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Yellow Banks County Park campsites accommodate pets with fire rings and picnic tables in a spacious, quiet setting along the Des Moines River. Sites feature adequate distance between neighbors, avoiding the crowded feeling common at other campgrounds. All ten designated camping areas maintain clean facilities with newly furnished tent sites available alongside electric hookups. Campers should be aware that firewood is available for purchase and camp hosts provide on-site assistance. Pet owners particularly appreciate the hiking trails connecting to Indian burial mounds, with multiple access points for dogs to enjoy supervised exploration throughout the 200-acre park.
Adventureland Campground and River Oaks RV Park offer full-hookup options for RV campers traveling with pets, providing shower facilities and clean bathhouses for extended stays. Pet owners should check their animals regularly for ticks when hiking park trails, especially during summer months. Most campgrounds enforce leash requirements throughout common areas, with designated pet relief stations available at larger facilities. Grant Park campsites include cement pads that keep chairs level, with fire rings featuring built-in cooking grills suitable for longer stays. The spotless facilities and spacious sites make weekend getaways with dogs comfortable, though campers should ensure pets are on appropriate tick medication as removal is frequently necessary after trail walks.
"Wonderful trails, lots of space. Access to DM River, has nice pond, playgrounds, just a beautiful area. "
"camped here in 2021 and I enjoyed it but the first night I was there I ran my vehicle down the second night I was there I took a tour on the campgrounds and got verbally accosted but another camper for walking"
"I travel with my dog and during the 3 nights I stayed, I was constantly removing them from him, myself and within the inside of my van."
"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!"
"Thomas Mitchell park is located outside of Altoona Iowa on 197 acres. There are electric and non electric sites available."
"Perfect weather last weekend and loved the little creek to splash around in with the dogs. Loads of rock stairways to enter and edit the creek throughout the park."
"With a theme park on one side and a casino on the other, both in walking distance. It’s more of a park and party place hahaha"
"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."
"The Iowa State Fair is the best fair in the world with more than a million visitors every year! There is something for everyone in the family."
"I always loved going here when I lived in Iowa! The State Fair was a blast! Being able to actually stay there made it that much better!!"
"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."
from $45 - $60 / night
Check Availability"Wonderfull Surroundings ,People and Experiences."
"Campgrounds are located on the east side of the actual fairgrounds. There are hundreds of sites here."
"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."
"They have a beautiful lake and a beach. The water has minimal seaweed and great temperature! They have rentals for paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, etc, for a decent price!"
from $25 - $38 / night
Check Availability"Quick and easy off/on road location. Was their first year. This is a new RV Park that was once a quarry. Hence the name. Big lakes and good areas to walk."
"They have porta potties around. Two places to launch kayaks. Most campsites have fire rings, picnic tables and trash bins. Some have grills."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $25 - $40 / night
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GuideI just loved this campground. It has shade trees, grass, free showers and lots of room. It is part of a city park on the outskirts of Winterset. There is a dog park and one of the Bridges of Madison County is located within walking distance of the campground. This was well worth the 20 mile drive off I80. If I had known how m=nice this area was, I would have planned better and stayed here for more than one night.
RangerThis campground has many sites to choose from - RV with hookups as well as some non-electric tent sites. There are quite a few activities in Marshalltown, and it is within the Marshalltown city limits.
The downside is proximity. It is right next to the highway. When I was there in a tent, the hog trucks would drive by all night (loud and smelly). The RV sites are closest to the road, so maybe it is not so bad in an RV, but it is not particularly enjoyable in a tent.
Pros:
+ Marshalltown has quite a few places to eat
+ Nice bike trails (and a great bicycle store downtown)
+ It is near the Iowa River
+ Nice park in general with activities like a dog park
+ Camp host on-site
+ Decent sized campsites
+ Playground for the kids
Cons:
+ It can get busy on a summer weekend
+ Noisy - right by the highway
+ Mosquitos are really bad here
GuideOne 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. It's close to how I remember it.
The campground has a good picnic area, restrooms, and an excellent trail. It's also inexpensive.
What I enjoy most about this park compared to others in Iowa are the sandstone ledges and the slopes on the trail. There are some excellent views, so make sure your phone has enough battery to take photos (unlike me). I also spent a lot of time off the trail. It isn't too hard to get around. I'm not one who enjoys staying at a park that is mostly flat, so this is definitely a good place in Iowa for me to camp.
