Cabins near Ely, Iowa range from rustic one-room structures to modern accommodations with kitchenettes. Located in the Eastern Iowa Drift Plain, the region features rolling hills and waterways including the Wapsipinicon and Cedar Rivers. Weather patterns create distinct camping seasons with hot, humid summers and cold winters.
What to Do
Hiking along scenic bluffs: Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground offers multiple trail options with impressive river views. "Beautiful trails, stone gazebo. Nice hike along the Cedar River. Only camped once, but definitely on the list to visit again," notes Brett G.
Water recreation on multiple bodies: Lake Iowa County Park provides water access for paddling and fishing. "The area around the lake and near by pond, is not overly developed. There are wild raspberries and mulberries, lots of wildlife. We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through," reports Leslie P.
River tubing and kayaking: Rolin Wapsi Campground offers equipment rentals and shuttle service for river excursions. "They also offer Tubes, Kayaks, Canoes and a Shuttle service to float on the Wapsi River," explains Barbara R., highlighting options beyond just cabin stays.
What Campers Like
Modern bathroom facilities: Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area Campground provides updated restroom and shower buildings. "Cabins were nice - not luxury or glamping but clean and in good condition. The gentleman that takes care of the campground takes great pride in his work and it shows," writes Mitch C.
Playground amenities: Pinicon Ridge Park features exceptional play areas for children of various ages. "They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen. There were activities for kids of all ages, and they used a rubber composite on the ground at the playground so when kiddos fall, they aren't injured," shares Chelsea D.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabin rental locations offer chances to observe local fauna. At Lake Iowa County Park, campers report: "We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through."
What You Should Know
Site placement varies significantly: Not all cabin and tent sites have lake views or level ground. "Very few sites have a view of the lake. To walk to the lake or near by pond you must go down hill, which could be a problem for any one with mobility issues," warns a Lake Iowa County Park visitor.
Seasonal closure information: Several parks close facilities during winter months. At Palisades-Kepler, "CG and cabins closed for winter season for improvements and online reservations."
Parking regulations: Some parks strictly enforce vehicle limits at campsites. One visitor noted, "The Ranger Man enforced a 2 car per campsite rule. He forced 3 over 65 couples to drive to a parking lots and I shuttled them back and forth."
Tips for Camping with Families
Storm safety measures: Many parks have designated storm shelters for emergencies. Pinicon Ridge Park has "storm shelter right on site. Playground is awesome for kids of all ages."
Cabin selection for groups: When booking accommodations for larger families, consider space limitations. Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow offers "three cozy cabins which are located up front and close to the fishing pond, where these structures come with running hot and cold water along with electricity."
Weekend crowd management: Parks can get busy during peak times. "We made a reservation for a nice summer weekend but when we arrived someone was in our site. Luckily there was one more site available where the ranger asked us to stay instead since the other group was set up already," reports a visitor from Palisades-Kepler.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Several parks have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. At Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow, campers advise: "Bring a lot of leveling blocks. Most sites are slanted in both planes."
Off-season considerations: Services may be limited during shoulder seasons. "Campground offers pads, firings, electric, tables, and there is a dump station," notes James M. about Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground.
Pull-through accessibility: For larger rigs, confirm site dimensions before booking. "The spots are good and most are pull-throughs but some are too short for a 30' camper," shares Erik W. about his experience at Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow.
