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Iowa State Fair Campgrounds

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Iowa State Fair Campgrounds, near Des Moines, Iowa, is a lively spot that caters to both fairgoers and those looking for a unique camping experience. With hundreds of sites available, you’re bound to find a spot that suits your needs, whether you’re pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV.

The campground is known for its clean facilities, including well-kept showers and toilets, which visitors appreciate after a long day of activities. One camper noted, “The main shower house is the only one we've ever used and have no complaints.” While campfires aren’t allowed, you can still enjoy the outdoors with your pets by your side, making it a friendly environment for all.

If you’re here during the fair, you’ll be right in the action, surrounded by the excitement and energy of the event. For those seeking a quieter experience, it’s best to plan your visit outside of fair weeks. Reviewers have highlighted the beautiful surroundings and the vibrant atmosphere, with one saying, “Incredible time! Great entertainment and clean place.”

Whether you’re here for the fair or just to soak up the local vibe, Iowa State Fair Campgrounds offers a unique blend of fun and convenience. Just remember to bring your own drinking water, as that’s not provided on-site.

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Location

Iowa State Fair Campgrounds is located in Iowa

Detail location of campground

Directions

NORTHERN IOWA From I-35, take I-235 to Exit 10A then head east on E University Avenue approximately four miles to the Fairgrounds. SOUTHERN IOWA From I-35, take IA 5/US 65 to Exit 79 then head west on E University Avenue approximately four miles to the Fairgrounds. EASTERN IOWA From I-80 take Exit 141 (Hwy. 65 Bypass), travel south on Hwy. 65 to Exit 79 and head west on Hwy. 163 (E University Avenue) approximately three miles to the Fairgrounds. It is suggested that visitors enter the Fair parking lot at E 36th as a left-hand turn may not be allowed into the grounds at E 33rd at certain times. WESTERN IOWA From I-235, take Exit 10A then head east on E University Avenue approximately four miles to the Fairgrounds.

Coordinates

41.59438065 N
93.5438 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Greenhouse Camping

Greenhouse Camping

15 min away

Ashton Wildwood Park

Ashton Wildwood Park

23 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2024

Nice campground!

We've stayed here a number of times now in the past 2 years (not during fair weeks.) Campgrounds are located on the east side of the actual fairgrounds. There are hundreds of sites here. Some are flat, some are no where near flat, but there are so many, you can find one that will work for you! Almost all of the sites are full grass sites. The main shower house is the only one we've ever used and have no complaints. They are clean and bright and well kept.

The sites are $32/night.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Iowa State Fair Campgrounds by Matt M., June 25, 2024
Reviewed May. 12, 2022

Nice park

Huge campground, nearly empty when we were here in May 2022. Bath house is older but very adequate. A really beautiful spot.

Siteon the hill by the bathhouse
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Apr. 30, 2022

Great if you are there for the people

This is really convenient for folks who are going to the fair we plan to spend all week at the fair but if you're going for quiet this is not the place to be

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Iowa State Fair Campgrounds by Whitney S., April 30, 2022
Reviewed Oct. 13, 2018

Iowa State Campgrounds

Incredible time! Great entertainment and clean place. It’s hard not to have a good time and amazing food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Iowa State Fair Campground located and how do I find it on the map?

The Iowa State Fair Campgrounds are located on the east side of the actual fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa. The campground is part of the larger Iowa State Fair complex, making it extremely convenient for fair attendees. While specific directions aren't provided in the available information, the campground is generally easy to locate as part of the main fairgrounds property. For precise directions, it's recommended to check the official Iowa State Fair website or contact the fairgrounds directly before your trip.

What camping facilities and amenities are available at the Iowa State Fair Campgrounds?

The Iowa State Fair Campgrounds features hundreds of camping sites with varying terrain - some flat and some uneven, allowing campers to find spots suitable for their needs. The facility includes a bath house that, while older, is adequate for camper needs. During non-fair periods, the campground is spacious and often uncrowded. Basic camping amenities are available, though specific details about electrical hookups, water, or dump stations aren't specified in the available information. For the most current amenity information, contacting the campground directly is recommended.

What do previous visitors say about the Iowa State Fairgrounds camping experience?

Visitors to the Iowa State Fair Campgrounds generally report positive experiences, with many noting it's an ideal location for fair attendees. The campground receives praise for being clean and offering a good environment with wonderful surroundings. Some campers highlight the entertainment value and mention having an incredible time with access to amazing food during fair events. While the campground is described as convenient and beautiful, particularly when not crowded in off-season months, visitors seeking quiet should note this may not be the ideal location, especially during fair time when the atmosphere becomes lively and bustling.

Are there photos available of the Iowa State Fair Campgrounds?

Yes, photos of the Iowa State Fair Campgrounds are available online. While specific photo resources aren't detailed in the current information, visitors can likely find images on the official Iowa State Fair website. Additionally, camping platforms and review sites often feature user-submitted photos showing the campground layout, individual sites, and facilities. For the most current visual representation of the campgrounds, checking the official Iowa State Fair website or contacting them directly would provide access to official photography of the camping areas and amenities.