Ames, Iowa camping areas sit where woodlands meet prairie at around 900 feet elevation. The region features extensive water access through oxbow lakes, the Des Moines River, and Saylorville Lake, with summer temperatures regularly reaching the mid-80s. Many campgrounds remain open from April through October, with a few providing year-round access.
What to do
Trail exploration at Ledges State Park: The park offers challenging hiking with stone steps and significant elevation changes. Ledges State Park Campground provides access to unique sandstone formations. "This is the best park in the state of Iowa, so much fun going thru the low water crossings!" notes Kent B. The terrain varies substantially from typical Iowa landscapes.
Fishing opportunities: At Saylorville Lake, multiple access points allow for varied fishing experiences. According to Luke C. at Jester County Park, there's "Good fishing nice open areas and trails to explore." The Des Moines River below the dam spillway provides additional fishing spots, particularly for catching bass and bluegill.
Water activities: When water levels permit, kayaking and canoeing opportunities abound. Several oxbow lakes and calm waterways provide paddling options. "The water was calm. This is more of a park for locals to picnic, fish and kayak than a destination for out of towners," explains James D. regarding water access.
What campers like
Ample shade and privacy: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Ames feature mature trees providing relief during hot summer days. Camden O. found Ledges State Park Campground so appealing they "nearly went to the university just because I wanted to be here at this park every weekend." Sites with shade are particularly valuable during peak summer heat.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. At Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt, campers find "Easily the best bathrooms I've found while camping (modern)," according to Megan M. Many campgrounds feature regularly cleaned facilities with hot water.
Wildlife viewing: Beyond typical camping experiences, wildlife observation enhances stays. Willy W. describes Chichaqua Bottoms as having "plenty of trails to hike and some really nice views of the prairies." Early mornings provide optimal wildlife viewing times, with many campers reporting frog choruses and extensive bird watching opportunities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Summer weekends typically require advance booking. Sites at popular campgrounds like Cherry Glen Campground fill quickly. "It's hard to get a reservation!" warns Brian B. Many campgrounds allow reservations six months in advance for summer weekend dates.
Weather considerations: Central Iowa camping means preparing for weather variations. Bill M. advises about Little Wall Lake County Park: "This is a nice small camp area that only has one downfall: a lack of wind break. We went when the wind was blowing in typical Iowa summer fashion." Spring camping often brings muddy conditions.
Local wildlife encounters: Beyond pet safety concerns, campers should secure food properly. John F. noted at Acorn Valley: "Biggest downside is the resident raccoons. Come out every night to rummage through possible food options. Secure your food and they're no problem unless you're a light sleeper."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Ames feature play areas. Willy W. mentions Acorn Valley has "playgrounds for the kids and shelter/picnic areas for day trips with the little ones." Dana K. recommends strategic site selection: "We parked at a site by the playground and bathhouse, and could sit at our camper and watch our son play at a safe distance."
Beach access: When visiting with children, consider lake facilities with swimming options. Larissa C. notes Hickory Grove "has a small lake that is great for swimming, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. Rentals for paddle boats, water bikes, kayaks and canoes are available during the summer for a reasonable price."
Site selection for families: Choose campsites with appropriate amenities. "Site 15 for primitive campers is HUGE. Easily the size of 2-3 sites at other campgrounds," notes Megan M. about Chichaqua Bottoms. Sites near bathrooms save late-night walks with young children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer electric-only sites. Ron M. notes about Prairie Flower Recreation Area: "Spacious campsites with cement pads... The only thing holding it back from 5 stars is no water or sewer onsite." Several campgrounds require filling water tanks upon arrival.
Dump station access: Plan for potential waiting times when departing on busy weekends. Elizabeth A. warns: "There's one dump station for a campground that is large in size and popularity. Trying to leave on Sunday is a good 1 hour wait.... that's being generous!"
Pad types and leveling: RV sites vary significantly between campgrounds. Mia L. explains: "Not all loops are paved. A is not. But the site was pretty level, wasn't too much trouble to get our trailer backed in and leveled." Concrete pads are available at select locations, while others feature gravel or grass parking areas.
