Best Campgrounds near Urbandale, IA

Camping near Urbandale, Iowa, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin.

What to do:

• Hiking and Scenic Views: Explore the beautiful trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals."
• Fishing and Water Activities: At Lake Anita State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A visitor shared, "My 35-foot rig made it to the back-in spot easily," highlighting the accessibility for larger vehicles.
• Playgrounds and Family Fun: Families will appreciate the playgrounds at Jester County Park. One review noted, "The campgrounds are great, the facilities are amazing," making it a hit for kids.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers often rave about the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A review for Rock Creek State Park Campground stated, "The campground area is clean. Showers and toilets are clean."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Yellow Banks County Park mentioned, "Large spacious sites with a fire ring and picnic table."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. One review for Des Moines West KOA Holiday said, "Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered."

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: If you're relying on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A camper at Iowa Ledges State Park noted, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected."
• Busy During Peak Season: Many campgrounds can get crowded in the summer. A visitor at Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground literally empty and our 2nd car could not sit at the camper???"
• Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up quickly, so it's best to book ahead. A review for Prairie Flower Recreation Area emphasized, "You must reserve these sites in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for campgrounds that have playgrounds or kid-friendly activities. Jester County Park has a playground that kids love, as noted by a camper who said, "The campgrounds are great."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep the kids happy with plenty of snacks. A visitor at Lake Anita State Park Campground mentioned, "A bit noisy when I stayed (people playing loud music into the evening)."
• Plan for Outdoor Games: Bring along games like frisbee or soccer to keep the kids entertained. One camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground enjoyed the "opportunity to rent a boat or paddleboard."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your site can accommodate your RV. A camper at Des Moines West KOA Holiday noted, "Gravel sites require some leveling."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you want convenience, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A review for Bob Shelter Recreation Area mentioned, "Clean, level sites, close to fishing."
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can get loud, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground shared, "I haven't been back since for camping."

Camping around Urbandale, Iowa, has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family adventure, these campgrounds have you covered!