8 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Several RV parks surround Ames, Iowa, offering diverse options for motorhome travelers. Whispering Oaks RV Park in Story City, just 15 miles north of Ames, provides year-round access with electric hookups, sewer connections, and sanitary dump facilities for self-contained units. Griffs Valley View RV Park in Altoona features spacious concrete pads with full hookups including 30/50 amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections. The park also offers laundry facilities and propane refill service, making it suitable for extended stays. Ledges State Park Campground, located in Madrid approximately 20 miles southwest of Ames, accommodates big rigs with both 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups from April through December. "The sites are paved and level and can accommodate large rigs," noted one RV traveler about the area's Corps of Engineers campgrounds.
Seasonal considerations affect RV camping availability throughout the region. While some parks like Kellogg RV Park operate year-round with full hookups and big-rig friendly sites, others such as Acorn Valley near Johnston are only open from early June through late August. Cell service varies by location, with most parks near Ames reporting good connectivity for both Verizon and T-Mobile users. Dump stations are available at most RV parks, though Jester County Park notably lacks this amenity despite offering water and electric hookups. Pet policies differ between facilities - most welcome pets, but Griffs Valley View RV Park does not allow them. For RV campers requiring propane service, both Griffs Valley View and Adventureland Campground in Altoona offer on-site propane fills. Reservations are recommended, particularly during summer months and Iowa State University event weekends when occupancy rates increase significantly.
"The campground very very well kept with spacious concrete pads, both 30/50 amp and full water/ sewage hookups. Two nice laundry/shower houses, one in the front and one in the back of the campground."
"I came here once for a baby shower and then check the place out for RV camping you can stay year round you can stay for a week a month or a day and they have full hookup propane they have so many interesting"
from $35 - $90 / night
"Full hook ups and a fair price compared to most rv parks especially with good sam membership. No frills but adorably decorated."
"The sites are mostly pull through with full service electric, water, and sewer. The only real issue is the constant noise from I-80 which is just to the south of the campground."
"Very quiet campground. Only one bathroom and shower available for use, though. Lots of space and trees as well"
"Nice size campground, sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought."
"We stayed here to go to the Iowa State Fair. It was easy to park here and catch a shuttle to the fair."
from $45 - $60 / night
"We looked at the other reviews and it talked about it being so close to the freeway, but we didn’t hear a sound. It was really in a good perimeter of trees and lots of shade and level camp spots."
"In fact, this campground outpost is so close to the highway that you’ll be hard pressed not to see or hear it during your entire stay."
"Newton KOA This is the primary location for camping in Newton. It’s right off interstate I-80 and is very close to the Iowa Speedway."
"One of my favorite locations to camp in Iowa as a Boy Scout growing up was Ledges State Park. Since I hadn't been back in years, I decided to check it out and spend a night camping there."
"One of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $25 / night
"The staff was very helpful, plenty of laundry/restrooms throughout the campground and pretty clean overall. Concrete pads with full hook ups (30/50 amp, water and sewage) make setting up quick."
"Pull through paved 50 amp sites, with water and sewage. Picnic table for use. Within view of Adventureland so it was cool to see the rides lit up at night as we parked. Clean park."
"Peaceful camping with lots of room, 50 amp hook ups and water easily available."
"Camped by tent, basic amenities on-site-fire ring, table, etc. Went kayaking on lake and then on Des Moines River (close by). Nice wildlife areas, hiking, fishing, etc. Pleasant staff."
from $12 - $20 / night
ScoutKurt and Debbie are awesome. Couldn’t ask for better hosts. Campground has several ponds to fish and a small beach area. Being from Florida, I’ll say the beach is adorable! Dollar general is 2 minutes away. Has food side as well. Propane fill 2 minutes away. Several playgrounds, frisbee golf and shower houses. Lots of regular campers here on weekends so plenty of people to meet in season. I’m here for work so a bit different for me.
LegendVery nice state park campground. There are cabins as well as campsites. The park is adjacent to Pine Lake and water based recreation is available including swimming beach and boating. The campground is off a paved road and is near to town. There is a walking path to the boat launch from the campground. Biking/hiking trails are on property.
LegendSmall park with basic amenities along the river. There is a big event center at the entrance and keep going back and the campground is there along the river. This would be a great area for paddling the river. Seemed pretty quite and spaces are moderately spread out. There is a rifle range on the property if that interests you (negatively or positively- there is a photo of the rules in my review). No shooting while I was there.
LegendCute small park/campground in Iowa farm country. Inexpensive and quaint. Has a small creek nearby. Kids play area too. Basic amenities.
TravelerOnly stayed one night but very convenient location and registration.
Legend9-14-26 Timberline East RV Campground, I do not think this is a KOA anymore. Tent site T1 & 2 was level and on grass with table and fire ring. checked in at 7pm, overcast, Molly was great at the check in, offered a 10% Veteran discount. $34 for the night. We only stayed one night. Showers and bathrooms were decent. T-Mobile was 5G 4 bars. Rained all night, you can hear the noise from the highway but you drown it out.
ScoutThis is a great location by the lake with some spots having great water views. You dont feel like sardines with all the space between sites. You can walk down to the beach as well in no time. We had a nice relaxing weekend. Will be back.
