Olivia P.
Scout
ScoutHickory Hills Park
Hiking
There are a couple small hiking trails, but they were very well maintained and an easy hike to get my daughter started in her backpack.
Best Campgrounds near Slater, IA
Campgrounds around Slater, Iowa include several established camping areas with mixed amenities that accommodate different camping styles. Jester County Park, located near Granger, provides year-round camping options with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations. Ledges State Park Campground in Madrid, just north of Slater, offers similar diversity with electric hookups and shower facilities in a natural setting. The region's campgrounds typically feature picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water access, with many sites nestled along Saylorville Lake, providing water recreation opportunities for campers seeking developed outdoor experiences.
Most campgrounds in the Slater area operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October. Jester Park and Prairie Flower Recreation Area maintain electric hookups, water access, and sanitary facilities, though availability varies by season. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend camping during summer months when sites fill quickly. Several campgrounds offer both reservable and first-come, first-served options, with prices typically ranging from $15-25 per night depending on amenities. Weather conditions can impact camping experiences, especially in spring when rainfall may affect site conditions. As one visitor noted, "Jester Park is our go-to camping destination in central Iowa! By far, this county park has a lot of fun activities and access points to the Saylorville waterway circuit."
Campers consistently mention the variety of recreational activities available at campgrounds near Slater. Jester Park receives praise for its hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and wildlife viewing areas featuring bison and elk. The park's nature center and playground facilities make it particularly family-friendly. Sites along Saylorville Lake provide water recreation options including boating and fishing access. Many developed campgrounds in the area balance natural settings with convenient amenities. "Lots of different camp sites. Large park with great hiking trails and fishing," wrote one visitor about Jester Park. Travelers seeking more secluded experiences can find sites in the 400s loop of Jester Park, which one reviewer described as having "plenty of room for 2 vehicles and two sizable tents" with a "super quiet and relaxing" atmosphere even during busy holiday weekends.
Best Camping Sites Near Slater, Iowa (108)
1. Jester County Park
30 ReviewsGranger, IA8 milesWebsite+1 (515) 323-5300$20 - $25 / night
"A couple minor complaints that I developed would be that it is right next to the golf course so there is a lot of near by traffic, and people like to cruise on motorcycles and drive muscle cars through"
"Iowa county parks are amazing. They pour money into them and it really shows. Clean, I mean immaculate. Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level."
2. Ledges State Park Campground
39 ReviewsBoone, IA13 milesWebsite+1 (515) 432-1852$18 - $38 / night
"One of my favorite locations to camp in Iowa as a Boy Scout growing up was Ledges State Park. Since I hadn't been back in years, I decided to check it out and spend a night camping there."
"One of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites."
3. Prairie Flower Recreation Area
17 ReviewsPolk City, IA9 milesWebsite+1 (515) 984-6925$20 - $336 / night
"The Prarie Flower campground at Saylorville Lake is an open, flat grassy campground near wooded trails around the US Army Corps of Engineers land."
"Lots of prairie area around, spacious sites. Varying levels of shade. A25, had a good amount of shade and was near the nice playground and nice bathrooms. No view of the lake from loop A."
4. Swede Point Park
13 ReviewsMadrid, IA9 milesWebsite"We camped here to be close to the Iowa High Trestle Trail for bicycling and it's very handy for that. Nothing fancy, but has plenty of sites, flush toilets and showers available."
"Nice little camp ground with easy access to the high trestle bike trail"
5. Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
16 ReviewsJohnston, IA12 milesWebsite+1 (515) 276-0873$22 - $26 / night
"We stayed here for two nights while visiting family nearby. It’s a pretty location with the dam and waterway right there. The sites are well spaced."
"Great spot located next to the Des Moines River. Check in was a breeze and conveniently near the fill and dump stations. Peaceful lot near the river. Great fishing in the river."
6. Cherry Glen Campground
13 ReviewsJohnston, IA10 milesWebsite+1 (515) 964-8792$24 - $26 / night
"Above average overall for central Iowa. Views of Saylorville Lake. Plenty of shade. Clean restrooms. It’s a large park and some sites are close together, but generally spacious. Good cell service."
