99 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Glenwood, Iowa include a mix of state parks, county parks, and recreation areas offering diverse camping experiences along the Missouri River valley and Loess Hills region. Glenwood Lake Park provides RV camping with electric hookups, while Pony Creek Co Park offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options approximately 2 miles south of town. The surrounding area features several established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive, including Lake Manawa State Park Campground in Council Bluffs and Louisville State Recreation Area across the Nebraska border, providing access to both wooded areas and lakefront sites.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the region, with most campgrounds operating from April through October or November. "This is a state-funded park, so non-Nebraska plated cars have an additional fee," noted one camper about Louisville State Recreation Area. Flooding can significantly impact camping options, particularly along the Missouri River, as several reviews mentioned closures due to past flood events. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends, though some offer first-come, first-served sites. Travelers should be aware that train noise affects several campgrounds in the area, particularly those near railroad tracks, which can disrupt sleep even with earplugs.
Campers report mixed experiences with amenities and privacy at local campgrounds. The region's campgrounds typically feature electric hookups, with many offering full hookups for RVs, while tent camping options may be more limited at certain locations. A visitor to Pony Creek noted, "The spaces are really small, and not really one view of the lake. This camp area is not much at all." However, others appreciate the natural setting of the Loess Hills, a unique landform that provides distinctive hiking opportunities. Wildlife viewing is commonly mentioned in reviews, with deer, raccoons, and birds frequently spotted. Water recreation forms a central attraction at many campgrounds, with fishing opportunities at lakes and ponds throughout the region, though swimming areas are less common.
"Lakeside locations are quite well spaced with a panoramic Lake view. small restroom and shower pair with unisex entry. Quite spartan, but relatively clean."
"Our confirmation email included precise directions from I-29, with an interstate sign confirming the turn for Lake Manawa State Park, and provided the gate code for access."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"This is a nice campground located on the edge of Papillion, Nebraska. There are several trails nearby, some paved and others grass. The main trailhead is easily accessible from the park road."
"There is a large paved path that goes all the way around the lake, while also connecting to the greater trail system in the Omaha metro area. There are singletrack trails available too. "
from $20 / night
Check Availability"It is an older campground but near the river, walking trails, and close to all the amenities of Nearby Omaha (aprox. 25 minutes to downtown)."
"Nice quiet campground away from the hustle and bustle yet close to city for anything forgotten."
"A few vault toilets are scattered around the park, but there are no shower facilities. Nearby is a small lake along with a nature center. Park is within a valley with lots of shade trees."
"A HUGE campground with around 250 total sites, with options ranging from walk-in camping tent-only sites to RV areas. There is a 3 decent-size lakes spread evenly across the grounds."
"Water and dump in the park. 5 lakes for fishing, kayak, hiking trails, rc track, access to the river, convince store, swimming beach, blowup obstacles course, and shower bathroom locations."
from $15 - $35 / night
Check Availability"A nice little city park in the Loess Hills of Iowa, it's not a destination but makes for a good overnight stop. The campground is primarily RV camping with about 20 sites with full hook ups."
"Short walk in but a wagon is provided to help unload equipment. Picnic and fire pit near the teepee."
"I’m never a fan of sitting at my picnic table to eat 8 foot away from someone dumping their sewer tanks. That’s the only con I see here. Luckily we had one of the end sites."
from $35 - $340 / night
Check Availability"I pulled in late at night easy to navigate stayed the next day and did some trails apparently the land formations are 1 of only 2 in the world how about that Iowa."
"We camp all the time at different locations, and I 100% recommend this campground! The hosts are so polite and helpful and they keep the place immaculate."
from $10 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Wide open, no shade trees, next to Missouri River and 4 stars for rv camping. Very easy to find with directions posted on this site. Otherwise ... no rv or camper ... turn around."
"Very convenient location close to lots of shopping and the convention center."
from $40 - $50 / night
Check Availability
ScoutMy parents stayed in one of the tiny homes during their visit, and it exceeded every expectation. It was super quiet, serene, and so charming. They had the best time, and I couldn't be happier with how relaxing their stay was!
