Camping options near Urbandale, Iowa range from basic tent sites to premium RV hookups across several county and state parks. Urbandale sits at approximately 975 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with a few year-round options available when weather permits.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: At Jester County Park, visitors can explore several hiking trails with access points to Saylorville Lake. "Hiking and views were amazing! The only thing we had an issue with was a camp site of noisy people, which was not the parks fault," notes Lindsey M. The park features a new Nature Center that opened in August 2018.
Fishing opportunities: Yellow Banks County Park provides river access and a fishing pond. "River access and a pond to fish! Camped here my whole life," states Steve H. The Des Moines River at Yellow Banks is known for catfish, though the pond fishing can be variable. Kelly notes, "Pond is silted to about 9ft deep, have caught few small bass, bluegill."
Bicycle access: Swede Point Park connects to the popular High Trestle Trail. "Nice little camp ground with easy access to the high trestle bike trail," reports Brian G. The High Trestle Trail features a famous illuminated bridge spanning the Des Moines River valley, making for memorable evening rides.
What campers like
Modern bathhouse facilities: At Thomas Mitchell County Park, campers appreciate the clean facilities. "The bathhouse was very clean and had hot water," notes Reese W., who continues, "We could not hear the highway from our spot despite it being close by, and the other campers around were very quiet."
Creek access for summer cooling: Thomas Mitchell Park features a creek behind many campsites. "Easy trails for the kids to go hiking and playing in the creek to cool off in the heat," says Willy W. Shannon G. adds, "The outer loop has a creek that flows behind the sites with large stairs to get down to it. Kids were having a blast in the water."
Astronomy opportunities: Lake Ahquabi State Park offers excellent night sky viewing. "The best parts of the park are the well-kept trails and stargazing!" reports Larissa C. Another camper noted the "clearing around the site gave great visibility of stars with very low light pollution."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Policies vary between parks. Yellow Banks has limited reservable sites, with Kelly noting, "Close to home, can usually get site without reservation, IF you roll in on Wed. By Thurs night, it's full. Few reservables, 90% i'd say are first come."
Seasonal noise levels: Some parks experience noise issues during peak times. At Cherry Glen Campground, Matt S. advises, "I highly suggest visiting during the week because on the weekends the local boaters invade." Terry G. notes, "The noise level is unbearable. Dogs bark all night and day."
Proximity to amenities: Many campgrounds are strategically located near attractions. "This is a city campground on the outskirts of town that does not feel that way," says Dave M. about Winterset City Park. Another reviewer mentions it's "close to hwy but far enough away."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Most county parks feature playgrounds for children. At Winterset City Park, amenities include "a dog park and one of the Bridges of Madison County is located within walking distance of the campground," according to Heather G.
Kid-friendly glamping options: For luxury camping near Urbandale, the Des Moines West KOA offers family-oriented amenities. Christina N. reports, "The pool was refreshing for the girls and all of the activities kept them busy and having fun! All while being close to the city but the beauty of the country!!!"
Water recreation options: Lake Ahquabi State Park provides water activities for families. "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!" says Jennifer M.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, Mia L. notes "spots kind of level, lots of choices of pull thru or buddy sites." Pavel P. adds, "Site 31 is a 'buddy site' and you are sitting on top of your neighbors with no privacy. It works pretty good if you actually have a 'buddy'."
RV site selection: Careful site selection can improve your experience. At Timberline Campground, Jo E. notes, "Sites are gravel. Nice bit of grass with each site, most are at least partially shaded." Some campers recommend avoiding sites near dump stations or service areas.
Noise considerations: Environmental factors can affect RV camping comfort. Roxanna L. warns about Timberline, "We didn't realize there must be a shooting range close by as all afternoon all we heard were gun shots. Not relaxing for us or our fur babies."
