Cabin camping near Stanton, Iowa offers locations within the Loess Hills formation, a unique geological feature in western Iowa that rises 200-300 feet above the surrounding plains. The area has dense oak-hickory forest cover with hiking trails ranging from half-mile loops to 8-mile networks. During winter months, temperatures average 15-30°F, while summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Icaria County Park offers a large lake with excellent fishing access. "The lake is great for fishing, kayaking or swimming," notes a visitor to Viking Lake State Park. Another camper mentioned, "Viking Lake is clean and well managed... There are a few hiking trails and a marina where you can rent a boat for a little fun."
Hiking trails: Trail systems offer views across the Missouri River Valley. "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below," according to a camper at Hitchcock County Nature Center. Their network includes "a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail" among "miles of trail available."
Boating activities: Multiple lakes permit different boating experiences. "This is one of the only lakes in Iowa where you can drive your boats fast," reports a visitor at Lake Icaria Co Park. In contrast, another park offers "a quiet and relatively calm" lake environment.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Many campsites offer direct lake access. "We had a great spot to place our kayak in right by our campsite," shares a visitor at Lake of Three Fires. Another camper noted their campsite at Viking Lake was "right on the water with a good shade."
Spacious sites: Some parks offer well-separated campsites. "The campsites are nice and so are the facilities. During the week it is really quiet," reports a visitor at Viking Lake. At Lake of Three Fires State Park, a camper appreciated that "Site 55 is an absolute GEM. Spacious and right on the water!"
Off-season solitude: Winter and shoulder seasons offer quieter experiences. "Stopped at Prairie Rose SP for one night on our way to South Dakota. Very nice campground with a large lake, and almost empty!" reports one camper. Another mentioned having "the campground to themselves" during a February visit.
What you should know
Varying amenities: Services and amenities differ between parks. "The cabins have concessions, boat rentals, boating of all types, fishing, and trails," notes a visitor at Arrowhead Park Campground. Another camper mentioned finding "nice clean shower facilities" but sometimes limited water availability.
Reservation systems: Some parks require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "We reserved a site via the website, and were given our pick of sites once we arrived," explains an Arrowhead Park visitor. For more popular parks, "it would be best to reserve one there were not a lot to choose from when we got there."
Weather considerations: Wind can impact camping comfort at some locations. A camper at Prairie Rose State Park shared, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks cater specifically to families with children. "Has a water park you can rent golf carts and cabins lots todo very family friendly," reports a visitor about Viking Lake. At Green Valley State Park, a camper highlighted the "two kid playgrounds" within walking distance.
Proximity to facilities: Choose sites near amenities when camping with children. "Always seems to be a lot of kids running around and riding bikes. Individual shower rooms. Clean bathrooms," notes a camper at Lake View Campground. Another visitor mentioned the advantage of having "the playground directly behind us which is a plus for us."
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature education. Hitchcock Nature Center "has Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc." A visitor noted they "love doing their extra classes" which are especially good for children.
Tips from RVers
Internet connectivity: For those needing to stay connected, service varies. "Verizon is 2 bars of 4g. And Starlink is only possible in select places, as there is a lot of trees," reports a visitor at Viking Lake State Park. "Had some T-Mobile 4G service" was noted at Waubonsie State Park.
Site sizing: RV sites vary in size and spacing across parks. "Very level sites with options for tenting or rv. Sites are primitive, electric only or full hookup," explains a visitor to Viking Lake. At Waubonsie State Park, however, a camper found that "the campsites are all bunched together - offering no privacy and spacing between sites."
Hookup options: Available connections differ between parks. "Full hook up spots were very nice. Easy to get into, plenty of space," according to a visitor at Lake Icaria Park. Many parks offer electric-only options priced between $15-18 per night, with full hookups available at select locations.