If you are looking for a cool place to camp within an hour of Des Moines, you should seriously consider this park.
ScoutOne of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites. The hike in spots are great if you like privacy and being in the middle of the woods - but you don’t want to be THAT far from your car.
Beware of the raccoons. They’re plentiful and crazy smart here. We had one open our cooler, steal an egg from the cartoon - without disturbing anything else. Honestly, I was impressed! But some of our friends had them rip through their tents to get at food - not as impressive.
TravelerIn a grove of trees in a slightly hilly area. Easy access, but sites are gravel. Nice bit of grass with each site, most are at least partially shaded. Small dog park which is pea gravel, not grass.
GuideSome full hook ups, sites not very level, playground ok. Can hear shots from gun range next door. Dog park, pool, arcade. We have camped here a couple times, and stored our rig here for a while. Didn't find there was that much going on here to keep us busy. Not a lot of nature, no trails or biking accessible from campground.
GuideSpots kind of level, lots of choices of pull thru or buddy sites. Decent playground, water pillow for bouncing, fishing pond, dog park, swimming pool. Well maintained, lots of planned activities. KOA, so not a lot of nature. But no traffic or train noise. Full hook ups, including TV.
LegendWhile it was our first time camping in Iowa, we were extremely lucky to land upon this slightly hidden fresh water centered campground just a 20 minute drive south of Route 80 near Montezuma, wherein one needs only follow Road#63, before coming across Diamond Lake County Park. With the fall colors being in full bloom when we visited, the entire campground was awash in bright yellows, reds and oranges from the changing colors of the leaves. Also, as we were visiting in mid-October, versus some of the other reviews here, we found that we had the place mostly to ourselves, which made for a rather peaceful sublime respite we were searching for.
As for the campground itself, what we enjoyed most was how this location is, for the most part, very well organized in keeping the RV'ers and 5th Wheeler crowds together, while preserving a nice slice of verdant lakeside pasture for us primitive camper types. Each of the sites for camping come equipped with (in most cases) fairly new aluminum picnic tables, fire ring with folding BBQ grill. While we didn’t stay in the RV areas, given our tent-pitching persuasion, what we did see was fairly impressive and looked altogether rather brand new with freshly poured concrete slots and fairly mint-looking RV hook-ups (50 amp electric and water) and this same area also boasted a brand new restroom facilities.
Obviously, the main attraction here is Diamond Lake itself, with its more than 90 acres of fresh water, albeit murky fresh water, was certainly a hit with this camping family. We enjoyed being able to get out on the lake with our kayaks and canoes as well as go for very long walks around the circumference of the lake itself, with which you will find simply splendid trails. And if that’s not enough exploration for you, then head further inland and away from the lake to explore this parks other 660 acres of grassy prairieland.
From an amenities standpoint, there’s a decent amount, including: three shower houses, four shelters, 2 dump stations, three his / her latrines (some much more dated than others), boat ramp and fishing dock, a dedicated fish cleaning station and what looked to be a fairly new kids playground. In all there’s a total of 120 sites to choose from, with 80 designated for RVs / 5th Wheelers and 40 earmarked for primitive camping, which do not come with any electric, which was on one hand the biggest bummer, but on the other hand, offered up front-row access to lakeside camping bliss as many of these primitive campsites are located right on the water’s edge.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Check-in is self-registration and is done onsite, so net-net, this place is first-come, first served as no online or advanced registration is taken. While we didn’t mind this, and given that we arrived right around noon as folks were actually checking out, we got the ‘pick of the litter’ of campsites. Electric sites are $20 / night and non-electric are $10, so this place is incredibly affordable; (2) If you are looking for some grub nearby after growing weary of another meal of franks & beans, then there’s really just a few nearby options: Subway, Sauced Pizza & Pub, Casey’s and Yolanda’s Tacos over in the little town of Montezuma; (3) While there are actually few different campgrounds here at Diamond Lake, for primitive campers, the best sites IMHO are located as far southwest as you can possible go around the lake, where there’s more than a dozen or so sites that sit right in front of the water and present a completely isolated surrounding.
Happy Camping!
TravelerThe campground was nice, but it seems more for RVs. Sometimes you have to share a fire pit with other tents if it's busy. They have a small petting zoo and a small beach. This place feels more like a neighborhood verses camping in nature. Most people use this as a "summer home".
