I never thought I’d be this excited about cabins in Iowa, but my last trip completely changed my mind. After spending a weekend in a gorgeous cedar cabin near Decorah (complete with morning views of the Upper Iowa River that made me want to quit my job), I realized I’d been sleeping on this state’s outdoor scene for way too long.
Look, Iowa isn’t just endless cornfields. Trust me, some of the best places in Iowa are tucked away in its surprising landscape of rolling hills and peaceful rivers. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot near the sandstone cliffs of Backbone State Park or a riverside retreat in the Driftless Area, I’ve found some seriously incredible cabins that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about Iowa.
Top Rental Cabins in Iowa: The Best IA Rentals in 2025
Here are the best cabins in Iowa by category, considering factors including amenities, trip types, and budgets. The subsequent sections will cover each listing in more detail.
- Most Luxurious Rental: 6-Bedroom Retreat with 26 Acres & Private Lake
- Coziest Iowa Getaway: Minimalist Mini-Cabin on the Mighty Mississippi
- Favorite for Families: Lake Okoboji Log Cabin with Fun Amenities
- Best Value Cabin: Family-Friendly Rental Near the Famous Madison County
- Best Spot for Shopaholics: River-View Cabin Near Dubuque
- Most Relaxing Escape Spot: Secluded Serenity Valley Log Cabin
- Most Unique Iowa Cabin: Sioux River Rental with 17-Foot-High Fireplace
- Top Spot for Fishing: Budget-Friendly Getaway Near Trout-Filled Creek
- Best Accommodation for Large Groups: Clear Creek Cabin with Room for 18
- Most Scenic Setting in Iowa: Custom-Build Cabin with Outside Deck
- Top Rental for Animal Watching: A-Frame Cottage Near Wildlife Preserve
- Best Dinner Party Spot: Log Cabin with Galley Kitchen & Open Dining Area
- Comfiest Home Away From Home: Lovely Rural Cabin Near Fort Atkinson
13 Great Vacation Rentals in Iowa: Unforgettable Nature Retreats
Iowa is home to some of the most unique places in the US. If spacious and picture-perfect log cabins nestled along the Mississippi River sound good to you, you just hit the jackpot! Below are some of the best and most relaxing getaways in IA:
1. The Country in the City
- 📍 Location: Decorah, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $251/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Massage chair, cozy fireplace, large backyard with a wooden swing, close to downtown
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏠, relaxation seekers 💆♂️, city explorers 🌆
Welcome to Country in the City, a retreat that blends rural charm with easy access to downtown Decorah. Perfect for families or groups, this spacious home offers a cozy atmosphere with plenty of space to relax and unwind.
Within, the stone fireplace and massage chair create a welcoming ambiance for evenings of relaxation. The fully equipped kitchen and expansive living areas provide ample room for gathering and creating lasting memories.
Just a short drive away, explore Luther College for cultural events or enjoy scenic walks around Dunning Springs Park. Take a quick drive to the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum to learn about local history or visit nearby parks for more outdoor activities.
Whether you’re hiking, sightseeing, or exploring local culture, this location provides something for everyone.
2. Secluded Riverfront Cabin
- 📍 Location: Sherrill, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $273/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 9 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Waterfront location, beach access, boat launch, fire pit
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏖️, water sports enthusiasts 🚤, relaxation seekers 🌊
Step into this Mississippi River Waterfront Cabin, just steps from the beach and boat launch. Perfect for families or groups, this retreat offers a comfortable and relaxing stay with scenic views of the river.
Within, enjoy a cozy living room with a gas fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and a dining area with additional seating for larger gatherings. The three bedrooms comfortably sleep up to 9 guests, making this cabin ideal for group getaways.
Outside, the large deck, where you can unwind with a drink, enjoy the fresh air, or relax by the on-site fire pit. Just steps away, the beach offers the perfect spot to soak up the sun, swim, or enjoy water activities.
Nearby, enjoy gaming at Diamond Jo Casino (30 minutes), wine tasting at Whispering Bluffs Winery (53 minutes), or explore Q Casino (31 minutes) for more entertainment. Whether you’re boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water, this cabin offers the perfect place to unwind.
3. The Corn Crib Cozy Cabin with Country Views
- 📍 Location: Indianola, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $143/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 7 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Secluded cabin, country views, private deck, breakfast included, pet-friendly
- 🌟 Perfect For: Weekend getaways 🏞️, family retreats 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌳
Nestled just half a mile from the main highway, The Corn Crib offers the combination of seclusion and city convenience. This charming 3-bedroom cabin is ideally located for those wanting to explore the Bridges of Madison County or visit nearby wineries.
On the outside, relax on the private deck, enjoy the fire ring for making s’mores, or take your time with the provided breakfast foods. The cabin is perfect for families or small groups, offering privacy and comfort.
Just minutes away, you can visit Des Moines Metro Opera and the National Balloon Museum. Whether you’re here for a peaceful retreat or to explore the local attractions, The Corn Crib is the ideal place to unwind.
