Camping cabins near Ida Grove, Iowa provide access to nearby lakes and river systems with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasonal variations with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most cabin facilities remain open from April through October, closing during winter months when temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lewis and Clark State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access with multiple species available. "This place has great fishing and is very well maintained not to mention that they have a replica of the Boat that Lewis and Clark traveled on many years ago," reports Katie S., who also mentions they "occasionally take it out and give rides."
Hiking trails: Hagge County Park features well-maintained trails along the riverside. Lori N. notes, "We love hiking the trails there & almost always observe fisherman along the river. There aren't a ton of trails, but the ones there are beautiful & well maintained. You can get a great workout."
Water activities: Beyond fishing, water recreation includes kayaking and swimming at multiple locations. Little Sioux Park Campground features "a small beach area for swimming" according to Tim K., who also mentioned "two playgrounds" and "a very nice field of wild comb flowers blooming near the shower house."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. Tim K. describes Little Sioux Park as "an above average county run park/campground" with "usable bathrooms and shower stalls," though notes they "definitely lacked attention" during his visit.
Family-friendly amenities: Lewis and Clark State Park offers extensive child-friendly facilities. N K. appreciated being "able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground (~5 setups for different age groups). We could watch the kids play while getting food ready or preparing a line to throw in the water."
Reasonable rates: Many cabin accommodations provide good value. At Lewis and Clark State Park, Kathy F. was impressed with the affordability: "Oh my the rate was 19.00 for full 50 amp hookup. Beautiful state park in the water nice level sites paved. Fire rings and tables. Would definitely recommend this place it is a must stop!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: While some parks accept walk-ins, popular cabins require advance booking. At Crawford Creek County Rec Area, Deb W. found "sites are pretty spacious and friendly camp hosts," making it easier to find accommodation even without reservations.
Seasonal considerations: Most cabin facilities operate from spring through fall. The standard season runs May through October, though specific dates vary by location. Southwood Conservation Area has reportedly been "recently upgraded" according to Matthew M., who mentioned having "spent easily 100 nights here" over the years.
Bug activity: Some campgrounds experience significant insect activity, especially near water. Jeff B. described Lewis and Clark State Park as "Buggy and muggy" with "many water spots on basically what is a mosquito breeding ground."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple play areas: Cabins near recreation facilities offer added value for families. Megan H. noted that Crawford Creek provides "multiple play areas for kids" and "water good for fishing, kayaking and swimming."
Kid-friendly amenities: Woodbury County Park Southwood Conservation Area provides a relaxed environment for families. Josh G. described it as a "nice campground clean bathrooms the trails are really good quiet and peaceful."
Lakefront cabin selection: Choosing cabins with water views enhances the experience. At Sunrise Campground, Chris W. reported, "We had a wonderful view of lake from campsite. Camp ground was kept clean. I especially liked then number of bathroom/shower combos."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At some sites, utility connections require preparation. Bruce P. notes that at Camp Crescent Park, "Utility location did require us to use a longer hose and extension cord to reach from our site."
Site selection for larger units: Campgrounds vary in their ability to accommodate larger rigs. Bruce P. advises that Camp Crescent Park "gets busy on the holidays and some areas are pretty tight if your pulling a large unit."
Dump station access: Some parks have limitations for larger vehicles. Pat V. found at Lewis and Clark State Park that "the dump station is a tight squeeze for anything other than a small bumper pull camper."
