Best Camping near Winterset, IA

Winterset, IA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Winterset, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Winterset, IA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Winterset, IA (97)

    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA

    1. Des Moines West KOA

    22 Reviews
    33 Photos
    44 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park

    2. Winterset City Park

    12 Reviews
    28 Photos
    46 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pammel County Park

    3. Pammel County Park

    12 Reviews
    52 Photos
    44 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $15 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground

    4. Timberline Campground

    12 Reviews
    6 Photos
    43 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $40 - $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park

    5. Jester County Park

    27 Reviews
    45 Photos
    100 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Woods State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Woods State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Woods State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Woods State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Woods State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Woods State Park

    6. Walnut Woods State Park

    14 Reviews
    63 Photos
    94 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ahquabi State Park

    7. Lake Ahquabi State Park

    13 Reviews
    17 Photos
    42 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park

    8. Ledges State Park

    39 Reviews
    57 Photos
    207 Saves

    Millions of years before the plains of Iowa were inhabited by the Sauk, Fox and Sioux peoples, much of the American Midwest was covered by a shallow inland sea. It was at this time that the area’s sandstone deposits began forming. Fast-forward to just 13,000 years ago, with the inland sea now long gone, Ice Age glacial meltwater raced across the dry plains, carving and scouring channels and canyons into the sandstone terrain. One of these canyons can be found in Iowa’s Ledges State Park. This 1,000-acre nature preserve and recreation area is located on a wide bend on the Des Moines River, and is just 40 miles north of the city of Des Moines. The park is subject to frequent flooding when the river breaches its banks, but is otherwise a popular year-round outdoor recreation destination. Visitors to Ledges can enjoy a variety of hiking, fishing and paddling opportunities, as well as explore a prehistoric river canyon that showcases nature’s ability to sculpt the landscape. The campground at Ledges State Park features 94 tent and RV sites situated among deciduous woods not far from the Des Moines River. Campers can choose from full-hookup, partial-hookup, or primitive tent sites. Most sites are back-in; only a few are pull-through for larger vehicles. Tent sites are located in both in the main camp area, and in a secluded walk-in area. There is also a youth group site. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and cooking grills, and all have access to water faucets, flush restrooms, showers, and trash receptacles; a dump station is located near the campground entrance. The campground also features a kids’ playground, outdoor amphitheater, and is within walking distance of trails and picnic areas. Some roads and/or facilities may not be open or available in the winter. Reservations are accepted, however the park saves about half of the sites for first-come, first-served campers; sites are $11–$19/night.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground

    9. Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground

    15 Reviews
    71 Photos
    51 Saves

    Overview

    Bob Shetler Recreation Area is located in the tailwater area below the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.

    Natural Features

    Large shade trees dot the open grassy areas of the campground, which offers excellent views of the Des Moines River. Most campsites are within easy walking distance of the shore. Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Flower Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Flower Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Flower Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Flower Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Flower Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Flower Recreation Area

    10. Prairie Flower Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    44 Photos
    61 Saves

    Overview

    Prairie Flower Recreation Area is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.

    Natural Features

    Iowa's prairie heritage is celebrated in more than 40 acres of prairie plantings throughout the campground. The wide variety of grass and flowers provides vivid colors from mid-summer to fall. Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $24 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 97 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Winterset

Recent Reviews In Winterset

429 Reviews of 97 Winterset Campgrounds


  • Gudrun C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Adair City Park
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Adair City Park

    Convenient Spot

    No frills spot for an easy stop off I-80. Only 2 other campers the night we stayed. Great Mexican restaurant 2 blocks away.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lenon Mill Park
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Lenon Mill Park

    Pretty basic, great for an overnight

    I stayed here one night while I was traveling. It was a Saturday so the campground was kind of busy. People shouting and loud music. Lots of trucks with noisy exhausts coming and going all day. I'm sure it's more quiet during the week.

    Some of the sites are well shaded, and you can access the water. It looked like people had been finding clams (they left the shells all over the picnic table). People were fishing here.

    The power pedestals are far back from the parking pad for some reason. If you back all the way into your spot or if you have a long cord you should be fine. There was only a 50A outlet so I needed to use an adapter for my 30A camper.

    There is one water spigot, and no dump station.

    There are bathrooms, but no showers.

    I had great T-mobile signal here (5G, 160 down and 20 up). And a somewhat decent 4G Verizon signal (70 down, 12 up).

