Best Campgrounds near Johnston, IA
Johnston, Iowa features several established campgrounds along the Saylorville Lake area, providing a mix of camping experiences within close proximity to Des Moines. Prairie Flower Recreation Area and Cherry Glen Campground offer both tent and RV sites with electric hookups, while Jester County Park includes cabin accommodations and glamping options. The Saylorville Lake Administration Office manages multiple recreation areas including Bob Shelter Recreation Area and Acorn Valley, creating a network of camping destinations within a 10-mile radius of Johnston.
Camping season in the Johnston area typically runs from May through October, with some facilities like Jester County Park remaining open year-round. Most campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. The region experiences typical Midwestern seasonal patterns with hot, sometimes humid summers and cold winters that limit camping opportunities. Facilities vary significantly between locations, with amenities like showers available at some campgrounds but not others. Water and electric hookups are common at most established sites, though sewer connections are less prevalent. As one visitor noted, "Cherry Glen Campground is above average overall for central Iowa with views of Saylorville Lake, plenty of shade, and clean restrooms."
Campers consistently rate water access as a primary draw for camping in the Johnston area. Saylorville Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, with several campgrounds offering boat-in access alongside traditional drive-in sites. Jester County Park receives positive reviews for its spacious sites and clean facilities, while Prairie Flower Recreation Area earns high marks for its waterfront location. Highway noise affects some campgrounds, particularly those closest to major roads. A reviewer mentioned that "Acorn Valley is a good place to camp within an hour of Des Moines," highlighting the convenience of these campgrounds for weekend getaways from the metropolitan area. Most sites include fire rings and picnic tables, with firewood available for purchase at many locations.
