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Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 - COE/Clarks Ferry
Overview
Clarks Ferry Recreation Area is a scenic Army Corps of Engineers campground nestled along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River in Montpelier, Iowa. Part of the broader Pools 11-22 management system, this park offers a peaceful riverside escape for travelers seeking a connection with nature. Known for its well-maintained grounds and expansive views of the water, it provides a quiet alternative to busier commercial resorts while maintaining essential comforts for modern RVers.
Location & Surroundings
The park is situated directly on Pool 16 of the Mississippi River, offering a unique vantage point for watching barge traffic and local wildlife. Surrounded by lush river bottomland and mature trees, the environment feels secluded yet accessible. Its position in Montpelier puts visitors within easy reach of both Muscatine and the Quad Cities metropolitan area, making it an ideal scenic basecamp for exploring the eastern Iowa border.
Amenities & Park Features
Clarks Ferry features spacious campsites equipped with 30 and 50-amp electrical hookups to accommodate various RV sizes. While the park maintains a rustic charm, it provides vital facilities including a dump station, pressurized drinking water, and seasonal flush toilets. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site boat ramp, which offers direct access to the river for fishing or exploring the numerous islands and backwaters nearby.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw here, with exceptional opportunities for walleye and bass fishing right from the shore or boat. A short drive away, Wildcat Den State Park offers stunning sandstone bluffs and historic structures like the Pine Creek Grist Mill. Visitors can also explore the National Pearl Button Museum in Muscatine or enjoy the diverse dining and cultural offerings found throughout the neighboring Quad Cities.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for nature photographers and birdwatchers, especially during eagle migration seasons when the riverbanks teem with activity. It perfectly suits self-contained RV travelers who value riverfront serenity over high-traffic amenities like pools or clubhouses. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sound of water and waking up to panoramic sunrise views across the Mississippi, Clarks Ferry is a must-visit destination.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Marie Mueller
Nice park right on the Mississippi River. Concrete slab that was level. Electric with 50 amp. Nice big shade trees. Other campers are quiet and respectful. Volunteers did come around and checked us in. Did mention that a change on reservation will be coming out. The reservation will need to be in the America the Beautiful Pass owners name. I normally put the reservation in wife's name with her credit card and use my husbands discount code. We always camp together, so he is at checkin and throughout the stay.
Diana Scalise Fanello
Lovely view of the Mississippi River. We have had Canadian Geese visiting on the river each morning. Remember this location is next to an active railroad track.
Lenora hottinger
Quiet clean park with mature shade trees. Leach site has concrete pad, picnic table and fire ring. There is no water at individual sites but adequate potable water is available
Liz
I absolutely loved the campgrounds. However it was so close to the rail road tracks that it was impossible to sleep. The train went by 7times between midnight and 5 am when I finally got up because I couldn't take it anymore. Probably one of my favorite campgrounds I've been too in awhile and if the train wasn't an issue I would return a few times each year. I won't be going back unfortunately.
Heather Johnson
As far as your basic Campground goes, this is nice. Water is accessible, dump station easy to use, and access directly to the Mississippi River, a fishing pier, and boat ramp. Modern bathrooms with showers. Spots have decent space between them.