Equestrian campgrounds near West Des Moines, Iowa provide dedicated facilities for riders and their horses within a 60-mile radius of the city. The region features a mix of county and state parks with horse-friendly accommodations across central Iowa's rolling landscape. Most horse camping areas operate seasonally from April through late October or December, with closures during winter months when trail conditions deteriorate.
What to do
Trail riding along Saylorville Lake: Jester County Park connects to shoreline trails with views of Saylorville Lake. "The County has invested a lot of resources into this park making it a great 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," notes Matt S. from Jester County Park.
Observe wildlife: Jester Park maintains bison and elk viewing areas where visitors can observe these native species. "They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay away from humans, as it should be," explains Jim S.
Hiking on sandstone formations: Ledges State Park Campground offers unique geological features with 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," reports Tom S.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points for fishing exist throughout the area's parks. "Good fishing nice open areas and trails to explore," according to Luke C. about Jester Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The parks maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "The bathhouses were so clean and nice, hiking and views were amazing!" states Lindsey M. about Jester County Park.
Secluded campsites: Some locations offer more private sites away from crowds. "Our favorite spot to camp is 410 and 409. It's a secluded area within the 400s that is lined with trees on one side and a drop off into the Saylorville water circuit on the other," recommends Larissa C.
Fall camping season: Several reviewers mention autumn as an optimal time for horse camping. "Nice fall colors!!" notes Lai La L. about Jester Park, while campers at Ledges State Park Campground report: "The leafs were just starting to change and the weather was perfect."
Cost-effective options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates with varying amenity levels. Water, gas and sewer at Madison County Fairground Campground costs "$15 daily, $105 weekly, and $420 monthly," according to Richard R.
What you should know
Reservation recommendations: Most horse campgrounds fill quickly during peak season weekends. "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.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Spring brings muddy conditions while late summer may have limited water access. "We stayed in the Elk Rock Equestrian campground and it was so peaceful and beautiful. The facilities were clean," reports Bradley N. about Equestrian Campground — Elk Rock State Park.
Quiet weekday options: Several parks experience heavy weekend traffic but remain peaceful midweek. "Pretty nice park during the week, on weekends it is way too crowded," advises Kent B. about Jester Park.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide sanitary dump stations. "Let's address the dump station, I've never been to one so thought out and efficient," notes Jim S. about Jester Park's facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and open spaces: Several parks feature play areas for children. "Lots of cool kid activities. Buffalo ranch near by which is cool as well," mentions Luke C. about Jester County Park.
Nature centers for education: Jester Park's recently built nature center offers programming for children. "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," reports Jim S.
Water activities: Many campgrounds provide access to lakes or rivers where children can wade during summer months. "So quiet and peaceful down by the water. Beautiful scenery, great playground, friendly atmosphere," shares Brenda M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horse campgrounds frequently feature wildlife observation areas. "The best part about the trip was the eagles. We must have been there at just the right time, because lined all through the trees along the lakes edge were eagles upon eagles," relates Jennifer M. about her experience at Equestrian Campground — Elk Rock State Park.
Tips from RVers
Levelness considerations: Sites vary in how level they are for larger rigs. "Our spot was pretty level and well maintained," notes Andrea H. about Jester Park.
Hook-up availability: Not all campgrounds offer complete hookups. "The park is quite with some nice camping spots. Very quite with nobody around. The park could use some improvements but parks like these are my favorite!" explains Nathan M. about Squirrel Hollow Co Park, which offers electric but not water hookups.
Seasonal operation: Most equestrian campgrounds close during winter months. "I stayed at this campground from August until November 13 in my pull behind camper," shares Richard R. about Madison County Fairground, noting that "Shower house was shut down for COVID and shuts down in winter."
Dump station logistics: Some parks have convenient facilities while others require driving to nearby locations. "Clean, economical, and friendly staff," reports James W. about facilities at Dallas County Fairgrounds.
