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Established Camping

Lake Manawa State Park Campground

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The campground is closed each year from October 16 - April 14.

Starting August 15, 2019, a vehicle entrance permit is required on out of state vehicles at Lake Manawa state park. For more information about the nonresident user fee, visit, Nonresident Permits.

This campground is 100 percent reservable and accepts reservations April 15th - October 15th until 9pm 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.

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Lake Manawa State Park Campground, near Council Bluffs, Iowa, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the outdoors with modern amenities. The campground features concrete pads, picnic tables, and fire rings, making it easy to set up camp and enjoy a meal or a cozy fire in the evening.

Visitors have noted the clean facilities, including bathrooms and showers, which are a big plus after a day of activities. The park is right by a beautiful lake, perfect for swimming and other water activities, and there’s a fantastic playground for kids to burn off some energy. As one camper mentioned, “Lake Manawa is a nice lake, and the playground is a fun spot for kids!”

While the lack of trees can make it a bit hot during the summer months, the campground is equipped with electric hookups and drinking water, ensuring a comfortable stay. Some campers appreciate the modern amenities and the overall cleanliness of the area, making it a convenient stop for families or those just passing through.

If you’re looking to explore, there are plenty of activities available between Memorial Day and Labor Day, including boating and hiking. Just remember to make a reservation for the gate code, as access is key to enjoying your stay. Whether you’re here for a quick overnight or a longer visit, Lake Manawa State Park Campground has what you need for a pleasant outdoor experience.

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Location

Lake Manawa State Park Campground is located in Iowa

Detail location of campground

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

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Connectivity

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    Excellent Coverage
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    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
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    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
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    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
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    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park 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

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Reviews

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3.0

out of 5

12 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 11, 2025

Nice metro campground

Large concrete pads with patio and permanently mounted mesh steel picnic table with a fire pit grill on the corner.. Lakeside locations are quite well spaced with a panoramic Lake view. small restroom and shower pair with unisex entry. Quite spartan, but relatively clean. Trees surround the campground, but none provide any campground shade. Entry gate code required, which provides some security. all amenities are available within a limited distance. Some lake activity noises during the day, and depending upon wind, some aircraft traffic, otherwise very quiet.

Site32
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Lumpie C., September 11, 2025
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Lumpie C., September 11, 2025
Reviewed May. 6, 2025

Nice State Park Campground Near Omaha, NE

Our confirmation email included precise directions from I-29, with an interstate sign confirming the turn for Lake Manawa State Park, and provided the gate code for access. We proceeded to back-in site 28 with full hookups; the back-in was easy, and the site was level, with utilities located toward the rear and a slight uphill grade to the sewer connection. The campground (CG) features well-spaced, spacious sites with no trees nearby great for satellite access. We had a bit of a water view through the trees, and connectivity was decent with 2 bars on Verizon and 3 on T-Mobile; water pressure was around 40 psi. We arrived on a Thursday for a four-night stay, and the CG filled up over the weekend. About 150 yards from our site was the popular Dreamland playground, which draws families with young kids to that side of the CG next time, we'd choose a site farther from the playground for more quiet.

Site28
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by MickandKarla W., May 6, 2025
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by MickandKarla W., May 6, 2025
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by MickandKarla W., May 6, 2025
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Jul. 26, 2024

Not great for tents

This campsite seems nice, but with blaring Omaha heat and no trees, the heat here is absolutely brutal. It was mid July and still 96 degrees at 7:00pm, so I ended up leaving knowing it would be too hot for a comfortable night sleep. Beautiful view of the lake and short walk to the swimming beach.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2023

No trees but has all the modern ameneties

I’ll just say that yes this campground has no trees to keep you cool, but it’s all brand new amenities with concrete pads, 40 amp hookups, sewer hookup, water, gated entry, and good signage. If you don’t expect a beautiful campsite then it’s a great stop off the interstate, and for a good price.

I was told the bathrooms and showers are all really nice. It won’t disappoint!

