16 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Platte River State Park Campground houses luxury glamping cabins with full hookups and concrete pads near the scenic Platte River in Nebraska, approximately 40 miles from Glenwood, Iowa. The park's glamping accommodations feature climate control, electricity, and modern bathrooms, providing a comfortable outdoor getaway without sacrificing amenities. "The luxury glamping cabins are perfect for a family get away," notes one reviewer who appreciated the comfortable glamping experience. The West Omaha KOA Holiday in Gretna offers additional glamping options with well-appointed canvas structures that include beds with linens, electricity, and access to clean shower facilities. These glamping sites are strategically positioned to allow easy exploration of both natural attractions and urban amenities in the region.
The observation tower at Platte River State Park provides glampers with scenic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular activity for visitors staying in the luxury accommodations. Hiking trails wind through the property, connecting glamping sites to natural features including a small waterfall and peaceful woodland areas. According to a camper, "It is a resourceful place for bird-watching," highlighting the wildlife observation opportunities available to guests. Pony Creek Park offers additional glamping experiences with proximity to the Loess Hills and fishing opportunities at the adjacent lake. Seasonal considerations include peak availability from April through October when most glamping facilities operate with full services. Winter glamping is available at select locations, with one visitor noting, "We were here in January and again in March so we pretty much had the place to ourselves."
"Well,, it was alright, loud because of the toll bridge next to park, sites were close together, level, fire pits, picnic tables, electric, water and a dump station, stayed 3 days to visit family,, $20"
"Currently flooded, but should be ready for 2019"
"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."
"Tents, cabins and RV camping. Toilets, showers, fire rings. There is a small lake with paddle boats and kayaks for rent. They have a pool and dining hall for rent."
"New appliances, new furniture, fixtures, new bunk beds, etc. The cabin was very clean and organized upon arrival. They supply most everything thing you need i.e. dishes, cookware, etc."
from $35 - $340 / night
Check Availability"Bathroom was clean, lit, and stocked - even had hand sanitizer! RV loops had flush toilets and showers, but we didn’t stay long enough to make the trek worth it."
"Best campground shower I've ever had in my life, both in water pressure, heat and cleanliness of facilities. Be aware that it's first come first served."
from $10 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Very friendly and helpful staff. The bathrooms & laundry room are clean,a little outdated. The pull through sites seem to be all gravel/stone."
"Not only was it paved, but also had a huge patio with a table and Adirondack chairs, and a fire pit with additional seating."
"It appears not many people camp in Iowa in February. We had the campground to ourselves. We missed the crazy cold and snow by a day but it was 20 degree with the wind when I hiked the prairie."
"Not many amenities but the bathrooms are clean and the trails are fantastic. The view is great from the side bluff train. Close to Nebraska city. Tent sites are not too close together."
from $15 - $110 / night
Check Availability"The entire park is well maintained, has a large lake stocked with fish, tent sites are close together, but tolerable. Occupancy depends on the time of year. "
"On a beautiful lake with many recreational possibilities - kayaking, sailing non power boating - some for rent. 10 miles of paved bike trails and ALL paved campsites level and clean!"
from $15 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Large lake , walking trail . Seems that some site are “ reserved “ by placing the picnic table on the concrete pad. We were able to find 1 open space."
from $7 - $15 / night
Check Availability"Just a few mins off I-80 but no noise or signs of heavytraffic. Cute, quaint little town. All pull through spots and all sites are level."
"Electric, water and sewer available. Bathroom and shower were clean. But old style, so small and well worn."
"We love the friendly staff, the onsite cafe, and the beautiful pool. The owners take great care of the pool, so our grandkids come out and swim with us whenever they can. "
"Convenient location right off the highway, but with that you do get the noise. Has a playground and pool as will as a convenience store. Bathrooms and showers were clean."
from $27 - $55 / night
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LegendTents, cabins and RV camping. Toilets, showers, fire rings. There is a small lake with paddle boats and kayaks for rent. They have a pool and dining hall for rent. Tons od trails and many of them a taylored to mountain biking. There are 2 types of cabins, basic that has a bed amd refrigerator. Then there are luxury glamping cabins.
GuideVery friendly and helpful staff. The bathrooms & laundry room are clean,a little outdated. The pull through sites seem to be all gravel/stone. Our back in site had a patio, fire pit and nice patio furniture. Looked like a lot to do for the kids. The camp store is well stocked with RV supplies and parts. After driving all day, then doing laundry it was nice to get a pizza and relax.
GuideWe stayed here overnight on our way out west, so we didn't have big expectations. We are fairly new to pulling a 5th wheel, so we wanted an easy pull-through site plus we wanted it to be paved. Well there are 2 premium sites - we stayed in site# 89. It was HEAVEN! Not only was it paved, but also had a huge patio with a table and Adirondack chairs, and a fire pit with additional seating. The site was situated such that our "good side" was facing the trees, away from the rest of the campground. We have a 43' 5th Wheel plus our truck, and there was plenty of space. That is the best setup we've had so far. We didn't have time to use any of the amenities, and are not traveling with kids, so I can't speak for how good it was in that regard.
