Johnston area campgrounds offer diverse camping options within a 25-mile radius of the Des Moines River valley. Elevations range from 840 to 960 feet above sea level, with terrain that includes both wooded areas and prairie landscapes. Most camping areas maintain seasonal hours from April through October, though several maintain limited winter availability.
What to do
Hiking trails and wildlife viewing: At Jester County Park, visitors can explore hiking trails and observe native animals. "They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be," notes jim S., who also mentions the "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level."
Fishing opportunities: Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground provides fishing access below the Saylorville Dam spillway. "Love to camp here and watch the spill way," shares Roger O. The area attracts anglers year-round, with catfish being the primary catch in the river sections.
Biking access: Many campgrounds connect to the regional trail system. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, campers can directly access the Chichaqua Valley Trail. As Anthony W. explains, "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Prairie Flower Recreation Area receives high marks for its generous sites. "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," says Heather S., who adds it's "now our go to spot when we want to camp but stay close to home!"
Clean facilities: The maintained bathrooms and shower facilities across multiple campgrounds consistently earn positive comments. At Yellow Banks County Park, campers appreciate the well-maintained grounds. Kelly notes it has the "best sites around, large flat white rock cinder size area with picnic table, fire ring. Sites are well spaced. Shaded."
Water features: The combination of river access and fishing ponds attracts many visitors. "The banks are amazing! River access and a pond to fish!" writes Steve H. about Yellow Banks County Park, adding that he's "camped here my whole life" though he wishes "there was more camping riverside."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Elizabeth A. notes about Cherry Glen Campground, "It's hard to get a reservation!" Similarly, at Prairie Flower, campers advise planning well ahead: "This campground is a hot spot for Des Moines to escape the weekend - with that said, reservations are a must!"
Utilities and hookups: Available utilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Some locations like Cherry Glen offer electric hookups only, as Terry G. points out: "no water or sewer electrical only." Other facilities provide full service connections.
Seasonal flooding: Areas near the Des Moines River may experience closures due to high water. Matt S. noted that "Ledges State Park is one of the most visited parks in Iowa" but had been temporarily closed due to flooding, while other campgrounds sometimes redirect visitors when water levels rise.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. At Acorn Valley, Dana K. appreciates how the layout works for families: "We parked at a site by the playground and bathhouse, and could sit at our camper and watch our son play at a safe distance."
Wildlife education: Jester Park offers educational opportunities about local wildlife. "The Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," writes one reviewer, while Luke C. mentions "Buffalo ranch near by which is cool" and provides an opportunity for children to learn about native animals.
Site selection for kids: At Acorn Valley, Jessica recommends "an outer ring site surrounded by trees" and notes that "playground and pond were awesome for keeping kids entertained. Just a short hike down Corydon to the lake, and a short drive to Jester Park for the natural playscape."
Tips from RVers
Dump station planning: Prairie Flower Recreation Area's single dump station creates challenges during busy checkout periods. "Trying to leave on a Sunday is a good 1 hour wait... I hate going there knowing that instead of getting to enjoy Sunday - I'll be busy draining my pooper."
Leveling considerations: Most campgrounds provide level sites, but preparation helps. At Prairie Flower, Mia L. advises: "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."
Site measurements: RVs of various sizes can be accommodated, but knowing site dimensions helps. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area, Wendy H. found "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."
