Within Lake Manawa State Park, this DNR-managed campground operates from April through December with concrete pads and full hookups. The facility reopened in recent years after a closure, featuring 40-amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections at all sites. Campers access the grounds through a gated entry system using codes provided with reservations.
The campground sits on open terrain without shade trees, creating what Lumpie C. describes as "quite well spaced" lakeside locations with "a panoramic Lake view." Sites feature permanently mounted steel picnic tables and fire pit grills on concrete patios. The lack of overhead cover means intense heat during summer months, with temperatures remaining in the 90s well into evening hours according to multiple campers.
Lake access drives much of the activity here, with swimming beaches within walking distance and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The Dreamland playground draws families to one section of the campground, creating busier conditions on that side during peak times. Unisex restrooms and shower facilities serve the camping area, described by reviewers as basic but clean.
The campground fills on weekends during season, particularly sites with lake views. Tomes Country Club Acres sits 1.6 miles north for those seeking alternatives. Cell service provides adequate coverage with multiple carriers, and water pressure runs around 40 psi. Recent pricing increases have brought nightly rates to $38, positioning this as a straightforward lakeside stop rather than a budget option.
Description
Campground Opening: The new campground is anticipated to open in early summer of 2022.
Please check the official website for updates: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/Lake-Manawa-State-Park
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
The campground is closed each year from October 16 - April 14.
This campground is 100 percent reservable and accepts reservations April 15th - October 15th until 10:00 pm CST the day of arrival. In order to enter the campground you will enter a 4 digit access code and must press #. The access code can be found on the confirmation letter that is sent once a reservation is made.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundLake Manawa State Park Campground is located in Iowa
Directions
Take exit 47 off of I-29. Go west on Hwy 92 about 1/2 mile to East Manawa Drive. Follow East Manawa drive and you will end up at the East Entrance. Take Exit 3 from I-80. Take the South Expressway south 1 mile to Hwy 92. Go west on Hwy 92 to S. 11th St. Go south on S. 11th St to South Shore Dr. This is what we would consider the West Entrance.
Address
1100 S Shore Dr
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Coordinates
41.19700024 N
95.85400075 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 5/4/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 5/4/26
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 5/4/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 5/4/26
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 17 min from Omaha, NE
- 54 min from Lincoln, NE
- 1 hr 23 min from Sioux City, IA
- 1 hr 40 min from St. Joseph, MO



















