Lake Manawa State Park Tours

Photo by Norwegian Girl
Photo by Norwegian Girl


Keep your eyes open for native plant and animal life while you hike the trails of Lake Manawa State Park. That's when you're not being distracted by the gorgeous landscapes!

This protected natural landscape in Council Bluffs is popular with fellow travelers, so leave a spot for it on your must-see list. Don't think that's all there is to do here, though. There are plenty more spots waiting for you to discover after Lake Manawa State Park. Henry Doorly Zoo, CHI Health Center Omaha, and Harrah's Council Bluffs Casino are close by.

Plan a trip to see Lake Manawa State Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Harrah's Council Bluffs Hotel & Casino
Hampton Inn & Suites Omaha-Downtown
Hilton Garden Inn Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Lake Manawa State Park

Countryside Inn & Suites

Countryside Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
3208 S 7th St, Council Bluffs, IA
Countryside Inn & Suites
Cozy Lakeside Cottage for Families and Fun Seekers. Game room - Large Soaker Tub

Cozy Lakeside Cottage for Families and Fun Seekers. Game room - Large Soaker Tub

Council Bluffs
Cozy Lakeside Cottage for Families and Fun Seekers. Game room - Large Soaker Tub
Red Roof Inn & Suites Omaha - Council Bluffs

Red Roof Inn & Suites Omaha - Council Bluffs

2.5 out of 5
500 30th Ave, Council Bluffs, IA
Red Roof Inn & Suites Omaha - Council Bluffs
Fairfield Inn & Suites Omaha East/Council Bluffs, IA

Fairfield Inn & Suites Omaha East/Council Bluffs, IA

2.5 out of 5
520 30th Avenue, Council Bluffs, IA
Fairfield Inn & Suites Omaha East/Council Bluffs, IA
Motel 6 Council Bluffs, IA - Omaha East

Motel 6 Council Bluffs, IA - Omaha East

2 out of 5
3032 S Expressway St, Council Bluffs, IA
Motel 6 Council Bluffs, IA - Omaha East
Best Western Crossroads Of The Bluffs

Best Western Crossroads Of The Bluffs

2.5 out of 5
2216 27th Ave, Council Bluffs, IA
Best Western Crossroads Of The Bluffs
Super 8 by Wyndham Council Bluffs IA Omaha NE Area

Super 8 by Wyndham Council Bluffs IA Omaha NE Area

2 out of 5
2712 South 24th Street, Council Bluffs, IA
Super 8 by Wyndham Council Bluffs IA Omaha NE Area
AmericInn by Wyndham Council Bluffs

AmericInn by Wyndham Council Bluffs

2.5 out of 5
1000 Woodbury Ave, Council Bluffs, IA
AmericInn by Wyndham Council Bluffs
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Council Bluffs, IA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Council Bluffs, IA

2.5 out of 5
17 Arena Way, Council Bluffs, IA
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Council Bluffs, IA
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Manawa State Park

Lake Manawa State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including lake activities like water skiing and fishing, and opportunities for wildlife observation. The park features a campground with a detailed map for easy navigation. During the summer recreation season, guests can enjoy sports and baseball, as well as day trips to explore the surrounding area. It's a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to relax and connect with nature.

Shopping

The nearest shopping options include Olde Towne, Sarpy Mall, and Cornhusker Pointe, all located 5 miles from Lake Manawa State Park, offering a mix of family-friendly shops and local businesses. If you're up for a drive, you can explore more extensive shopping experiences in nearby areas.

Recreation

Charles Schwab Field Omaha, located 6 miles from Lake Manawa State Park, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. Stir Cove, 5 miles away, hosts lively concerts, providing a vibrant entertainment experience. For golf lovers, Spring Lake Golf Course, also 5 miles away, presents a scenic outdoor setting for a round of golf.

Adventure

Experience thrilling go-kart racing at Joe's Karting, located 4 miles from Lake Manawa State Park, where adrenaline meets fun. For a scenic outdoor adventure, explore the Back-to-the-River Trail, situated 6 miles away, offering beautiful views and fresh air. Additionally, enjoy indoor tennis at Hanscom-Brandeis Indoor Tennis Center, also 6 miles away.

Nightlife

For an exciting night near Lake Manawa State Park, try your luck at Horseshoe Council Bluffs, just 3 miles away, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Harrah's Council Bluffs Casino, located 5 miles away. For a cultural experience, catch a show at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 6 miles away.

Find the best attractions near Lake Manawa State Park

Lake Manawa State Park in Council Bluffs, Iowa, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic picnic area, explore the campground, and take in the beauty of the lake. Nearby attractions, including an urban park and entertainment facilities, make it an ideal spot for a city getaway filled with fun and relaxation.

  • Mid-America Center: Located 3 miles from Lake Manawa State Park, this entertainment hub offers a variety of family-friendly events and activities. From concerts to sports, it's the perfect spot to enjoy an exciting night out with loved ones.
  • Lake Manawa Beach: A mere 0.2 miles away, this picturesque beach is ideal for a romantic day or a relaxing outdoor escape. With stunning scenery and tranquil waters, it invites visitors to unwind and soak up the sun.
  • Lauritzen Gardens: Just 4 miles from the park, this beautiful botanical garden provides a serene outdoor experience. With lush landscapes and vibrant floral displays, it's a lovely destination for families and couples alike.

Best time to go to Lake Manawa State Park

The best time to visit Lake Manawa State Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Lake Manawa State Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Lake Manawa State Park falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January23.7°F (-4.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February26.1°F (-3.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
March41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
June73.2°F (22.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July76.1°F (24.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August74.5°F (23.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
November41.4°F (5.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December29.1°F (-1.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Manawa State Park

To save money on your visit to Lake Manawa State Park, consider traveling from November to January, when accommodations are cheaper, and aim for a Tuesday stay to minimize costs. Take advantage of the park's free entry and explore the area on foot or by bike to avoid transport expenses. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and consider booking a package deal for additional savings. Joining the One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future bookings. Don't forget to check for camping reservations and rental rates to further enhance your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Manawa State Park are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Manawa State Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Manawa State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Lake Manawa State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.