Cabin camping near Ottumwa, Iowa provides access to several state parks within a 30-mile radius. Located in the gently rolling hills of southeast Iowa where the Des Moines River flows through at approximately 650 feet above sea level, the region experiences warm summers with high humidity and cold winters. Seasonal availability varies by location, with some cabins operating year-round while others close from January through March due to winter conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails and wildlife viewing: At Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground, campers enjoy well-maintained trails throughout the seasons. "There are almost 80 sites in the campground. Don't miss the hiking trails and the Beach House and swimming lake. Don't miss lake Sugema, the Indian Mounds or the Ely Ford Mormon Trail crossing," notes one visitor. The park features historical sites along with natural areas.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Iowa County Park offers fishing access with minimal shoreline development. "The area around the lake and near by pond, is not overly developed. There are wild raspberries and mulberries, lots of wildlife," reports one camper. The lake supports multiple fish species and allows both shore and boat fishing.
Swimming and water activities: Many parks feature swimming beaches during summer months. At Indian Lake Park, you'll find "a lake with a nice sandy beach" according to reviewers. Rental options for water activities exist at several locations. "There is a boat ramp, hiking trails, showers, and the ohv park is only 30 min away on the other side of the lake," notes a visitor at Honey Creek State Park.
What campers like
Spacious, well-designed campsites: Lake Wapello State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its layout. "Spacious campground with clean facilities. Some campsites are close to the lake," shares one camper who appreciated the park's design. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables with reasonable separation between neighbors.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards are high across most parks. At Keokuk County Belva Deer Park, visitors find "$12 a night for primitive camping and you get nice warm showers by the main entrance and nice bathrooms by the main entrance." The cleanliness of shower facilities receives frequent positive mentions across multiple parks.
Wildlife encounters: Many cabins offer opportunities to view local wildlife. Lake Iowa County Park visitors report, "We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through." At Lacey Keosauqua State Park, one camper noted, "Bonus: the deer came out each evening to forage."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals require advance planning. For Lake Darling State Park Campground, visitors advise "They even have cabin rentals for the more glamping lifestyle. They do book up quick in advance, but there is usually walk up spots available the week of too."
Seasonal considerations: Many cabins have limited seasonal availability. "We stayed for a week in mid November. Although we had a storm at the beginning and end the overall stay was great. Weather ranged from 50s to 70s during the day and 30s to 40s at night," reports a Lacey Keosauqua visitor about off-season stays.
Campfire smoke concerns: In tightly packed campgrounds, smoke can be an issue. One Lake Iowa camper warned, "Around 2:30am there was so much smoke in our van from nearby campfires that I woke up sick and my dog threw up all over the bed." Consider cabin placement and wind direction when selecting sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature playground equipment for children. Indian Lake Park "has something for everyone. They have primitive tent sites, electric only, electric+water, and fhu. They also have cabins for rent... There is a playground, a few nice hiking trails, and a lake with a nice sandy beach."
Water activities for kids: Waubonsie Trail Park provides family-friendly amenities. "Horseshoe pit, playground and campfire swing area were nice surprises. All for under $20 for electric RV site! Great campground for a small group event," writes one visitor. Many parks offer gentle shorelines suitable for younger children.
Educational opportunities: Several parks include nature programs and historical features. "Waubonsie trail behind park is a short hike to the covered bridge and Dutchman's Store. Perfect Way to stretch your legs after a long day on the road," notes a visitor, highlighting accessible activities for families of all ages.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on specific needs. At Lake Darling, "Opportunities for improvement would be that the full hookup sites have the neighbors waste tube close the campers picnic table. Sometimes getting a whiff of black water waste while trying eat dinner leaves a little to be desired. If a person camps in the regular electric only sites this is not a problem."
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are available at several parks, though quality varies. At Indian Lake Park, they have "full hookups, tent site swim beach, fishing, canoes,and f, playgrounds also cabins a stone lodge for family get togethers some sites just have electric and water on site and there are some full hookups."
Campground layout awareness: Honey Creek State Park campers recommend particular areas: "We camped in spot #20 of the north loop. I would not recommend any spot in the center second of the loop. It was more like parking than camping." Research specific loop and site layouts before booking cabin or RV sites.
