Cabin rentals within an hour of Falls City, Nebraska range from lakeside accommodations to forest retreats. The terrain varies from the Loess Hills of western Iowa to the Missouri River valley, with elevations between 800-1,300 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer brings high humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F.
What to do
Fishing at Mozingo Lake: The 1,000-acre lake offers multiple fishing spots for catching bass, crappie, and catfish. Mozingo Lake County RV Park provides "nice sites close to the lake with electricity water and wifi," according to Dave M.
Hiking trails at Waubonsie: The trail system features varying difficulty levels through the Loess Hills. Jennifer M. notes, "Trails are beautiful and quiet, with several scenic overlooks. Bikes are not allowed on trails."
Disc golf near tent camping: Mozingo Lake County Tent Campground offers access to a new course. Sayler O. mentions, "If you like disc golf than this is the place to go, there is a brand new 18 hole course right next to the camp!"
Swimming options: Most cabin rental locations offer some water access, though the swimming experience varies by location. At Big Lake State Park, "There are two nice playgrounds and a swimming pool. Most campers were enjoying fishing in the small lake," according to Sarah H.
What campers like
Cabin privacy levels: Some cabins offer more seclusion than others. At AOK Campground & RV Park, Stephanie B. found "a giant secluded spot by the pond, separate from the RV area."
Year-round availability: Several cabins remain open during winter months. Kristi D. shares about Waubonsie State Park: "It appears not many people camp in Iowa in February. We had the campground to ourselves."
Cabin layouts for different group sizes: From individual units to family-sized accommodations. At Big Lake State Park Campground, Carissa H. notes they have "really nice little cabins for rent" that are perfect "if camping isn't your strong suit!"
Access to shower facilities: Sycamore Springs Whitetail Ranch RV Park provides particularly clean facilities. Bryan R. comments, "They have heated shower rooms which are very clean."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many parks fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Waubonsie State Park Campground, Amy H. advises, "If you are wanting a site here it would be best to reserve one there were not a lot to choose from when we got there."
Wildlife awareness: Several cabins report active wildlife. Danni A. warns about Waubonsie: "We had a raccoon at our campsite trying to steal our food while we were there, like the raccoon was less than 10 feet from humans during mid-day."
Water access limitations: Not all lakes allow all water activities. Jason C. notes at Big Lake State Park, "You can kayak, canoe, jet ski, and boat. Its olny 30ft at the deepest point."
Winter facility limitations: Some cabins reduce services during cold months. Fred S. shares about Waubonsie: "The shower house was closed during our visit. Water was also turned off at the water pumps in the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin locations feature play areas for children. Trista H. describes Big Lake State Park as "very family friendly" and adds "there are not a lot of 'party people' that frequent here."
Activity passes: Some locations offer combined activity access. At Sycamore Springs, Bryan R. explains, "There is a skating rink, tennis courts, basketball court, mini golf, and small park for children. You have to buy an activity pass for everything which is $10 a day. If you're camping you get one activity pass for free."
Cabin selection tips: Choose sites based on noise and privacy needs. At Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, Jason C. appreciates that "You can see them [kids] from anywhere in the camp ground. Small lake for fishing and kayaking. Bike trail and playgrounds."
Safe biking options: Look for cabin rentals with paved paths. Tori G. notes Lewis and Clark's "roads to, around, and within the campground are paved and great for a family walk or bike-riding."
Tips from RVers
Laundry access: Auburn Inn and Long's RV Park provides laundry facilities along with cabin rentals, making it suitable for longer stays.
Pull-through access: Some locations offer easier parking for vehicles with trailers. Sam C. notes Big Lake State Park has "Both back in and pull through sites available with electric, dump site, and fresh water fill station."
Site spacing considerations: Cabins at different parks offer varying levels of privacy. Shannon G. observes about AOK Campground, "The sites were a little close together and you could hear some highway noise, but in all the campground was pretty."
Fall stays advantages: Consider autumn visits for fewer crowds. At Mozingo Lake County Tent Campground, a visitor in October found "the campground was not too busy at all.. maybe only 5 other groups there."