    The Guthrie County Historical Village& Museum is a 5 minute walk away. It's not open evenings or weekends but there is interesting stuff to walk around and see even when closed. The railroad cars are very cool.

  • Michael K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ashton Wildwood Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Ashton Wildwood Park

    Small but great spot to camp

    Very clean, easy to reserve. Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained.

  • c
    Camper-submitted photo from Sportsman Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Sportsman Park

    JJSploit

    This piece of writing is certain to attract the interest of readers from a wide variety of backgrounds due to the abundance of insightful content and topics that are pertinent to the topic at hand. JJSploit Official

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Anita State Park
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Lake Anita State Park

    Nice

    We only stayed here for the night but everything was perfectly fine. A little off I80 but not too far. Nice lake and incredible harvest moon the night we were there

  • BENdejo ~.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Flower Recreation Area
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Prairie Flower Recreation Area

    Large, level, clean, quiet, cheap

    Large level gravel pad driveways surrounded by beautiful prairie grass. Fantastically clean & well maintained facilities. Nice beach down the road and some Greenway trails. One of the NICEST public campgrounds I've stayed at. Reserve online at rec.gov. America the Beautiful National Parks Pass pays your day use fees at the beach.

  • Deb M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
    Aug. 31, 2024

    Winterset City Park

    Great city park on a cute town

    Nice city park campground close to lots of covered bridges and other things to see. The sites are pretty well spaced with lots of grass and some trees in between. It was a good value for full hookup sites. The bathroom was decent, and phone service was adequate. We just spent one night here on our way home from Colorado, but will be returning in the fall to explore more and see some colors.

  • Laura W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Valley State Park
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Green Valley State Park

    Timing is everything!

    Pretty grounds with woodland coverage on all sides in addition to the lake. We visited in August and realized it was prime family vacation time before school starts up again, so a little crowded and noisy. Spots are pretty close together too. But the grounds are quite lovely and the facilities were super clean. We plan to go back when Autumn arrives, mid week. Bonus easy shore fishing access.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Valley
    Aug. 2, 2024

    Acorn Valley

    Nice playground , well maintained

    Nice and well maintained ! 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

  • Alika T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Adair City Park
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Adair City Park

    Awesome little campsites!

    $15 full power / $6 tents / $5 dump only. They have 110 power as well as regular hookups. Playground, tennis / pickleball courts, little zip line, and covered picnic area.

  • Nancy C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Valley
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Acorn Valley

    Amazingly Quiet

    We lived our time there. It was quiet and we loved listening to the wildlife at night. My only complaint is that they left people in to camp after 10. Which kept me awake for a bit.

  • Thomas P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Lake Campground
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Beaver Lake Campground

    Simple for overnight

    This campground is on the side of a lake. You hear beavers at night, see rabbits are on the sides of the lot. We came late around 8pm and the owner helped us fill the form and pick our spot. The only drawback are the restrooms which were ok but smelly.

  • Matt M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Iowa State Fair Campgrounds
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Iowa State Fair Campgrounds

    Nice campground!

    We've stayed here a number of times now in the past 2 years (not during fair weeks.) Campgrounds are located on the east side of the actual fairgrounds. There are hundreds of sites here. Some are flat, some are no where near flat, but there are so many, you can find one that will work for you! Almost all of the sites are full grass sites. The main shower house is the only one we've ever used and have no complaints. They are clean and bright and well kept.

    The sites are $32/night.

  • Brian M.
    Camper-submitted photo from CAB Campground
    May. 21, 2024

    CAB Campground

    I gave 5 stars. There are no frills here!

    There are no frills here just quiet and the essentials, elec, water and sewer for $25/night. Great communication. If you're traveling near it's an inexpensive place to get some rest.

  • Amanda W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    Apr. 13, 2024

    Jester County Park

    camping

    we love it here people are great price is Right Showers are hot every time it a WOnderfull place •to be .

  • Danni A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Icaria Co Park
    Apr. 9, 2024

    Lake Icaria Co Park

    Beautiful Views

    This campground has beautiful views of the lake. The sites are very close together. Everything was very clean when we were there.

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Swede Point Park

    Great little gem

    Great little hideaway of a campground, very reasonably priced and clean , fresh drinking water with dump stations and hot water showers and modern toilet facilities,

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenhouse Camping
    Apr. 2, 2024

    Greenhouse Camping

    Nice laid back overnight stay.

