Best Campgrounds near Pleasant Hill, IA

Camping near Pleasant Hill, Iowa, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore scenic 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 Boating: At Rock Creek State Park Campground, you can rent boats and kayaks. A visitor noted, "The lake is pretty, it's right there at the campground. Boat, kayak and canoe rentals seemed reasonable."
• Wildlife Watching: Prairie Flower Recreation Area is a great spot for spotting local wildlife. One reviewer shared, "The whole park was the cleanest we have seen anywhere else."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A visitor at Jester County Park said, "Showers are hot every time; it’s a wonderful place to be."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Cherry Glen Campground mentioned, "This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet."
• Friendly Hosts: Campground staff often receive high praise. One reviewer at 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 rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A camper at Ledges State Park Campground 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 summer. A visitor at Rock Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground area is clean...but the RV section of campground was nearly full."
• Reservations Recommended: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Prairie Flower Recreation Area advised, "Note that you must reserve these sites in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

• Playgrounds Available: Many campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. A reviewer at Jester County Park mentioned, "CG has a kids playground, hiking trails, Equestrian Center, golf course, and nature center."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with diverse activities. One camper at Bob Shelter Recreation Area said, "Clean, level sites, close to fishing, it was fun watching the water come through the dam."
• Safety Precautions: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially at night. A visitor at Yellow Banks County Park warned, "Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal."

Tips from RVers:

• Leveling Sites: Some sites may require leveling. A camper at Des Moines West KOA Holiday noted, "Gravel sites require some leveling. Not much privacy between sites nor shade."
• Dump Stations: Check for dump stations before you arrive. A reviewer at Walnut Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a bathroom, trash dumpsters, and a dump station with both potable and tank cleanout water spigots."
• Electric Hookups: Ensure your site has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground shared, "Campground has some 30 amp and some 50 amp sites."

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, the campgrounds near Pleasant Hill, IA, have something for everyone.