creek. The surrounding topography provides a sharp contrast to the flat plains often associated with the Midwest. The drive into the park involves rolling hills and scenic vistas, making the journey part of the experience for those navigating the quiet backroads of Dubuque County. The seclusion of the valley creates a private atmosphere that feels worlds away from the nearby highways.</p><h2>Amenities & Park Features</h2><p>The park is designed for a rustic experience rather than a luxury stay. It offers <strong>primitive camping sites</strong> that are well-suited for those who prefer self-contained travel and a closer connection to the land. Key features include:</p><ul><li>Access to <strong>Bankston Creek</strong>, a cold-water stream known for trout fishing.</li><li>A large picnic shelter and playground for day-use visitors.</li><li>Miles of rugged hiking trails that climb the surrounding bluffs.</li><li>Basic facilities including pit toilets and seasonal water access.</li></ul><p>The lack of modern utilities ensures that the park remains quiet and uncrowded throughout the season.</p><h2>Nearby Attractions & Things to Do</h2><p>While the park feels secluded, it is within easy driving distance of several iconic Iowa landmarks. Visitors can take a short trip to Dyersville to see the <strong>Field of Dreams Movie Site</strong> or explore the stunning architecture of the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier. For a more urban experience, the city of Dubuque is nearby, offering the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, as well as the historic Fenelon Place Elevator. These excursions provide a nice balance to the quietude of the park.</p><h2>Who This Park Is Best For</h2><p>Bankston Park is ideal for travelers who value solitude and a <strong>back-to-basics atmosphere</strong>. Because there are no electrical or sewer hookups, it is best suited for tent campers, van dwellers, or owners of small, self-contained RVs who enjoy dry camping. If your travel style involves <strong>wildlife viewing</strong>, hiking rugged trails, and falling asleep to the sound of a bubbling creek, this park is a hidden gem that fits your needs perfectly.</p>



Bankston Park is a Dubuque County Park located in Holy Cross, Iowa. The park is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The park features a playground, picnic areas, a boat ramp, fishing, and a nature trail. There are also several shelters and pavilions available for rent. The park is open year-round and is a great place to spend a day outdoors.

Bankston Park (Dubuque County Park)

Plan your visit to Bankston Park in Holy Cross, IA. Explore 120 acres of limestone bluffs, trout fishing, and primitive camping in the scenic Driftless Area.

Bankston Park | Holy Cross, IA | Nature & Camping Guide

Nice park to boondok if you have a quiet generator. There is one water hydrant to fill your tank on the camper. Also has a dump station for your camper. No water to flush at dump station if you need to. Good trout fishing stream runs through it. Some hiking. There is also a hike in campground which is really nice to.

Camp right on the trout stream.
Sites are huge but primitive, no electricity, pit toilets and one water hydrant, but never crowded. Very cheap camping. $15 in 2024.

Clean. Nice spot to camp. The creek water tasted great!

I used to go trout fishing here when I had opportunities. I stopped as its either overfished or this unannounced trout stocking was really less stocking. The park is also a public hunting area. There is primitive camping allowed and pets are allowed.

Pity to see what last falls flooding did to Bankston park. I have been taking friend to Bankston for a while and that fall flood really messed up the creek bed and channel.

Reviews

Bankston Park (Dubuque County Park)

User Reviews