Camping areas around Ankeny, Iowa sit at elevations of 800-900 feet in the Des Moines River valley region, offering access to Saylorville Lake's 5,950 acres of water and surrounding woodlands. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, though several maintain year-round accessibility with varying levels of services during winter months. Temperatures range from summer highs in the 80s to winter lows frequently below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cherry Glen Campground provides direct access to Saylorville Lake where anglers can catch multiple species. "Good fishing nice open areas and trails to explore. Lots of cool kid activities. Buffalo ranch near by which is cool as well as Pingora outdoor supply store near by where you can purchase firewood and other camp supplies," notes Luke C. about Jester County Park.
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Multiple trail systems connect the lake recreation areas, offering walks through woodlands and prairie areas. At Thomas Mitchell County Park, "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... The main hiking trails are wide with smaller ones shooting off the sides," according to Shannon G.
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, the Saylorville Lake system offers multiple kayaking and canoeing opportunities. "This place reminds me of a lazy river. There are electrical and primitive campgrounds... You can bring a kayak/canoe to go on the water. There is also some pretty good fishing. Lots of bass and bluegill," explains Willy W. about Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt.
What campers like
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Many campgrounds feature concrete pads that simplify setup. "Spacious campsites with cement pads... The only thing holding it back from 5 stars is no water or sewer onsite," notes Ron M. about Prairie Flower Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds consistently maintain high standards for restrooms and shower facilities. "Clean campgrounds - nice staff. Pads are on gravel - one downfall," explains Elizabeth A. about Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground.
Lakeside views: Several campgrounds offer direct views of Saylorville Lake. "We pulled into a round about that you just parked on the side of the road with no privacy & no room for any vehicles to go around with our camper slides out," shares Christina H. about one section of Prairie Flower, highlighting the importance of selecting specific sites for optimal experiences.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with reduced services during off-season months. "Drove 6 hours to find out the campground is closed (apparently for all of fall and winter) without any awareness of that being the case online," warns Katie P. about one location, emphasizing the importance of checking current operating hours.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, particularly on weekends. "This campground is a hot spot for Des Moines to escape the weekend - with that said, reservations are a must! Most times you need to make them six months out," advises Elizabeth A. about Prairie Flower Recreation Area.
Wildlife encounters: Yellow Banks County Park and other wooded campgrounds have active wildlife. "Campgrounds are well kept and clean. Bathrooms are immaculate and cleaned every day. 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," recommends John F.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature modern play areas for children. "Spacious spots. Some are concrete pads. Near a lake. Playgrounds. Very clean shower houses. We are camp here often," notes Tracy V. about Prairie Flower.
Creek exploration opportunities: Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt offers water features ideal for supervised play. "Hidden gem just outside of Des Moines! Site 15 for primitive campers is HUGE. Easily the size of 2-3 sites at other campgrounds. Very shady campground, beautiful trees all around," shares Megan M.
Multiple activities within walking distance: Several campgrounds cluster amenities for convenience. "Great place to go tent camping, very clean and quiet. They sell firewood bundles for $5. Easy trails for the kids to go hiking and playing in the creek to cool off in the heat. There is even a pond for fishing that you can take a trail from the campsite to," recommends Willy W. about Thomas Mitchell Park.
Tips from RVers
Dump station limitations: Some campgrounds have limited facilities for larger numbers of RVs. "Now my one complaint - there's one dump station for a campground that is large is size and popularity. Trying to leave on Sunday is a good 1 hour wait... that's being generous!" warns Elizabeth A. about Prairie Flower.
Electric-only hookups: Several campgrounds offer electrical service but require water tanks to be filled upon arrival. "It is a COE campground. We stayed in site A25. 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. No water hook ups, so fill up after you get in the campground before you park," advises Mia L.
Site selection considerations: Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground offers varying quality sites. "This is a lovely spot. We stayed at spot 20 which was extra wide, concrete pad with electric hook up. No water or sewer. Spot 20 is at the end which makes it very private with nice large grassy area adjacent to wooded area. It backs to the river below the spillway from the dam," recommends Wendy H.
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