Lake Manawa State Park

Imagine a campground with the shimmering backdrop of a historic oxbow lake—Lake Manawa State Park Campground in Council Bluffs, Iowa, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, modern amenities, and serene lakeside charm. This destination is especially appealing for its lake activities, extensive biking and hiking trails, and its family-friendly atmosphere.

The campground itself features 40 RV-friendly sites with full hookups, a well-maintained shower house, and paved trails connecting to nearby recreation hubs, including the park's beach and Iowa’s largest ADA-accessible playground, the Dream Playground. Anglers, boaters, and paddlers are drawn to the 753-acre Lake Manawa, which allows motors of any size and offers rental options for canoes and paddleboards. Additionally, the lake is teeming with fish species like bass, crappie, and walleye, making it a year-round fishing hotspot. Eight miles of mountain biking trails and paved walking paths extend adventure options, while nearby picnic shelters provide gathering spaces.

Located just minutes from downtown Council Bluffs and Omaha’s attractions, this campground is an excellent base for day trips to the Henry Doorly Zoo or the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a family outing, or an extended stay, Lake Manawa State Park Campground is a versatile choice that combines natural beauty with modern convenience for an unforgettable outdoor experience.