Several campgrounds offer alternatives to equestrian camping near Carter Lake, Iowa, with diverse options for outdoor activities. The region features rolling hills and waterways that create varied terrain for camping and recreation. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, though some maintain year-round availability with limited winter services.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Cunningham Campground offers multiple fishing spots with stocked lakes. "This lake is one of the very few in Omaha that offers camping. And definitely of all types rv, and tent... They also offered rental boats for the lake, a really nice walking trail, and fishing," notes Tony B.
Water recreation: Louisville State Recreation Area Campground features lakes for paddling and swimming. "There is a swim area along the beach of Lake 2. They have a brand new water park fairly busy on weekend," explains Linda H.
Hiking trails: The region offers varied hiking terrain. "The hiking trails are not for bikes, and they have several different levels or skills levels. The look out was pretty cool as well," shares Tony B. about Waubonsie State Park Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to water: Many campsites offer lakeside or riverside settings. "We had a river-side view to a nice sunset and sat at my picnic table and watched fireworks go off on the other side of the river," reports Daniel B. about Louisville State Recreation Area.
Shade coverage: Goldenrod Campground provides natural protection from summer heat. "It has a nice amount of room between spots and lots of trees for shade," notes Shannon G. when describing Oak Grove Campground at Two Rivers State Park.
Variety of accommodations: Beyond traditional sites, unique options exist. "You can pay to rent one of the train caboose cars at Two Rivers State Recreation Area. They also offer tent, and RV camping either off the lakes or river," explains Tony B.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad disturbances. "Train tracks near the campground aren't terrible but can be distracting at the beginning of the night," Ryan A. reports about Louisville State Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Advanced planning is necessary, especially during peak seasons. "You get put on a waiting list and have to return to main office at 3. Then they start at beginning of list and people start choosing so get on waiting list early," advises Shannon G.
Seasonal closures: Facility availability changes throughout the year. "The sites have concrete pads with power, but no water or sewer. There is a fill station on the way in. You can pay $1 for a hot shower in the comfort station," notes Alana R. about Lake Cunningham.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground offers extensive recreation. "This place has it all... Hiking trails, frisbee golf, horseback riding, driving range, fishing, tennis courts, river views, cabins!" reports Charlie B.
Swimming areas: Designated swim zones provide safer water play. "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids including paddleboating, a wave pool, horse riding, ziplining, and playgrounds," shares Jennifer M.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment. "There is an old playground by a vault toilet," Shannon G. mentions about Oak Grove Campground at Two Rivers State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Platte River State Park Campground offers varied spacing between sites. "Campsites are decently spaced. Several 'lakes' throughout campground. Park offers overnight stays in several decommissioned train caboose cars," explains Jen K.
Hookup availability: Electric service is standard, but other connections vary. "The sites have concrete pads with power, but no water or sewer. There is a fill station on the way in," explains Alana R.
Level sites: Look for campgrounds with prepared pads. "A relative's driveway would've been free, but here we got a level pull-thru spot and the encouragement and advice of a kind camp host," shares James H. about Lake Cunningham Campground.
