Top Glamping near Des Moines, IA

Des Moines is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Des Moines is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Des Moines camping trip.

Best Glamping Sites Near Des Moines, IA (23)

    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park

    1. Jester County Park

    27 Reviews
    45 Photos
    100 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park

    2. Ledges State Park

    39 Reviews
    57 Photos
    207 Saves

    Millions of years before the plains of Iowa were inhabited by the Sauk, Fox and Sioux peoples, much of the American Midwest was covered by a shallow inland sea. It was at this time that the area’s sandstone deposits began forming. Fast-forward to just 13,000 years ago, with the inland sea now long gone, Ice Age glacial meltwater raced across the dry plains, carving and scouring channels and canyons into the sandstone terrain. One of these canyons can be found in Iowa’s Ledges State Park. This 1,000-acre nature preserve and recreation area is located on a wide bend on the Des Moines River, and is just 40 miles north of the city of Des Moines. The park is subject to frequent flooding when the river breaches its banks, but is otherwise a popular year-round outdoor recreation destination. Visitors to Ledges can enjoy a variety of hiking, fishing and paddling opportunities, as well as explore a prehistoric river canyon that showcases nature’s ability to sculpt the landscape. The campground at Ledges State Park features 94 tent and RV sites situated among deciduous woods not far from the Des Moines River. Campers can choose from full-hookup, partial-hookup, or primitive tent sites. Most sites are back-in; only a few are pull-through for larger vehicles. Tent sites are located in both in the main camp area, and in a secluded walk-in area. There is also a youth group site. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and cooking grills, and all have access to water faucets, flush restrooms, showers, and trash receptacles; a dump station is located near the campground entrance. The campground also features a kids’ playground, outdoor amphitheater, and is within walking distance of trails and picnic areas. Some roads and/or facilities may not be open or available in the winter. Reservations are accepted, however the park saves about half of the sites for first-come, first-served campers; sites are $11–$19/night.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA

    3. Des Moines West KOA

    22 Reviews
    33 Photos
    44 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Glen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Glen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Glen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Glen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Glen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Glen Campground

    4. Cherry Glen Campground

    13 Reviews
    34 Photos
    35 Saves

    Overview

    Cherry Glen Campground is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.

    Natural Features

    Cherry Glen, the oldest and most popular campground on the lake, is nestled on a compact 13-acre wooded ridge. Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground

    5. Timberline Campground

    12 Reviews
    6 Photos
    43 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $40 - $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park

    6. Thomas Mitchell County Park

    11 Reviews
    57 Photos
    57 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park

    7. Lake Ahquabi State Park

    13 Reviews
    17 Photos
    42 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park

    8. Swede Point Park

    12 Reviews
    26 Photos
    56 Saves

    This recreation area is part of Saylorville Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park

    9. Winterset City Park

    12 Reviews
    28 Photos
    46 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park

    10. Pammel County Park

    12 Reviews
    52 Photos
    44 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $15 - $20 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews In Des Moines

231 Reviews of 23 Des Moines Campgrounds


  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Williams Park
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Don Williams Park

    Quite and nice

    Very quite and nice campground, we camped on top of the hill in tents it was awesome view and potable drinking water next to camp, bathrooms and shower facilities was clean and nice

  • Michael K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ashton Wildwood Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Ashton Wildwood Park

    Small but great spot to camp

    Very clean, easy to reserve. Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained.

  • Deb M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Aug. 31, 2024

    Winterset City Park

    Great city park on a cute town

    Nice city park campground close to lots of covered bridges and other things to see. The sites are pretty well spaced with lots of grass and some trees in between. It was a good value for full hookup sites. The bathroom was decent, and phone service was adequate. We just spent one night here on our way home from Colorado, but will be returning in the fall to explore more and see some colors.

  • Amanda W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Apr. 13, 2024

    Jester County Park

    camping

    we love it here people are great price is Right Showers are hot every time it a WOnderfull place •to be .

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Swede Point Park

    Great little gem

    Great little hideaway of a campground, very reasonably priced and clean , fresh drinking water with dump stations and hot water showers and modern toilet facilities,

  • Deb K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ashton Wildwood Park
    Dec. 23, 2023

    Ashton Wildwood Park

    I love this secluded little campground!

    I live just 7 miles away, but I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping.  Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious.  It's only $7/night!  There is some play equipment for children.  There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs.  (Bring your flashlight!)  Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower, also a water spigot on the back side.  There is also a big group site for family get togethers.  There is a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult and was great for rehab after my knee replacement.  I'd highly recommend it, but I don't want it to get too crowded!

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Oct. 14, 2023

    Thomas Mitchell County Park

    Nice campground although not too many spaces.

    Came in late, even though there were several empty spaces turns out they were reserved. Very nice camp host told us we could have a non-electric site, none of them were reserved. Bathroom/showers were clean.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Swede Point Park

    Nice Quiet place to spend the weekend

    Great place to stay. Just a few minutes drive to High Trestle Bridge and right off the river. People were accommodating and friendly. Right between Madrid and Woodward with small town conveniences…

  • Topaz G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ashton Wildwood Park
    Sep. 2, 2023

    Ashton Wildwood Park

    Rustic. Huge sites. Nature.

    Definitely follow the directions on Dyrt, google took us on a winding gravel road that led to the same place.

    The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents.

    We arrived just after 9p after a long long day of driving and found the park easy to navigate.

    Please be courteous when finding a spot after dark. The park was mostly empty but even still some people were shining flashlights at our tent.