Camping options near Runnells, Iowa range from established state parks to county-operated facilities, with many sites located along the Des Moines River watershed. The area's terrain features rolling hills with elevations between 800-950 feet above sea level, creating natural drainage toward the river valleys. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during peak camping months, with spring and fall offering milder conditions around 60-75°F.
Fishing opportunities: Thomas Mitchell County Park offers diverse fishing spots with both river and pond access. "Nice little county park just east of Des Moines with fairly easy access to I-80," notes camper Thomas B., who also mentions the "fishing pond" available to visitors. The park sits on 197 acres with multiple water features for anglers.
Hiking trails: At Yellow Banks County Park, visitors can explore trail networks connecting to historic sites. According to Kayla N., "I camped here a lot growing up and many times since then. We visit the park often. Nice quiet campground with the Des Moines river close by for fishing or kayaking." The backpacking area receives particular praise for its natural features.
Kayaking access: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides dedicated launch sites for paddlers. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing," says Willy W., who explains, "Two places to launch kayaks. Most campsites have fire rings, picnic tables and trash bins." The park maintains quiet hours starting at 10:30pm, with gates closing at sunset for non-campers.
Large, level sites: Grant Park receives consistent praise for its well-maintained camping areas. Abby M. describes, "There are 10 beautiful campsites, all with new picnic tables, fire ring and cement pad so your chairs are actually level! The fire ring even has a grill you can flip over the fire to cook." These amenities make extended stays more comfortable for tent and small RV camping.
Proximity to attractions: Adventureland Campground offers convenience for families visiting nearby entertainment venues. One camper notes, "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." The campground serves as a strategic base for accessing multiple attractions.
Quiet nature settings: Walnut Woods State Park Campground provides a natural retreat near urban amenities. According to Daniel B., "The land they have is substantial. There's a boat camp, a bird watching area, a playground, plenty of park space with picnic tables and BBQ pits, hiking and biking trails, and even a lodge." The park's wooded character creates a peaceful environment despite its proximity to Des Moines.
Seasonal considerations: Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground operates from April through December with varied conditions throughout the season. Campers report that summer weekends fill quickly. "I have been going to this campground for 40 some years. Great place to fish and have family time!" shares Jodi H., highlighting its popularity across generations.
Site selection factors: At Thomas Mitchell County Park, campers should carefully choose sites based on proximity to facilities. One reviewer advises, "We arrived late and found a spot. LOTS of bugs and very loud peepers at dusk in the frog pond near the entrance, but they quieted down," adding a tip to avoid sites 18 and 19 which are located near the "sewage lagoon" by the RV dump spot.
Wildlife awareness: Ticks require attention throughout the camping season. At Grant Park, camper Abby M. warns, "Let's talk ticks!! I travel with my dog and during the 3 nights I stayed, I was constantly removing them from him, myself and within the inside of my van. They always got on his feet every time he used the restroom and made their way inside."
Water play options: Yellow Banks County Park offers supervised water access for children and pets. May M. explains the layout: "There are two RV sites with shower houses, and about 10 tentsites on a large rectangular area in the back surrounded by trees." The park includes riverside areas where children can explore with proper supervision.
Playgrounds and facilities: Walnut Woods State Park Campground maintains family-friendly amenities within walking distance of camping areas. Michelle H. notes that at Yellow Banks, "Campgrounds here are near the front of the park with more to explore if you hike/drive farther in. Playground is good-sized. Easy hiking trails nearby. Very quiet, not a lot of traffic."
Budget-friendly options: For families seeking cost-effective pet friendly camping near Runnells, Iowa, Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers affordable sites. Willy W. mentions, "The other campsites are $10.00 registration. They have porta potties around. Two places to launch kayaks. Most campsites have fire rings, picnic tables and trash bins."
Hookup locations: At River Oaks RV Park, the utility placement receives praise for thoughtful design. Jim C. reports, "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."
Leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for variable site conditions. At River Oaks, Jim C. notes, "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks," indicating that leveling equipment is necessary. This preparation helps ensure comfort during extended stays.
Bathroom facilities: For RVers using campground facilities rather than onboard amenities, River Oaks offers quality options. "Bath house & laundry are complete. Very nice and spotless," according to Jim C., who stayed during construction of new amenities. The camp maintains cleanliness standards throughout these shared facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Runnells, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Runnells, IA is Yellow Banks County Park with a 4.5-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Runnells, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 86 dog-friendly camping locations near Runnells, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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