Acorn Valley
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About This Campground
Acorn Valley Campground is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including camping, bicycling, boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and…
About This Campground
Acorn Valley Campground is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including camping, bicycling, boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.
Recreation
Anglers enjoy the lake for its abundance of walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.
Facilities
The campground offers 29 family sites with electric hookups and 54 primitive walk-to tent sites. The campground also features 2 group tent camping areas; a youth group camping area with special restrictions to organized youth as well as a standard group area open to all visitors. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water and a dump station. Nearby facilities include picnic areas with group shelters, boat ramps, a marina and a fishing dock.
Natural Features
The mature Bur Oaks at the entrance to Acorn Valley beckon visitors to explore its 26 acres on the fringe of an upland timber stand. Wildlife is abundant throughout the area. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.
ADA Access: N
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- 30 amp Hookups
- 50 amp Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Max Length: 82 ft.
Features
For Campers
Add Camper Info- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
Add Vehicle Info- Sanitary Dump
- 30 amp Hookups
- 50 amp Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Max Length: 82 ft.
Access
- Drive InPark next to your campsite
- Walk InPark in a lot, walk to your campsite
GuideLovely!
I'm pretty particular about researching and reviewing campgrounds before I book, especially with the kids in tow. This campground 100% lived up to review expectations. Took the PUP, two kids, dog and grandma (first time in 20+ years) this past weekend. Booked an outer ring site surrounded by trees…
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TravelerSuper clean and quiet
Campsites are well kept and clean. Bathrooms are immaculate and cleaned every day. Biggest downside is the resident raccoons. Come out every night to rummage through possible food options. Secure your food and they’re no problem unless you’re a light sleeper.
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TravelerPeaceful, lots of riverbed area to explore
We’re big fans of Acorn Valley. It’s quiet and there is plenty of shade in the tent camping area. The tent sites lead to some small trails which end at the riverbed. Our boys love exploring here.
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Location
Acorn Valley is located in Iowa
Directions
From I-35/80 north of Des Moines, Iowa, take exit 131 toward Johnston/Saylorville Lake. Turn north on Merle Hay Road and continue for 2.8 miles. At the four-way stop, turn left on Northwest Beaver Drive and continue for 3.7 miles. Turn right onto Northwest Coryden Drive and follow signs into the campground.
Coordinates
41.73777756 N
93.723611 W
