Cabin camping near Gladbrook, Iowa provides access to diverse recreational settings within Tama County and surrounding areas. Situated in central Iowa at about 950 feet elevation, the region features rolling hills, prairie landscapes, and several waterways including the Iowa River. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with moderate humidity, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor activities from May through September.
What to do
Kayaking on Pine Lake: Pine Lake State Park offers excellent kayaking opportunities on two connected lakes. "Paddle on upper or lower Pine Lake" suggests Kerry M., who notes the park has "so much to list" including "bicycle trails, hiking trails, beach swimming, and float or paddle nearby Iowa River."
Fishing at Union Grove: Union Grove State Park Campground provides quality fishing opportunities on its small lake. "Union Grove is known for having good lake fishing. The lake is also a great place for kayaking or canoeing," shares Kerry M. The campground is quiet with "mostly RV sites, but there are a handful of smaller tent sites at the back."
Hiking at Hickory Hills Park: This 700+ acre park offers extensive hiking trails and natural areas. "This is a great quiet park with animals for visiting and a very clean shower house," mentions Andi A. The park also features "fishing, and disc golf... with modern amenities and a small zoo of animals from birds to buffalo," according to Ronnie N.
Mini golf and swimming: L. Brandt's Crazy Acres Campground & Cabin Rental offers family-friendly recreation options. "The kids had fun playing mini golf, swimming at the beach and playing at the playgrounds," shares Nichole P., who found it to be "a quiet and peaceful campground" with special events like Halloween trick-or-treating.
What campers like
Modern cabin amenities: Tower Rock offers fully equipped cabins along the Iowa River. Kerry M. notes, "The two cabins are fairly new and have all of the amenities," making them ideal for short stays. Another camper mentions they're "very comfortable and cozy."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of shower and bathroom facilities at several parks. At Pine Lake State Park, one visitor notes, "Bathrooms and shower rooms are new and super clean. Campground is well kept." The park receives high marks for its maintenance standards.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the tranquil settings at local parks. At Union Grove State Park Campground, Kerry M. describes it as a "quiet" campground, while Maggie C. calls it "small and quiet" with "a few trails to hike and a horse camp."
Lake access: Big Woods Lake offers excellent water recreation options. Steve T. describes it as "a small, no wake lake - but great for using your SUP or kayaks." The campground features "several buddy set ups, allowing two campers to set up with main doors facing each other."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Operating seasons vary significantly between parks. Union Grove operates from May 1 to September 30, while Pine Lake remains open year-round. Always check current schedules before planning cabin stays, especially during shoulder seasons.
Variable site privacy: Site layouts and privacy differ between campgrounds. At Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA, Kimberly E. notes "little shade with small trees next to about each site" and feeling "pretty exposed but the amenities made up for it." Consider this when selecting cabin locations.
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance reservations, especially during summer months. At Tower Rock, cabins are "reservable" but limited to just two units, requiring early booking. Weekends typically fill first during peak season.
Varying amenities: Cabin facilities differ substantially between parks. Jennifer M. describes Pine Lake cabins as having "a nice stone fireplace a decent living room, small kitchen, and bathroom," while other locations may offer more basic accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Campgrounds with dedicated children's areas enhance family stays. The Waterloo KOA includes "a nice playground on the campground" according to John K., who rated it "very clean, well maintained" with "amazing Waterpark across the road."
Consider beach availability: Outback Campground & Resort offers swimming opportunities for children. "The pond isn't a far walk and had plenty of small fish for the kids to catch," notes Brandon R., though he cautions the "dock is pretty sketchy, if even usable."
Check for family-friendly events: Some campgrounds host special activities. At L. Brandt's Crazy Acres, one camper enjoyed their Halloween celebration, noting "the weekend we camped there was their Halloween trick or treating and all the campers were very nice."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling concerns: Check campground reviews for information about site levelness. At Union Grove, Maggie C. warns "some sites are off with level & weird (ie stairs/door open on an incline and away from the table)," suggesting campers "pick your site carefully."
Hookup configurations: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary by location and site. Waterloo KOA provides "decent sites with full hook ups" according to Kimberly E., who appreciates the gas, propane, laundry room, and "good sized convenience store with ice, beer, snacks."
Bathroom access: Consider proximity to restroom facilities when selecting cabin or RV sites. Big Woods Lake features "two vault toilets placed on the bike path" and "one modern bathroom with showers in the campground," notes Jennifer T.
