Reservations at Swede Point Park are now handled online, a change that has frustrated some long-time visitors who preferred the old walk-up, cash-pay system. Tent sites run around $16 per night including fees, and electric hookup sites come in at roughly $18, with pricing that has crept up in recent years. No pets are permitted, so leave the dog at home. The campground sits along the Des Moines River within the Saylorville Recreation Area, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, and operates from April 15 through October 15.
The roughly 20 electric sites fill fast on weekends. Tent sites have more breathing room, but anyone hoping to snag an electric hookup should plan to arrive by Thursday. The bathhouse draws consistent praise from reviewers: "Small county park with clean showers and restrooms," notes Billy K., who camps here regularly with a teardrop trailer. Firewood is available for purchase on-site. The campground is ADA accessible, big rig friendly, and has reliable cell service.
Proximity to the High Trestle Trail is the single most mentioned reason campers choose this spot. The trail, known for its landmark bridge, is just a short drive away, making Swede Point a practical base for a cycling trip. On-site, there are a few miles of mowed walking paths plus wooded trails with some elevation change, a volleyball court, half-court basketball, and a flat open area for lawn games. Roger puts it simply: "Just a few minutes drive to High Trestle Bridge and right off the river." Water access is available, though reviewers note only two water connections serve the entire camp.
For campers exploring the area, Boone County Park Swede Point Park sits just down the road, and Ledges State Park Campground is a reasonable drive north for those who want a longer stay in the region. The small towns of Madrid and Woodward are close by for groceries and supplies. If you're planning a weekend visit, book online in advance and arrive early in the week to secure an electric site.
Description
This recreation area is part of Saylorville Lake
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSwede Point Park is located in Iowa near Madrid
Coordinates
41.8847823 N
93.8543712 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/25/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/25/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- 30 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 23 min from Ames, IA
- 33 min from Des Moines, IA
- 1 hr 50 min from Waterloo, IA
- 1 hr 57 min from Cedar Rapids, IA


























