Equestrian camping near Council Bluffs, Iowa is limited within the immediate area. Council Bluffs sits on the eastern edge of the Missouri River valley with elevations ranging from 970 to 1,250 feet above sea level. The Loess Hills region nearby features unique wind-deposited soil formations that create distinctive terrain for outdoor recreation. Camping options expand significantly when considering locations within a 45-minute drive radius.
What to do
Trail exploration at Platte River State Park: Located 35 minutes southwest of Council Bluffs, this park offers extensive hiking opportunities through varied terrain. "There is a wealth of amazing hiking/biking trails that traverse through some amazing scenery. Just like the camping, you can pick between the less intensive paved walkways or you can walk along the hilly bluffs that contour the Platte River," notes Jared J.
Water activities at Lake Cunningham: The 390-acre lake in Omaha provides multiple water-based recreation options. "Lake Cunningham is a fun destination for getting outside if you only have an afternoon to escape! The lake itself is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing! People do swim near the beach area but it is technically not allowed. I like the beach for letting my dog swim!" shares Kwin K.
Fishing at Two Rivers SRA: Several small lakes and river access points create diverse fishing environments just 45 minutes from Council Bluffs. "This camp area is not much at all. The spaces are really small, and not really one view of the lake. But I still love the areas wildlife, and the lake," explains Tony B. about nearby Pony Creek Park.
What campers like
Varied accommodations at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park: The park offers standard camping plus unique lodging options. "I picked this campground as a stopping point on the way to Yellowstone primarily for the pool for the kids. The pool is awesome. It was, however, expensive. $10 for adults (even as a non swimmer) and $8 for kids plus $3 to rent a tube for the wave pool," reports Meghan H.
Accessibility to recreation at Platte River State Park: The park's layout provides easy access to multiple activities. "This park offers a lot of nature activities. You can hike the many hiking trails to the mini waterfall, or Platte river. They have paddle boat and Kayak rentals. There is a splash park, shooting, archer ranges, horseback riding," details Tony B.
Scenic Loess Hills at Waubonsie State Park: Located 45 minutes south of Council Bluffs, this park showcases the unique landforms of the region. "We actually took 2 sites, one for us and one for my oldest sons site. This worked out and gave a little more space needed. This also gave us time to really explore those trails I was drooling over. We took one of the more scenic trails and took us over the top of some of those beautiful Loess Hills," explains Tony B.
What you should know
Train noise impacts multiple campgrounds: Railroad tracks border several camping areas. "Train noise all night," warns Bill M. about Louisville State Recreation Area, while Justin R. adds, "This has the capability to be a great little state park, but and a huge one at that is at night the trains go by about every 17 minutes. The tracks run right get along the park."
Site spacing varies significantly: Many campgrounds have limited space between sites. "The campsites were decently spaced. But, our site was right by a train track. There were trains going by all night long," reports Jordan H.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "We had no trouble getting a spot since we stayed mid week. There's over 200 modern camp sites," notes Ryan A. regarding Louisville SRA.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Several parks offer child-friendly water features. "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," explains Jennifer M. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
Fishing opportunities for beginners: Stocked lakes provide reliable fishing success for young anglers. "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. Our kid and her friends love the swimming beach," shares Rick J. about Two Rivers SRA.
Trail difficulty options: Multiple parks offer varied hiking difficulties suitable for different ages. "Trails are beautiful and quiet, with several scenic overlooks. Bikes are not allowed on trails. This was a perfect place to take my 12-year-old daughter hiking, and we will be back!" reports Jennifer M. about Waubonsie State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Lake Cunningham Campground: RV sites vary in quality and amenities. "Love the new East lots. Full access with concrete pad. Tons of room between spots. Mini store on the property to buy ice, firewood, and food from," states Connor S.
Utility connections: Water and electric options differ between campgrounds. "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, which is very clean," notes Alana R. about Lake Cunningham.
Dump station access: Some parks have limited facilities for waste disposal. "Oak grove is one of 6 campgrounds at Twin Rivers State Park. It is one of the smaller campgrounds and is peaceful and offers electric and electric plus, fire pit, and picnic table. Most of these campsites are reservable," explains Shannon G. about Oak Grove Campground.
