Camping cabins near Audubon, Iowa sit amidst the rolling hills of west-central Iowa where elevations range from 1,200 to 1,400 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with humid summers reaching into the 90s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most cabin facilities require advance bookings, particularly during summer weekends when occupancy rates often exceed 85%.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Icaria offers multiple fishing spots with boat rentals available. "I will say the ones I have been to, that this is the nicest or one of them. They have concessions, boat rentals, boating of all types, fishing, and trails," notes a visitor to Lake Icaria Co Park.
Hiking trails: Springbrook State Park features several woodland paths suitable for various skill levels. "You'll love this little park if you want to really disconnect and get away from things as there was absolutely 0 cell reception where we were at... Bring some hiking equipment as well as they have multiple nice trails to go hiking on," reports a camper at Springbrook State Park Campground.
Water activities: Swimming beaches and kayaking are available at several lakes in the region. At Spring Lake County Park, one camper noted, "We loved our stay here! Beautiful campground and well maintained. Unfortunately the skate arena was closed for the season. Lots of trails to choose from and spacious campsites."
What campers like
Scenic lake views: Many cabin visitors appreciate waterfront locations. "We were lucky and got a spot right along the lake. This park is peaceful (only slight downfall is the trains you can hear a bit-not too loud though). Bike/hiking trail, disc golf, kayak/paddle boat rentals, swimming beach, historic roller skating rink, playgrounds and more," reports a camper at Spring Lake County Park.
Wildlife viewing: Prairie Rose State Park offers opportunities to spot local birds and animals. "The whole family enjoyed prairie wildlife such as a blue heron, geese, bald eagles, frogs etc. The hiking trails were well cut out and offered views of the lake, woods, and natural prairie," writes a visitor to Prairie Rose State Park Campground.
Modern bathroom facilities: Cabin campers appreciate clean restrooms at many locations. A guest at Arrowhead Park mentioned, "20$ is a really good deal for a nice site with electricity, a picnic table on a cement slab and a hot free clean shower. We were hesitating between this spot and a truck stop with shower. More than happy and satisfied with our choice."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many cabin rentals operate from April through October with limited winter options. At Swan Lake State Park, one visitor noted, "Tented camped in late October, the weekend before closing. I was only tent camper in the electric only sites. If there was a tent only location, I didn't see it. Those in campers that need water and electricity are regulated to gravel 'parking lot' sites."
Bathroom situations: Facility quality varies significantly between parks. A camper at Arrowhead Park Campground reported, "I stayed one night on my way to Colorado. For only $10 dollars this campground has a lot to provided including free showers. First come first serve. Highly recommend."
Cell reception: Several locations have limited connectivity. A Springbrook State Park visitor mentioned, "You'll love this little park if you want to really disconnect and get away from things as there was absolutely 0 cell reception where we were at."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several locations offer kid-friendly amenities. "Swiming, fishing, and skating?? Awesome campground with lots to do!" says a visitor about Spring Lake County Park, which features an unusual open-air roller skating rink during summer months.
Swimming options: Look for designated beach areas with safety features. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, a guest reported, "We loved this KOA! Itinerary was on point. Lots for kids to do! The pool was up and running perfect! They even had a dunk tank which was pretty funny!"
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs for children. "They had a little nature center which was closed but the nice lady opened it for my kids to go in and let them hold snakes and turtles! They were so excited!" shares a Springbrook State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most cabin areas share campgrounds with RV sites. "Very nice campground with a large lake, and almost empty! Clean showers, hiking. Electric only. Water available in the campground," notes a Prairie Rose State Park visitor.
Site layout: Space between cabins and RV sites varies significantly. At Yellow Smoke Park, a visitor shared: "This campground was perfect for a small family reunion. We rented out their 3 cabins and had a whole area to ourselves. The kids could walk down to the sand and a bridge. Very well kept, you must clean up after yourself - which should always be the case anyway."
Dump stations: Most parks feature single stations that can become congested during peak checkout times. "20$ is a really good deal for a nice site with electricity, a picnic table on a cement slab and a hot free clean shower," reported an Arrowhead Park visitor.
