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Map showing campground location near Decorah, Iowa
Camper submitted image from South Bear CreekView 11 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Decorah, Iowa

South Bear Creek

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Anglers targeting Iowa's stocked trout waters will find South Bear Creek positioned along North Bear Creek, one of the state's most popular trout streams. This primitive camping area operates as a grassy parking lot with makeshift rock fire rings, accessed via Quandahl Road near Highlandville. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources manages this free camping spot on public land.

Several sites sit close enough to the creek that campers fall asleep to flowing water sounds. A portable toilet appears seasonally, though winter visitors should expect no facilities beyond the basic fire rings. Campers must bring their own water and camp shovel for waste disposal. The creek runs for just over five miles at this access point, with the DNR regularly stocking it for trout fishing opportunities ranging from power-bait techniques to fly fishing.

Crowds fluctuate dramatically by season. Spring through fall draws heavy use, with RVs often running generators through the night. Winter offers considerably more solitude, though the access road isn't plowed and requires four-wheel drive. Kerry M. notes that "many times I have been the only person camping here during winter."

Highlandville's general store stocks firewood, snacks, and fishing supplies for last-minute needs. This setup works best for self-sufficient campers comfortable with primitive conditions and those prioritizing creek access over amenities.

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Location

Public Campground

South Bear Creek is located in Iowa

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

43.43899585 N
91.63865275 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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Contact

General Info

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted this free primitive campground's creek access and trout fishing opportunities. The majority of campers found good solitude in winter, though busy seasons bring generator noise concerns.

d
Reviewed Jul. 18, 2023

Awesome place, getting busier

This is an awesome primitive free camping spot along north bear creek. Just a little grass lot to pull on to with rock fire pits. Love to come in the winter for some solitude, but spring-fall it can be busy. The trout unlimited chapter has put porta johns at one of the access points

Month of VisitJanuary
Kerry M.
Reviewed Aug. 20, 2021

Sometimes quiet, sometimes busy

I have camped here a few times and fished here often. 

The campground is actually just the parking lot with a few makeshift fire rings available. There is a port-a-potty available most of the year (but not winter). A couple sites are very close to the stream, which is wonderful to have the flowing water sound to help me fall asleep.

This campground can get very busy during the spring, summer, and fall. RVs will often run their generators all night long, which is not great for those in tents. I tend to avoid camping here when it is busy (I still fish, just no camping when it is crowded).

Winter offers quite a bit more solitude, both in the campground and on the trout stream. Many times I have been the only person camping here during winter. The campsite is not plowed, so a 4WD is recommended.

North Bear Creek is one of the most popular trout streams in Iowa. It offers fishing for a variety of skill levels from simple power-bait up to fly fishing.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of South Bear Creek by Kerry M., August 20, 2021
  • Review photo of South Bear Creek by Kerry M., August 20, 2021
  • Review photo of South Bear Creek by Kerry M., August 20, 2021
  • (4) View All
Jessica H.
Reviewed May. 23, 2018

South Bear Creek Entrance

The South Bear Creek entrance is located near Highlandville, IA off of Quandahl Road. This is Iowa Department of Natural Resources land and offers primitive camping only. There are no shower or restroom facilities and we brought our own water. There was a makeshift fire ring made out of rocks and so we used this to build our campfire. Be sure to bring a camp shovel for bathroom breaks. There was no fee at the time to camp here. It might be a good idea to call ahead to the Iowa DNR to see if that has changed.

Bear Creek is known for trout fishing and is stocked by the DNR. Bear Creek runs for a little over 5 miles at this entrance. Highlandville does have a general store, so you can stock up on items such as snacks, firewood, and angling supplies if you plan to fish the creek.

Note: There is also a Bear Creek Campground which offers electrical sites along with restrooms, showers and a playground as well as Bear Creek Cabin rentals if you're looking for something with more amenities.

We camped the last weekend in October and had the entire area to ourselves. We walked along the creek and Quandahl Road. It was a quiet area and we enjoyed camping in a more primitive setting.

SitePrimitive Camping - No numbered sites
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of South Bear Creek by Jessica H., May 23, 2018
  • Review photo of South Bear Creek by Jessica H., May 23, 2018
  • Review photo of South Bear Creek by Jessica H., May 23, 2018
  • (8) View All
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between North Bear Campground and South Bear Creek Campground?

While both campgrounds are situated along Bear Creek, there are some key differences. South Bear Creek Campground is a primitive, free camping area essentially consisting of a parking lot with makeshift fire rings. It offers no formal campsites or developed facilities beyond seasonal porta-potties. North Bear Campground typically refers to access points along North Bear Creek, which is a separate stream in the area. Both locations attract anglers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a rustic camping experience, but have different access points and may offer slightly different amenities depending on the managing agency.

What camping and outdoor activities are available near South Bear Creek Campground in Decorah?

South Bear Creek offers excellent trout fishing, with the stream flowing right next to some camping spots. The sound of flowing water creates a peaceful backdrop for primitive camping experiences. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the creek, wildlife observation, and stargazing in this remote setting. The area is particularly known for its fishing opportunities, with local Trout Unlimited chapters maintaining some facilities seasonally. During winter months, the campground provides solitude for cold-weather camping enthusiasts, while spring through fall tends to be busier. The surrounding region near Decorah offers additional outdoor activities including hiking trails, canoeing, and exploring the scenic Driftless Area.

How do I get to South Bear Creek Campground?

To reach South Bear Creek Campground, navigate to Highlandville, Iowa, and then follow Quandahl Road to the campground entrance. The camping area is essentially a grass lot where you can pull in and set up camp. Look for the makeshift rock fire rings that indicate camping spots. Since this is a primitive area without formal signage, having a good map or GPS coordinates is recommended. The campground is accessible by car, though road conditions may vary seasonally.

Where is South Bear Creek Campground located?

South Bear Creek Campground is located near Highlandville, Iowa off of Quandahl Road. It sits on Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) land in Winneshiek County. The campground is positioned along Bear Creek, offering a peaceful setting in northeast Iowa. This primitive camping area is within driving distance of Decorah, making it a convenient outdoor getaway for visitors to the region.

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