Camping sites near Windsor Heights, Iowa typically remain open from April through October, with some sites offering year-round access. The area sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level in central Iowa's gently rolling terrain. Most campgrounds in the region receive around 36 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush surroundings during summer months when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Acorn Valley features both pond fishing and river access. "The tent sites lead to some small trails which end at the riverbed. Our boys love exploring here," notes one visitor. The campground maintains clean facilities with immaculate bathrooms that are "cleaned every day."
Hiking trails: Yellow Banks County Park offers several trails including a longer pond trail in the southeast area. "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," shares one camper. The park also features burial mounds accessible via hiking trail.
Biking access: Griffs Valley View RV Park connects directly to the 25-mile Chichaqua Valley Trail. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," explains one camper who stayed for two months. The trail provides convenient access for cyclists looking to explore beyond the campsite.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Prairie Flower Recreation Area consistently receives praise for its maintenance standards. "The bathrooms and shower house are nice and clean," mentions one reviewer. Another notes, "Sites are large and there is plenty of space between sites. We had a concrete pad with a picnic table and fire pit with grill grate."
Water views: Cherry Glen Campground offers lake-adjacent sites with prime views. "I would suggest looking for camp sites on the back side of the western loops because they have views of the lake," suggests one camper, specifically recommending "sites 111-116 and 72-78." The campground provides electric hookups but no water or sewer connections at individual sites.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful setting at most Windsor Heights area campgrounds. At Yellow Banks County Park, visitors note it's "quiet, not a lot of traffic" and praise the "nice little escape" feeling despite proximity to urban areas. Griffs Valley View RV Park earns similar praise: "Quiet at night. Nice recreational fishing pond and a clubhouse with bathrooms that were really clean."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area, "reservations are usually necessary" due to the "large camping population" in the Des Moines area. One camper without reservations notes, "We stopped on a Friday without one, they were booked. We only wanted one night in a tent."
Seasonal limitations: Several campgrounds operate on restricted schedules. Bob Shelter Recreation Area runs from May 1 to September 30, while Acorn Valley is "closed after Labor Day." Cherry Glen Campground operates mid-April through mid-October, limiting fall camping options.
Hookup variations: Electric-only sites are common in the area. At Cherry Glen Campground, you'll find "30/50 amp electric, no water or service but bathrooms are clean." Prairie Flower Recreation Area has "no water hookups, so fill up after you get in the campground before you park."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Campsites with playgrounds offer built-in entertainment. Yellow Banks County Park features a "good-sized playground" and baseball fields, while Prairie Flower Recreation Area has "nice playgrounds" conveniently located near camping loops.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many families enjoy the natural wildlife. At Acorn Valley, one camper warns about "resident raccoons" that "come out every night to rummage through possible food options. Secure your food and they're no problem unless you're a light sleeper."
Swimming options: During summer months, select locations offer water recreation. Des Moines West KOA provides "a pool, dunk tank, gem mining, ladder golf, horseshoes, jumping pillow, water balloon wars, basketball and more." One family noted, "The pool was refreshing for the girls and all of the activities kept them busy and having fun!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research specific site amenities before booking. At Timberline Campground, campers report that "sites were pretty level, sizable that our 43' motorhome and tow fit without unhooking." However, some sites have "sorta blacktop but the sides have crumbled and it has a slight tilt to it."
Dump station congestion: Plan departure times accordingly. At Prairie Flower Recreation Area, one RVer 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!"
Overnight options: For those passing through, several campgrounds accommodate late arrivals. At Des Moines West KOA, "we could still check in without a reservation! They have an awesome 'self check in'. A board marked with available spaces we chose from."
