Cabins near Council Bluffs, Iowa range from rustic structures to modern accommodations set amid the distinctive Loess Hills landscape. The area sits at the western edge of Iowa where the Missouri River creates a natural border with Nebraska. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer months typically reach 85-90°F with moderate humidity, making cabin rentals popular year-round.
What to do
Hiking in the Loess Hills: Hitchcock Nature Center offers miles of trails through the unique soil formations found in only two places worldwide. "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below," notes Pat V. who visited the center with his family.
Archery practice: Several parks maintain designated archery ranges for visitors. According to Pat V., "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!"
Fishing opportunities: Memphis Lake State Recreation Area provides excellent lakeside fishing with minimal wake restrictions. "This lake has great fishing and has peace, and quiet. The lake is a no wake zone, so kayaks, and canoes are great," explains Tony B., who appreciates the tranquil setting for anglers.
Wildlife observation: The region's wetlands attract diverse bird species, especially during migration seasons. "We are still in the middle of some bird migrations, so the geese were really loud but that is just due to time of year," mentions Pat V. about his spring visit to Memphis Lake State Recreation Area.
What campers like
Affordable rates: Many campgrounds offer reasonable fees for overnight stays with basic amenities. At Arrowhead Park, camper Jessica F. found "For only $10 dollars this campground has a lot to provide including free showers. First come first serve. Highly recommend."
Lakefront camping: Several parks allow tent campers to set up directly alongside water features. David L. appreciates that at Memphis Lake, "Many of the tent sites allow you to camp right next to the lake. It's generally pretty quiet and people respect the 10 pm quiet hours rule."
Unique accommodations: Two Rivers State Recreation Area features converted train cabooses for overnight stays. Shannon G. explains, "They have Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc. There are miles of trail available with backcountry camping available for $10 per night."
Self-service convenience: Some parks offer streamlined check-in processes for late arrivals. Abby W. appreciated Hitchcock Nature Center's approach: "Stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked."
What you should know
Site selection flexibility: Tent campers often have more freedom in choosing sites at certain parks. Sarah H. noted about Arrowhead Park, "We were first and foremost impressed with the freedom we had in choosing our site. Tent camping here is non-reservable, but once you enter the park, you may choose from any spots containing a fire pit outside of RV loops."
Bathroom availability: Facilities vary significantly between locations and seasons. Tony B. mentioned at Memphis Lake that "The bathrooms could use an upgrade or a good cleaning, and the one by our site was locked up and not open."
Reservation systems: Some parks use waiting lists for unreserved sites. Shannon G. explains about Goldenrod Campground, "The walk up process is a little strange. 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."
Weather considerations: The region experiences occasional severe weather events requiring shelter access. During a storm at West Omaha KOA Holiday, Eileen H. reported "We and others asked a few staff members where should we take cover in case it hits us. They then whispered the bathrooms or an underground shelter."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple parks offer safe swimming areas and boat rentals for families. At Arrowhead Park, "Canoe and paddle boat rental is extremely reasonable. Hiking trails near the park entrance are rugged. The staff was incredibly kind and easy-going, yet attentive," according to Sarah H.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment for younger visitors. Jared Diana S. found at Goldenrod Campground, "Very nice camp sites and playgrounds for children nice clean fishing lakes and river access."
Educational programming: Nature centers frequently offer structured activities for children. Karen W. shares about Hitchcock Nature Center: "With the nature Center there is plenty for the kids to do. There's even a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy. There's all levels of hikes. They have a hawkwatch tower."
Kid-friendly fishing: Some parks stock smaller ponds to ensure fishing success for beginners. "This is a great campground for camping and fishing with kids. The fishing is easy in all the lakes and they have a pay fishing trout lake that nearly guarantees success," explains Rick J. about Two Rivers State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV areas at some parks offer minimal separation between neighbors. Jen K. notes about Fawn Meadows that "Campsites are decently spaced. Several 'lakes' throughout campground."
Campsite features: Most RV sites include basic amenities and level surfaces. Eric H. found at Arrowhead Park, "Sites were gravel, with a picnic table, fire ring, and electrical hookup. Our site was well shaded with trees."
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds due to proximity to major roads. Jennifer M. mentions about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, "This campground is crowded with significant interstate noise. However there are many activities for kids."
Dump station logistics: Waste disposal facilities can become congested during peak periods. Shannon G. observed at Fawn Meadows, "It is near the road and the dump station is in view. There is sometimes a line of campers at the dump station."
