Camping options near Clive, Iowa provide convenient access to both urban amenities and natural landscapes. Located in central Iowa with relatively flat terrain averaging 900-950 feet above sea level, the area experiences warm summers with highs in the 80s and cold winters. Several campgrounds offer glamping accommodations that aren't standard yurts or platform tents, including unique options like refurbished cabins and specialized waterfront sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide lake and river access. Jester County Park offers "good fishing nice open areas and trails to explore. Lots of cool kid activities. Buffalo ranch near by which is cool as well as Pingora outdoor supply store near by where you can purchase firewood and other camp supplies," according to Luke C.
Hiking trails: Yellow Banks County Park features multiple trail options suitable for different skill levels. One visitor noted, "It's got access to trails and to the Des Moines river. It's a huge and has lots to offer." Another visitor mentioned, "Great trails! So with covid I couldn't primitive camp but this place is huge and has lots to offer."
Local attractions: Winterset City Park provides access to several regional highlights. "We will definitely return, we loved this park. The bridges of Madison County, Clarke Tower, cute local ice cream shop, John Wayne Museum! So much fun in a cute Iowa community!" shares Adam.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Des Moines West KOA Holiday receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms were immaculate! Pizza & Chicken ordered on site was a delicious dinner when we were just to tired to fuss with our own gear. Nice store too!!" noted Lisa D.
Quiet atmosphere: Thomas Mitchell County Park offers a peaceful setting despite proximity to urban areas. A camper shared: "Thomas Mitchell park is located outside of Altoona Iowa on 197 acres. There are electric and non electric sites available. The outer loop has a creek that flows behind the sites with large stairs to get down to it. Kids were having a blast in the water."
Unique features: Glamping in Clive includes specialized options beyond standard tents or cabins. Jester County Park offers "cabins if you want to rent them (fully stocked, linens included!)," according to Larissa C., who adds "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."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Swede Point Park, "Plan to get here Wednesday or Thursday because this park is FIRST COME basis. NO RESERVATIONS! And ALL of the electrical sites were full Thursday evening. There were plenty on tent sites still available."
Weather considerations: Spring camping can be wet, while July and August temperatures regularly exceed 85°F with high humidity. Winter camping options exist but are limited. One KOA visitor noted, "Office is open until 7pm which was very helpful as we arrived a little later than expected. Well kept, clean bathrooms with space heaters running to ensure they're warm during the December cold."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise issues. At Cherry Glen Campground, Terry G. reported "the sites are great. The noise level is unbearable. dogs bark all night and day." Similarly, Timberline Campground notes "Can hear shots from gun range next door."
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Creekside camping provides natural entertainment. At Thomas Mitchell County Park, "The outer loop has a creek that flows behind the sites with large stairs to get down to it. Kids were having a blast in the water." Another visitor mentioned it's "Great place to go tent camping, very clean and quiet... Easy trails for the kids to go hiking and playing in the creek to cool off in the heat."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some glamping sites near Clive offer specialized activities. Des Moines West KOA provides "a ton of fun amenities for kids such as a pool, dunk tank, gem mining, ladder golf, horseshoes, jumping pillow, water balloon wars, basketball and more."
Budget options: Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground offers affordable glamping at lower rates than private facilities. One visitor shared "Sites are spacious and at $16.00 per night a real bargain. Showers were always clean and it's a short drive or hike to the beach."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Cherry Glen Campground, specific sites offer better views and amenities. "I would suggest looking for camp sites on the back side of the western loops because they have views of the lake. I would look at sites 111-116 and 72-78. These last six are also very close to a shower house."
Self-check-in: Some campgrounds offer late arrival options. "Although we were arriving after 10pm, we could still check in without a reservation! They have an awesome 'self check in'. A board marked with available spaces we chose from," notes Tanja M. from Des Moines West KOA.
Site spacing: Campground density varies significantly. Timberline Campground reviews note: "Sites are gravel base and fairly level. The city park has a edge maze that is unique. The John Wayne museum and downtown are a 20 minute walk away."
