Top Free Dispersed Camping near Des Moines, IA

Camping near Des Moines, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the scenic trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals."
• Fishing and Boating: At Lake Anita State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A camper shared, "Great location, good facilities... Plenty of space in tent area - shade and soft grass."
• Family Activities: Jester County Park has a playground and various recreational options. One family said, "We love it here; people are great, and the price is right."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Rock Creek State Park Campground noted, "The campground area is clean. Showers and toilets are clean."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A review for Yellow Banks County Park highlighted, "Large spacious sites with a fire ring and picnic table."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. One reviewer at Des Moines West KOA Holiday said, "Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered."

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A camper at Iowa Ledges State Park mentioned, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI."
• Busy During Peak Season: Many campgrounds can get crowded in the summer. A visitor at Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground noted, "It was ran over with loud radios and flashing lights."
• Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up quickly, so it's best to book in advance. A camper at Prairie Flower Recreation Area advised, "You must reserve these sites in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Campgrounds with Amenities: Look for places with playgrounds and clean facilities. One family at Walnut Woods State Park Campground said, "The park was nice and well maintained with walking trails."
• Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or games to keep kids entertained. A camper at Bob Shelter Recreation Area mentioned, "Clean, level sites, close to fishing."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make things easier. A visitor at Lake Anita State Park Campground noted, "A bit noisy when I stayed... Overall a good place to stay."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Des Moines West KOA Holiday mentioned, "Gravel sites require some leveling."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you want convenience, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground said, "Some 30 amp and some 50 amp sites."
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can get loud, especially on weekends. A visitor at Yellow Banks County Park warned, "Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal."

Camping around Des Moines, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful spot.