Cabin camping options near Iola, Wisconsin offer accommodations on lakes, rivers, and forest settings. Located within the Central Wisconsin River Basin, most campgrounds sit at elevations around 800-900 feet with moderately humid summers where temperatures average in the upper 70s. Most cabin rental facilities operate from mid-April through mid-October, though several close during winter months due to snow accumulation that averages 45-50 inches annually.
What to do
Fishing access: At Tilleda Falls Campground, riverside cabins provide direct access to the Embarrass River. One visitor noted, "Fun staff, great fishing and relaxation for a weekend getaway." The small cascading falls create pools that hold various fish species accessible from rocky outcroppings along the shore.
Horseback riding: Visitors staying at Wild West Campground & Corral can watch horses from their campsites. A camper mentioned, "Being able to watch the horses was very calming. We would recommend this place to others and we would go back." Trail rides operate seasonally from May through September for an additional fee.
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas exist across area campgrounds. The Embarrass River at Tilleda Falls offers natural swimming holes as described by a camper: "Swimming area, waterfall, stream, fishing. This camp has it all." Many cabin rental properties include pool access without additional fees.
What campers like
Themed weekends: Several campgrounds coordinate special events throughout summer. A visitor at Crazy Js Campground shared, "There are themes each week so make sure to check their site before so u know! It might be Pirate week or something else fun!" Halloween weekends during September are particularly popular with decorated campsites and trick-or-treating.
Kid-friendly amenities: Fremont RV Campground features extensive family activities. According to one visitor: "Tons of activities for kids and adults. Water parks, mini golf, playgrounds, arcade, train rides. During Father's Day weekend they have a car show." Many activities are included in the reservation fee while others require small additional charges.
Secluded spots: Despite high occupancy rates during peak season, several campgrounds offer more private cabin options. One guest at Waupaca S'more Fun mentioned: "Park has several types of sites available, some rustic, some full service and some in-between. Park is very wooded, campsites are close together."
What you should know
Shower facilities: Pay showers exist at some locations. A camper at Rustic Woods Campgrounds commented, "Great campground, very quiet, extremely clean rest room facilities, lots of trees." However, other reviews mention quarter-operated showers that provide approximately 3 minutes of water for 25 cents.
Seasonal access limitations: Many cabin rentals near Iola close during colder months. Fremont RV Campground operates from "mid April to mid October," while Wild West Campground runs from "Apr 15 - Oct 15." Winter cabin options are limited to year-round facilities.
Amenity schedules: Campground facilities often operate on limited schedules. One visitor at Rustic Woods noted: "The bar & grill is only open Thursday-Saturday. This is also where you need to go to get items for mini golf and is attached to the ice cream shop, arcade, etc. With this being said it's extremely difficult to get anything for the kids if need be."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Many camping cabins near Iola provide water recreation options. A visitor at Spencer Lake Christian Center shared, "My favorite time was during 'family camp' setting up our camper and swimming at the lake every day. There's volleyball, basketball, speedball and soccer fields, mini golf, Frisbee golf, and a ton of inflatable and boats on the lake for guests to enjoy."
Evening entertainment: Multiple campgrounds coordinate nighttime activities for children. At Crazy Js, a parent noted: "After dark the kids usually have a big game of something up at the playground and I have to tell them to be home at a decent time or they'd stay out all night!"
Cabin spacing: Cabin proximity varies significantly between campgrounds. While some provide privacy, others position units close together. A Waupaca S'more Fun camper noted that despite the park being full over Memorial Day weekend, "it was still very peaceful."
Tips from RVers
Campsite size considerations: Waupaca S'more Fun Campground offers various site types, but some may limit larger vehicles. According to a visitor: "Park has several types of sites available, some rustic, some full service and some in-between." Calling ahead for specific dimensions helps ensure proper fit.
Seasonal campers: Many camping areas near Iola have permanent or seasonal residents. One camper at Crazy Js observed: "With over 500 sites and 350 of them being permanent.... the weekend warriors tend to get 'warnings'." These permanent sites often occupy premium locations while rental cabins may be grouped in designated areas.
Campground size: Property sizes range from small 40-site facilities to larger operations. Tilleda Falls makes efficient use of limited space, with a visitor noting: "The thing that impresses me most about this campground is that they manage to do a lot with a little. The Falls are a beautiful little site which the campsites themselves manage to wrap around to maximize the space."
