Lake Manawa Campground

Hey there, fellow Iowans! Are you dreaming of a perfect getaway that combines lakeside relaxation, outdoor adventure, and modern comforts, all within easy reach? Look no further than Lake Manawa Campground, a gem nestled within Lake Manawa State Park in Council Bluffs. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a vibrant destination that offers a wealth of activities and conveniences, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, right here in the heart of our beautiful state.

For us locals, finding a campground that truly delivers on its promise of an enjoyable stay is paramount. Lake Manawa Campground consistently receives high marks for its well-maintained facilities, spacious sites, and seamless access to Lake Manawa itself. From the ease of making reservations and navigating the park to the clean, modern restrooms and showers, every detail is designed to enhance your experience. Whether you're planning a weekend full of water sports, an extended stay exploring the area, or simply a peaceful retreat, Lake Manawa Campground provides an inviting and well-equipped base. Join us as we explore the many reasons why this campground is a premier choice for your next Iowa outdoor adventure.

Lake Manawa Campground is perfectly situated within Lake Manawa State Park, with its office located at 1100 S Shore Dr, Council Bluffs, IA 51501, USA. This prime location places it in the southwest part of Council Bluffs, offering an exceptional blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility. Lake Manawa itself is a significant 700-acre man-made lake, created originally to relieve water from the Missouri River, and now serves as a major outdoor recreation hub.

The accessibility of the campground is a major highlight. For Iowans, especially those coming from the greater Omaha/Council Bluffs metro area, reaching the park is incredibly straightforward. Reviewers often note that confirmation emails include "precise directions from I-29," making the approach stress-free, with "an interstate sign confirming the turn." This ease of access, combined with a gated entrance that requires a code (provided with your reservation), ensures a secure and exclusive environment for campers. Once inside, the campground's layout is easy to navigate, with sites that are "well-spaced" and "spacious." The proximity to Council Bluffs means that campers have quick access to city amenities, grocery stores, restaurants, and various attractions, offering the convenience of urban resources without sacrificing the tranquil park setting. This strategic location makes Lake Manawa Campground an exceptionally practical and desirable destination for all types of visitors.

• Full Hook-Up Campsites: The campground offers 40 RV sites with modern amenities, many of which are full hook-up sites providing water, electricity (20, 30, and 50 amp options), and sewer connections. This ensures maximum convenience for RVers, allowing for longer, more comfortable stays. Sites are typically level and paved.

• Clean and Spacious Restrooms/Shower House: Visitors consistently praise the "spacious and clean" restroom and shower facilities. This modern shower house contributes significantly to the comfort of the camping experience.

• Gated Entrance: The campground features a gated entrance requiring an access code (provided upon reservation), enhancing security and privacy for campers.

• Online Reservation System: All campsites are 100% reservable from April 15th to October 15th, with reservations accepted up to 3 months in advance. This streamlined online process makes booking your stay convenient.

• Trailer Dump Station: A convenient trailer dump station is available for RVers, ensuring easy waste disposal.

• Potable Water Access: Clean, potable water is readily available at sites with hookups and likely at central points throughout the campground.

• Good Connectivity: Reviewers note decent cellular connectivity (e.g., 2 bars on Verizon, 3 on T-Mobile) and water pressure around 40 psi, adding to the comfort of modern camping.

• Firewood Sales: For traditional camping experiences, firewood is typically available for purchase on-site (or locally sourced, due to EAB quarantines in Iowa), allowing for campfires in designated rings.

• Direct Lake Manawa Access: The campground offers "easy access to the lake" for a wide array of water activities. Lake Manawa is a premier spot for boating (motors of any size allowed, with multiple boat ramps), fishing (crappie, bluegill, catfish, bass, walleye), swimming at the designated beach, and paddle sports (kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals available).

• Dreamland Playground: Located approximately 150 yards from some sites, the popular "Dreamland playground" is a major draw for families with young children, featuring unique elements that nod to local history.

• Spacious, Level, Paved Sites: Campers appreciate the "well-spaced, spacious sites" that are "level" and often "paved," making for easy setup of RVs and tents. Many sites are pull-throughs, further simplifying arrivals.

• No Trees Near Many Sites for Satellite Access: For RVers relying on satellite dishes, the lack of trees directly over many sites is a significant advantage, ensuring clear reception. However, the park still features plenty of natural beauty.

• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts a "paved walking trail connecting to the Lake Manawa State Park Beach and Dream Playground." There are also seven miles of paved trails around the lake for walking, jogging, or cycling, which connect to other popular Council Bluffs trails like the Wabash Trace Nature Trail and the Missouri Riverfront Trail. Additionally, eight miles of unpaved mountain bike trails are available.

• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Multiple picnic areas are available throughout the park, with several open picnic shelters that can be reserved for gatherings. Some shelters even offer kitchen facilities or electricity.

• Wildlife and Nature Observation: The park's diverse ecosystems, including prairie remnants, wetlands, and deciduous forests, attract various wildlife, including deer, beavers, and numerous bird species, making it great for nature study and photography.

• Proximity to Council Bluffs Attractions: Beyond the park, campers are just minutes away from Council Bluffs attractions like the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, local casinos, and dining options.

Ready to plan your unforgettable lakeside adventure at Lake Manawa Campground? Here's how you can get in touch:

Address: Lake Manawa State Park, Office, 1100 S Shore Dr, Council Bluffs, IA 51501, USA

Phone: (712) 366-0220

Mobile Phone: +1 712-366-0220

Remember that reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and weekends, as the campground "filled up over the weekend" even on a Thursday arrival. You can typically make reservations through the Iowa DNR State Park reservation system online.

For us Iowans, Lake Manawa Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for a local getaway, perfectly embodying the spirit of outdoor recreation and family fun right in our backyard. Its prime location within Lake Manawa State Park in Council Bluffs means it’s incredibly accessible for residents from across our state, especially those in the western region. This ease of access translates to more time enjoying the beautiful lake and park amenities and less time traveling, making it ideal for everything from a quick weekend escape to a longer family vacation.

The campground’s modern amenities are a major draw. With "full hookups" available on spacious, level, and often paved sites, it caters to the comfort and convenience that many Iowans look for in an RV or tent camping experience. The consistently praised "spacious and clean" restrooms and showers further enhance the stay, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic environment. The gated entrance also adds a layer of security and peace of mind, allowing families to relax and unwind freely.

What truly makes Lake Manawa Campground shine for locals, however, are the abundant recreational opportunities. Our love for lakes is inherent, and having "easy access to the lake" for boating, fishing, and swimming at a "wonderful beach" is a huge plus. The presence of the "popular Dreamland playground" makes it a perfect destination for families with kids, providing endless entertainment. Furthermore, the extensive paved trail system, connecting to other beloved local trails, offers fantastic opportunities for walking, running, and biking, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in Iowa's natural beauty and stay active. Lake Manawa Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor activity and family bonding that truly feels like home.

Lake Manawa Campground

Lake Manawa State Park, Office, 1100 S Shore Dr, Council Bluffs, IA 51501, USA