Cabin camping near Waverly, Iowa provides access to the rolling plains and gentle waterways that characterize northeastern Iowa's landscape. The region averages 35 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush surroundings during summer camping season when temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F. Most cabin rental options in the area operate year-round with fall bringing stunning foliage and winter offering quieter, more secluded stays.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Big Woods Lake, the small lake offers calm waters ideal for beginners. "The lake is small, no wake lake - but great for using your SUP or kayaks," notes a visitor. Two dedicated spots for kayak or canoe launches provide easy water access.
Disc golf courses: Hickory Hills Park features an extensive disc golf course within its 700+ acre property. "This is a 700+ acre park with hiking, fishing, and disc golf. It also has modern amenities and a small zoo of animals from birds to buffalo," explains one camper who enjoyed the diverse offerings.
River floating: Nearby waterways provide tubing opportunities during summer months. A visitor to Skip-A-Way Resort shared, "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."
What campers like
Seasonal activities: At Pine Lake State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the year-round options. "Paddle on upper or lower Pine Lake, fishing (lake, stream, or river), bicycle trails, hiking trails, beach swimming, float or paddle nearby Iowa River (tube and boat rentals nearby)," lists one regular visitor who knows the park well.
Recreation variety: Wilder City Park in Allison stands out for its numerous recreational facilities. "They have sand volleyball pickle ball miniature golf and huge checkers plus a couple playgrounds for the kids. It's a nice quiet family campground," reports a satisfied camper about the park's diverse offerings.
Lake access: Union Grove State Park Campground receives praise for its water features. "Union Grove is known for having good lake fishing. The lake is also a great place for kayaking or canoeing," notes a reviewer who appreciates the peaceful setting and water recreation opportunities.
What you should know
Seasonal water quality: Water conditions can vary throughout the summer at some locations. At Backbone State Park, a visitor cautioned, "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it." This varies by location and timing.
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds offer modern shower houses, but facilities vary. At Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA, a camper noted, "Bathrooms are cleaned daily but at times are quite nasty. Not their fault people are just nasty." Consider bringing shower shoes for comfort.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin accommodations require advance booking, especially during peak season (May-September). "You have to hold down the lever on the shower, which is a bit of a hassle," mentioned a Pine Lake State Park visitor about the shower facilities, showing that even well-maintained sites have quirks to know about.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Hickory Hills Park offers unique animal encounters. "This is a great quiet park with animals for visiting and a very clean shower house," shares a visitor who enjoyed the small zoo featuring various animals including buffalo.
Swimming options: Multiple cabin rental locations feature beach swimming areas. At L. Brandt's Crazy Acres Campground & Cabin Rental, one family reported, "The kids had fun playing mini golf, swimming at the beach and playing at the playgrounds. The people that run the campground are so nice."
Rainy day alternatives: When outdoor activities aren't possible, nearby attractions provide options. A Pine Lake visitor mentioned, "Eat, replenish supplies in nearby Eldora," while another referenced "Matchstick Marvels in nearby Gladbrook" as an interesting attraction close to Union Grove State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Pay attention to the specific site features when booking. At Union Grove State Park, a camper advised, "Some sites are off with level & weird (ie stairs/door open on an incline and away from the table), and our picnic table was sloped. So pick your site carefully."
Hookup variations: Electric-only sites are common at state parks while private campgrounds typically offer full hookups. "Decent sites with full hook ups. Little shade with small trees next to about each site," noted a visitor about the Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA, highlighting the trade-off between convenience and shade.
Seasonal availability: Many county and state park cabins remain open year-round, unlike some private campgrounds. Tower Rock County Park's cabins receive high marks for winter stays: "Great place to spend a weekend. Very comfortable and cozy," shared a winter visitor appreciating the modern amenities.
