RV camping near Dallas Center, Iowa provides access to year-round camping options within 30 miles of town. Situated in central Iowa's rolling prairie landscape at approximately 1,050 feet elevation, the area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Several campgrounds remain accessible during winter months despite Iowa's seasonal snowfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Nations Bridge Park offers a serene fishing experience with multiple water access points. "It's a little ways off the highway through the town of Stuart. There are views of the water and walking trails from the site," notes a camper who appreciated the park's natural setting.
Biking trails: At Griffs Valley View RV Park, visitors can access the 25-mile Chichaqua Valley Trail directly from the campground. One visitor mentioned, "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office."
Wildlife viewing: Jester County Park features a bison and elk viewing area within the park boundaries. A camper noted, "They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be." The park also includes a nature center that opened in August 2018.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The bathroom facilities at many campgrounds receive high marks from reviewers. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, one winter visitor commented, "Clean bathrooms with space heaters running to ensure they're warm during the December cold."
Fishing ponds: Campgrounds with on-site fishing are popular among RVers. A visitor to Griffs Valley View RV Park described, "There is a really nice pond for fishing that has some bluegills. The water is very clean."
Level camping sites: Lakeside Casino RV Park provides concrete pads that simplify setup. "All the spaces are pulled through. It is very clean. There is full hook up for water, electric and sewer. All spaces are paved," reported one visitor who appreciated the accessibility.
What you should know
Winter operations: Several parks now operate year-round, contrary to posted information. A Des Moines West KOA Holiday visitor shared, "Don't pay attention to the highway signs that says they're only open until October, they're working on updating them."
Interstate noise: Some campgrounds are positioned close to major highways. At Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, proximity to I-80 is notable, with one reviewer commenting, "We looked at the other reviews and it talked about it being so close to the freeway, but we didn't hear a sound. It was really in a good perimeter of trees."
Campsite spacing: Site dimensions and privacy vary significantly between campgrounds. A camper at Des Moines West KOA Holiday noted, "Site 31 is a 'buddy site' and you are sitting on top of your neighbors with no privacy. It works pretty good if you actually have a 'buddy', but if you come alone it's not private at all."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: The Des Moines West KOA Holiday offers numerous activities for children. "They have 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," wrote one visitor.
Nature education: Jester County Park features educational facilities perfect for families. "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," shared one camper who found the park suitable for extended family visits.
Playground access: River Oaks RV Park maintains areas for children to play. "Nice size campground, sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought," noted a visitor who appreciated the campground's layout for family stays.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: RVers appreciate thoughtful utility placement. A River Oaks RV Park visitor commented, "Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6' hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site."
Internet connectivity: Wi-Fi quality varies between parks. "Free WiFi was good; we streamed tv. It did freeze a few times but hard to tell if it was the WiFi or the provider," noted a River Oaks RV camper.
Propane availability: At Griffs Valley View RV Park, propane fills are available on-site. "You can check in and fill propane at the campground office that is actually up NE 46th St to the north of the campground attached to a feed store/barn," explained a long-term camper.
Site leveling: Many RVers report needing leveling equipment. "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks," mentioned a visitor to River Oaks RV Park who still found the sites well-maintained despite this requirement.