4. Private Secluded Escape in Serenity Valley
- 📍 Location: Ossian, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $325/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Secluded lower-level cabin, private patio with firepit, kayaking, and paddleboarding on a 3-acre pond
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family reunions 👨👩👧👦, peaceful getaways 🌲, nature lovers 🦋
Escape to Serenity Valley, a secluded retreat nestled in a valley in Ossian, Iowa. This private lower-level space in a log cabin offers 2,300 square feet of comfort with three themed bedrooms—Outdoorsman, Farmstead, and Honeymooner—each with its own private bathroom and stunning views of ponds, a creek, and oak trees.
Enjoy a kitchenette with full amenities, cozy living spaces, and your entrance with a private patio and grill.
Unwind with kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing on the 3-acre pond, or take a peaceful walk along nearby trails. Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. is just a 23-minute drive away, while Dunning’s Spring Park and Luther College are nearby for sightseeing and nature hikes.
Whether you’re seeking tranquility or a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, Serenity Valley is your perfect escape
5. Cozy Family-Friendly Cabin
- 📍 Location: Lansing, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $231/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: 10-acre private property, zipline, family-friendly, outdoor play area, dog-friendly
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏖️, adventure seekers 🌲, nature lovers 🚶♂️
Welcome to this family-friendly cabin nestled on 10 private acres, just minutes from the Mississippi River. Perfect for families or groups, this rustic retreat blends modern comforts with exciting outdoor adventures.
Enjoy a cozy living area with a well-equipped kitchen and dining space for family meals. The cabin comfortably sleeps up to 8 guests across three bedrooms: a king-sized bed, a queen with a crib, and a twin bed. The outdoor play area and zipline provide extra fun for all ages.
On the exterior, explore the expansive property, featuring room to roam, a barbecue grill, and plenty of space for relaxation.
Nearby, visit Mount Hosmer Park for stunning views (5-minute drive) or enjoy outdoor activities at Clear Creek Park (6-minute drive). Experience the region’s natural history at the Driftless Area Education and Visitors Center (7-minute drive).
Whether you’re hiking, exploring, or relaxing, this location is the perfect getaway.
6. Secluded Lake Lodge and Retreat
- 📍 Location: Norwalk, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $699/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 16 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private lake, outdoor basketball court, sand volleyball, 6 kayaks, ping pong tables, billiards, foosball, and more
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family reunions 👨👩👧👦, outdoor enthusiasts 🚴♂️, sports lovers 🏀
Escape to this incredible 23-acre retreat just south of Des Moines, featuring a private lake and spacious 6-bedroom lodge. Whether you’re here to relax or explore, there’s something for everyone. Bike enthusiasts can enjoy the Great Western Bike Trail right at the driveway, with 15 adult bikes available for use.
The property boasts an outdoor basketball court, sand volleyball, and a variety of indoor games, including ping pong, billiards, air hockey, and foosball. Take one of the 6 kayaks for a peaceful paddle on the lake or enjoy board and card games with loved ones.
For local attractions, Blank Park Zoo is just 20 minutes away, and Jordan Creek Town Center offers shopping and dining options 25 minutes away.
Please note, the property is typically unavailable during summer months due to running camps, but is perfect for large gatherings, family stays, and outdoor adventures year-round.
7. Clear Creek Cabin
- 📍 Location: New Albin, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $348/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 18 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Spring-fed pond, 800 acres of public hunting land, 3.2 miles of trout stream, and nearby Mississippi River Trail
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family getaways 👨👩👧👦, fishing trips 🎣, nature lovers 🌳
Clear Creek Cabin, located in New Albin, IA, offers the ultimate outdoor escape with a spring-fed pond, white sand beach, and access to Clear Creek’s trout stream. This 2,700 sq ft cabin features 6 bedrooms and sleeps up to 18 guests, perfect for family getaways or fishing trips.
The property includes 800 acres of public hunting land and is near the Mississippi River Trail. Guests can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and outdoor activities right on-site.
Indoors, the cabin blends rustic charm with modern amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and a 55-inch SMART TV. Nearby attractions include Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. (58 min drive), Luther College (59 min drive), and the La Crosse Center (66 min drive).
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Clear Creek Cabin offers the perfect setting for nature lovers.
8. Beautiful Spacious Cabin Retreat
- 📍 Location: Spirit Lake, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $400/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 14 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Spacious 3-level log home, large open lot, 2 decks, game room with pool table and Foosball, 14×18′ kitchen deck, bonfire area, private location close to the lake
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨👩👧👦, group getaways 👫, outdoor enthusiasts 🌳
The large 3-level cabin, located just across the road from East Lake Okoboji, offers the perfect retreat for families and friends. With 3,000 sq ft of space, this cabin features 4 bedrooms, a spacious loft, 2 bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Conveniently located, the cabin is just an 8-minute drive from Ranch Okoboji, a 9-minute drive from West Okoboji Lake, and 11 minutes from Arnolds Park, providing easy access to water activities, parks, and local attractions.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere just outside the city limits while staying close to entertainment options. The cabin also includes high-speed internet, cable TV, and ample space for outdoor dining.
This is the perfect destination to create lasting memories with family or friends..
