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Best Campgrounds near Ackworth, IA

494 Reviews

Campgrounds near Ackworth, Iowa range from established state parks to county-managed recreation areas, with most sites located within a 30-minute drive. Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground offers tent, RV, and glamping accommodations with electric hookups and modern facilities, while Hickory Hills Park provides more primitive camping with tent and RV sites but limited amenities. The region includes several waterfront options along lakes and rivers, with Yellow Banks County Park and Thomas Mitchell County Park featuring boat-in access alongside traditional drive-in camping areas.

Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October. Lake Ahquabi State Park remains open from April 1 to December 31, while Thomas Mitchell County Park operates from April 1 to November 1. Several locations offer year-round access, including Yellow Banks County Park and Walnut Woods State Park. Reservations are recommended during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. Campers should check individual park regulations regarding pets, alcohol, and fires, as policies vary by location. According to one visitor, "Thomas Mitchell park is located outside of Altoona Iowa on 197 acres. There are electric and non electric sites available. The outer loop has a creek that flows behind the sites with large stairs to get down to it."

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, with many campers noting the fishing and kayaking opportunities. Lake Ahquabi State Park features a swimming beach and boat rentals, while Yellow Banks County Park provides multiple water access points. Campers report that sites along creeks and lakes tend to be the most popular, particularly during summer months. Shade coverage varies significantly between campgrounds, with Hickory Hills Park offering heavily wooded sites and others providing more open settings. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campground cleanliness and maintenance are generally good, with Thomas Mitchell County Park receiving praise for its "helpful camp hosts" who deliver firewood to sites. Most established campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to toilets, though amenities like showers and electric hookups vary by location.

Map showing campgrounds near Ackworth, IowaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Ackworth, Iowa (115)

    1. Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Indianola, IA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 961-7101

    $25 - $35 / night

    "We entered the park looking for a walk-up spot and landed on Site 67 which was not reserved. The site was spacious with a big tree with good shade and cover if needed."

    "The beach, and park were very far away from the camping area. A suggestion of a bagger for their lawn mower for all the cut grass. The lake by the boat landing was nice and so were the trails."

    2. Yellow Banks County Park

    15 Reviews
    Pleasant Hill, IA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 266-1563

    "Close proximity to the state fair without being to close. Great stay! Our site had an open field behind it definitely recommend."

    "There are two RV sites with shower houses, and about 10 tentsites on a large rectangular area in the back surrounded by trees."

    3. Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)

    10 Reviews
    Swan, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 961-6169

    "Each of the 10 campsites are spacious and plenty of distance between. Nice quick trails with wildlife. The park is well maintained and well priced!"

    "You’ll eventually see the park entrance(a sign and fence). Pass the first bathrooms/shelter/info board. Continue down the gravel road that looks kinda like a trail."

    4. Walnut Woods State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    West Des Moines, IA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 285-4502

    $25 - $38 / night

    "There's a boat camp, a bird watching area, a playground, plany of park space with picnic tables and BBQ pits, hiking and biking trails, and even a lodge that I assume can be rented for events."

    "Walnut Woods is conveniently located 25 minutes outside of downtown Des Moines. Sites are paved and mostly level, although we did have to throw a couple of blocks under one side of our TT tires."

    5. River Oaks RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Runnells, IA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 989-0574

    $45 - $60 / night

    "We stayed here to go to the Iowa State Fair. It was easy to park here and catch a shuttle to the fair."

    "Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6’ hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site. Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks."

    6. Thomas Mitchell County Park

    11 Reviews
    Mitchellville, IA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 967-4889

    "Thomas Mitchell park is located outside of Altoona Iowa on 197 acres. There are electric and non electric sites available."

    "The drive into the grounds was a little confusing, but I imagine that in the daylight we would have had an easier time."

    7. Hickory Hills Park

    5 Reviews
    Woodburn, IA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 961-6169

    $5 / night

    8. Waterfront Cabin

    1 Review
    Carlisle, IA
    9 miles
    +1 (402) 957-6970

    $200 - $300 / night

    9. Iowa State Fair Campgrounds

    5 Reviews
    Pleasant Hill, IA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 262-3111

    "Wonderfull Surroundings ,People and Experiences."

    "Campgrounds are located on the east side of the actual fairgrounds. There are hundreds of sites here."

    10. Otter Creek Park

    2 Reviews
    Indianola, IA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 961-6169
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Recent Camping Photos near Ackworth, IA

94 Photos of 115 Ackworth Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ackworth, IA

494 Reviews of 115 Ackworth Campgrounds

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Winterset City Park

    Peaceful

    Our first time staying here and we extended twice because we like the area so much. It’s been a peaceful two weeks and we love the town of Winterset. The campground has a variety of FHU and or just W& E, also some shared water.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    River Oaks RV Park

    Nice campground. Clean. Well kept.

