Cabins near Strawberry Point, Iowa can be found in a unique geographic area known as the Driftless Region. This unglaciated area features steeper terrain with elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet, creating scenic river valleys and forested hillsides. The region typically experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August, while fall temperatures range from 45-65°F, making cabin rental timing an important consideration.
What to do
Hiking diverse terrain: At Pikes Peak State Park, trails range from easy wooden boardwalks to challenging terrain. "A half-mile wooden boardwalk to one of the park's glens to the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls. On your way to the falls, just north of the main overlook, you will notice Bear Mound, an effigy built by ancient American Indians who inhabited the area from 800-1200 A.D," notes one visitor who explored the cultural history.
Fishing for trout: Yellow River State Forest offers prime fishing spots within walking distance of cabins. "Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen," reports a camper who recommends checking the stocking calendar posted at the information center for optimal timing. Yellow River State Forest maintains several stocking locations along its streams from April through October.
Swimming options: Several cabin locations offer swimming access during summer months. "Great for kids! The water attractions are great for the kiddos and the cabins aren't half bad either!" mentions a visitor to Boulder Creek Campground, referring to their dedicated swimming areas which typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What campers like
Cabin variety: Backbone State Park offers modern family cabins with varied layouts. "We went camping at Backbone for a friend's wedding that was taking place at the park's lodge. While most of the wedding guests stayed in town, we opted to camp, during October. It was gorgeous!" shares a visitor who experienced the park during peak fall colors.
Scenic views: The region's unique topography creates memorable landscapes visible from many cabin locations. "Cross the Mississippi to Wisconsin and there is just as much over there to discover. Very affordable and totally worth it!!" explains a visitor to Pikes Peak State Park, highlighting the opportunity to explore both sides of the Mississippi River from a central cabin location.
Storm shelter access: Pinicon Ridge Park provides emergency facilities for severe weather events. "Clean shower house with storm shelter," notes one visitor, appreciating this safety feature that offers protection during Iowa's occasional severe weather, which typically occurs between April and September.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Cabin rental periods vary significantly by location. "First come first served basis from November through March," explains a visitor about Yellow River State Forest's Big Paint Campground, one of the few locations offering off-season cabin availability without advance reservations during winter months.
Water quality concerns: Some locations experience periodic water issues. "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it," warns one visitor about conditions at Backbone State Park during certain periods, typically after heavy rainfall events when bacterial levels may exceed safety standards.
Railroad proximity: Several cabin locations sit near active rail lines. "Close to railroad tracks so you will hear the trains go by," mentions a visitor to Boulder Creek Campground about the noise level, with trains typically passing 5-8 times daily including overnight hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA offers extensive child-friendly amenities. "Campsite and facilities were very nice and clean...would recommend for families. Played a bit of lake-side volleyball in the evening," shares a visitor who appreciated the range of activities available within the campground boundaries.
Budget-friendly options: Consider basic cabin rentals for cost savings. "The cost was very good for the amenities provided," notes a camper who stayed at Waterloo KOA, where cabin rates typically range from $65-95 depending on size and amenities, compared to $120+ for fully equipped options at other locations.
Pet accommodations: Look for designated pet-friendly cabins. "The fenced dog park was fantastic for those of us with dogs," shares a visitor about Waterloo KOA's dedicated pet area, which includes separate sections for large and small dogs along with waste disposal stations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Skip-A-Way Resort offers varied cabin options based on proximity to amenities. "This was a nice campground next to a small town- nice quiet sites. Sites were kind of close together. Mostly seasonal spots here," explains a visitor who suggests requesting cabins in the back section for more privacy away from the main recreation areas.
Hookup considerations: Pay attention to cabin utility details when booking. "Some weekly activities include canoeing, tubing down the Turkey River, swimming, fishing and paddle boats in the Lake, a splash pad for kids and occasionally a dumping tank for free, also miniture golf," shares a visitor about Skip-A-Way's activities, noting the different facility options available depending on which section of the resort you book.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for prime seasons. "October is one of their busiest times of the year due to the fall colors, which peak around Oct 9-15th," advises a visitor to Pikes Peak State Park, highlighting the importance of planning at least 6-8 weeks ahead for this popular viewing period.