9. Cabin on the Big Sioux River
- 📍 Location: Larchwood, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $395/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Open floor plan with 25-foot ceilings, 17-foot high fireplace, 100-acre wooded land for outdoor activities.
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲, large groups 👫
Escape to this cabin nestled on the Big Sioux River with a sprawling 100-acre wood. Built in 2012, this modern home offers a spacious and open floor plan with a grand 25-foot ceiling in the great room, complete with a massive stone fireplace.
Relax on the huge deck with panoramic views of the river valley and the lights of Sioux Falls, just 12 miles away.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the adjacent land offers opportunities for hunting pheasant, turkey, and deer, while the cabin is perfect for hosting events (fee applies).
Nearby attractions include Grand Falls Casino Resort (14-minute drive), Falls Park (25-minute drive), and Denny Sanford Premier Center (30-minute drive). Experience a peaceful retreat with all the comforts of home and the beauty of nature!
10. Wild Rose Road Cabin
- 📍 Location: Fort Atkinson, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $200/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 9 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: 1850 sq ft, spacious loft, wheelchair accessible, outdoor play area, BBQ grill, beautiful surroundings
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏡, outdoor enthusiasts 🌳, nature lovers 🌅
Welcome to the Wild Rose Road Cabin, a charming retreat in Fort Atkinson, IA, perfect for families or groups looking to unwind. This 1,850 sq ft cabin comfortably sleeps 9 guests across three bedrooms, featuring a cozy living space, a well-equipped kitchen, and plenty of room for relaxation.
On the outside, enjoy the deck or patio, where you can BBQ, relax, or explore the outdoor play area. The property is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.
Nearby, visit the Bily Clocks Museum (10-minute drive) to see unique clockwork art, enjoy a drink at Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. (27-minute drive), or explore Luther College (24-minute drive) for its scenic campus and events. Whether touring, hiking, or relaxing, this cabin offers a peaceful escape.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor fun or a relaxing retreat, this cabin provides the perfect setting for your stay.
11. Shady Haven – Charming Tiny Home Retreat
- 📍 Location: Bellevue, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $183/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Custom-built tiny home, private picnic area, and proximity to Bellevue State Park
- 🌟 Perfect For: Nature retreats 🌲, couples 🌹, small family getaways 👨👩👧
Stay in this tiny home along the Mississippi River in Bellevue, Iowa. Shady Haven offers all the comforts of a traditional home, including heat/AC, kitchen, bathroom, and a cozy living room. With a queen-sized bed in the loft and a pull-out futon in the living room, this home comfortably sleeps 4 guests.
Outside, your private picnic area, perfect for evening gatherings around the fire pit, or unwind in the hot tub. Enjoy stunning beachfront views and easy access to activities like boating and fishing.
Nearby attractions include Bellevue State Park (3-minute walk), Riverview Park (4-minute walk), and Chestnut Mountain Resort (66-minute drive). This cozy retreat offers everything you need for a relaxing stay with a mix of nature and comfort.
12. Rustic Acres Homestead & Springs
- 📍 Location: Decorah, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $250/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Waterfall on property, spacious deck, outdoor BBQ, fireplace, private setting
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏡, nature lovers 🌳, outdoor adventurers 🚶♂️
Rustic Acres Cabin & Springs, a spacious retreat in the heart of Decorah, IA. With 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, this cabin is perfect for large gatherings, comfortably sleeping up to 12 guests. Inside, you’ll find a cozy living room with a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and plenty of space to unwind.
Venture outside and enjoy the natural beauty with opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor relaxation.
Nearby, visit Seed Savers Exchange Heritage Farm (4-minute drive) to explore organic gardens, or take a short drive to Luther College (10-minute drive) for its scenic campus and cultural events. Dunnings Spring Park (14-minute drive) offers beautiful hiking trails and views of a stunning waterfall.
Whether you’re hiking, exploring local attractions, or simply relaxing, this cabin provides the perfect escape.
13. Trout Cove Cabin
- 📍 Location: Decorah, IA
- 💵 Price Per Night: $155/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 7 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Trout fishing right outside, 24 acres with creek frontage, newly renovated cabin, and year-round comfort
- 🌟 Perfect For: Fishing enthusiasts 🎣, family getaways 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲, and relaxation seekers 🌟
Escape to the Trout Cove Cabin, a charming retreat nestled in the heart of nature just north of Decorah, IA. This remodeled cabin offers 2 cozy bedrooms, a spacious loft, and a fully stocked kitchen, perfect for families or groups of up to 7 guests.
Relax on the covered deck with scenic views of the Canoe Creek Valley, or unwind by the fire pit. Enjoy 24 acres of creek frontage, ideal for trout fishing, wildlife sightings, and mushroom hunting.
The cabin is equipped with modern amenities, including WiFi, Roku TV, and central heating/AC for year-round comfort.
Nearby attractions include Seed Savers Exchange Heritage Farm (4 min drive), Luther College (9 min drive), and Dunnings Spring Park (14 min drive). Whether fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing, this peaceful getaway provides the perfect setting for making unforgettable memories.
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