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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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!"
Tips from RVers
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.
