Heritage Campground

Are you an Iowa local seeking a peaceful and convenient camping experience with direct access to one of our state's most beloved recreational trails? Look no further than Heritage Campground in Dubuque. This charming and well-situated campground is a hidden gem for those who appreciate a quiet atmosphere, spacious sites, and immediate proximity to outdoor adventure, particularly for biking and enjoying the beauty of the Heritage Trail. While it may be a smaller campground, its focus on essential amenities and its prime location make it a highly desirable spot for your next Iowa getaway.

Heritage Campground is consistently described by visitors as a "nice campground" with "nice size" lots, offering a comfortable and uncrowded environment. Campers will appreciate the thoughtful details like "concrete runners for your tires," which help ensure your RV is level, making setup a breeze. This attention to practical elements contributes to a more relaxing stay, allowing you to quickly settle in and enjoy the natural surroundings.

The most significant highlight of Heritage Campground is its unparalleled access to the Heritage Trail. As one satisfied camper noted, it's a "great spot to camp if you want quick access to the heritage bike trail." This 26-mile, all-season crushed limestone trail winds through picturesque landscapes, old mining towns, and deep river valleys, providing endless opportunities for bicycling, running, walking, and even snowmobiling in winter. For Iowa's outdoor enthusiasts, having this trail literally on your doorstep is a major draw.

It's important for prospective campers to note that while Heritage Campground offers essential hookups, it does not currently provide showers. As one review plainly states, "No showers!!" and suggests that while it's "very nice" if "you're prepared," a shower would be a beneficial addition. This is a key piece of factual information that helps campers set appropriate expectations and plan accordingly, perhaps by bringing a portable shower or being comfortable with a more rustic approach to hygiene.

Despite the absence of showers, the campground’s other amenities, such as 50 amp electric service, water hookups, and a convenient dump station, provide a comfortable foundation for most RV and tent campers. The availability of "nice fire rings" and the option to purchase firewood nearby further enhance the classic camping experience, inviting cozy evenings under the stars.

Heritage Campground is ideally located at 11330 Rupp Hollow Rd, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA. This address places it just three miles north of Dubuque, offering a serene escape that is still very close to urban conveniences. Its position at the eastern trailhead of the Heritage Trail, near Sageville, Iowa, is its most defining locational advantage. This direct access means campers can literally step out of their site and onto the trail, immediately embarking on biking, hiking, or other outdoor activities.

The campground’s accessibility is excellent for Iowa locals. Dubuque is easily reached via major highways, making it a convenient destination from various parts of the state. Once in the area, finding Heritage Campground on Rupp Hollow Road, just off Highway 52, is straightforward. The layout of the sites, described as "nice long sites that are easy to back into" with "concrete runners," indicates that the campground is well-designed for easy maneuvering of RVs of various sizes.

In addition to the Heritage Trail, the campground's connection to the City of Dubuque bike trails via the Highway 52 pedestrian overpass further enhances its accessibility to a wider network of cycling routes, leading all the way to downtown Dubuque and the scenic Mississippi Riverwalk. This connectivity expands recreational possibilities significantly for active campers.

Adjacent to the campground is Heritage Pond, a 9-acre pond that is regularly stocked with fish, including cold-water trout, providing an accessible fishing spot right on the property. The overall 16-acre area of the Heritage Campground & Pond facility offers a blend of camping, fishing, picnicking, and direct trail access, all within a tranquil setting that feels removed from the city bustle, yet is just minutes away.

• RV and Tent Sites: Accommodates both RVs and tents, with options for additional tents on lots.
• Electric Hookups: Offers 50 amp electric service (and likely 30 amp).
• Water Hookups: Provides water connections at sites.
• Dump Station: Available on-site for RV waste disposal.
• Spacious Lots: Sites are described as "nice size" and "nice long sites."
• Concrete Runners: Many RV sites feature concrete runners to assist with leveling vehicles.
• Fire Rings: Nice fire rings are provided at campsites.
• Firewood Purchase: Firewood can be purchased nearby.
• Picnic Areas: Available for day use.
• Heritage Pond Access: Direct access to a 9-acre pond for fishing (stocked with trout) and leisurely kayaking/canoeing.
• Trail Access: Immediate access to the Heritage Trail (26-mile crushed limestone trail).
• Interpretive Area: Features the Heritage Trail Interpretive Area.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are typically welcome (leash rules apply, and owners must clean up after pets).

• Direct Heritage Trail Access: The paramount highlight, offering campers immediate entry to a 26-mile multi-use trail for biking, hiking, and more.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Known for being a "nice campground" that is "small" and likely quiet, ideal for relaxation.
• Spacious and Level Sites: Features "nice size" and "nice long sites," with the added convenience of "concrete runners" for easy leveling of RVs.
• Heritage Pond for Fishing: On-site 9-acre pond stocked with trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities.
• Essential Hookups: Offers 50 amp electric and water hookups, providing key conveniences for RV campers.
• No Light Pollution (Presumed): As a smaller campground surrounded by nature, it likely offers good opportunities for stargazing.
• Close to Dubuque Attractions: Conveniently located near the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Mines of Spain Recreation Area, and downtown Dubuque.
• Rustic Charm: Appeals to campers who prefer a more traditional camping experience, embracing outdoor living without all the frills.

Address: 11330 Rupp Hollow Rd, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA

Phone: (563) 556-6745

Mobile Phone: +1 563-556-6745

For Iowa locals, Heritage Campground in Dubuque offers a compelling blend of accessibility, peacefulness, and direct access to outdoor recreation, making it a highly suitable choice for their next camping adventure. Its most significant advantage is its immediate connection to the 26-mile Heritage Trail. For Iowans who love to bike, hike, or simply enjoy a scenic stroll, having this expansive, well-maintained trail literally at their campsite is an unparalleled convenience. This allows for spontaneous adventures without the need for driving or parking hassles, maximizing time spent outdoors.

The campground's focus on essential amenities and its commitment to providing comfortable sites also makes it an excellent fit for local campers. The availability of 50 amp electric and water hookups, combined with "nice long sites" and "concrete runners" for easy leveling, addresses the practical needs of RV owners. While the absence of showers is a key point to note, for prepared campers or those with self-contained RVs, this simply means a more rustic, yet still comfortable, experience.

Furthermore, Heritage Campground's intimate, "small" nature fosters a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. This provides a true escape from the daily grind for locals seeking tranquility and a chance to unwind amidst nature. The presence of Heritage Pond for fishing, stocked with trout, adds another appealing recreational option right on site, perfect for a peaceful afternoon by the water.

Finally, its strategic location just north of Dubuque means that while you enjoy the serenity of the campground and trail, you’re never far from the city's attractions, including museums, dining, and shops. This balance between natural immersion and urban convenience is ideal for Iowans looking for a straightforward, enjoyable, and accessible camping trip that truly taps into the recreational opportunities our state has to offer.

Heritage Campground

11330 Rupp Hollow Rd, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA