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Established Camping

Iowa State Fair Campgrounds

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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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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

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

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites

Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

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

  • Does Iowa State Fair Campgrounds have RV hookups?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Iowa State Fair Campgrounds has water hookups and sewer hookups.

  • Does Iowa State Fair Campgrounds have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Iowa State Fair Campgrounds does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Iowa State Fair Campgrounds?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is unknown.