If you’ve ever seen the iconic “American Gothic” painting, you may be surprised to find that it was set in the state of Iowa. Though it is perhaps best known for its idyllic rural life and thriving agricultural industry — as immortalized in this famous work — the Hawkeye State has so much more to offer. In fact, the best places to visit in Iowa are some of the most beautiful sights in the Midwest. Natural wonders, including rivers, falls, and hot springs, abound here. If you’re up for some adventure, you can go on a rollercoaster ride at Arnolds Park Amusement Park. During your visit, you can take refuge in one of the best lakefront rentals in Iowa. But if you plan to explore this Midwest state with your beloved pets in tow, read on to discover the top pet-friendly cabins in Iowa, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and pet-friendly rules and regulations. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.
1. Gorgeous riverfront cottage, Dorchester (from USD 95)
Enjoy a paradisiacal stay in this stunning cabin on the shores of the Upper Iowa River. You can cast your lines off the rear deck, hoping to reel in a big catch. The hot tub provides a luxurious escape from the stress of daily life.
You can prepare gastronomic delights in the fully equipped kitchen. In addition, you can enjoy dining around the firepit on the porch basking in the tranquil surroundings and the quiet lull of the water. Stay in touch with the world with free wireless internet. You are welcome to bring your furry friends at a one-time cost of 50 USD per pet.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cabin has lots of room for the 5 of us and comfortable furniture and bedseasily will sleep 12 had ample room for my children and grandchildrenRead more reviewsLocation:
this is an excellent location on the riverthis was the perfect location we golfed floated enjoyed the fire pit and a couple local restaurants
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the rooms were decent sizes and the dining table fit the groupthe game room downstairs is a hit with kids and they will spend hours enjoying themselvesthe property was fantastic and we had such a great time playing yard games pool and hanging outCleanliness:
the house was very clean and had everything you neededwhile the backyard is nice the play equipment in the upper back yard was not clean or maintainedRead more reviewsLocation:
a great house and in a beautiful locationall of us enjoyed our weekend away at the lodge some of the best fishing is within walking distancethe property is perfect for whatever you need very close to run into decorah and visit the micro-breweries
2. Lake View Chalet, Wadena (from USD 140)
A peaceful retreat awaits you at this lovely chalet situated in a serene rural setting. A row boat and kayaks are available for you to use on your fun vacation. Enjoy catch-and-release fishing and have a tranquil day on the lake.
The cabin has a cutting-edge temperature control system to keep you cozy. You can prepare your favorite recipes in the well-appointed kitchen and enjoy alfresco dining by the lakeside enjoying the sun. In the evening, have a campfire and roast some marshmallows under the star-studded sky. You can bring up to four cats or dogs to the property.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the cabin is clean and stayed very cool on the two hot humid days we stayedeverything was easy and pain free and the cabin was cleanRead more reviewsHost:
the owner was very helpful
3. Waterfront abode with a hot tub, North Liberty (from USD 370)
Escape the hubbub of city life and have a tranquil escape in this luxurious riverfront cabin. Immerse yourself in nature as you kayak down the river, taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Unwind in the warm, swirling waters of the hot tub and let your tensions melt away.
You can prepare delicious recipes in the well-stocked kitchen. Sip a glass of wine while creating lasting memories with friends or family on the deck overlooking the Iowa River. Surf, stream, and stay productive on the go with superfast Wi-Fi. You can bring your four-legged friends at an additional charge of 75 USD per pet.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
spotlessly clean photos/description accurate we had 2 adults and 3 kids ages 3-8; felt safe and comfortableCleanliness:
the house was well equipped and cleanHost:
host was kind and responsivethe hosts were very responsive to all of our questions that came up during the visitishita was extremely responsive and accommodatingthe hosts were excellent with their communication and attentive to our needs upon check-in and check-outRead more reviewsLocation:
loved the location- very convenient to shopping restaurants etcit was the perfect peaceful location for a few days to unwindthe location was great and great mid way spot between cedar rapids and iowa citygood location great hosti didn’t realize and hadn’t given them the very clear instructions for overflow parking close by
4. The Corn Crib, Indianola (from USD 134)
The Corn Crib is located near the main highway and boasts tranquil countryside views. This artfully decorated three-bedroom cabin can easily accommodate large families and groups of up to eight people. The full kitchen makes cooking meals a breeze. Complimentary breakfast food items are available in the pantry.