ScoutWe stayed here March - June this year. The staff was always friendly and helpful, and there have been many upgrades done to the park. Would be happy to stay there again if we’re back in the area.
ScoutOverall we enjoyed our stay, the amenities that came with the glamping tent are great. We enjoyed that it came with a mini fridge and paper products that were needed. Would have enjoyed a list of all the items and amenities that the glamping tent came with. We brought a lot of extra stuff that wasn’t needed because we were unsure of what the glamping tent supplied. It’s probably time for new linens on the bed as the sheets and pillowcases have many stains on them. The wood that is provided isn’t enough for the whole weekend, so do recommend bringing a bundle of your own. The glamping tent requires you to use porta potties which is fine, but their bathrooms weren’t clean. They would probably benefit from daily cleaning. As far as sweeping out cobwebs, dead bugs, and trash. Definitely need an upgrade the shower house, I personally would never be able to shower in a facility that isn’t clean. Overall the bathroom facilities need some attention, but the tent was enjoyable.
GuideThere were more people than I expected there on a Monday evening, but we were able to find a spot with 30A to set up. We didn’t even need blocks, as it was perfectly level. Just pulled into the grass next to the electric and had no issues. Great for a quick overnight, especially for just $10.
TravelerStayed for 2 weeks it was comfortable and quiet every morning was a beautiful sunrise and every night was beautiful.
TravelerFound this spot last minute before the 4th of July, it was pretty much the only availability. It was perfect and I wish I would have found this place a lot sooner. Although it was busy it still was comfortable. And it's a straight shot to my work in Omaha. Is like staying longer.
GuideSouth of Omaha, on the Platte River. 200+ rv and tent sites. $30/night with electrical. Water and dump in the park. 5 lakes for fishing, kayak, hiking trails, rc track, access to the river, convince store, swimming beach, blowup obstacles course, and shower bathroom locations.
TravelerNice park, like alot nowadays lots of long term people. Bath and showers are fair. Laundry facilities are clean wit two washers and dryers. Wifi is poor can't get connected.
GuideWe were coming into town for the College World Series and intended to stay at Arrowhead. I called ahead and talked to a kind gentleman who let me know that Arrowhead would likely be full, but the fairgrounds would surely have space. With 24-hour self check-in, it was a perfect solution. Twenty-five minutes from Omaha and full, pull-through hook ups made this a solid stop over.
Camping spots near Glenwood, Iowa range from lakeside settings to river-access areas across both Iowa and Nebraska state lines. The landscape features unique Loess Hills formations with hiking elevations of 1,000 to 1,300 feet. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions in the mid-60s to 70s range.
Birdwatching opportunities: At Hitchcock County Nature Center, visitors can climb the hawk watch tower for wildlife viewing. "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," notes one visitor.
Paddle sports on multiple lakes: Rentals available at Louisville State Recreation Area Campground include canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. "There is a small shop which has a market where basic kick knacks and firewood are available. This is also where you can rent boats like canoes, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards for hrs, half and daily rates," a camper explains.
Trail system difficulty levels: Trails at Hitchcock Nature Center accommodate various hiking abilities. One camper reports, "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below. All trails are marked and the a multiple different trailheads, many which start around the visitors center/tower Overlook."
Water recreation variety: Multiple options for water activities exist throughout the area. "There are several lakes to choose from to fish, or nonpower boats. There is a swimming area, beach, and play inflatables for kids in the water," notes a visitor to Louisville State Recreation Area.
Lakeside camping access: Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area offers water views from select sites. One camper shares, "Great back-in site w/30 amp electrical pulg in, no water at site. Site is overlooking a small lake. Very quiet, dump statio. All for $20 a night."
Wildlife viewing: Local parks provide opportunities to spot various animals. A Walnut Creek camper notes, "The birdwatching as well as the wildlife is abundant. Honestly if not for the city noise you could forget your in a city."