    Hoping to do an early morning hike, the trails, observatory and orienteering course all look awesome.

    The entire property was well maintained, previous campers enjoyed copious amounts of beer and threw the cans into the brush, but I can't fault the park for that.

  • Ben K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Aug. 28, 2023

    Thomas Mitchell County Park

    Clean and quiet in tent

    Spent 2 nights tent camping here. We stayed at site 4, glad I read reviews on here. I personally would not want to be in a site beyond number 7 as it gets too close to the dump station and subsequent “sewage lagoon”

    Shower house was clean, pretty quiet, and only 5 miles off the highway

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Aug. 5, 2023

    Swede Point Park

    Quite and friendly

    It’s very quite here and the few guests that are here are friendly, has a water full hydrant to refill water jugs and bathroom is full and functioning with hot showers and electricity very clean and very nice

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Des Moines West KOA

    One of our favorites !

    Have stayed here several times, one of our grandkids favorite KOA's. Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallashuck
    Jul. 19, 2023

    Wallashuck

    Convenience with some space

    We were able to camp in a tent near RVs without feeling crowded. The restrooms, showers, and playground were all close by…great for camping with kids. There were some nicer than ours and some with less privacy or further away than we’d prefer.

    A nice mix of convenience and privacy. Perfect location to showers and playground for kids. Ample space for our needs, but not overly private

  • Les W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Jul. 18, 2023

    Des Moines West KOA

    Unbelievable !

    Stayed here for five nights attending a family reunion. First time staying at a koa and it was awesome. From the site service firewood and food delivery, to the location and people who stopped here in their travels. I will definitely stay at a KOA again!

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Swede Point Park

    Nice and quiet

    Very quiet and nice neighbors camping next store , fresh water well on pump next to our campsite number #1 electric and non electric site’s ,electric sites run $18 a night non electric $11 a night , has very clean bath house with toilets and hot water for showering

  • Charity T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Jul. 4, 2023

    Des Moines West KOA

    Very laid back

    QUIETEST KOA IN AMERICA. no hiway no traintracks or airport! Well kept.. bathrooms are a little scarce and WET.. but very nice little campground and VERY friendly staff.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Jun. 21, 2023

    Winterset City Park

    Beautiful setting and quiet

    Wonderful setting and quiet place to stay. Beautiful views with quick access to Bridges of Madison County. Great hook ups and utilities!

  • j
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Jun. 7, 2023

    Timberline Campground

    Wish we could’ve stayed longer

    Marta and crew were so friendly and helpful! Clean bathrooms, beautiful property. Close to hwy but far enough away. We called ahead to arrive after hours and had to get back on the road in the morning. Wish we could’ve stayed longer!

  • Michele M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek State Park
    Jun. 5, 2023

    Rock Creek State Park

    Worst spots in the park- 6 & 7

    Stayed 2 nights in 6/7. No shade, giant electrical boxes, whole campground is downhill from dump station and the smell on Sunday morning is really unpleasant. Feels like whole campground is crammed together and smoke from campfires is thick enough to chew.

    When we were there, teens were running littler kids off the playground; someone dumped all the TP in the men's room in to the toilets on Sunday morning, and the showers were too hot to use, with no way to adjust water temp.

    On the bright side, the lake is pretty, it's right there at the campground. Boat, kayak and canoe rentals seemed reasonable and little store was convenient.

  • Tammie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Jun. 4, 2023

    Pammel County Park

    I'll be back

    This is a beautiful park with lots to do and miles of woods to explore. AT&T cell service was excellent throughout. And camping fees are extremely reasonable. I didn't stay the night but will be back.

  • Jeannie D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park
    May. 25, 2023

    Spring Lake County Park

    Family Tradition

    We love to return here every year! 

    Recently updated two-way fresh-fill/santiary dump station. There is Ice Cube Consessions and the skating rink from Memorial Day through Labor Day every year. Great long-term hosts really make this park feel like going home.

  • Jeannie D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    May. 25, 2023

    Ledges State Park

    It's okay

    Great vibes. Camp's pretty far from the bones of the park, but the hike's relatively plesant. Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected.

  • kThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek State Park
    May. 24, 2023

    Rock Creek State Park

    Scenic campground on lake, great sunsets.

    The campground area is clean. Showers and toilets are clean. The RV section of campground was nearly full but the tent/non-hook up section had lots of space. One can camp on lakeside but be aware that these spots have a slope, not comfortable for my van. Park management was fine with changing campsite. Contact info for ranger was available at entrance. Overall good experience.

  • Steve D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kellogg RV Park
    May. 24, 2023

    Kellogg RV Park

    Great overnight stop

    Very nice, clean and comfortable campground for an overnight stop. Price is right! The “office” is a little gas station, hamburger cafe with a very efficient and friendly check in person. The sites are mostly pull through with full service electric, water, and sewer. The only real issue is the constant noise from I-80 which is just to the south of the campground. But nothing that a good set of earplugs can’t fix. Our little dog especially liked the two chicken coops at east side of the the campground! (Not noisy or any problem - just a reminder that you are in Iowa!). Overall, very nice and has clean restrooms. The sign on the “office” says they have Iowas “BEST” Hamburger. We didn’t try it, but will take their word for it!



Guide to Des Moines

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Des Moines, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Des Moines, IA is Jester County Park with a 4.4-star rating from 27 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find glamping camping near Des Moines, IA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 23 glamping camping locations near Des Moines, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.