LegendIt appears not many people camp in Iowa in February. We had the campground to ourselves. We missed the crazy cold and snow by a day but it was 20 degree with the wind when I hiked the prairie. Lovely little state park, clean and the trail system was pretty neat. Wasn't perfectly flat and had some overlooks. Very much enjoyed!
RangerWe stayed in the recently renovated Owen #4. The renovations really updated it and they need to update the pictures they have on the web, with what it looks like now. New appliances, new furniture, fixtures, new bunk beds, etc. The cabin was very clean and organized upon arrival. They supply most everything thing you need i.e. dishes, cookware, etc. The one thing it does need is a corkscrew! We forgot ours and went without the wine we brought for dinner. With that bombshell though, it was beyond worth the getaway. The winter hiking was fantastic and it was quiet except for the wildlife, but that is why we went out there!
RangerWe needed an overnight stop on our way to Kansas and this KOA was perfect. We pulled in just after dark and there was a note on the door stating staff was limited due to Covid. We pulled into a very large pull through on the west side of the campground (site 16). The KOA was pretty full but everyone was respectful and we didn’t hear much noise. We had full hookups & the site we were in was spacious with a picnic table and fire ring with grate. It had rained quite a bit before we arrived so we didn’t sit outside, due to mud close by our site, but we had a nice view. The next morning, we paid at the office before we left & the Manager only charged us half price (we intended to pay the full price) because he felt bad for not being able to be on site when we arrived (the schedule on the KOA app said staffed until 7pm & we were there just after 6pm).
Scout•Turned of my water off in the winter time while it was in the negatives outside which froze my water and busted my water heater.
•quiet time is after 9 but we’re trying to make guests leave before 6
•their water line busted and they refused to reimburse multiple people for the 5 days we all went without water
•You can’t sit your trash out AT ALL, not even in the bed of your truck cause the dozens of stray cats will rip it apart and scatter it everywhere. They will also tear up your camper underneath looking for warmth
•owner saw me taking the trash out one day and offered to take it then turned around and told me I was to lazy to take it
•had 2 friends and their 3 kids come join us for a cookout and the owners pulled up in their golf cart, freaking out about how loud our “party” was and that the our new neighbors complained. Went to go apologize the next day and the neighbors said they didn’t even hear us.
•kept trying to up charge me on rent and electricity, one month my electric was $53 and the next month it was over $300 (the same month I wasn’t even there for 2 weeks)
•multiple blue collar workers left because the owners were treating them the same way
•they have a nice pool. If you want to invite anybody make sure you got extra money cause they’ll charge you whatever they feel like charging you that day. Went from $3 a person to $5 a person in just 2 days
•claim they’re Christians but refuse to you help in any way and will try to get as much money from you as they can
•••••••CHECK YOUR METER••••••••• when I left they tried saying my electric bill was higher than my deposit of $300 but when I told them I took a picture of the meter and how their price didn’t match the amount of kilowatts I had used (15 cents per kw) they sent me my deposit back
All this coming from someone who stayed here for 6 months and finally had enough
RangerWell,, it was alright, loud because of the toll bridge next to park, sites were close together, level, fire pits, picnic tables, electric, water and a dump station, stayed 3 days to visit family,, $20 a night
TravelerWe selected this campground as a base for a family get-together near Omaha, for 4 days/3 nights (Fri-Mon). For that mission, it worked well, but overall we were not super impressed for the price. This was our first KOA experience so maybe the thing we noticed were "normal" but there were some definite cons when compared to other campgrounds we've stayed at this year.
1. Very busy & packed... we noticed a lot of traffic seemed to be just a quick stop over for the night, so lots of rigs coming in the afternoon/evening and leaving the next morning. There is just enough room to park our average-sized trailer and truck, and have a picnic table next to it, but neighbors are very close. This is not what I would consider a campground for settling in and relaxing as a destination unto itself.
2. Some "deferred maintenance" was noticeable. The mini-golf course was in terrible shape. The playground equipment (swings, slides etc.) could use an update for sure. The road getting into the grounds has terrible potholes.
3. They seem to be very particular about some odd things, like not allowing rugs on the grass (which is definitely not premium grass!). Have to pay extra for a site with a fire ring, or even enough space for one, and the base price is already on the high side.
...BUT... it's not all bad!
1. Lots of good amenities, including picnic shelter(s?); community room with tables & games for larger gatherings; the pool seemed in good shape (though on the small side), big jumping pillow was a hit with the kids.