Site40
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Landon C., August 24, 2023
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  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Landon C., August 24, 2023
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Oct. 3, 2022

Clean and new

The campsites are new. Clean. A little close together but very pretty. Lake manawa is a nice lake, dream park is a fun playground for kids!

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Sep. 7, 2022

Overnight stop off

We stayed here after a cross country meet. Beautiful park. Nice concrete pads, picnic tables and fire rings. Their are family bathrooms with toliet and shower. There are tons of things to do here between memorial day and labor day unless you have your own kayak or boat. The kids playground is fantastic. The picnic shelters are great too. Only downside is NO TREES. Very hot in the sun. Campground signage is none. Also make sure you have a reservation for gate code. You cannot enter without it so the walk up sites won't be of any use unless you get there while someone is in the shak.

Site40
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Roxanne K., September 7, 2022
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Roxanne K., September 7, 2022
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2022

RV camping

Great RV park with lots to do. Only wish there is more trees.

Site004
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Apr. 25, 2021

New campground soon

Last I heard they were planning to open the campground for the 2021 season. It is the end of April and so far it is not open and does not have a specific date, but anxiously awaiting it.

Reviewed Sep. 15, 2020

Closed, but maybe a light

The camp grounds for Lake Manawa are closed, but there is talk of opening back up. For some people there is a light at the end of the tunnel. As there have been a few article surfacing of this campground reopening. This is a nice lake with a lot of activity at it. I guess we can just wait and see, but for now this is a no go.

  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Tony B., September 15, 2020
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Tony B., September 15, 2020
  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Tony B., September 15, 2020
  • (11) View All
Reviewed Jul. 19, 2016

Beautiful Lake/ campground now closed

This was a one night visit in June 2012 and we arrived very late after visiting St. Joseph, Mo Pony express museum that day we decided to keep driving which put us in council bluffs, IA just outside of Omaha at dinner time. We were blessed to get a site here later that had electric which is a plus and It was a very inexpensive site at only $16.00. I do remember there being a beautiful Lake which I wish we could have enjoyed but such is life when you are on a schedule to get to another destination. This park has swimming, boating, hiking, biking, restrooms and picnic area Apparently the campground has been closed since last fall and only shelters and a youth group area are available to rent.

  • Review photo of Lake Manawa State Park Campground by Christy C., July 19, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

What are current visitor reviews saying about Lake Manawa State Park Campground?

Lake Manawa State Park Campground offers new facilities with concrete pads, full hookups (water, electric, and sewer), and gated entry. The sites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and good signage. While the campground lacks mature shade trees, making summer heat challenging, it provides beautiful lake views and is conveniently located off the interstate. Amenities include family bathrooms with toilets and showers. The nightly rate is approximately $38. Some campers note that sites are somewhat close together, but the lakeside locations offer better spacing and panoramic views.

How do I make reservations at Lake Manawa State Park Campground?

Reservations for Lake Manawa State Park Campground can be made through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources reservation system online or by phone. After booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with directions from I-29 and the gate code for campground access. The campground offers both back-in and lakeside sites with full hookups. For the best experience, book well in advance during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Contact the Iowa DNR directly for the most current reservation policies and availability.

Where can I find a detailed map of Lake Manawa State Park Campground?

Detailed maps of Lake Manawa State Park Campground can be obtained from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website or at the park entrance. The campground features a straightforward layout with numbered sites. Upon arrival, look for directional signs that guide you to your designated site. For the most current information, contact the park office directly or check the Iowa DNR website before your visit.

What recreational activities are available at Lake Manawa State Park?

Lake Manawa State Park offers numerous recreational activities centered around its beautiful lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming at the designated beach, boating, fishing, and kayaking. The park features Dream Park, a popular playground for children. Hiking trails wind through the area, providing opportunities for nature exploration. The campground is a short walk to the swimming beach, making it convenient for water activities. Most organized recreational programs run between Memorial Day and Labor Day, though visitors with their own equipment can enjoy water activities during the regular season. The park's diverse offerings make it suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.