"Lots of RV sites around. The whole area around Saylorville Lake has camping. Lush green plots of land everywhere. I forget how pretty it is in the Midwest when I'm gone for so long."
7. Acorn Valley
12 ReviewsPolk City, IA10 milesWebsite+1 (515) 276-0429$14 - $84 / night
"Clean bathrooms, close to the lake, playground, and a lot of sites. It does get busy. As you would expect there are a lot of bugs on a hot day in Iowa. Tent sites have good shade from trees."
"Great find on our way through Iowa. Clean and spacious. Very quiet, just listen to the frogs at night."
8. Griffs Valley View RV Park
12 ReviewsBondurant, IA16 milesWebsite$35 - $90 / night
"Has a cute pond and is adjacent to a bike and running trail. The main lodge has very clean restrooms and showers with hot water! Recommended"
"There is also a very nice bike trail right outside the park."
9. Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt
9 ReviewsBondurant, IA15 milesWebsite"Next to skunk river oxbows, kayak, no swimming, water stagnant, no fish, about 4ft depth everywhere. Great hiking trails, clean, great camp hosts, ranger. All sites first come."
"We haven't camped here, but have seen that the tent areas are right next to the water. Super serene with great hiking trails and bird watching!"
10. Greenhouse Camping
2 ReviewsAnkeny, IA8 miles+1 (515) 423-8877"My niece lives in Desert Moines and it was a short drive for her to come for a visit and bring some local, delicious tacos for dinner. We will definitely consider this spot next time through!"
Recent Camping Photos near Slater, IA
81 Photos of 108 Slater Campgrounds
Larissa C.
Jester County Park
Pat F.
Swede Point Park
Mia L.
Prairie Flower Recreation Area
Nancy C.
Acorn Valley
phillip L.
Cherry Glen Campground
Stephen P.
Ledges State Park Campground
Willy W.
Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt
Erik W.
Adventureland Campground
Kaylinn W.
Hickory Grove Campground
Willy W.
Ashton Wildwood Park
Matt M.
Iowa State Fair Campgrounds
Shannon G.
Thomas Mitchell County Park
Recent Reviews near Slater, IA
570 Reviews of 108 Slater Campgrounds
Ashley D.ScoutIowa State Fairgrounds
Horrible & expensive
They show tent camping reservations allowed online and they even let you book a tent to Camp online for paying $32 but then when they come around and talk to you they don't say anything about not having a tent allowed and they don't give you the codes to the restroom and then they just close the office and go to bed and then at 11:00 at night the sheriff comes and tells you to grab all your stuff because there's no camping allowed and put you out on the street with nowhere to go and no more money cuz you wasted all your money on that stupid site that you didn't even get to stay at and then you realize that after you carried all your stuff over to the bar and had to sleep outside on the streets with your service dog when you have disabilities and you told them you have seizures that you had a seizure and now you have to go to the hospital and you lost your tent because somebody stole it so now you have nowhere to live because you're homeless and somebody stole your only house which was your tent because the sheriff kicked you out at 10:00 or 11:00 at night that was really great thanks that was the best experience in my whole life not really and thanks for putting my stress level so high that I went to seizures when people have disabilities you guys should be more accommodating and be more open and honest and be more willing to talk to people
- RRussell T.
GuideBigelow Park
Camp and Fish
This little camp ground is part of the Iowa River Trail system. There is a good sized parking / turn around area. It was well kept and it costs about $10 a night and is in Hardin County.
The gravel road is fairly busy, but it could just be due to planting season starting. There were quite a few annoying gnats / mosquito's. There is a ramp for access, but it is dirt and gravel, so not something you can back a boat down in there easily.
I spent a night here and it was a pleasant experience, other than the flying bug annoyances.
- RRussell T.Guide
Reece Park
Remote and Relaxing
Arrived at Reece Memorial Park in the early afternoon. I stopped by the Octagonal shelter at the south entrance of the park. This is a large shelter house with a fireplace in the middle of the building with several picnic tables.
I then drove down the road and entered into the west entrance of the park and followed it around the loop. There is a wide open area with a small slide and Merry-go-round, along with a couple of picnic tables.
