Cabin camping near Milford, Iowa offers accommodations for summer visitors within a 50-mile radius of Lake Okoboji and the Iowa Great Lakes region. The area sits at approximately 1,400 feet elevation and experiences warm summers with average July temperatures reaching 83°F. Winter cabin rentals remain available at select locations, though most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Water recreation at Mill Creek State Park: The park features a small lake where motorized boats aren't permitted, creating ideal conditions for paddling. "A very nice playground for the kids. Small lake where boating is permitted but no gas motors. Also nice for canoeing, kayaking or fishing," notes Kris H. The park offers hiking and biking paths connecting to the town just a half-mile away.
Mini-golf at Sands Country Cove: This lakefront campground maintains a small course suitable for families. "Peaceful lakefront property with a playground, mini golf, and ice cream for kids (and parents). You drive through farm fields to get there and we were surprised when we arrived at how nice it was," writes Sarah N.
Fishing at Lake Imogene: Flying Goose Campground provides access to a secluded lake surrounded by farmland. "Set along the shores of Lake Imogene, which comes out of nowhere surrounded by farm land, and you can't even see it from the road," explains Chris S. The lake supports various fish species and includes fishing piers for anglers without boats.
What campers like
Clean facilities at Jackson KOA: Guests consistently mention the cleanliness of this campground. "Clean and updated bathrooms, nice pool and friendly staff," reports Renee W. The campground maintains modern bathroom facilities with proper ventilation, as noted in another review: "Bathrooms/showers had a fan blowing and window open."
Beach access at Martin Area County Park: The primitive camping area provides waterfront sites with natural surroundings. "Primitive camping was awesome," states Gary E. This park offers a more rustic cabin experience compared to other area options, with fewer amenities but greater privacy.
Lake swimming at Flying Goose: The campground maintains a dedicated swimming beach on Lake Imogene. "Right on Lake Imogene, there is a boat dock and a sandy swimming beach (which we had entirely to ourselves!). The grounds are well-maintained and very clean," shares hanaa. The campground features three separate playground areas, including one at the beach.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary by season: Mill Creek State Park cabins fill quickly during summer months. "The campground is hard to get a spot at and is far away from the lake. The lake and grounds are well maintained. The showers are decent but take quarters to use them," explains Kaila. Off-season availability improves significantly at most properties.
Distance to facilities: Bathroom proximity differs between campgrounds. At Maka Oicu County Park, "Tent camping spots are large and separate from RV spots. $15 a night for tents. Only problem was the distance to the bathroom," notes Debbie J. Consider cabin locations when booking if bathroom proximity matters to your group.
Seasonal population changes: Many campgrounds have permanent seasonal residents. "We were there for a one night mid-week stay, and it was so quiet and calm because ~70% of the spots are taken by seasonal guests who are primarily at the campgrounds on the weekends," reports hanaa about Flying Goose Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment. "The park is small, but very well maintained, and man, literally every person there was INCREDIBLY nice! Our site was level, easy to get into, and had a nice tree providing some shade," writes Gregory L. about Jackson KOA, which includes playgrounds and a swimming pool appropriate for children.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide organized activities. "Mid-week night stays are tops though, and we would absolutely stay here again. The pull through sites have electric, water and sewage at every site," shares Chris S. about Flying Goose Campground, which offers volleyball, basketball courts, and multiple playgrounds.
Ice cream availability: Sands Country Cove serves ice cream treats for children. "The property was well kept. Peaceful lakefront property with a playground, mini golf, and ice cream for kids (and parents)," confirms Sarah N. This small detail can make a significant difference for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions for large rigs: Flying Goose Campground accommodates larger vehicles but with some limitations. "Large sites with water/electric hook up - some full hook sites and big rig friendly. The site we were put in was not set up well for the connections however it was a large site," notes Tracy B. Consider requesting specific sites based on your RV configuration.
Connection placement: Utility hookup locations vary by site. "Very muddy site but they offered to let us use a rug so we didn't get ours all muddy," continues Tracy B. about Flying Goose Campground. Request information about hookup locations before arrival to ensure proper hose and cable lengths.
Cable and internet access: Several campgrounds offer additional technological amenities. "48 sites with water, electric, cable tv, internet, and separate dump station," mentions Kris H. about Mill Creek State Park. The reliability of internet service varies significantly between properties.
