Best Campgrounds near Ackworth, IA

Camping near Ackworth, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.

What to do:

• Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Jester County Park. One camper mentioned, "The campgrounds have amazing views and numerous hiking trails." This park also features a kids' playground and equestrian center, making it a great spot for families.
• Fishing and Water Activities: Head to Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground for fishing. A reviewer noted, "Clean, level sites, close to fishing, it was fun watching the water come through the dam." The nearby Saylorville Lake is perfect for boating and swimming.
• Wildlife Watching: At Prairie Flower Recreation Area, you can enjoy the beauty of nature. One visitor shared, "Large level gravel pad driveways surrounded by beautiful prairie grass," making it a peaceful spot for birdwatching.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A review for Des Moines West KOA Holiday stated, "Bathhouses were clean and private," which is a big plus for many families.
• Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpfulness of the staff. One visitor at Timberline Campground said, "Marta and crew were so friendly and helpful!" This makes for a welcoming atmosphere.
• Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Yellow Banks County Park. A reviewer mentioned, "Large spacious sites with a fire ring and picnic table," which is perfect for gatherings.

What you should know:

• Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds, like Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground, are only open from April to December. A camper noted, "This was our very first night with our rental RV," highlighting the importance of checking availability before you go.
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Bob Shelter Recreation Area has electrical hookups but no water at some sites. A visitor mentioned, "We didn’t use the bathroom/shower house, but it was outdated," so be prepared for basic facilities.
• Wildlife Caution: While camping at Yellow Banks County Park, one camper warned, "Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal." Keep your belongings secure.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. Jester County Park has a kids' playground and hiking trails, making it a hit with families. One parent said, "The facilities are amazing, and the kids had a blast."
• Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has food options. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, a camper mentioned, "Pizza on site is excellent," which can save time and effort.
• Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A reviewer at Prairie Flower Recreation Area noted, "Nice beach down the road," so be cautious around swimming areas.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Walnut Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "The pad was a little small but fit our camper fine," so verify dimensions before booking.
• Leveling Gear: Bring leveling blocks. A reviewer at Timberline Campground said, "Gravel sites require some leveling," which is common in many campgrounds.
• Connectivity: Check cell service availability. One camper at Des Moines West KOA Holiday noted, "Verizon cell signal was good," which can be important for RVers needing to stay connected.

Camping near Ackworth, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for family fun, peaceful nature, or a friendly community.