I found, what I think, the best campsite in the park, and it was open. It sits along the creek and there was a fire ring there. This park is all primitive campsites, and so be prepared for that, although the description of the campground mentions vault toilets, I did not see them.
It was a very nice relaxing campsite, and the fact that there was no cell service, made it even better! There were a few vehicles drive through, and a little road noise, but I enjoyed my stay there. The creek was up, and it looks like part of the park might still be closed on the South side.
To primitive camp, the cost is $10.00 a night, and registration is with a QR Code, but since there is little to no cell service, it was difficult to get registered, so you may want to pay before you go.
- JJeffrey S.
TravelerTrailside Campground
Fair grounds camping
This location is on the east side of Jefferson on the old Lincoln highway at the Greene county fair grounds directly next to the Milwaukee trestle bike trail. It has both tent and RV camping spots. The RV is parallel parking with electric only. Black water dump site is at the waist water treatment plant by the public swimming pool on west Russell street on the south side of the street across from south walnut street entrance. The fairgrounds dose have horse and livestock amenities and events at times of the year with the Greene county fair and other events. It also has an agricultural museum and other events in the summer.
Andrea H.GuideBriggs Woods Park
A wonderful family campground!
I took my mother and my youngest on a Mother’s Day weekend camping adventure. We chose Briggs Woods because of its location and reviews from other campers. It is a larger campground than you think! Spots for primitive tent camping, electrical hook up and full hook ups. The campground offers free WiFi and it reached clear to the back end over by the four little cabins. The pit toilets by the four little cabins were clean and stocked. My daughter was able to walk her little dog around the campground with no issues of other dogs running loose. Quiet hours begin at 10:30 pm and everyone followed the rule. I also like how close to the river this campground is. We stayed in electrical spots in the #60s. I like how you can scan the QR code and pay right there from your phone. Very convenient! The camp hosts were friendly and would often cruise by in their golf cart checking on campers.
Noah P.TravelerGriffs Valley View RV Park
One night stay
Park was pretty full, but they found us a spot for the night. Excellent pricing and the yards are BIG compared to other places we've stayed. Would definitely come back
- MMatthew C.Traveler
Bessman-Kemp Park
Awesome Camp Host
Great, convenient campground at a very reasonable price $15 if you pay cash or $19 when paying via the QR code at each site. The location is sitting right along the river where I saw several people fishing. There’s also a small playground, which is a nice touch for families.
I stayed at a 30-amp electric-only site, so no water hookups or dump station, but there is a dumpster available for trash. Overall, it’s a simple, safe, well-maintained spot that offers good value, and I would definitely stay here again.
- RRob M.Scout
Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
Spots are a little small, but they are level and well kept.
Testing out a new set up and this has full service with electric, water and sewer line.
Guide to Slater
Camping spots near Slater, Iowa sit within the Des Moines River watershed at approximately 830 feet elevation. The area features a mix of prairie and woodland environments, with camping facilities typically open from April through October. Winter weather makes most campgrounds inaccessible from December through March, with spring rains sometimes affecting ground conditions at tent sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple oxbow lakes at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt provide unique water access within 30 minutes of Slater. "Great hiking trails, clean, great camp hosts, ranger. All sites first come. Camp there 2-4 times a year," reports one regular visitor. The stagnant water isn't suitable for swimming but supports kayaking in early season.
Mountain biking access: Regional trails connect to several campgrounds in the area, making them popular with cyclists. "The entire saylorville compound is an amazing place to be. I especially liked this area for the access to the water," notes a visitor about Acorn Valley. Most trails maintain paved sections suitable for families with children.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching at Swede Point Park offers morning observation opportunities from multiple hiking trails. "Nice and quite little park, very scenic and beautiful area, park rangers are very nice and helpful as well," according to one camper. The park maintains mowed trails alongside wooded paths with elevation changes.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses receive consistent praise across campgrounds. A visitor to Ledges State Park Campground noted it has "fun 'eagles view' point that overlooks the ledges. Nice picnic areas are also available. I would be careful hiking in the winter for obvious reason, especially because of the steep edges, etc."
