Camping sites near Norwalk, Iowa primarily feature developed campgrounds situated within a 30-mile radius, with most offering electrical hookups on concrete or gravel pads. The region sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with moderate hills and creek valleys that create varied camping terrain. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February, while summer humidity often exceeds 70% during peak camping months of June through August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Yellow Banks County Park offers both pond and river access for anglers. "The banks are amazing! River access and a pond to fish! Camped here my whole life. Boy scouts and with friends. Check out the burial grounds," notes Steve H. The Des Moines River section is known for catfish.
Biking trails: The 25-mile Chichaqua Valley Trail runs directly alongside Griffs Valley View RV Park, providing paved surfaces ideal for cycling. Anthony W. mentions, "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office."
Water activities: Lake Ahquabi State Park features rentals for water equipment during summer months. "They have rentals for paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, etc, for a decent price! The water has minimal seaweed and great temperature!" according to Jennifer M.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems around Saylorville Lake connect various recreation areas. Larissa C. recommends, "If you're up for it there is a hike that loops around the entire lake making it about 6-7 miles long. It's a pretty easy hike, but definitely long."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Prairie Flower Recreation Area receives consistent praise for site dimensions. "Spacious sites with cement pads... The only thing holding it back from 5 stars is no water or sewer onsite," reports Ron M. Most sites feature significant distance between neighbors.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out at several campgrounds. At Timberline Campground, Tessa M. found "Very pretty and clean. We got in pretty late, staff was awesome even showed us to our spot. The park looked nice, only thing some spots looked really close together."
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently mention deer, bird, and small mammal sightings throughout the region. "Love this it's close to the city yet feel so far away," says S K. about Cherry Glen Campground, noting the abundant wildlife despite proximity to urban areas.
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds maintain quiet hours from 10pm to 6am, with enforcement during peak season. "Nice quiet campground with the Des Moines river close by for fishing or kayaking. Most of the spots are shaded and well maintained," according to Kayla N.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill completely during summer weekends, requiring advance bookings. Elizabeth A. advises about Prairie Flower: "This campground is a hot spot for Des Moines to escape the weekend - with that said, reservations are a must! Most times you need to make them six months out."
Dump station limitations: Several campgrounds have limited dump station facilities relative to their size. "Now my one complaint - there's one dump station for a campground that is large in size and popularity. Trying to leave on Sunday is a good 1 hour wait," warns Elizabeth A.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter options. "Timberline Campground is open April 1 to November 1," while Whitney S. notes that at Yellow Banks, "In 2022 I came out again and it was a much better adventure the campgrounds are beautiful they have two different electric sights and they have a newly furnished tent site."
Flooding potential: Low-lying areas near rivers occasionally experience flooding that impacts access. "The local trail is paved and bike/walker/stroller friendly but due to recent flooding at the lake, it was also cut short until clean up could resume," reports Stacy M. about Cherry Glen.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jester County Park features extensive play areas near camping loops. "The campground is a nice area. Campsites are not very secluded. They have some nice hiking trails through the woods and along the river," reports Jennifer M.
Swimming options: Several parks offer designated swimming areas with varying amenities. Jennifer M. describes Lake Ahquabi: "They have a beautiful lake and a beach. The water has minimal seaweed and great temperature!" Beaches typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Educational opportunities: The nature center at Jester Park provides structured activities for children. Jim S. was impressed: "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level. They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be."
Tent-specific considerations: Most campgrounds charge the same rate for tent sites as RV sites with electrical hookups. Daniel B. notes about Walnut Woods: "If you just car camp and don't need electric, unfortunately there is no lower price for tent-only camping. Translation: tent campers pay electric hook up prices."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require minimal leveling but come prepared. Preston G. shares about Griffs Valley View: "Campground is on an old horse farm. 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."
Utility placement: Some campgrounds have unusual utility layouts requiring longer hoses or cables. Ron B. advises about Prairie Flower: "On large loops you will need a lot of hose to reach. I think I needed about 80' some campers will need 100'."
Accessibility considerations: Most RV sites accommodate larger vehicles, but access roads vary in quality. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area, Julian B. found "Great spot located next to the Des Moines River. Check in was a breeze and conveniently near the fill and dump stations."
Site surface types: RV pads range from gravel to concrete depending on campground. Roxanna L. notes about Griffs Valley View: "Sites were pretty level, sizable that our 43' motorhome and tow fit without unhooking. The site we were on is sorta blacktop but the sides have crumbled and it has a slight tilt to it so stepping down out of the camper was tricky."
