Columbus City, Iowa, is a small town in Louisa County with a humid continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The town sits on the banks of the Iowa River, which is an important hydrological feature for the area. The water quality of the river is monitored, and constituents such as nitrates and phosphorous have been identified as areas of concern. Outdoor recreation opportunities in the area include fishing, boating, and hunting. The Louisa County Conservation Board manages several parks and natural areas in the county, including the Odessa Wildlife Area, which offers hunting and fishing opportunities, and the Virginia Grove Recreation Area, which provides camping and hiking opportunities.