Camping near Boone, Iowa offers access to the Des Moines River valley with elevations ranging from 850 to 1100 feet, creating more varied terrain than typical Iowa landscapes. The camping season generally runs April through October, with July temperatures averaging 85°F and nighttime summer lows around 65°F. Most campgrounds in the area provide a mix of wooded and open sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Spring Lake County Park features waterfront camping with easy lake access. "The best waterfront camping we have found near us. Small friendly community of camping. Door to door ice and concession delivery," notes Jodi H. The lake supports various fish species for anglers of all experience levels.
Hiking trails: Ledges State Park offers challenging terrain unusual for Iowa. "What I enjoy most about this park compared to others in Iowa are the sandstone ledges and the slopes on the trail. There are some excellent views," shares Tom S. The park's unique sandstone formations provide distinctive hiking experiences with elevation changes.
Biking access: Swede Point Park connects to regional trails including the High Trestle Trail. "Nice little camp ground with easy access to the high trestle bike trail," according to Brian G. The High Trestle Trail features a 13-story bridge spanning the Des Moines River valley with multiple access points near camping areas.
Water recreation: Prairie Flower Recreation Area provides access to Saylorville Lake with boat launch facilities. "This quickly became one of our favorite close to home spots. Sites are large and there is plenty of space between sites. We had a gorgeous view of the lake and sunsets," reports Heather S. The lake supports swimming, boating, and paddling activities.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Don Williams Park offers spacious sites with tree coverage. "Very quite and nice campground, we camped on top of the hill in tents it was awesome view and potable drinking water next to camp," Pat F. reports. The park's layout creates natural separation between camping areas, particularly in tent-specific zones.
Wildlife viewing: Jester County Park features wildlife observation areas including bison and elk enclosures. "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level. They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be," notes jim S. Many campsites border natural areas with deer, raccoon, and bird spotting opportunities.
Well-maintained facilities: Acorn Valley Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Campsites are well kept and clean. Bathrooms are immaculate and cleaned every day," according to John F. The bathhouse facilities include flush toilets and hot showers with daily maintenance.
Unique recreation: Spring Lake County Park features an open-air roller skating rink. "There is a roller rink and a concession stand. This is a very busy campground in the summer," notes Dave M. The park also offers disc golf, kayak rentals, paddle boats, and a swimming beach with seasonal operations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Bob Shelter Recreation Area often fills completely, especially on weekends. "I would suggest getting reservations. We stopped on a Friday without one, they were booked," advises Zachariah M. Most electric sites at county parks require reservations during peak season while tent sites may remain available for walk-ins.
Wildlife concerns: Acorn Valley has a resident raccoon population. "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," warns John F. Food storage precautions should be taken at all area campgrounds.
Site selection considerations: Prairie Flower Recreation Area has varying levels of site development. "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," explains Mia L. Research specific loops when making reservations as amenities vary significantly within the same campground.
Seasonal changes: Water levels affect campground access throughout the season. "Ledges State Park is one of the most visited parks in Iowa. I loved coming to this park as a kid and I can't wait for it to re-open. It has been closed since January 2018, but it scheduled to re-open in January of 2019," shared Matt S. during a previous closure. Spring flooding can limit access to lower-lying areas, particularly at Ledges.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cherry Glen Campground features multiple play areas. "Lots of trees. Playgrounds. Near lake," confirms Janet A. Request sites near playgrounds to allow supervision from your campsite while children play.
Swimming options: Spring Lake County Park provides a designated swimming beach with amenities. "We loved our stay here! Beautiful campground and well maintained. Unfortunately the skate arena was closed for the season. Lots of trails to choose from and spacious campsites," shares Chelsea G. The beach area includes a concession stand with summer hours.
Educational opportunities: Jester County Park offers nature programs for children. "Brand new (opened August 2018) Nature Center, amphitheater, bison and bird viewing," notes Larissa C. The nature center hosts scheduled programs throughout summer months with hands-on activities.
Varied activities: Swede Point Park provides multiple recreation options. "This county park has many amenities not to mention that it is close to a very popular bike trail. There are a few miles of mowed trails along with a couple of trail through the woods up and down hills. Do you like volleyball? They have that and a half court basketball too," describes j B.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Don Williams Park offers full-hookup sites. "Peaceful camping with lots of room, 50 amp hook ups and water easily available," according to Steve B. Electric sites typically provide 50-amp service, with water access points scattered throughout the camping areas.
Dump station access: Prairie Flower has dump station limitations during busy periods. "Now my one complaint - there's one dump station for a campground that is large is size and popularity. Trying to leave on a Sunday is a good 1 hour wait," warns Elizabeth A. Plan Sunday departures for early morning or consider alternative facilities.
Leveling requirements: Bob Shelter Recreation Area offers concrete pads at some sites. "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," reports Wendy H. Many sites throughout the area require moderate leveling.
Site spacing: Cherry Glen provides adequate separation between units. "Nice campground with 30/50 amp electric, no water or service but bathrooms are clean and many. The staff are very friendly and willing to offer info," shares Stacy M. Request end-of-loop sites for maximum privacy and space.
