Saylorville Lake in central Iowa features multiple Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds with diverse accommodation options, including Cherry Glen, Prairie Flower, and Bob Shetler Recreation Areas. Most campgrounds provide electric hookups, while some include full water and sewer connections. The region supports tent camping, RV sites with concrete pads, and limited cabin opportunities at Jester County Park. Campgrounds are strategically positioned around the lake, offering varying levels of water access and proximity to Des Moines, approximately 15 miles to the south.
Reservations are strongly recommended during the peak season from May through October, particularly for weekend stays. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, with Prairie Flower open May 1 to October 20 and Cherry Glen available from mid-April through mid-October. Electric hookups (30/50 amp) are standard at most sites, though water hookups are limited. Most campgrounds feature modern restrooms, dump stations, and paved pads at select sites. Visitors should plan for potential wait times at dump stations on busy Sundays. According to one camper, "Trying to leave on a Sunday is a good 1 hour wait... I hate going there knowing that instead of getting to enjoy Sunday - I'll be busy draining my pooper."
Concrete pad sites in Prairie Flower's loops B, C, and D are particularly sought after for their level setup and lake views. Campers consistently rate these Army Corps campgrounds between 4 and 5 stars, noting the cleanliness of facilities and spaciousness between sites. Sites with shade are prized during summer months, with several visitors mentioning the importance of tree cover. The campgrounds connect to regional bike trails that extend to Des Moines and surrounding suburbs, providing recreational opportunities beyond the lake itself. Several campers mentioned the quality of fishing access, especially near the dam and spillway at Bob Shetler Recreation Area. For those seeking more seclusion, sites along the backside of Cherry Glen's western loops (sites 111-116 and 72-78) offer superior lake views and proximity to shower facilities.
$20 - $25 / night
"The view at campsite 4 was great overlooking Saylorville Lake. Great for families."
"The County has invested a lot of resources into this park making it a great place to stay when enjoying the fun at Saylorville Lake."
$20 - $336 / night
"The Prarie Flower campground at Saylorville Lake is an open, flat grassy campground near wooded trails around the US Army Corps of Engineers land."
"It is clean and well maintained with lots to do at Saylorville Lake. There are several Recreation areas nearby that don't allow camping, making Prairie Flower a perfect place to stay."
$22 - $26 / night
"Near Saylorville lake for all that stuff. Dump station and water fill in the back."
"We stayed here for two nights while visiting family nearby. It’s a pretty location with the dam and waterway right there. The sites are well spaced."
$24 - $26 / night
"Above average overall for central Iowa. Views of Saylorville Lake. Plenty of shade. Clean restrooms. It’s a large park and some sites are close together, but generally spacious. Good cell service."
"Lots of RV sites around. The whole area around Saylorville Lake has camping. Lush green plots of land everywhere. I forget how pretty it is in the Midwest when I'm gone for so long."
$14 - $84 / night
"Clean bathrooms, close to the lake, playground, and a lot of sites. It does get busy. As you would expect there are a lot of bugs on a hot day in Iowa. Tent sites have good shade from trees."
"Great find on our way through Iowa. Clean and spacious. Very quiet, just listen to the frogs at night."
$35 - $90 / night
"Has a cute pond and is adjacent to a bike and running trail. The main lodge has very clean restrooms and showers with hot water! Recommended"
"There is also a very nice bike trail right outside the park."
$18 - $38 / night
"One 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."
"One of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites."
$25 - $40 / 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."
$35 - $80 / night
"If you’re traveling through Des Moines, Iowa area; this is the place you will want to camp at!"
"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 as your feet tend to slide in the loose rocks."
"We camped here to be close to the Iowa High Trestle Trail for bicycling and it's very handy for that. Nothing fancy, but has plenty of sites, flush toilets and showers available."
"Nice little camp ground with easy access to the high trestle bike trail"
ScoutGreat stop, perfect for kids - trampoline, jumping pillow, and a playground. Spots are close together (as with most KOAs) but easy off I-80 and a great pit stop for a night or two with family.
