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Buffalo Shores

Overview

Buffalo Shores is a city-managed campground nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River in Buffalo, Iowa. This seasonal destination offers travelers a unique opportunity to camp right at the water's edge, providing a serene backdrop for those exploring the Midwest. The park is known for its well-maintained grounds and a layout that maximizes the stunning vistas of one of America's most iconic waterways.

Location & Surroundings

The park is situated directly on the riverfront, offering a front-row seat to the rhythmic traffic of river barges and pleasure boats. The surrounding area of Buffalo provides a quiet, small-town atmosphere while remaining conveniently close to the urban amenities of the Quad Cities. Visitors can enjoy the lush greenery of the Iowa shoreline and the expansive sky, making it a peaceful retreat for those who appreciate natural beauty and maritime activity.

Amenities & Park Features

Buffalo Shores provides essential comforts for RVers, including sites equipped with water and electric hookups. The park features a sandy beach area where guests can relax by the water, as well as a public boat ramp for easy river access. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings. A playground and clean restroom facilities ensure a comfortable stay for families traveling through the region.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Beyond the riverbank, visitors can explore Wild Cat Den State Park, known for its historic grist mill and scenic hiking trails. The proximity to Davenport and Bettendorf means easy access to the Figge Art Museum and the Putnam Museum and Science Center. Anglers will find excellent fishing opportunities for catfish and walleye, while history buffs can explore the various riverfront landmarks scattered throughout the Quad Cities area.

Who This Park Is Best For

This park is an ideal match for river enthusiasts and photographers who want to capture the majesty of the Mississippi. It is a wonderful choice for families looking for a beachside camping experience and for retirees seeking a quiet, scenic spot to watch the world go by. If you enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to both nature and city culture, Buffalo Shores is a must-visit.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• River
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Ramp
• Boat Rental
• Body Of Water (Mississippi River)
• Horseshoes
• Playground
• Kayaking/Canoeing

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Day Max Stay (14)
• Tent Camping Allowed

- Other Amenities & Services

• Pit Toilets
• Restroom and Showers

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Fishing
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Boating

- Facility

• Type (Public Park)
• Partial Handicap Access

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (65)
• Paved Sites (65)
• Max Length (30)
• 50 Amp
• Water (65)
• Electric (65)
• Max Amps (50)
• Only Self-Contained Units
• Back-ins (15 x 30)
• Fire Rings

User Reviews

missourioregon

September 30, 2025

Visited in mid September on a warm Tuesday afternoon. Just a few folks around but pretty much had the place to myself. It's a good place to go if you want to kick it. It is a Sandy shore and the park is right on the river. Although swimming is allowed, I wouldn't. The current of the river is swift even by the shore. Not a wade beach, shore drops off. There is a playground nearby and it is a state park patrolled by Iowa DNR agents. I have to say it's ok. It's not like Indiana dunes.

Donya Doroz

July 05, 2025

Nice stretch of Mississippi river. The host and staff are super kind. The folks camping are great also. Beach access. Too crowded and no space between neighbors. Bathrooms are not good. Only one toilet in the men's bathroom. Trailer trash feel to it.

Melanie Scott

April 27, 2025

Beautiful view, great park, campground clean and easy to find a good spot. Park Rangers drive through every 60 to 90 minutes so we felt safe..

nathan goodfellow

December 29, 2024

Trailer Park camping with a nice view. Here’s what it looks like in the winter time. Kinda looks like a paved drive-in movie theater with a great view of the Mississippi river.. before warned the Campground is set between the railroad tracks and the river and the distance between the two of them is about 300 yards….. no winter camping here but the first 11 sites down at Shady Creek 7 miles south is open for winter camping that is of the time of this writing on December 29, 2024 .. Follow me and my travels on Instagram at mylifemyterms55

Greg Hanger

May 10, 2024

Fantastic spot right on the Mississippi river. There is electricity and water to fill your fresh water tank. As of right now there is no dump station. But the sand beach is awesome!!!

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