Cabins near Moorhead, Iowa offer camping experiences in the western Iowa Loess Hills region. Located near the Missouri River Valley, these campgrounds sit in unique terrain formed by wind-deposited silt during the last ice age. Most cabins include basic amenities within a 20-mile radius of Moorhead, with seasonal availability generally running April through October.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Lewis and Clark State Park Campground provides multiple trails along Blue Lake. A visitor noted, "We love the trails, the fishing, and all the opportunities of things to do. They have a great visitor center with amazing displays and exhibits that mark the history of Lewis and Clark."
Historical exploration: Visit the Lewis and Clark State Park Campground to see the replica keelboat. "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," one camper shared.
Water activities: Take advantage of swimming and kayaking options at Crawford Creek County Rec Area during summer months. A reviewer mentioned, "Multiple play areas for kids. Water good for fishing, kayaking and swimming. Nice cabins for rent."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The Missouri Valley City Park offers room to spread out. "It surrounds a city park and there is plenty of room to spread out in their well manicured park. With 30/50 electric and water this place is well worth the $15 they charge," according to one visitor.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds around Moorhead maintain good standards. At the Nelson Park Crawford County Park, a camper observed, "The grounds and facilities at the park were in excellent shape even though many of the buildings were still the same ones that I had known from childhood."
Family-friendly amenities: Most glamping spots near Moorhead provide playgrounds and recreational facilities. As one camper at Lewis and Clark State Park noted, "Very clean and quiet. They have full service hook ups. It has a playground for the kids. Nice updated bathroom facilities with showers."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain can affect camping conditions at some locations. At Onawa-Blue Lake KOA, campers should be prepared for potential water issues. One reviewer cautioned, "We came in about 5pm, the place was almost completely flooded. And with not that much rain either."
Site spacing varies: Some glamping areas near Moorhead have tightly packed sites. A camper at Onawa-Blue Lake KOA mentioned, "Sites are very cramped. Staff less than friendly. Lake is nice, but shore needs maintenance and to have trees and brush cut back."
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds operate on different reservation systems. Missouri Valley City Park uses self-pay, with a camper noting, "Handy off hwy 30. Fairgrounds with lots of spots. Be aware that it would not be available during fair week. Has dumping station. Self pay."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Position your campsite near play areas for convenience. A visitor to Lewis and Clark State Park mentioned, "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."
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature centers for kids' activities. The Hitchcock County Nature Center offers excellent programs according to one camper: "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."
Seasonal events: Check for special activities when booking. A Lewis and Clark State Park visitor shared, "There's 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!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups but water access varies. At Missouri Valley City Park, a camper pointed out, "With 30/50 electric and water this place is well worth the $15 they charge. It's all on an honor system so make sure to bring some cash."
Level sites: Look for concrete pads at certain campgrounds. The Missouri Valley City Park provides well-maintained areas: "It is right next to a busy railroad, but we cranked up our fans and barely noticed the trains and their horns."
Budget options: Several affordable glamping options exist near Moorhead. On-Ur-Wa RV Park offers good value according to a reviewer: "Great location. Very nice campground. Large spacious pull thru sites. Extremely clean bathrooms and showers. We stayed twice, westbound and eastbound. Very friendly, nice people."
