Cabin camping options near New London, Iowa extend across several counties within a one-hour drive radius. The southeastern Iowa landscape features rolling hills, wooded areas, and numerous lakes and rivers that create ideal settings for outdoor recreation. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F while summer averages 75-90°F with moderate humidity levels throughout the camping season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Big Hollow Recreation Area has a no-wake zone lake that's excellent for anglers. "Nearby lake has a beach and a boat ramp for launching boats or kayaks. If you are into fishing, this place has large mouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish," notes Sarah J. from Big Hollow Recreation Area.
Beach activities: Several cabin locations offer swimming access during warmer months. At Lee County Pollmiller Park, "The beach is a great addition for some family fun," according to Brittany M. Ashley P. adds, "They have a good swimming area where u can rent canoes and different things which isn't very expensive!"
Stargazing options: Big Hollow Recreation Area includes designated astronomy facilities. Lisa M. mentions, "There's even a place to use a few telescopes to see the stars!" The rural setting provides darker skies than urban areas, making it ideal for night sky viewing.
Trail exploration: Lacey Keosauqua State Park offers well-maintained hiking routes. "Excellent hiking trails. Great area to explore around the park as well," says Dorothy H. The park maintains its trails even during off-season months.
What campers like
Full hookup availability: Campers appreciate complete utility connections at several parks. "This is a great campground. Sites are pretty level and easy to get parked. Full hookup!!!" reports Jeremy about Big Hollow Recreation Area.
Year-round options: Some cabins remain accessible during colder months. "The new trails around the lake are so wonderful. Electric and tent sites. Brand new five season cabins. Great all year round!" says Dani K. about Lake Darling State Park Campground.
Affordable pricing: Many cabin rentals maintain reasonable rates compared to other lodging options. Dave N. comments about Indian Lake Park: "They have primitive tent sites, electric only, electric+water, and fhu. They also have cabins for rent. All very reasonably priced."
Lake views: Cabins situated near water offer scenic perspectives. "Our furnished cabin faced the lake it was an incredible view. We had fun fishing and sitting by the campfire in the evenings," writes Rayn C. about Spring Lake Park - Macomb.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabins at popular parks require advance planning. "They do book up quick in advance, but there is usually walk up spots available the week of too," advises Desiree R. about Lake Darling State Park Campground.
Facility differences: Bathroom and shower quality varies between locations. Douglas P. notes, "The bathroom facilities are clean and well kept but the showers could use some updating and better maintenance."
Cabin size considerations: Some units have limited space but remain functional. Robert F. comments about cabins at Lake Darling: "The cabins are small but clean."
Seasonal conditions: Water features may have algae during certain periods. Lisa M. cautions about Big Hollow: "The only downside is the lake was filled with algae. So if you're wanting to fish or swim, this isn't the place for you!"
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Several parks feature play equipment for children. Travis R. describes Big Hollow Recreation Area: "This site has a large number of mostly cement camper spots, including pull through. There is a large playground and shower house."
Kid-friendly water activities: Multiple rental options exist for family water recreation. Taylor A. says about Spring Lake Campground: "I've stayed here every summer great place lots todo with the kids had a lake to fish, kayak, canoe. Has an outdoor skating rink next to the lake very neat."
Multi-generational spaces: Some parks include gathering facilities for larger family groups. Mary F. describes Wilson Lake Park: "It has full hookups, tent site swim beach, fishing, canoes, playgrounds also cabins a stone lodge for family get togethers."
Off-peak visits: Weekday stays often provide quieter experiences. Dave N. notes about Indian Lake Park: "Almost empty during the week, but very busy on summer weekends."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend specific locations for optimal experiences. Sarah J. suggests at Big Hollow Recreation Area: "If you are in a group you can reserve spots 8 and 9 together or there are some long spots in the Eastern part for double occupancy. If you want more privacy and easy access to the lake for kayaking I'd go for 14, 15, and 16."
Concrete pad availability: Several parks offer solid parking surfaces. Andrew P. comments about Wilson Lake Park: "We stayed at site 2 which is a little smaller than we would've liked but it is all concrete and has full hook ups."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds include sewer connections. As Mary F. points out about Indian Lake Park: "They also have a dump station."
Turn access considerations: Some locations have challenging entry points. David B. advises about Camp Nauvoo: "If you are southbound on Illinois Hwy 96, the left turn off the highway is very sharp and steep. Might be easier to continue about a mile south and use the scenic turnout to turnaround."
