Camping options near West Des Moines, Iowa range from densely wooded sites along Saylorville Lake to open prairie settings, with elevations generally between 830-900 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions in the 60-75°F range. Most campgrounds in the region sit along the Des Moines and Raccoon River watersheds, creating diverse ecosystems and occasional flooding concerns during heavy rain periods.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Yellow Banks County Park, anglers can access both a stocked pond and the Des Moines River. "Lots of good fishing spots and great views! Recommend going mid summer or fall to see everything," notes Jon G. The pond contains bluegill and largemouth bass, while the river is known for catfish.
Explore historic sites: Winterset City Park provides access to the famous covered bridges of Madison County. "The bridges of Madison County, Clarke Tower, cute local ice cream shop, John Wayne Museum! So much fun in a cute Iowa community!" shares Adam. The John Wayne birthplace and museum is just a short 20-minute walk from the campground.
Cycling adventures: Prairie Flower Recreation Area connects directly to regional bike trails. "This campground is connected to regional bike trails that will take all the way to Des Moines and suburbs," reports Ron B. The paved trail system provides easy access to Saylorville Lake Marina and surrounding recreation areas.
What campers like
Natural playgrounds: Jester County Park offers unique recreational spaces for families. "Lots of cool kid activities. 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," explains Luke C. The nature center receives particular praise from visitors.
Family-friendly amenities: Des Moines West KOA Holiday provides numerous activities for children. "Would love to visit in the summer as they have a ton of fun amenities for kids such as a pool, dunk tank, gem mining, ladder golf, horseshoes, jumping pillow, water balloon wars, basketball and more," writes Iris A., who appreciated that the campground is now open year-round.
Clean facilities: Acorn Valley campground maintains exceptionally clean restrooms. "Campsites are well kept and clean. Bathrooms are immaculate and cleaned every day," shares John F. The outer ring sites surrounded by trees offer more privacy, though campers should secure food from the resident raccoons that emerge at night.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Cherry Glen Campground occasionally experiences flooding. "Sites are great. The noise level is unbearable. Dogs bark all night and day. No water or sewer electrical only," warns Terry G. The campground does offer water access but has no sewer or water hookups at individual sites.
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "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," advises Elizabeth A. about Prairie Flower Recreation Area.
Dump station congestion: When staying at larger campgrounds, plan for potential wait times at dump stations. "There's one dump station for a campground that is large in size and popularity. Trying to leave on Sunday is a good 1 hour wait," warns Elizabeth A. Staggering departure times or using facilities at less busy periods can help avoid delays.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near recreational areas for easier supervision. "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," shares Dana K. about Acorn Valley.
Off-season visits: Campgrounds like Timberline offer quieter experiences during weekdays or shoulder seasons. "Since we came in October, pretty empty after Labor Day during the week," notes Paul C. This timing avoids crowds while still providing access to amenities.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer water features beyond swimming. "Great park for kids and they loved floating down the river. We did a fun short hike as well," explains Sara S. about Walnut Woods, where the Raccoon River provides recreational opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground, specific sites offer more privacy. "We stayed at spot 20 which was extra wide, concrete pad with electric hook up. No water or sewer. Spot 20 is at the end which makes it very private with nice large grassy area adjacent to wooded area," advises Wendy H.
Level sites: Prairie Flower Recreation Area provides paved sites in certain loops. "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. No water hook ups, so fill up after you get in the campground before you park," suggests Mia L.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with varying levels of service. "Sites Available in December. Full service flat sites!!" notes Lai La L. about Walnut Woods State Park Campground. Wintertime campers should verify which facilities remain open during colder months.
