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Canoe landing
Public Campground

Canoe landing

Cresco, Iowa
4.8 (143 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Canoe landing

No running water

Canoe Landing offers a serene riverside camping experience that captures the natural beauty of Iowa's waterways. Located in a picturesque setting along the water, this public campground serves as an ideal basecamp for anyone seeking to escape into nature while maintaining convenient access to outdoor recreation and local communities.

The campground's proximity to the river makes it a paradise for water enthusiasts. Paddlers and canoe enthusiasts find themselves in their element here, with direct access to paddling routes that showcase Iowa's stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're an experienced canoeist or someone looking to try paddling for the first time, the river setting provides both adventure and tranquility. The gentle waters and surrounding scenery create perfect conditions for a memorable water-based getaway.

Beyond the water activities, Canoe Landing serves as an excellent hub for exploring the broader Iowa region. The campground's location provides easy access to scenic drives through rolling countryside, charming small towns, and various outdoor trails. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to observe local wildlife and enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by trees and natural vegetation. Fishing is another popular pastime in the area, with the river and surrounding waters offering decent opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.

The campground appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families appreciate the safe, accessible environment and the chance to introduce children to outdoor activities and water sports. Retirees often choose Canoe Landing for extended stays, enjoying the calm pace and recreational opportunities without excessive crowds or commercialization. Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts find the river access and natural setting perfectly suited to their interests. Even those simply seeking a peaceful retreat from busy city life discover that this campground delivers the quiet restoration that makes RV travel so rewarding.

The area's strong 4.8 rating reflects consistent positive experiences from visitors who value both the natural setting and the welcoming atmosphere that public campgrounds often provide.
4.8

Rating

143

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Cresco is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Iowa weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Cresco.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Cresco. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Canoe landing Reviews

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Rachel

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Rachel

Absolutely love this place! Nothing more you could ask for in this hidden gem. Our selfishness would love to keep this a secret, but the owners have put in a lot of hard work and renovations that deserve to be shown off and shared. Our slice of heaven on Earth that allows us to disconnect and regroup! Highly recommend!

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Cameo

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Cameo

Me and my kids stayed at Upper Iowa Resort for 3 days in a tent. We absolutely LOVE it here and will be back!! The natural pool is awesome and I think the kids were in it 90% of the time, I personally love the sand bottom and that it gradually gets deeper. We took the shuttle and tubed down the Upper Iowa river and the views are honestly unbeatable, will definitely have to kayak down during the fa... Me and my kids stayed at Upper Iowa Resort for 3 days in a tent. We absolutely LOVE it here and will be back!! The natural pool is awesome and I think the kids were in it 90% of the time, I personally love the sand bottom and that it gradually gets deeper. We took the shuttle and tubed down the Upper Iowa river and the views are honestly unbeatable, will definitely have to kayak down during the fall. The restrooms are clean and the showers actually have pressure and hot water the entire time. The little office/shop has essentials at a very decent price! We honestly just loved our stay so much and can’t wait to come back, it really is a beautiful campground!

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Elizabeth Tink

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Elizabeth Tink

this place is incredible. we tent camped- rest of the family stayed in a cabin and it couldn’t have been more enjoyable. pool was incredible. quiet & relaxing. cabin and campsite were very clean. kiddo loved the park. we will definitely be back!

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Justin Jackson

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Justin Jackson

This place is amazing! I'm so glad we found it by mistake when our previously chosen campground was overbooked. This WILL be our regular campground going forward, and we highly recommend checking it out for yourself. It's perfect for families, and the owners/ staff are wonderful! Now, if I could leave a review for the parents of the disrespectful kids, I'd have more to say but the caretaker was q... This place is amazing! I'm so glad we found it by mistake when our previously chosen campground was overbooked. This WILL be our regular campground going forward, and we highly recommend checking it out for yourself. It's perfect for families, and the owners/ staff are wonderful! Now, if I could leave a review for the parents of the disrespectful kids, I'd have more to say but the caretaker was quick to handle the situation for the parents as they couldn't seem to adult on there own... 😆

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Tom ONeill

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Tom ONeill

Well, let me tell ya, Upper Iowa Resort is a little slice of heaven right here in the Driftless Region. We rolled in with a big ol' group and had ourselves one helluva time. That spring-fed swimming pool? It’s like findin’ a California beach, smack dab next to the Iowa River. Cool, clear, and just what the doctor ordered after a long day. I gotta give a shoutout to Tessa and her crew. They’re as... Well, let me tell ya, Upper Iowa Resort is a little slice of heaven right here in the Driftless Region. We rolled in with a big ol' group and had ourselves one helluva time. That spring-fed swimming pool? It’s like findin’ a California beach, smack dab next to the Iowa River. Cool, clear, and just what the doctor ordered after a long day. I gotta give a shoutout to Tessa and her crew. They’re as down-to-earth as they come, always ready to lend a hand or crack a smile. One day, we decided to float down the Iowa River in our innertubes, and wouldn’t ya know it, Tessa herself shuttled us upriver. Talk about service! Now, when we first got there, the wife was a bit uneasy about the lack of cell service—no bars in sight—but let me tell ya, it ended up bein’ the best thing ever. Nothin’ but us and the great outdoors, with no distractions. And if you do need to plug back in, the park’s free internet is fast as lightning, so you won’t miss a beat. Upper Iowa Resort is a real-deal treasure, and we’re mighty grateful to Tessa and the folks there for keepin’ this place runnin’ strong. If you’re lookin’ for a spot where the air’s fresh, the water’s cool, and the people are good as gold, this is it. We’ll be back for sure!

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