Dispersed camping near Council Bluffs offers options across both Iowa and Nebraska. The area sits at the edge of the Loess Hills, a rare geological formation found only here and in China. Most campgrounds around Council Bluffs range from 970 to 1,200 feet in elevation, with the Missouri River valley creating distinctive camping environments that transition between prairie, riverside, and woodland settings.
What to do
Hiking the Loess Hills: At Hitchcock County Nature Center, trails showcase the unique hill formations. "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. The views from the two south east campsites are amazing, looking over the Missouri River valley and the Omaha skyline in the distance," notes Aaron A.
Water activities: Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area offers kayaking, fishing, and boating just 20 minutes from Council Bluffs. "The fishing is always as well as the kayaking is as well, (especially novice like myself). The birdwatching as well as the wildlife is abundant. Honestly if not for the city noise you could forget your in a city," writes Tony B.
Educational programs: Conservation and wildlife education programs run year-round at several parks. "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping. Make sure to look at their events calendar, they have exceptional programs for all ages," reports Lynn G. about Hitchcock Nature Center.
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Arrowhead Park Campground offers electric sites for as little as $10-15 per night. "20$ 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," says Martin-Charles S.
Secluded tent sites: Find tent-only areas away from RVs at many Council Bluffs area campgrounds. "I like that you can tent camp anywhere in the Camp area down by the lake with all your friends close by. The trails and playground equipment is nice and the fishing is great! Great Lake for kayaks or canoes as well," Andrew B. mentions about Arrowhead Park.
Camping with skyline views: Several sites offer unique urban-wilderness contrast. "At night you can see the Omaha skyline lit up and the breeze running through there is wonderful," reports Matt S. about camping at Hitchcock Nature Center. "Hitchcock is smack dab in the loess hills which is one of only two places in the world with the hill formations."
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Some campgrounds near Council Bluffs experience significant train disruptions. A reviewer at Louisville State Recreation Area Campground warns, "Train noise all night" and another notes "The tracks run right get along the park" with trains passing "about every 17 minutes" at night.
Seasonal facility limitations: Water access and bathroom availability vary by season. "It won't disappoint!" writes Landon C. about Lake Manawa State Park, but adds "I was told the bathrooms and showers are all really nice," suggesting facilities might not always be open.
Weather preparedness: Spring camping brings potential for severe storms and flooding. "We stayed for only a night while passing though... there was a major storm that rolled though and upon arriving I asked about the weather, which I was watching closely at the radar," notes Eileen H., emphasizing the importance of weather awareness when camping in this area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Cunningham Campground offers newly renovated facilities with family-friendly amenities. "Nice site for a tent camper passing through, beginner adventurers, glampers, or a family staycation. The entire park is well maintained, has a large lake stocked with fish," writes Dana T.
Water recreation for kids: Multiple sites feature splash pads, swimming areas, or water activities geared toward children. "This site is great for any size family. The range of different camping options and amenities is incredible," notes Sandra O. about the West Omaha KOA, adding "Everything is nicely spread out on the grounds."
Educational activities: Ranger programs and nature centers provide learning opportunities. "We love doing their extra classes," shares Karen W. about Hitchcock Nature Center. "There's plenty of hiking. The campgrounds are a little way away from the road and more secluded so they're very quiet. With the nature Center there is plenty for the kids to do."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup accessibility: Bluffs Run RV Park at Horseshoe Casino provides convenient access to Omaha and Council Bluffs with all amenities. "Essentially a parking lot with electric and water hookups, but only 9 minutes from downtown Omaha. There's a building that has bathrooms, showers and laundry," notes Stephanie C.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites wisely based on shade and pad size. "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," explains MickandKarla W., adding "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."
Off-season considerations: Some campgrounds near Council Bluffs close completely in winter, while others maintain limited facilities. "I arrived February 28 to visit the casino and friends in town. I couldn't figure out where to check in so I called the number on the website. Turns out the RV parking is closed for the winter," reports Lisa C. about the Bluffs Run RV Park.