Free Wi-Fi access, smart TV, and DVD player are available to keep you entertained while indoors. Up to two cats or dogs can stay in this cabin, regardless of their size. A pet fee of 25 USD is also applicable. Plus, pets are sure to enjoy a trip to any of the state parks located close to the cabin. Lake Ahquabi State Park is 3.3 mi (5.3 km) away from the property.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we appreciated the breakfast foods and coffeequiet cozy with all the comforts of homeCleanliness:
house very clean & beautiful areathe corn crib was clean and cozythe place was clean and charmingthe house was incredibly clean and had everything we neededthe corn crib was very clean and had everything we needed to prepare our mealsHost:
wonderful space and gracious hostproperty owner very friendly & accommodatingbarb is an outstanding host who was very welcomingbarb was a gracious hostthe owner was easy to communicate with and made sure we had everything we asked forRead more reviewsLocation:
great location convenient access to everythingwe were close enough to town but yet far enough away to enjoy a nice weekend awaythis is a beautiful property tucked away in the countryside close to towna very cute clean cabin close to des moinescute place kept up well
5. The Patriot, Spragueville (from USD 217)
For the adventurer in you, The Patriot offers an endless list of recreational activities so you can enjoy a weekend getaway in Iowa. Go for an exciting ride along the River Ridge ATV trail, enjoy a hike along the nearby pet-friendly trails, try catching some fresh catfish and bluefish in the pond, or go stargazing on clear nights.
At the same time, this well-appointed cabin comes with comforts that will keep you at ease, including a kitchenette, satellite TV, Wi-Fi access, and even enough space to sleep ten. Your furry friends can be accommodated here for an additional charge of 100 USD per stay.
Top guest reviews
Host:
the owner was very kind and stopped over to meet usowner was prompt to reply and instructions was easy to checkoutsteve the owner very helpfulit was so private and relaxing and steve was a great hostaccommodations were comfortable and the host steve is a great guyRead more reviewsLocation:
we love me the location and the activities available with the equipment we broughtjust what we needed - this place is beautiful
6. Rustic cabin near Des Moines River, Van Buren County (from USD 115)
Nestled by the bridge across a river, this waterfront cabin in Van Buren County offers guests satisfying outdoor adventures. The large Des Moines River is nearby the property and is a great spot for fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife watching. You and your fur pal will both admire the expansive outdoor space. This rental accepts up to two well-behaved dogs of any size.
Your idle days can be leisurely spent by sitting by the fire pit or relaxing on the screened porch with stunning river and sunset views. For entertainment, this rustic retreat is thoughtfully appointed with Wi-Fi and cable TV. Note that cellphone reception is spotty in the area but is better in the city of Keosauqua, just a few miles via a paved road from the cabin.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beds were comfortable with plenty of linens providedCleanliness:
the cabin was cozy and cleanHost:
host was extremely responsive and the cabin had everything we neededRead more reviewsLocation:
the cabin was so cute and so quiet that you could hear the river even during the day
7. Beautiful log cabin facing a lake, Fayette County (from USD 140)
This lakefront log cabin lets you enjoy its quiet country setting in Fayette County with up to four of your cats or dogs. Regardless of their size, pets are welcome in this rental provided that they aren’t left unattended inside the cabin. You can use your precious time here with pure unplugging as the home is spared from the trivialities of Wi-Fi and TV. However, there’s a cellular tower nearby for mobile data and hotspot options for your devices.
You’ll surely want to spend your days embarking on lake adventures as the booking comes with free use of kayaks, canoes, and rowboats. Just be aware that the unit is on the same grounds as River Valley campground but don’t worry about privacy as the cabin is in a separate area and has private lake access.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the property was very clean and we had the entire property to ourselvesHost:
owner was very nice and helpful and quick to respondRead more reviewsLocation:
this property was a great location for myself and my extended family to stay
8. Serene and updated riverside cabin, Iowa Falls (from USD 140)
Dating back to 1949, this serene cabin by the river boasts vintage appeal. It features exposed beams and unfinished wood, which adds to the rustic feel of the cabin. It is also equipped with modern-day comforts, such as air conditioning, a smart TV, a washer and dryer, and free Wi-Fi access.
