Carter Lake, Iowa sits along the western edge of Iowa, adjacent to Omaha, Nebraska. The area features the unique Loess Hills formation, one of only two places in the world with this type of wind-deposited silt landscape. Camping options near Carter Lake vary significantly in terrain and amenities, with elevations ranging from river valley floodplains to ridge-top sites that can experience strong winds during storms.
What to do
Hiking trails: Hitchcock County Nature Center offers extensive trail networks through the Loess Hills. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. They already have a nice flat spot for your tent, although I'm a hammock camper," notes Aaron A. The center features trails for various skill levels, including a handicapped accessible boardwalk.
Archery practice: Hitchcock Nature Center maintains an on-site archery range open to visitors. "As a family we go to Hitchcock a few times a year for the hiking and the archery range they have on-site. Both are excellent and a nice escape from the city," says Pat V.
Educational programming: Nature centers in the area host regular educational events. At Hitchcock County Nature Center, "make sure to look at their events calendar, they have exceptional programs for all ages (and especially kids). I learned about this park from Pheasants Forever, a nonprofit," recommends Lynn G. The center also features a hawkwatch tower with regular bird migration programming.
What campers like
Scenic views: Ridge-top campsites provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. "The views from the two south east campsites are amazing, looking over the Missouri River valley and the Omaha skyline in the distance," shares Aaron A. about Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Convenient location: Many campers appreciate the proximity to urban amenities while still enjoying nature. "Short drive from the city and you are in the Loess Hills that were explored by Lewis and Clark on their trek west," mentions Pat V. Similarly, Victorian Acres RV Park & Campground receives praise for being "easy access from the highway. The staff and other campers were very friendly. Large sites, many with trees. Well landscaped with lots of green space," according to Zach H.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers rank high with campers. Victorian Acres receives consistent praise: "Everything was freshly manicured on the grounds. Everything was very clean and no trash whatsoever anywhere," notes Caleb L. Another camper mentions, "The amenities such as showers and bathrooms were clean and decorated cute."
What you should know
Military-only options: Offutt AFB FamCamp provides camping for military personnel with ID. "No mini van life converters with no bathroom allowed. Their toilets and showers are down. Wide open, no shade trees, next to Missouri River," notes Julie. The campground features full hookup sites near the Missouri River.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in the area close during winter months. Bob Hardy RV Park operates from "early April to late October" according to their listing information. A visitor noted, "Shower house available until it gets down to freezing weather."
Self-registration systems: Several campgrounds use self-service registration when arriving after hours. "Stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked," shares Abby W. about her experience at Hitchcock Nature Center.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: Ashland RV Campground positions families close to entertainment options. "To entertain my kids (ages 6-12), there were several geocaches to find within walking distance, and the town has a splash pad and pool during the summer months," notes Andrew D.
Kid-friendly hiking: Look for shorter trails with educational components. Karen W. shares about Hitchcock Nature Center: "There's even a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy. There's all levels of hikes... Lots of information about Hawks and nature conservation. We love doing their extra classes."
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer pools during summer months. One visitor to Pine Grove RV Park notes, "We love the friendly staff, the onsite cafe, and the beautiful pool. The owners take great care of the pool, so our grandkids come out and swim with us whenever they can."
Tips from RVers
Highway noise considerations: RV sites near Carter Lake, Iowa often come with interstate noise trade-offs. Pine Grove RV Park & Campground has 130 sites but campers note: "Some people complain about the I-80 noise, but it really varies. We never hear it when we are inside our motorhome. Some evenings it is pretty loud outside and others we can barely hear it."
Electrical service options: Most rv sites near Carter Lake offer various electrical hookup options. Bob Hardy RV Park provides "electrical only. Picnic table and grill at each site... Dump station and water fill," according to Chris H. Another camper clarified, "All camps for 30amps. Only 2 drinkable water fountains."
Site leveling challenges: Check if your selected site is level before setting up. At Ashland RV Campground, one camper notes, "Site wasn't level front to back and the host offered to move us. We told her it was ok and after we step up she came back to check again."
