Cabin accommodations near Decorah, Iowa range from basic wooden structures to fully-equipped vacation rentals. Located within the distinctive Driftless Region, most Decorah cabins sit among limestone bluffs and river valleys at elevations between 850-1200 feet. Cabin rental availability peaks between May and September when daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, with limited options during winter months when nighttime temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Tubing on the river: Upper Iowa Resort and Rental offers river activities directly from their property. "The best part of this camp is they offer tube canoe and kayak rentals with a shuttle to the put in then you float back to the campground," reports one visitor who appreciated the convenience.
Cave exploration: Cabin guests can visit nearby cave systems for a unique underground adventure. The Mystery Cave tour at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park costs $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 5-12. "The cave tours are well done and the sites are scenic and tucked into the woods. There is also a winery (Four Daughter) not far away that's more than worth stopping at," notes one camper.
Historical sites: Several cabin rentals provide access to regional historical attractions. At Pikes Peak State Park Campground, cabins are near significant cultural landmarks. "On your way to the falls, just north of the main overlook, you will notice Bear Mound, an effigy built by ancient American Indians who inhabited the area from 800-1200 A.D. There are 63 mounds in the park, most of them conical or linear in shape," explains one visitor.
What campers like
Private cabin locations: Many guests appreciate the secluded setting of cabins in the Decorah area. At Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground, one visitor noted, "The lower campground is right next to the river and there are RV, tent and cabin sites available." This placement offers direct river access for many activities.
Year-round options: While most cabin rentals operate seasonally, some remain available during winter months. A visitor to Big Paint Campground mentioned, "Was very thankful to find a place to overnight in mid-November. Not a lot of free parking options in this part of Iowa." The off-season cabins provide basic shelter during colder months.
Proximity to trails: Cabin rentals situated near regional trail systems are especially popular. One visitor to the Decorah area observed, "There are fun free activities for kids to check out from the park office and a playground. There is no cell service at this park (TMobile)," highlighting the family-friendly amenities available at cabins with good trail access.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Some cabin rentals offer limited bathroom options. At Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground, one guest reported, "The bathrooms and showers here were very gross though. The hiking here had great views but trails were not labeled well." Always confirm bathroom access before booking.
Seasonal availability affects services: Many cabin providers reduce services during shoulder seasons. "Fee was $12. First come first served basis from November through March," noted one off-season visitor, indicating limited reservation options during winter months.
Cell service limitations: The Driftless Region topography creates communication challenges at many cabin locations. "There is no cell reception at all. This great if you want to get away from it all, but if you're staying a while and need to work, this isn't the place to do it," observed one cabin guest.
Tips for camping with families
Book river-adjacent cabins: Family groups often prefer cabins with direct water access. At Skip-A-Way Resort, "They have a beach for swimming. Boats for renting but they were out of order for repairs when we were here. You can rent kayaks, bikes. They have mini golf but you have to pay 8 dollars for that." These amenities keep children entertained throughout a stay.
Look for cabin clusters: Families traveling together should seek properties with multiple cabin units. "We visit on memorial day weekend with a large group. Camp right along side the Upper Iowa River....80 foot limestone bluffs!" reported one group traveler who found accommodations for everyone.
Check quiet hour policies: Family cabins vary in noise tolerance levels. One visitor noted, "They are sticklers on the quiet time after 10 or 11pm. My friends and I have been given warnings about being quiet, so it's definitely more of a family campground." This enforcement helps maintain peace for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Consider cabin upgrades from RV sites: Some travelers opt for cabins instead of RV hookups during extreme weather. "We stayed in the upper C campground, every spot is spread far apart for privacy. Yes there was music and people partying I have read people complain in other reviews, but it was done at a decent time and what do you expect?" This indicates the social atmosphere at mixed-use facilities.
Check electrical capacity: Cabin electrical systems vary significantly. "Some sites have power and water, ours only power. There's a water pipe and dump station on the way out," reported one RVer who booked a cabin instead of an RV site, noting the limited utilities.
Verify generator policies: For cabin guests using portable power, know that restrictions exist. "Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa's state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers. Many sites have full hook-up, most if not all have electric. I paid $25 a night. Full week is $150!!" This pricing reference helps determine cost differences between cabin rentals and RV accommodations.