Guests are welcome to bring one large dog or two small dogs for an additional pet fee of 50 USD. With numerous walking trails nearby, going for walks with your furry friend would be a real treat.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we were completely unable to access the wi-fi but it turned out to be a blessingthe beds were very comfortablewe had a great relaxing weekend with the cozy cabin next to the iowa riverbeds were nice bathroom & kitchen had everything we neededCleanliness:
very clean the cabin is well equippedproperty was clean neat and vintage with neat historyHost:
instructions provided by the host were easy to followthe host was very responsive to our needsi hosted a get together with some friends in iowa before one was going to get marriedRead more reviewsLocation:
great location-close enough to town yet far enough away for peace & quietthe location was fantastic close to town but it felt like no one else was aroundloved the cabin the location was perfect enjoyed the wildlifegood place to stay in iowa falls
9. Cedar Bend Cabin, Riverton Township (from USD 188)
If you’d like to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, you can lose yourself in the peace offered by this lovely riverside cabin. Cedar Bend Cabin is the perfect place to feel close to nature and unwind, just the way you prefer. For a pet fee of 40 USD, your beloved furry friend can tag along too.
The cabin is steps away from a river, where you can indulge in fishing and canoeing. You can also engage in skiing and hiking nearby. After an active day out, you can sip on your favorite drink while soaking in the hot tub on the deck.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the big sectional couch (with foldout bed) was super comfy(maybe an electric fireplace in the living room?) the positives definitely outweighed the few criticismsCleanliness:
property was clean well equippedbeautiful scenery clean environment great place to rejuvenatevery clean comfy house right on the rivereverything was clean and as described in the listingif you want a clean quiet cabin with scenery and a hot tub this is the placeHost:
communication with the host was fantasticRead more reviewsLocation:
we decided to venture away from city life and this place was perfectwe would highly recommend this location and hope to be backwe had a great time the place was so nice and cuteenjoyed a quiet weekend get away
10. Fully furnished cabin close to Rathbun Lake, Appanoose County (from USD 165)
Surrounded by towering oak trees and sprawling native grasslands, Rathbun Lake is one of the most scenic lakes in the state. This expansive lake is a favorite among those who love the outdoors, with a plethora of activities to enjoy here — swimming, boating, hiking, and hunting, to name a few.
This vacation rental in Iowa is a great space to rest after a fun-filled day at the lake. With three bedrooms, a full kitchen, a washer, and Wi-Fi access, you and up to seven of your loved ones can recharge at the cabin. Your pets are welcome, too, for a fee of 25 USD. They’re sure to have just as much fun at the cabin, frolicking in the spacious yard or stretching on the deck.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean 3 bedroom houseeverything was very cleanclean clean clean everything you could need was providedclean nice area and relaxingthe property was very clean and well maintainedHost:
the host answered my questions in a very timely manner and the whole process was easyscott is a fantastic host and is very responsiveowners were fantastic with communicationowner scott promptly responds and easy to work withso many extras and super friendly ownersRead more reviewsLocation:
very nice property and location was very peacefulthe lake is near by and the walking path is nicely mowedwe loved the walk to the beacharea and property were perfect short walk to the lake10 minute walk to lake really nice beach area
11. Iris Aisle, Winterset (from USD 135)
What better place to enjoy an intimate getaway with your partner than in an enchanting cabin tucked away in the middle of the woods? Iris Aisle offers this experience, nestled within a forest filled with cedar trees. It has a loft-style bedroom, a cozy porch for reading and napping, and charming decor complete with potted plants and wooden furnishings.
Modern comforts such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi access are also available. However, if you’d like to disconnect and feel closer to nature, you can head out and explore the trails around the property or play with your pets in the expansive backyard. Your dogs are also welcome to stay here, as long as they are able to get along with other animals on the property.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cabin is so cozy and warm just makes you want to sleep in foreverCleanliness:
the property is beautiful the cabin is private and quiet and everything was very cleanHost:
raelyn and earl are very kind and great hostswonderful host beautiful place highly recommendedvery friendly and informative owners of the propertyRead more reviewsLocation:
if you want a beautiful secluded location this is the spot for yougreat place to get awayyou walk in to a beautiful display of lights lighting your pathvery charming and a perfect place to unplug
Superhost
12. Rustic cabin with a fire pit, Blairstown (from USD 105)
If you need respite from busy city life, this rustic cabin can provide you with the peace and privacy you desire. It has enough space to sleep up to five guests and comes with mod cons such as an HDTV, Wi-Fi access, and central air conditioning.