GuideQuiet, clean, organized and friendly host! I ll be coming back!
ScoutGreat stop, perfect for kids - trampoline, jumping pillow, and a playground. Spots are close together (as with most KOAs) but easy off I-80 and a great pit stop for a night or two with family.
RV camping around Ames offers convenient access to multiple watersheds including Saylorville Lake, the Des Moines River, and several smaller bodies of water. Located in central Iowa where highways 30 and 35 intersect, the area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with typical Midwest seasonal conditions. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F while winter camping options remain limited with temperatures frequently below freezing.
Fishing opportunities: Bob Shelter Recreation Area provides access to the Des Moines River below Saylorville Dam. "Great fishing in the river. Near a city so you don't run short on supplies," notes Julian B. about this Corps of Engineers campground.
Hiking trails: Explore sandstone formations at Ledges State Park. "The hiking trails are cool. I would say it was a challenging hike. A lot of up and down terrain, stone steps, etc. The ledges along the river were beautiful," shares Jennifer M. about the park's trail system.
Biking access: The Chichaqua Valley Trail runs 25 miles through the region. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," mentions Anthony W. about recreational options near Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Level camping pads: Many RV sites feature concrete pads with full hookups. "Sites are level and well marked. The property is kept up nicely. Has a cute pond and is adjacent to a bike and running trail," explains Paula O. about her experience at Griffs Valley View.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain spotless restrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms are immaculate. Large community center, gym, and laundry facilities on site," remarks Jo E. about the amenities at Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Natural water features: Ponds and water access points provide additional recreation. "The pond is nice, groomed all around with paved paths," notes Tim H., while another camper at Acorn Valley mentions that "The tent sites lead to some small trails which end at the riverbed. Our boys love exploring here."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "The voicemail said it was fully booked from May until September. Good thing we got through because they found us a site for the night," reports Mike M. about Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Highway proximity: Several RV parks sit close to major roads. At Kellogg RV Park, "You are just 30 seconds north of I-80, the busiest highway in Iowa," according to Stuart K., though "it's very quiet" despite the location.
Tent camping considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate tent campers equally. "If you want to tent camp, bring a cart or something to haul everything with. The parking lot is a LONG WAY from any private tent site," warns Lena H. about Ledges State Park Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Jester County Park, one visitor notes, "Nice place to stay when enjoying the fun at Saylorville Lake. The facilities are modern and clean and there is some real pride at this park."
Wildlife viewing: Jester County Park offers unique animal encounters. "They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be," explains Jim S. about the park's nature areas.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," shares a Jester County Park visitor, while another camper at Acorn Valley notes, "The whole place is super clean, especially the bath house. All the spots are nice and lots of exploring to do!"
Overnight convenience: Several RV parks near Ames cater to travelers passing through. "Very convenient to I-80, well-laid out. Most convenient, though, was setting up at the site and then walking to the co-located gas station and burgers for dinner," reports Greg I. about River Oaks RV Park.
Hookup availability: Full service sites are available at multiple locations. "Sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought. Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6' hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site," shares Jim C. about River Oaks RV Park.
Site selection strategy: Location within campgrounds matters for noise and privacy. "The best sites are those located as far east and north as possible. Why? Because they will be furthest away from I80, so less noise, plus they are on the periphery, so this offers up better views," recommends Stuart K. regarding Kellogg RV Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pricing options for Class C motorhomes in Ames?
Class C motorhome pricing in Ames ranges from around $75,000 for pre-owned models to $150,000+ for new units with premium features. Entry-level new Class Cs typically start around $90,000-$110,000. Many RVers who frequent Timberline Campground and Prairie Flower Recreation Area opt for mid-range models ($110,000-$130,000) that balance affordability with comfort. Luxury models with multiple slide-outs, upgraded appliances, and high-end finishes can exceed $200,000. Financing options typically include 10-20 year terms with rates varying based on credit score and down payment. Seasonal promotions and RV shows in the Des Moines metro area often offer the best deals and manufacturer incentives.
Where can I buy a new travel trailer in Ames?
In Ames and nearby areas, you can find new travel trailers at several dealerships. Near the Ames area, many campers purchase their trailers at dealerships close to Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground and Walnut Woods State Park Campground, where new owners often test their purchases. Look for RV dealerships along major highways like I-35 and Highway 30. Most dealers offer a variety of brands and sizes, from small lightweight trailers to larger models with slide-outs. Consider visiting during RV shows in the Des Moines metro area for special pricing and to compare multiple brands in one location.
What types of Class B motorhomes are available in Ames?
Class B motorhomes available in the Ames area include compact van conversions from manufacturers like Winnebago, Pleasure-Way, Roadtrek, and Thor Motor Coach. These units are popular among campers visiting Des Moines West KOA Holiday and Newton KOA due to their maneuverability and ease of setup. Models typically range from 17-24 feet and feature efficient floor plans with convertible sleeping areas, compact kitchenettes, wet baths, and smart storage solutions. Many newer models offer lithium battery systems, solar options, and four-season capabilities. Dealerships in and around Ames stock both new and pre-owned Class B options with varying levels of luxury and off-grid capabilities.
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