Bellevue Campground

The Great Outdoors

Near the banks of the mighty Mississippi, Bellevue State Park offers lots to see. While camping at Bellevue Campground, you'll be on-site to experience it all. Whether you go hiking up the 250-foot-tall limestone bluff to catch sweeping views of the area or take a peaceful trek through the butterfly garden, you can find something interesting. The garden has over 60 species, and the park also has a 220-acre hunting area.Branching out beyond the state park, you can visit the Mississippi Palisades State Park in Savanna, Illinois. Right over the state border, this 2,500-acre state park is a great place to check out some Native American history along with some amazing scenery. When the weather is nice, you can enjoy over 15 miles of trails, go fishing for catfish and carp, or go hunting for deer and wild turkey. In the winter, there are trails for cross-country skiing or you can try your hand at some ice fishing.For some fantastic birdwatching opportunities, aim the camper rental toward the Green Island Wildlife Management Area, just a few miles south of your campsite at Bellevue Campground. At this mating and nesting haven, you can spot some of the 250 different species of resident birds. Along with the winged wildlife, you will also find opportunities for fishing and hiking in the area's pleasant atmosphere.

Explore the City

While camping at Bellevue State Park, you'll be near a lot of interesting city attractions and conveniences. Just a five-minute drive north of the state park, the small city of Bellvue has grocery stores, restaurants, and a gas station. Dining options in town include barbecue, pub fare, and pizza.To delve into some area culture, head to Galena to tour the West Street Sculpture Park. Featuring sculptures created by local artist John Martinson, you can see a variety of unique steel sculptures styled in different themes. You can check out more of the area's art at the Galena Center for the Arts. Here you'll find fantastic exhibits that capture the essence of the region, along with broader works from across the world. You might also catch a local performance during your visit.While you're exploring the Galena area, consider a stop at the Ulysses S. Grant Home to learn more about the 18th president of the United States. Take an interpretive tour and hear about what life was like in the mid-1800s. This is a terrific chance for a history lesson that will teach you stories of the Civil War and how America was shaped in the 19th century.One of the area's must-visit attractions is the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque. From American alligators to bald eagles, you never know what you might see here. A science center, museum, and aquarium all in one, here you can learn about creatures from all over the world, and check out spectacular shows at the 4D theater. You can also explore exhibits like "The First River People," "National Rivers Hall of Fame," and "Iowa Marine Engine and Launch Works" at this compelling destination. Kids along for the ride won't want to miss the RiverWorks Splash Zone; this expansive interactive water exhibit gives children the chance to experiment with river systems, learn about beaver lodges, and see some live river creatures who reside in the area.