Spacious sites: Concrete pads at several campgrounds accommodate larger setups. "Spacious campsites with cement pads... The only thing holding it back from 5 stars is no water or sewer onsite," mentions a camper at Prairie Flower Recreation Area. Electric sites typically cost around $25 per night, while primitive tent sites range from $12-16.
Quiet atmosphere: Weekday camping provides more solitude than weekends at most locations. "We stayed at site A25. 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," reports a Prairie Flower visitor. Many campgrounds fill completely on summer weekends.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Most Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds near Saylorville Lake can be reserved six months in advance, but some operate on first-come basis. "Cherry Glen is very clean and well managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. It is one of the main campgrounds that service Saylorville Lake. I highly suggest visiting during the week because on the weekends the local boaters invade," advises one experienced camper.
Wildlife concerns: Several campgrounds report active raccoon populations after dark. At Acorn Valley, "Campsites are well kept and clean. Bathrooms are immaculate and cleaned every day. Biggest downside is the resident raccoons. Come out every night to rummage through possible food options. Secure your food and they're no problem unless you're a light sleeper."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate April through October with limited winter access. "Ledges State Park is one of the most visited parks in Iowa. I loved coming to this park as a kid and I can't wait for it to re-open. It has been closed since January 2018, but it scheduled to re-open in January of 2019," shared a visitor about previous maintenance closures.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds and child-friendly facilities. At Prairie Flower Recreation Area, "This is a very large campground with lots of sites and large group camping areas. The bathrooms and shower house are nice and clean." The group camping areas provide circular arrangements with shelters in the middle.
Educational programming: Nature centers operate seasonally at select locations with structured activities. "We had a great stay here, check in was easy, getting firewood was easy, the bathhouses were so clean and nice, hiking and views were amazing!" reports a visitor to Jester County Park. Nature programs typically run May through September.
Walking distances: Consider site location relative to restrooms for young children. At Ledges State Park, "If you want to tent camp, bring a cart or something to haul everything with. The parking lot is a LONG WAY from any private tent site. Youth group camp, the ones with all the energy and strength, is next to parking lot. That's messed up."
Tips from RVers
Dump station limitations: Holiday weekends create long waits at single-station facilities. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground, "Great spot located next to the Des Moines River. Check in was a breeze and conveniently near the fill and dump stations. Peaceful lot near the river." However, the single dump station creates congestion during peak departure times.
Water fill locations: Many campgrounds require filling tanks before parking. "There is potable water at dump site. This campground is connected to regional bike trails that will take all the way to Des Moines and suburbs," notes a camper at Prairie Flower Recreation Area. Water connections aren't available at individual sites in many locations.
Site size variations: Different loops accommodate different RV sizes. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, "Sites are large with nicely manicured lawns. My only issue was that my hose was just barely long enough but that was my fault not the campgrounds. The woman that runs it was very nice and met me at the entrance to lead me to my spot." This private park maintains year-round availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping facilities are available at Slater Campground?
What camping facilities are available at Slater Campground?
For camping facilities near Slater, Thomas Mitchell County Park offers both electric and non-electric sites. The outer loop features a creek flowing behind the campsites with large stairs for access, perfect for kids to play in. Another nearby option is Ledges State Park Campground, which provides restrooms, picnic areas, and excellent hiking trails with well-shaded campsites. They even offer hike-in spots if you prefer privacy while staying relatively close to your vehicle.
Is there camping available at Slater Park?
Is there camping available at Slater Park?
While there isn't a specific Slater Park in Iowa's camping system, nearby options include Jester County Park which offers peaceful camping with several first-come, first-served sites. For a camping experience close to Slater, Iowa, consider Timmons Grove County Park which provides electric campsites for $18/night. This park tends to be less crowded, making it a good option if you're seeking a quieter camping experience in the area.
How do I make reservations for camping at Slater?
How do I make reservations for camping at Slater?
For camping near Slater, reservations for many county parks can be made online through their respective county conservation websites. At Briggs Woods Park, reservations can be made at reasonable rates, and they offer campsites, cabins, and access to various outdoor activities. Some parks like Little Wall Lake County Park have a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. For Iowa state parks, reservations can typically be made through the Iowa DNR website up to 3 months in advance.
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