Council Bluffs camping areas sit at approximately 1,100 feet elevation within the Loess Hills region, a rare landform composed of wind-deposited silt found in only two places worldwide. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping offers milder 60-75°F daytime temperatures. Most Council Bluffs campsites remain open from April through October, with a few year-round options for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Fishing access: 1 mile trail system at Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area connects to shoreline fishing spots stocked with bass and catfish. "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," notes Tony B.
Water recreation: family swimming beach at Lake Cunningham Campground offers paddle sport rentals for $10-15/hour during summer months. "The lake is right there, with a nice bike path that comes all the way around. You can pay $1 for a hot shower in the comfort station, which is very clean," reports Alana R.
Loess Hills hiking: multiple difficulty levels at Hitchcock County Nature Center with trails ranging from 1-mile accessible boardwalks to challenging ridge routes. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. 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.
What campers like
Multi-use recreation: bike paths and water access at Lake Cunningham provide outdoor activities for all ability levels. "This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds we have ever encountered! On a beautiful lake with many recreational possibilities - kayaking, sailing non power boating - some for rent. 10 miles of paved bike trails and ALL paved campsites level and clean!" writes Steve D.
Bird watching: hawk observation tower at Hitchcock Nature Center offers prime migration viewing from September through November. "When your done with your hiking, climb up to the top of the towering platform and bring your binoculars to checkout the visiting hawks and occasional eagle," recommends Matt S.
Budget-friendly camping: $15-20 electric sites at Arrowhead Park Campground include free hot showers and lake access. "Beautiful little spot by a small lake. Excellent pricing- $15 for the night with electric. Several camp sights for RV and tent. Lots of amenities including canoe and paddle boat rentals," shares Rachel H.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and flooding: Some Council Bluffs area campgrounds experience periodic closures. Haworth City Park has struggled with Missouri River flooding. "This park is right off the Missouri river, and everytime there is flooding this places gets shelled. We had some major flooding here 2019, and it appears this park is still closed," notes Tony B.
Train noise impacts sleep: Louisville State Recreation Area campgrounds sit near active rail lines. "Train noise all night," reports Bill M., while another camper advises, "Train tracks near the campground aren't terrible but can be distracting at the beginning of the night."
Shade limitations for summer camping: Many Council Bluffs campgrounds lack adequate tree cover. "No trees. Very hot in the sun. Very quiet, gated entry. You cannot enter without reservation for gate code," warns one camper about Lake Manawa State Park's newly renovated campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: dedicated play areas at West Omaha/NE Lincoln KOA Holiday provide supervised recreation for different age groups. "This site is great for any size family. The range of different camping options and amenities is incredible. The facilities are well maintained, the staff is friendly and helpful," shares Sandra O.
Educational programming: nature center activities at Hitchcock Nature Center include kid-friendly learning opportunities throughout camping season. "We love doing their extra classes. This is one of our favorite places to camp. It's beautiful and there's plenty of hiking. The campgrounds are a little way away from the road and more secluded so they're very quiet," explains Karen W.
Affordable family outings: canoe and paddleboat rentals at Arrowhead Park cost $5-10/hour, making water recreation accessible for families. "For only $10 dollars this campground has a lot to provided including free showers. First come first serve. Highly recommend," notes Jessica F.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: varying levels of service available throughout the Council Bluffs area. "The sites have concrete pads with power, but no water or sewer. There is a fill station on the way in," notes an RVer about Lake Cunningham.
Overnight convenience: free parking alternatives exist at Bluffs Run RV Park at Horseshoe Casino for self-contained units. "We called the casino & they told us we could park in the lot for free. If you want electricity & showers, you can pay. We just needed a place to sleep as there are not a lot of campgrounds here," shares Paula C.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Council Bluffs: leash requirements strictly enforced at all public campgrounds. Walnut Creek Lake Recreation Area provides designated pet walking areas. "It's a beautiful campsite electric hookups water at a pump down the hill and a dump there too," notes Nicky O.