ScoutPulled in looking for a good place to camp, but unfortunately had plans late at night and they shut the gate so they’re is no entering or leaving past 10:30pm - 6:00am which I think is a little stupid if I didn’t have late night plans though I totally would’ve stayed, sites looked great, and there was only one other camper when I pulled in.
ScoutHas a good view of lake on the tent side with no electric hookups, or water, although there is a small water spout that is like a hose we used to wash dishes and there’s also porta potty’s. There is about 11 sites on this side pretty cheap for what you get with them; they have a fire ring, picnic table Id give it a 10/10
ScoutVery quiet campground. Only one bathroom and shower available for use, though. Lots of space and trees as well
ScoutIf you don't mind a small hike with your gear I would definitely recommend this site it's clean and has well maintained trails. I came the last weekend in Aug and just about had the place to myself.
RangerGreat friendly hosts. Check in inside the gas station. Full hook ups and a fair price compared to most rv parks especially with good sam membership. No frills but adorably decorated. You got gas, snacks and great food and ice cream..what else could you ask for in a overnight stop. Laundry, shower house and bocce court. Bocce sets available to borrow from the gas station. Cute communal sitting areas one area with fire rings and wood available at the gas station. Yes its right off 80 and you will hear the traffic but with this incredible convenience we didn't mind. Felt safe and good vibes during our stay. Level and long gravel pull through sites and big rig friendly. Will definitely be added to our favorites list for I80 travels.
TravelerPerfectly pleasant. There are flush toilets and showers. The lake adds a nice scenery. There aren’t too many amenities so this is good for a short stay
ScoutGreat little spot with lots of hiking trails. Bathrooms are clean and guests are quiet. Don’t miss grave from 1869 at top of hill on trail. Beautiful place. Wish I lived closer.
TravelerBeen camping here every summer for about 3 years as pass thru Iowa. Sites spaced nicely apart, is electric only, but have water at entrance, and also thru out the park so can fill fresh tank upon entrance and many place inside campground. Lots of trees, but also many sunny sites here. Bathrooms are always clean
Saylorville Lake camping spans 26,000 acres of water with 6,750 acres of surrounding Corps of Engineers land. The lake sits at an elevation of 836 feet when at normal pool level and experiences seasonal water fluctuations of up to 50 feet during spring flooding. Camping season runs primarily from mid-April through October, with several campgrounds closing after Labor Day. Sites range from basic non-electric ($12-16/night) to full hookup options ($25-30/night).
Fishing opportunities: The area below the dam at Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground offers productive fishing spots. "Love to camp here and watch the spill way," notes Roger O., while another visitor adds, "Great spot located next to the Des Moines River. Great fishing in the river."
Wildlife viewing: Jester County Park features a unique wildlife area where campers can observe native species. "They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be," reports Jim S., and Luke C. adds that the "Buffalo ranch near by which is cool as well as Pingora outdoor supply store near by where you can purchase firewood and other camp supplies."
Trail exploration: Swede Point Park connects to the popular High Trestle Trail. "Nice little camp ground with easy access to the high trestle bike trail," shares Brian G., while another visitor notes the park has "a few miles of mowed trails along with a couple of trail through the woods up and down hills."
Concrete pads: Many campers appreciate the level, paved sites at Prairie Flower Recreation Area, especially for larger RVs. "Spacious campsites with cement pads," notes Ron M., while Mia L. explains, "Not all loops are paved. A is not. But the site was pretty level, wasn't too much trouble to get our trailer backed in and leveled."
Clean facilities: The shower houses and bathrooms receive consistently positive reviews. Tracy V. shares that Prairie Flower has "Very clean shower houses," while a visitor to Acorn Valley reports, "Bathrooms are immaculate and cleaned every day."
