Cabins near Moorhead, Iowa provide camping options in the unique Loess Hills region. These glacial deposits, formed over 10,000 years ago, create distinctive terrain rising 200 feet above the Missouri River floodplain. Summer temperatures average 85°F with occasional evening thunderstorms, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for cabin stays.
What to do
Fishing and boating activities: Blue Lake at Lewis and Clark State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities. "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. They will also occasionally take it out and give rides," notes Katie S.
Historical exploration: The visitor center at Lewis and Clark includes educational displays about the expedition. "They have a great visitor center with amazing displays and exhibits that mark the history of Lewis and Clark and their travels around the area," shares Timothy S.
Hiking trails: The trail system at Hitchcock County Nature Center provides various difficulty levels with views overlooking the Missouri River valley. "The backcountry campsite have pads with pea gravel for tents and fire rings. Nice and quiet," says Allison J. The center also offers seasonal programming with "hawkwatch" events during migration periods.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most cabin accommodations maintain good standards of upkeep. "The campground was very clean and quiet. They have full service hook ups. It has a playground for the kids. nice updated bathroom facilities with showers," reports Anessa O. about Lewis and Clark State Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Arrowhead Park Campground provides affordable recreation options near cabin accommodations. "Excellent pricing- $15 for the night with electric. Several camp sights for RV and tent. Lots of amenities including canoe and paddle boat rentals," says Rachel H.
Peaceful settings: Cabin stays often come with serene surroundings away from urban noise. At Prairie Rose State Park Campground, "An oasis of solitude. The park is somewhat small but laid out nicely. I paid extra for an electric site to be close to the lake. It is 9 or so miles north of the highway so it was actually quiet," reports Brian F.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins in the region require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. At Loess Hills Hideaway, "I've camped here a few times. They have cabins and R.V. spots for sure. Owner is very nice and the bathrooms if you need them are clean and well maintained," notes Tyler S.
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary significantly between locations. Prairie Rose State Park Campground operates from April 1 through December 31, while Nelson Park Crawford County Park limits its season to May 15 through October 15.
Campsite spacing: Some locations position cabins and sites close together. At Onawa-Blue Lake KOA, campers note: "Sites are very cramped. Staff less than friendly. Lake is nice, but shore needs maintenance and to have trees and brush cut back. Shower house is nice and clean. Does have full hookup."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin locations feature play areas for children. At Lewis and Clark, "Well kept & family friendly camping in Iowa! We were 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," shares N K.
Swimming options: During summer months, lake swimming provides relief from heat. According to Morgan K., Lewis and Clark offers "a pretty big playground near all the sites. When I went in the first weekend of October they had a little trick or treat night too! Extremely nice amenities; flush toilet and showers."
Educational opportunities: Crawford Creek County Rec Area combines cabin stays with learning experiences. "Multiple play areas for kids. Water good for fishing, kayaking and swimming. Nice cabins for rent," notes Megan H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking cabin accommodations, research site layouts beforehand. At Nelson Park Crawford County Park, a visitor noted: "It's a good place for camping not perfect. Has a descent size lake good for kayaking and fishing."
Water quality considerations: Some locations report issues with water supply. One camper mentioned: "The water at the water for filling smells horrendous. The dump station is a tight squeeze for anything other than a small bumper pull camper."
Weather preparations: Cabins in the Loess Hills region can experience strong winds due to elevated terrain. At Prairie Rose State Park, "Had a great time but it was hot and windy. Wind was shaking the camper and the neighbor decided to leave because of the heat and wind. The view of the lake is worth it all though."