2. On-site shop with a good selection of basic items for you and your rig. Free coffee in the morning, pizza available for delivery (we didn't try it but heard it was good). Friendly and helpful staff overall.
3. The Kabins are really nice! A part of our group had rented one and it was a great base for gathering for meals, and had a decent firepit area. If we didn't own a camper, we'd consider this KOA just for the Kabins.
4. Close to Omaha - great as a jump-off point for family activities, shopping, etc.
In Summary: If you don't mind paying more for a campground which has plenty of amenities and is best suited for a quick stop, or, if you are looking to rent a cabin and would like to be located conveniently in the Omaha area, this is a good option, but is a bit overpriced when considering other campgrounds which have more generous spacing and a more laid-back and relaxing environment.
Glamping near Glenwood, Iowa offers overnight options in an area characterized by the unique Loess Hills formation that runs north-south along the Missouri River. These hills formed from wind-deposited silt during the last ice age create a distinct landscape with steep ridges rising 200 feet above the river valley floor. Campgrounds in this region typically operate at full capacity from April through October, with most glamping sites closing during winter months except for select locations.
Hiking trails: The Loess Hills provide extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. Hitchcock Nature Center features a handicap-accessible boardwalk trail among its miles of hiking paths. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. They already have a nice flat spot for your tent, although I'm a hammock camper," notes a visitor at Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Fishing opportunities: Several area lakes offer stocked fishing. "This lake is a beautiful setting, right in the middle Loess Hills in sw Iowa. The fishing has always been good here," mentions one camper about Pony Creek Co Park. Seasonal fish stocking occurs at most lakes from spring through fall.
Hawk watching: The observation towers provide excellent wildlife viewing platforms, particularly during migration seasons. "They have a hawkwatch tower. Lots of information about Hawks and nature conservation," shares a reviewer about the educational components at Hitchcock Nature Center. Fall raptor migration peaks from September to November.
Secluded sites: The terrain provides natural separation between many camping areas. "The campsites are a little way away from the road and more secluded so they're very quiet. You do have to pack your stuff down a bit of a steep hill," explains a visitor to Hitchcock County Nature Center, highlighting the privacy advantage despite some access challenges.
Educational programming: Several parks offer structured learning activities throughout camping season. "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," shares one camper about Hitchcock's comprehensive offerings.
Variety of accommodations: The region offers multiple options beyond standard tent sites. "They have a couple of different kinds of cabins. There's a bunch of trails! The park in general is beautiful," says a reviewer about Platte River State Park Campground, which offers diverse lodging including glamping cabins, teepees, and traditional sites.
Flooding impacts: Several campgrounds in the Missouri River floodplain experience periodic closures. "This park is right off the Missouri river, and everytime there is flooding this places gets shelled. We had some major flooding here 2019," reports a camper about Haworth City Park. Always check current status before planning trips to riverside locations.
Highway noise: Campgrounds near I-80 experience variable road noise. "Even w/ full hookups it's a bit overpriced. Overnight stay for us, will not be back," notes a dissatisfied visitor about one interstate-adjacent park. Sites further from major roads typically provide quieter camping experiences.
Limited availability: Popular glamping sites require advance planning. "We would bring my family here for a picnic but it is not where I would camp," comments a reviewer about Pony Creek's limited camping capacity of only about 6 sites. Many glamping accommodations book 3-6 months in advance during peak summer season.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play equipment on-site. "There is a splash park, shooting, archer ranges, horseback riding. There is a r.v. park, cabins, and a newer tent area," mentions a visitor at Platte River State Park Campground, highlighting the variety of kid-friendly activities available.
Educational centers: Nature centers provide rainy-day alternatives and learning opportunities. "We love doing their extra classes," shares a family staying at Hitchcock County Nature Center, referring to the regular programming offered throughout camping season. Programs typically run May through September with reduced winter schedules.
Swimming options: Several locations feature water recreation facilities. "The outdoor pool and paddle boats are also fun. In all, this is a low-key park for getting outdoors with the family," notes a camper about Platte River State Park Campground's amenities that appeal to younger visitors.
Self-service options: Some campgrounds offer streamlined arrival processes. "Stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked," explains a visitor to Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds, which allows late arrivals to settle in without staff assistance.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and separation. "The sites are very small, and not really one view of the lake," notes a camper at Pony Creek Co Park. For more spacious options, "Clean with shaded park like area. Electric, water and sewer available," reports another RVer about the Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds.
Concrete pad availability: Some locations offer improved parking surfaces. "The new East lots. Full access with concrete pad. Tons of room between spots," shares a recent visitor to Lake Cunningham Campground, noting the upgraded facilities that accommodate larger rigs more comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Glenwood, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Glenwood, IA is Haworth City Park with a 3.1-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Glenwood, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 16 glamping camping locations near Glenwood, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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