Lake views: Sites overlooking the water are particularly valued. Heather S. found at Prairie Flower "a gorgeous view of the lake and sunsets," while John F. at Acorn Valley noted, "Campsites are well kept and clean."
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Elizabeth A. advises, "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."
Wildlife awareness: Be prepared for nighttime visitors, especially at Acorn Valley. "Biggest downside is the resident raccoons. Come out every night to rummage through possible food options. Secure your food and they're no problem unless you're a light sleeper," warns John F.
Tent site locations: At some campgrounds, tent sites require significant walks from parking. "If you want to tent camp, bring a cart or something to haul everything with. The parking lot is a LONG WAY from any private tent site," advises Lena H. about Ledges State Park Campground.
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. At Acorn Valley, one camper notes, "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."
Nature center visits: Jester County Park offers educational opportunities. Jim S. shares that the "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," making it ideal for families wanting to learn about local ecosystems.
Water activities: Several areas offer swimming and boating options. Patti M. found at Cherry Glen "Boating and swimming in the lake," while Larissa C. mentions Jester Park provides "access points to the Saylorville waterway circuit."
Dump station timing: Plan your departure carefully at Prairie Flower. "There's one dump station for a campground that is large in size and popularity. Trying to leave on a Sunday is a good 1 hour wait," notes Elizabeth A.
Hose length considerations: At some group sites, water connections require extensive hoses. Ron B. shares 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'."
Site selection for larger rigs: For big RVs, certain campgrounds offer better accommodation. At Timberline Campground, Roxanna L. found "sites were pretty level, sizable that our 43' motorhome and tow fit without unhooking," making it convenient for larger setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to camp at Saylorville Lake in Iowa?
Camping costs at Saylorville Lake are quite reasonable. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground, sites are described as inexpensive and open to everyone. Cherry Glen Campground offers tent sites for approximately $11 with a discount available for National Parks pass holders. As Army Corps of Engineers properties, most campgrounds around Saylorville Lake provide similar pricing structures with discounts for pass holders. RV sites typically cost more than tent sites, but remain affordable compared to private campgrounds. Exact prices may vary by season, site type, and amenities, so checking the official reservation system for current rates is recommended.
What campgrounds are available at Saylorville Lake?
Saylorville Lake offers several well-maintained campgrounds managed primarily by the Army Corps of Engineers. The main options include Cherry Glen Campground and Prairie Flower Recreation Area, both featuring numerous sites with lake views. Additional campgrounds include Bob Shelter Recreation Area behind the dam, Acorn Valley (typically closed after Labor Day), and Jester County Park operated by the county. These campgrounds provide a mix of RV and tent sites, with varying levels of access to lake activities, trails, and facilities. Some areas get particularly busy during weekends and holidays when boaters frequent the lake, so weekday visits may offer a more peaceful experience.
When is the best time of year to camp at Saylorville Lake?
The best time to camp at Saylorville Lake is during weekdays from late spring through early fall. Jester County Park and other campgrounds are particularly pleasant during May-June and September-October when temperatures are moderate and crowds are thinner. Summer weekends tend to be very busy with boaters and recreational visitors. Some campgrounds like Acorn Valley close after Labor Day, so verify operational dates if planning a fall visit. Be aware that during peak summer months, Saylorville Lake can experience blue-green algae blooms from agricultural runoff, potentially limiting water activities. Spring offers beautiful scenery as nature awakens, while fall provides colorful foliage along the trails and lakeshores.
What amenities are offered at Cherry Glen campsite on Saylorville Lake?
Cherry Glen Campground offers a comprehensive set of amenities for campers. The facilities include clean, modern restrooms and plenty of shade throughout the campground. Sites are generally spacious, though some are closer together than others. Many campsites provide views of Saylorville Lake, enhancing the camping experience. The campground is well-managed by the Army Corps of Engineers and known for being clean and well-maintained. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs, with good cell service available throughout the area. For the best experience, consider requesting sites on the back side of the campground for more privacy, especially during weekends when the area becomes busy with boaters.
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