Ridgetop views: Scenic vistas are available from certain campsites. A Hitchcock Nature Center visitor recommends, "My preference is getting one of the campsites on the western edge of the park on top of the ridge. At night you can see the Omaha skyline lit up and the breeze running through there is wonderful."
Educational programming: Platte River State Park Campground and Hitchcock Nature Center offer nature education. One visitor to Hitchcock mentions, "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping."
Train noise disruption: Several campgrounds experience significant train noise. A Louisville State Recreation Area camper warns, "The harsh part of being located here is if you are looking for any kind of spot that accommodates a flat plot, like sites 206 - 236, you are butted up against the train tracks and that train is LOUD!"
Summer heat considerations: Lack of shade affects comfort at some locations. A camper at Lake Manawa State Park Campground reports, "This campsite seems nice, but with blaring Omaha heat and no trees, the heat here is absolutely brutal. It was mid July and still 96 degrees at 7:00pm, so I ended up leaving knowing it would be too hot for a comfortable night sleep."
Flood-prone areas: Several campgrounds experience periodic closures. About Haworth City Park, a camper notes, "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."
Non-resident fees: State parks may charge additional fees. A Louisville camper points out, "This is a state-funded park, so non-Nebraska plated cars have an additional fee."
Playground availability: Several parks offer play structures for children. A Louisville visitor mentions, "About 150 yards from our site was the popular Dreamland playground, which draws families with young kids to that side of the CG next time, we'd choose a site farther from the playground for more quiet."
Water recreation options: Many parks feature water activities specifically designed for children. One Louisville camper reports, "There is a swimming area, beach, and play inflatables for kids in the water. There are playgrounds for kids."
Educational opportunities: Parks with nature centers offer learning experiences. A visitor to Hitchcock Nature Center states, "As a family we go to Hitchcock a few times a year for the hiking and the archery range they have on-site. Both are excellent and a nice escape from the city!"
Easy trail options: Some parks offer accessible paths for younger hikers. "There are tons of things to do here between memorial day and labor day unless you have your own kayak or boat. The kids playground is fantastic. The picnic shelters are great too," notes a Lake Manawa visitor.
Site selection considerations: RV sites vary in quality and features across campgrounds. A Walnut Creek camper advises, "Large RV Pads with Trails all around. I was only going to stay for a week but extended to the 2 week max. The potable water is spread out across the campground but I only had to make a few trips with my 6gal jugs during my 2 week stay."
Hookup availability: Electric and water access differs between parks. A Lake Manawa visitor notes, "I'll just say that yes this campground has no trees to keep you cool, but it's all brand new amenities with concrete pads, 40 amp hookups, sewer hookup, water, gated entry, and good signage."
Access considerations: Entry requirements vary by location. A Lake Manawa camper warns, "Campground signage is none. Also make sure you have a reservation for gate code. You cannot enter without it so the walk up sites won't be of any use unless you get there while someone is in the shak."
Dump station locations: Facilities for waste disposal are situated differently at each park. "Dump station at the entrance is really close to sites 43-45 since the campground is a large loop," explains a Walnut Creek visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Glenwood Lake Campground?
Glenwood Lake Park offers approximately 20 RV sites with full hookups. The campground is primarily designed for RVs, though tent camping is also accommodated in less defined areas. The park is located in Iowa's scenic Loess Hills and features a small lake. While not extensive in amenities, it provides the basics needed for a comfortable stay, making it suitable for an overnight stop rather than a destination campground.
How far is Glenwood, Iowa from Omaha for weekend camping trips?
Glenwood, Iowa is approximately 25 miles from Omaha, making it an ideal location for weekend camping trips. The short drive (roughly 30 minutes) allows campers to quickly escape the city without spending too much travel time. For those seeking alternatives in the region, Wilson Island State Recreation Area Campground and Lake Manawa State Park Campground are also within a similar distance from Omaha, providing multiple options for weekend getaways.
Which is the most popular campground near Glenwood, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Glenwood, IA is Lake Manawa State Park Campground with a 3.1-star rating from 14 reviews.
Keep Exploring
