First things first, because we get asked a lot, the only option that makes walking work is camping at the fairgrounds.

Camping:

• At the fairgrounds:

  The Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds sets all charges for camping and these may change at any time.
  
  The fairboard runs this whole operation and can be reached at https://mvfair.com/camping/.
  • Fees for camping are through the Fairboard, not Chief Blackhawk.
  • NO reservations - first come, first served
  • Motorhomes - $25 per day per 30amp
  • Motorhomes - $35 per day per 50amp
  • Tents are $40 flat fee beginning on Thursday

• At West Lake:

  About three miles west, information at: West Lake Park

Hotels/Motels:

• All accommodations are a minimum of 3 miles from the fairgrounds. Walking is only viable if camping at the fairgrounds.
• Because we all live here we don't have much knowledge of the local accommodations, so no recommendations from this quarter. The area is very small compared to most folks idea of a city, so getting around is not really a problem. Nothing in the Iowa area is more than 15 minutes away from the swap meet, and nothing on the Illinois side is more than 25 minutes from the swap meet.
• For a reasonably complete list of hotels and motels in the area try this link: http://www.visitquadcities.com/. Select "Visitors" the "Hotels & Motels" under Lodging, on the right of the drop down menu.