Just west of the small community of Thayer, this county-managed recreation area sits alongside a fishing lake with a handful of electric sites arranged around a gravel parking area. The campground accommodates RVs up to 40 feet, though access involves navigating rough roads that may challenge some rigs.
Sites consist mainly of electric hookups positioned on the perimeter of the parking lot next to the water, plus one tent site equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. The lake provides a local fishing spot, but facilities remain basic. Campers wanting more developed amenities might consider three mile lake campground, which offers additional services about 10 minutes away.
Description
Located 1 mile southwest of Thayer, this 10-acre lake was built by the railroad in the 1850's for water supply for steam engines. The 47 acre area includes excellent facilities for fishing as well as camping, hiking, and picnicking. Access is available via a rocked road parallel to Highway 34 just south of Thayer which leads to the entrance and a beautiful drive through pristine native timber. With a brand new shelter house, a boat ramp, 8 electrical campsites, and primitive camping this area receives considerable usage throughout the spring, summer and fall months. It is one of the oldest recreation areas in the county.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundThayer Lake Rec Area is located in Iowa
Coordinates
41.02100005 N
94.07200082 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileLTESome Coverage
VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 5/1/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 5/1/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Electric Hookups
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 57 min from Des Moines, IA
- 1 hr 22 min from Ames, IA
- 1 hr 59 min from St. Joseph, MO
- 2 hrs 3 min from Omaha, NE