The owners also allow pets to stay with you and the cabin also features plenty of grassy space for your furry friends to stretch and frolic. It also has a fire pit next to which your fur baby will love to curl up in the evening.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
cabin was spotless and the furniture very comfortablethe beds were so comfortableCleanliness:
cabin was clean and just as describedcabin was very clean and very nicely decoratedthe space is clean and inviting with everything you need and morethis cabin was even better that we expected it was very clean roomy and had everything we neededjustin was very responsive and the cabin was clean private and homeyHost:
justin was an amazing hostjustin was a great hostjustin is a great host and very quick to reply to messagesjustin was a welcoming host and great to work withjustin was a great host and very friendly highly recommend to everyoneRead more reviewsLocation:
very peaceful and restful location worth the tripthis was a nice little cabin in a nice quiet location
13. Cozy cabin with an expansive yard, Harpers Ferry (from USD 100)
Located on the end of a road, this cozy cabin is perfect for guests who are looking for a secluded and more relaxed stay. With an expansive yard and the sprawling Yellow River State Forest just 1 mi (1.6 km) away, guests can enjoy the fresh air and explore the great outdoors. Fishing, hunting, and horseback riding are just a few of the activities that one can enjoy near the cabin.
The cabin also comes with a good selection of amenities fit for the modern traveler, including a full kitchen, a bath with hygiene essentials, cable TV, and Wi-Fi. Cellphone signal is available as well, keeping guests connected.
For guests traveling with pets in tow, a fee of 50 USD will be charged upon arrival, although they will need to inform the owner ahead of time. Pets must also be kept off the furniture and supervised at all times.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean and well keptthe cabin was very clean and comfortableexpect a wonderfully clean spacious homewe loved this place it was extremely clean and had everything we neededthe place was very clean and all instructions for check out were clearly listedHost:
rick is a great hosthe's a great hostif you have any questions rick is very helpful & quick to respondrick was a great host couldn’t have ask for a better experiencethe house was very friendly and attentive to your needsRead more reviewsLocation:
great location for enjoying yellow rivergood location and nice placegreat location for trout fishingamazing location… caught the largest brown trout of my lifehis place really is located in an ideal area
14. Timber Creek Cabin, Keosauqua (from USD 91)
Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or a winter holiday, this lovely cabin has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Timber Creek Cabin is a welcoming abode directly overlooking the Des Moines River.
This cabin is kept spotlessly clean and tastefully decorated. It comes with home comforts, including an HDTV with access to streaming services, a full kitchen, and Wi-Fi. There is also an indoor wood stove to keep you warm on cooler nights while you lounge on the porch and feel the cool breeze by the river in the summer. You can bring your pets along, as well. The cabin boasts plenty of yard space for your pets to roam freely.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the tv has netflix and other apps to watch movies very peaceful nice views good vibeswhen we weren’t outside we would watch movies using the roku tv or play card gamesCleanliness:
the cabin was clean and cozyvery clean and had everything we neededit's clean cozy and quietsuper clean and exactly like the picturesbeautiful remote cabin very clean and well maintainedHost:
she is very responsive and helpful if you have questions or need assistance during your staythe host was extremely helpful with weather issues due to heavy rainsgreat host great communicationgreat place to stay in the area hosts are great at communicating with you when it’s neededRead more reviewsLocation:
was a very great location and so relaxingthe location was beautiful and secluded which is what we were looking forthe cabin was beautiful and it’s location was perfecta beautiful place to get awayrustic secluded and comfortable place for outdoor lovers
15. Homey cabin for five, Eldora (from USD 115)
This cabin is located in the heart of Eldora. With enough room to sleep five guests, it is great for small groups and families. On lazy days in, guests can watch their favorite shows on the smart TV or stay online with Wi-Fi access.
For those eager to explore, the cabin boasts an ideal location near the main street. Conveniences such as a grocery store and a good number of options for recreation, including a library, a cinema, and a pet-friendly park, are within walking distance of the cabin. Pets are welcome at the cabin for no added fee. However, make sure your pets are free from fleas.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we were comfortable and warm during our stayCleanliness:
this airbnb was sparkling cleanbarbara’s cabin was very cleanwe had a comfortable night in this clean and cozy houseextremely clean rooms with high attention to detail and decorationthe place was cozy clean and so cuteHost:
barbara is a great hostbarbara is a great hostbarbara is an excellent host and she will help with anything you will needbarbara was kind in meeting and welcoming uswe walked around with our dogs and everyone was friendlyRead more reviewsLocation:
great location - very cozybarbara's place perfectly suited our needslocation is a 5 minute drive to the state park which was beautiful this time of yearreally cute coffee shop is 4 blocks awayvery professional and friendly communication and lovely town to stay in (everything is within walking distance)
Explore Iowa with your furry friends
The Hawkeye State is brimming with natural wonders, cultural attractions, and historical sites. It has something for people of all ages to enjoy. With a stay at any of the above pet-friendly cabins, your furry friends need not miss out on the fun.
Frequently asked questions about the top pet-friendly cabins in Iowa, USA
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