Located in central Iowa's prairie region, Minburn offers campers a diverse landscape of rolling hills, river valleys, and recreational lakes. The camping season typically runs April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and occasional thunderstorms. Fall camping provides colorful foliage viewing while spring brings wildflowers and moderate rainfall.
What to do
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Ledges State Park Campground offers challenging terrain with stone steps and sandstone formations. "This is the best park in the state of Iowa, so much fun going thru the low water crossings!" notes Kent B. The park reopened in 2019 after flooding repairs.
Water recreation: Spring Lake County Park provides multiple lake activities during summer months. "There is fishing and hiking. Can rent kayaks paddle boats you name this place is a nice quiet place to camp," says Taylor A. The park also features a disc golf course for land-based recreation.
Roller skating: A unique offering at Spring Lake County Park is its open-air roller skating rink. "Roller skating on the weekends," mentions Chris L. The rink operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day, providing an unusual camping area activity not commonly found at other parks.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Timberline Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "Marta and crew were so friendly and helpful! Clean bathrooms, beautiful property," shares jess. This family-run campground offers full hookups with gravel sites and partial shade.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings at Sportsman Park in Dawson. "Great camping sites! Can't beat the price. Showers and toilets that were clean. Very peaceful," writes Ashley M. The park offers both cabins and tent sites at reasonable rates.
Accessibility to trails: Swede Point Park connects to the popular High Trestle Trail. "It's a nice clean little park. The good shower/restroom areas clean convenient firewood purchase area. and has a small recreation area with trail," notes Tristan V. The park operates from April 15 through October 15.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. At Swede Point Park, a visitor advises, "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 and early summer can bring heavy rains affecting low-lying areas. Jester County Park provides higher elevation sites with good drainage. "Beautiful campground! Lots of trees and peaceful area. Our spot was pretty level and well maintained," says Andrea H.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience outside noise. At Timberline Campground, one reviewer notes, "We didn't realize there must be a shooting range close by as all afternoon all we heard were gun shots. Not relaxing for us or our fur babies."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Don Williams Park offers multiple recreation options. "Very nice campground with a lake to fish and swimming area. Tent and campers access," says Taylor A. The park also maintains hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
Playground access: Spring Lake County Park includes playground areas and beach access. "We loved our stay here! Beautiful campground and well maintained. Unfortunately the skate arena was closed for the season. Lots of trails to choose from and spacious campsites," shares Chelsea G.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several parks offer wildlife education. Jester County Park includes specialized viewing areas. "They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be," notes jim S., highlighting the educational wildlife opportunities available.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Cherry Glen Campground offers specific sections better suited for RVs. "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," recommends Matt S.
Accessibility: For those seeking luxury glamping in Minburn, Iowa's surrounding area, Des Moines West KOA provides convenient access. "Not too far off the highway. Office is open until 7pm which was very helpful as we arrived a little later than expected," shares Iris A., noting its year-round operation despite highway signs indicating seasonal closure.
Utility considerations: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups but limited water connections. At Swede Point Park, a reviewer notes, "only two water connections for the camp," highlighting the need to plan accordingly for filling tanks.
