Near Ackworth, Iowa, glamping accommodations provide a comfortable base camp for exploring central Iowa's woodland regions at elevations between 850-950 feet. The area experiences humid continental climate patterns with warm summers and cold winters, making spring through fall the prime season for luxury camping experiences. While traditional tent camping is common, glamping options throughout Warren County provide modern amenities in natural settings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Jester County Park offers multiple locations for anglers, with the main pond stocked regularly for consistent catches. A camper notes, "There is a sweet pond to fish in, several hiking trails, a brand new Nature Center, amphitheater, bison and bird viewing, and even cabins if you want to rent them." Access to Saylorville Lake provides additional fishing spots.
Hiking explorations: Yellow Banks County Park features diverse trail networks through woodland areas. "There are a couple of short trails near the campground but a longer pond trail on the southeast area of the park which was deserted when I hiked it," mentions one visitor. The park's trail system includes access points to the Des Moines River and offers historical features like Indian burial mounds.
Water recreation: Cherry Glen Campground provides direct lake access for boating, swimming, and paddling. "There is fishing, boating, hiking, mountain biking, and many more things," explains a reviewer. Boat launch facilities are adjacent to the campground, making water access convenient for glampers bringing watercraft.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Timberline Campground receives praise for its site configurations. According to a camper, "Sites were pretty level, sizable that our 43' motorhome and tow fit without unhooking. They take you to your site." Most sites feature partial shade and include grass areas alongside the gravel pads.
Clean facilities: Shower buildings and restrooms receive consistent positive feedback at most glamping locations. At Thomas Mitchell County Park, visitors appreciate "The campground is very green and shady. Many sites are creekside. Park has large playground area, hiking trails, fishing pond." The shower houses are regularly maintained and stocked.
Natural water features: Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground offers unique water experiences. One camper shares, "Stayed there a few different weekends during the summer. It is easily accessible from Indianola and the best parts of the park are the well-kept trails and stargazing!" The lake provides swimming areas separate from fishing zones.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many glamping locations require advance booking during peak seasons (May-September). At Winterset City Park, a visitor explains, "The campground is well maintained and has a camp host on site. Firewood is available for $8 a bundle. Sites are gravel base and fairly level." Most sites can be reserved online up to six months in advance.
Weather considerations: Summer storms can develop quickly in central Iowa. Prepare for rain even during dry periods, especially when glamping at Yellow Banks County Park where one camper notes, "Ever changing... the campgrounds are beautiful they have two different electric sites and they have a newly furnished tent site." Sites with proper drainage help minimize flooding issues.
Local attractions: Several historical and cultural sites surround Ackworth's glamping options. Near Winterset City Park, "The bridges of Madison County, Clarke Tower, cute local ice cream shop, John Wayne Museum! So much fun in a cute Iowa community!" All within 20-30 minutes of most glamping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple glamping locations feature dedicated children's play areas. At Thomas Mitchell County Park, "Great place to go tent camping, very clean and quiet. Easy trails for the kids to go hiking and playing in the creek to cool off in the heat." The stream provides natural water play during warmer months.
Educational opportunities: Jester Park offers nature education programs at its nature center. "The Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," shares a visitor. Many programs are free and designed specifically for children of various ages.
Creek exploration: Children particularly enjoy exploring the shallow waterways at Thomas Mitchell County Park. A visitor explains, "Thomas Mitchell park is located outside of Altoona Iowa on 197 acres. The outer loop has a creek that flows behind the sites with large stairs to get down to it. Kids were having a blast in the water."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Be prepared with leveling blocks at most glamping locations. At Thomas Mitchell County Park, one RVer noted, "The sites are somewhat unlevel so you'll likely need to block up tires (we've had to block one side of tires on two different past sites)." Many sites require at least minor adjustments for comfortable setup.
Full hookup options: Marion County Park offers complete utilities for larger rigs. "They have done a great job in recent years updating sites a few at a time, adding pavement and full sewer hookups," mentions an experienced camper. These sites fill quickly during weekends and holidays.
Site selection strategy: When glamping with larger RVs, choosing the right site matters. At Lake Ahquabi, "We felt like we were literally on top of surrounding campers. The campsites are all extremely packed in together," but "if you're able to catch Lake Ahquabi on a good weekend when it isn't crowded, then it is amazing!" Early arrival on weekdays offers the best selection.