    We stayed here to go to the Iowa State Fair. It was easy to park here and catch a shuttle to the fair.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Jester County Park

    Nothing but exceptional

    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. They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be. Camp host was top notch, neighbors fantastic, quiet and respectful. Only spent two days there but could make it a two week vacation and never get tired of it. Okay, let's address the dump station, I've never been to one so thought out and efficient. Weird favorite thing but if you know you know

  • Erik W.
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Adventureland Campground

    Great campground and amazing amusement park

    July, 2017

    Great place but not quiet at all.  Short walk to the amusement park.  We were there for most of the early summer so we got a season pass to the park which included the water park.  They also have workcamper programs.

    We especially loved the fireworks display on the 4th.

  • Jerry V.
    Jul. 17, 2025

    Colfax Quarry Springs Park

    Well Maintaned & Good Fishing

    I stayed at site #13 with my two boys.  We had a blast.  I would highly recommend site #13.  It had plenty of space for a large tent and canopy.  It had a nice access spot for fishing.  The new restroom/shower facility was very nice and clean.  Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that.  There was also company on-site that rents Kayaks.  The campground manager was extremely helpful.  He had firewood already staged for $7 and even came back on day two with more firewood for the same fee.

  • J
    Jul. 8, 2025

    River Oaks RV Park

    Clean & quiet

    Made a quick trip here to de how the new puppy likes camping. Nice size campground, sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought. Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6’ hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site. Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks.

    Free WiFi was good; we streamed tv. It did freeze a few times but hard to tell if it was the WiFi or the provider.

    A new bath house, community room, and “shop” is being built. Bath house & laundry are complete. Very nice and spotless.

    The camp is quiet and well maintained.

  • Tiffany K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Howell Station

    Laid-back Campground

    This campground has great facilities with spacious sites. We have plenty of space for our dogs on two stakes. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. There are large trees that provide a lot of shade for the campground. There are play grounds for the kids. It is along a river for fishing and bird watching.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC

    Excellent spot!

    We looked at the other reviews and it talked about it being so close to the freeway, but we didn’t hear a sound. It was really in a good perimeter of trees and lots of shade and level camp spots. We thought this was a nice little spot and a great price.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2025

    Mine Pond Campground — Stephens State Forest

    Way too many insects, and $10 a night. No amenities.

    This place charges 10 bucks a night. You don't get a water station. You don't get a gray water dump. You do get trash cans on site. The sheer volume of insects makes it impossible to walk anywhere. Unfortunately, I have a dog and I have to go walk three times a fucking day. And this is the closest place to where my folks and I agreed to meet in about a week.

    At $10 a night, you'd think they'd at least have water, a gray dump, and some kind of insect control. But no, they don't. They do have maintenance coming around regularly, but nothing seems to get rid of the insects. It used to be $6 a night at one point. So I guess it went up. I don't see why. It's just like any other insect infested place to park.

    If it wasn't for the cost, I guess I'd give it three stars, but that'd be generous. I didn't give it one star because I can at least drive around on it with my bus.

Guide to Ackworth

Camping near Ackworth, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Jester County Park. One camper mentioned, "The campgrounds have amazing views and numerous hiking trails." This park also features a kids' playground and equestrian center, making it a great spot for families.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: Head to Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground for fishing. A reviewer noted, "Clean, level sites, close to fishing, it was fun watching the water come through the dam." The nearby Saylorville Lake is perfect for boating and swimming.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Prairie Flower Recreation Area, you can enjoy the beauty of nature. One visitor shared, "Large level gravel pad driveways surrounded by beautiful prairie grass," making it a peaceful spot for birdwatching.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A review for Des Moines West KOA Holiday stated, "Bathhouses were clean and private," which is a big plus for many families.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpfulness of the staff. One visitor at Timberline Campground said, "Marta and crew were so friendly and helpful!" This makes for a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Yellow Banks County Park. A reviewer mentioned, "Large spacious sites with a fire ring and picnic table," which is perfect for gatherings.

What you should know:

  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds, like Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground, are only open from April to December. A camper noted, "This was our very first night with our rental RV," highlighting the importance of checking availability before you go.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Bob Shelter Recreation Area has electrical hookups but no water at some sites. A visitor mentioned, "We didn’t use the bathroom/shower house, but it was outdated," so be prepared for basic facilities.
  • Wildlife Caution: While camping at Yellow Banks County Park, one camper warned, "Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal." Keep your belongings secure.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. Jester County Park has a kids' playground and hiking trails, making it a hit with families. One parent said, "The facilities are amazing, and the kids had a blast."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has food options. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, a camper mentioned, "Pizza on site is excellent," which can save time and effort.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A reviewer at Prairie Flower Recreation Area noted, "Nice beach down the road," so be cautious around swimming areas.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Walnut Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "The pad was a little small but fit our camper fine," so verify dimensions before booking.
  • Leveling Gear: Bring leveling blocks. A reviewer at Timberline Campground said, "Gravel sites require some leveling," which is common in many campgrounds.
  • Connectivity: Check cell service availability. One camper at Des Moines West KOA Holiday noted, "Verizon cell signal was good," which can be important for RVers needing to stay connected.

Camping near Ackworth, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for family fun, peaceful nature, or a friendly community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Ackworth, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ackworth, IA is Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 13 reviews.

What parks are near Ackworth, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Ackworth, IA that allow camping, notably Lake Red Rock and Saylorville Lake.

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