Polk City camping options cluster around Saylorville Lake, a reservoir created by damming the Des Moines River. The area sits at approximately 880 feet elevation with humid summer temperatures averaging 85°F. Many campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with winter camping limited to select locations that maintain heated facilities during Iowa's cold months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cherry Glen Campground provides access to Saylorville Lake fishing spots. "Clean quiet lots of wildlife. Love this it's close to the city yet feel so far away," notes a camper at Cherry Glen Campground.
Biking trails: The 25-mile paved Chichaqua Valley Trail runs directly between Griffs Valley View RV Park and its office. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," mentions one visitor who appreciated the convenient access.
Wildlife viewing: Jester Park offers bison and elk viewing areas within a short walk from campsites. "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," reports a visitor to Jester County Park.
What campers like
Clean bath facilities: Acorn Valley receives consistent praise for its well-maintained facilities. "All the spots are nice and lots of exploring to do! The whole place is super clean, especially the bath house," reports one camper at Acorn Valley.
Spacious sites: River Oaks RV Park offers concrete pads with thoughtful utility placement. "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," explains a reviewer at River Oaks RV Park.
Recreational amenities: Several campgrounds feature fishing ponds, playgrounds, and community areas. "There is a really nice pond for fishing that has some bluegills. The water is very clean," notes a camper about Griffs Valley View RV Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer months, especially weekends. "This is a nice place to stay off of I-80. It's nice but packed. The voicemail said it was fully booked from May until September," reports a camper at Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds sit close to interstate highways, creating noise concerns. "You could literally throw a rock from the entrance and hit a passing semi. Would be a possible extended stay for construction folks. Not for any peace and quiet camping," warns a visitor about Shady Brook Camping.
Seasonal limitations: Water access and some amenities close after Labor Day. "I tried to stay at Acorn Valley to find out it is closed after Labor Day," mentions a camper, highlighting the importance of checking seasonal operating dates.
Tips for camping with families
Playground locations: Acorn Valley offers strategic camping spots near play areas. "Nice and well maintained! We parked at a site by the playground and bathhouse, and could sit at our camper and watch our son play at a safe distance," recommends a parent.
Nature center activities: Jester Park features educational programs at their recently built nature center. "The 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," notes a visitor.
Fishing with kids: Kellogg RV Park provides accessible shore fishing appropriate for children. "Great fishing in the river. Near a city so you don't run short on supplies," shares a camper at Kellogg RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many RV sites require blocks for proper leveling. "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks," reports a camper at River Oaks RV Park.
Concrete pad availability: Several Polk City area RV campgrounds offer concrete pads. "The campground very very well kept with spacious concrete pads, both 30/50 amp and full water/sewage hookups," notes an RVer who stayed at Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Storm shelter access: Some rv campgrounds near Polk City, Iowa provide severe weather protection. "The community center has nice showers, laundry, game room. Kitchen with attached TV room, oh and storm shelter," mentions a visitor at Griffs Valley View, providing peace of mind for RVers during tornado season.
Propane services: Several Polk City area RV parks offer propane filling on-site. "They have full hookup propane they have so many interesting things there," notes a camper about Adventureland Campground, saving RVers the trouble of finding separate propane services.
