Tent camping options near West Des Moines, Iowa center around county-managed conservation areas and parks within a 30-mile radius. The landscape features rolling hills with deciduous forests along river corridors, typically maintaining summer temperatures between 70-85°F during camping season. Most tent camping areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis from April through October, with several locations experiencing periodic closures due to river flooding.
What to do
Fishing for variety: Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers excellent fishing opportunities with multiple species. Jerry V. notes, "It had a nice access spot for fishing," while another camper explains it's "the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish." Electric motors only, no gas engines permitted on the water.
Observatory stargazing: Visit the astronomical observatory at Ashton Wildwood Park on Saturday evenings (except first Saturday monthly). "The observatory that's open on Saturday's was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable. They showed how their telescopes worked and took us a tour of the building and classroom," reports Willy W.
Nature hiking: Mariposa Recreation Area maintains several hiking trails including one to a back pond. According to Willy W., "There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore." Trails range from easy to moderate difficulty and most are under 2 miles round-trip.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Ashton Wildwood campsites provide ample room between neighbors. Topaz G. confirms sites are "very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents." Deb K. adds, "Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious. It's only $7/night!"
Clean facilities: Colfax Quarry Springs Park maintains high standards for campground cleanliness. Christopher M. shares, "Awesome campground, clean and well maintained. Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites."
Riverside camping: Kuehn Conservation Area offers tent sites with water access. James M. describes "nice quite sites along the Raccoon River. Has hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, wildlife, small Bear Creek nature center, open daily 1/2 hr before sunrise to 10:30 pm."
What you should know
Water access limitations: Most tent campgrounds lack potable water access. At Ashton Wildwood, "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water," cautions Willy W., though "Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower, also a water spigot on the back side."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. At Colfax Quarry Springs, "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal," according to Willy W. Gates typically close at sunset for non-campers, with quiet hours starting at 10:30pm.
Reservation systems vary: Most tent sites operate on first-come, first-served basis with self-registration. Kuehn Conservation Area requires advance reservations for tent camping. Otter Creek Park previously offered dispersed camping but Mansel J. reports "The park is closed for camping indefinitely."
Tips for camping with families
Observatory access: Families visiting Ashton Wildwood Park can use the observatory facilities even when not open for stargazing. Deb K. shares her experience: "I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping... Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower."
Easy local getaway: For those living in the area, these campgrounds provide accessible overnight adventures. "I live just 7 miles away, but I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping," notes Deb K. about Ashton Wildwood Park, which also features "some play equipment for children."
Sandy conditions: At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, prepare for sandy terrain. Jerry V. advises, "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," which can affect tent stability and cleanliness during your stay.
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused parks: Most conservation areas around West Des Moines prioritize tent camping over RVs. Luke C. appreciates that Colfax Quarry Springs provides "Campsite right on the water. Great fishing. Isolated campgrounds. Tent only none of that RV B.S."
Limited hookups: RV campers seeking West Des Moines tent camping alternatives should note most conservation areas lack hookups. Steve H. describes Otter Creek Park as a "little limited, secluded" camping area, which appeals to tent campers but provides minimal RV accommodations.
Level site options: Some sites can accommodate small campervans or truck campers. Christopher M. reports about Colfax Quarry Springs: "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties. Would definitely stay here again."