    This turned out to be a very easy overnight stopover on our way north to Minnesota. My niece lives in Desert Moines and it was a short drive for her to come for a visit and bring some local, delicious tacos for dinner. We will definitely consider this spot next time through!

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenhouse Camping
    Mar. 1, 2024

    Greenhouse Camping

    New to the Dyrt!

    Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

  • Deb K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ashton Wildwood Park
    Dec. 23, 2023

    Ashton Wildwood Park

    I love this secluded little campground!

    I live just 7 miles away, but I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping.  Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious.  It's only $7/night!  There is some play equipment for children.  There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs.  (Bring your flashlight!)  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.  There is also a big group site for family get togethers.  There is a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult and was great for rehab after my knee replacement.  I'd highly recommend it, but I don't want it to get too crowded!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeside Co Park
    Oct. 18, 2023

    Lakeside Co Park

    Nice lake, but run down campsites.

    First, there is no dump station! All sites have water and electricity with 20, 30, and 60 amp plugs. The sites are 20 dollars. The campsites located near the entrance are pull-through but need maintenance. The campsites along the lake will support short to medium length RVs or trailers, and all are back in. As of this posting, all are not level and in poor condition. The city of Huneston, Iowa is a few minutes away and has several gas stations and a grocery store.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Oct. 14, 2023

    Thomas Mitchell County Park

    Nice campground although not too many spaces.

    Came in late, even though there were several empty spaces turns out they were reserved. Very nice camp host told us we could have a non-electric site, none of them were reserved. Bathroom/showers were clean.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Swede Point Park
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Swede Point Park

    Nice Quiet place to spend the weekend

    Great place to stay. Just a few minutes drive to High Trestle Bridge and right off the river. People were accommodating and friendly. Right between Madrid and Woodward with small town conveniences…



Guide to Winterset

Camping near Winterset, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and exploring: Ledges State Park Campground is a popular spot for hiking. One visitor noted, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals." The scenic trails are perfect for both summer and winter hikes.
  • Fishing and boating: Lake Anita State Park Campground provides great fishing opportunities. A camper shared, "Great location, good facilities... Plenty of space in tent area - shade and soft grass." The lake is ideal for a relaxing day on the water.
  • Wildlife watching: Prairie Flower Recreation Area is known for its wildlife. One happy camper said, "The whole park was the cleanest we have seen anywhere else," highlighting the natural beauty and wildlife you might encounter.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Jester County Park, one reviewer mentioned, "Showers are hot every time; it’s a wonderful place to be."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds, like Cherry Glen Campground, offer roomy sites. A visitor remarked, "This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground hosts. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area, one reviewer noted, "Friendly hosts & Rangers," making for a welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know:

  • Limited cell service: If you're relying on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A camper at Ledges State Park Campground said, "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, especially in summer. One visitor at Lake Anita State Park Campground noted, "A bit noisy when I stayed (people playing loud music into the evening)."
  • Reservations recommended: Popular spots like Prairie Flower Recreation Area fill up quickly. A camper advised, "You must reserve these sites in advance," to ensure you get a spot.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. Jester County Park has a kids' playground, making it a great choice for families. One parent shared, "The campgrounds are great; the facilities are amazing."
  • Nature trails: Choose campgrounds with easy access to trails for family hikes. At Walnut Woods State Park Campground, a visitor mentioned, "The park was nice and well maintained with walking trails."
  • Plan for downtime: Bring games or activities for quiet time. A camper at Yellow Banks County Park said, "Lots of shade, fairly level sites, clean bathrooms," which makes for a comfortable stay.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Des Moines West KOA Holiday said, "Gravel sites require some leveling. Not much privacy between sites nor shade."
  • Look for amenities: Campgrounds with full hookups can make your stay easier. At Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground, one camper noted, "The bathroom/showers were decent," highlighting the importance of good facilities.
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds can be lively. A visitor at Bob Shelter Recreation Area mentioned, "It gets busy with a lot of fishing," so be ready for some activity around you.

Camping near Winterset, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular campground near Winterset, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Winterset, IA is Des Moines West KOA with a 4.4-star rating from 22 reviews.

  • What parks are near Winterset, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Winterset, IA that allow camping, notably Saylorville Lake and Lake Red Rock.