Top Campgrounds and RV Parks in Ames, Iowa

Reconnecting with ture is easy when you stay at the Whispering Oaks Campground. Hike on the grassy trails running along the swimmable Skunk River, or enjoy the beautiful scenery of the sun setting over an Iowa cornfield.

Why You’ll Love Whispering Oaks Campground

People looking for an Ames, Iowa, campground often make their way 13.5 miles farther north to Whispering Oaks Campground because of its great amenities. This property is very secluded as it sits at the back of a farm under shade trees. There is lots of room between camping sites so that everyone can have their own space, and a fire ring accompanies most campsites. The owners live on the property and are very friendly. A modern restroom and shower facility makes it easy to clean up. There is no need to take home dirty clothes as a washer and dryer are provided at this campground.

What People Are Saying About Whispering Oaks Campground

“The owners are awesome people and the campground is clean and well maintained. One of the best and friendliest places I’ve ever stayed.” – Greg, Google Review

Splash your way through the low-water crossings near the Ledges State Park campground. Bring your rock climbing and rappelling gear along so that you can explore the cliffs from a different vantage point. This campground often books up months in advance, so make your reservations early.

Why You’ll Love Ledges State Park

If you’re looking for campgrounds near Ames, Iowa, this state park located about 20 miles away near Madrid, Iowa will serve as a great home base. You will love the large pull-through sites under well-established shade trees when you choose to bring a rental RV to this park near Ames. Walking through the creek at the end of a long day is a super way to beat the summer heat. There are many paths to hike, and the solitude can be great for those looking to reconnect with ture. In the fall, the leaves turn beautiful shades of orange and red here. There is a spacious restroom with shower facilities.

What People Are Saying About Ledges State Park

“never knew there was such beautiful scenery and elevation in Iowa. My daughter has been going to Iowa State for a few years now and she took me here to show me where she goes for peace and relaxation. What a beautiful hike!” – Duane, Google Review

The sandy beach at Hickory Grove Breezy Bay is a great place to beat the summer’s heat as you play in the cool water. This family-friendly campground also offers a good swimming pool, and lots of family activities are available nearby. When you camp here, you will build memories that last a lifetime.

Why You’ll Love Hickory Grove Breezy Bay

The short drive to Colo, Iowa, is worth the trip when you want to stay in an RV park near Ames. This park offers a sandy beach with easy access to the water. Hunters often choose this park near Ames, Iowa, because its southern boundary consists of two public hunting grounds. Others love to camp here because they can go fishing in the pond that is stocked with catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and grass carp. Pedal boats and canoes are available for rent on weekends and major holidays. Several spacious playgrounds make this the perfect place to spend a family camping trip.

What People Are Saying About Hickory Grove Breezy Bay

“A highlight of the park is its great beach area. We visit a few times early in the season and the kids love coming and playing with their friends in the sand. It is our local beach. There are numerous picnic tables and grills in this area and on a summer evening is a very busy place. There have a been a few times I haven’t been able to find a parking spot.” – Amy, Good Times and Sunshine

There are many reasons that you will love Twin Anchors Campground, starting with their level sites that offer plenty of room. The kids will adore the petting zoo that houses a pony, bunnies and other animals. Everyone will want some more of the great homemade ice cream for sale there, too.

Why You’ll Love Twin Anchors Campground

This is one of the best family-oriented RV parks in the Ames, Iowa, area. While there is plenty to do without leaving the campground, if you are looking for additional ideas, be sure to check out these top Iowa RV trips. Make sure to leave time to visit the well-stocked gift shop to pick up souvenirs for everyone who could not come camping with you.

What People Are Saying About Twin Anchors Campground

“People were very friendly, they helped me several times. We used full hookups and did not use the shower facilities. But they had a great little store. With soft serve ice cream. They are next to what appears to be a popular restaurant. And the campground is next to a public golf course.” – Radi0dude, TripAdvisor Review

This small campground is a great place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Yet, it is close to all that Ames and the Central Iowa region has to offer. Most campers staying here act like they are part of one big happy family, so pull your RV in and join them.

Why You’ll Love Swede Point Park

This small Ames campground was created when Saylorville Lake was first built. It offers a fabulous playground for the kids along with great picnic facilities. Two short trails lead within 1 mile of the tresses that can be easily followed to get to the High Trestle Trail. It is also easy to hike to scenic views overlooking the Des Moines River.

What People Are Saying About Swede Point Park

“Unusual regulations that worked for us. No reservations accepted and no time limits for staying…Some nice fellow campers, regulars for the most part, with a few seasonal campers. Electric only at site with water taps for filling bottles. Mostly oak trees and a long steep trail down to the Des Moines River.” – Johnny, Campendium Review

If you are an angler, then you will love the easy access to Saylorville Lake from the Cherry Glen Campground. Several playgrounds make this a great place to relax with your children. Bring along the bikes for a fun family ride.

Why You’ll Love Cherry Glen Campground

Located on a wooded ridge, this is the oldest campground at Saylorville Lake. A boat ramp provides easy access to the lake where water skiing is a popular activity. Many families enjoy biking or running along the Neal Smith Trail connecting to the east side of the campground. Large shade trees make this a perfect spot to have a picnic or cook a meal outdoors.

What People Are Saying About Cherry Glen Campground

“This park was a dream for us. We had wonderful campground hosts, gorgeous tree shaded lots, 50 Amp electrical service (needed for a/c during heat of day), fire pits, quiet, proximity to fishing, wading Sayorville lake and, best of all, miles and miles of bike trails…There were lots of places to walk. Only 5 miles to the grocery store (with Starbucks) and, a bike trail to town…” – Azcrazy, Campendium Review

Originally constructed when Saylorville Lake was built, Don Williams Campground is the oldest campground in the Ames area. Challenge your friends to a round of golf on its 9-hole golf course before cooling off in the water that is reachable from this campground’s sandy beach

Why You’ll Love Don Williams Campground

While no Ames campsites are located within the city limits of Ames, this park is only about 13 miles away. The local wildlife is abundant, and the lake offers many scenic viewing opportunities. This campground also offers a special youth camping area.

What People Are Saying About Don Williams Campground

“Don Williams is an excellent camp ground. There are playgrounds at both the upper and lower sites. Each also has modern bathrooms that have always been clean. Recommend to anyone wanting to have a nice quiet get away for the weekend.” – Seth, Google Review

When you just need a break, check out Bob Shetler Campground. The scenic views of the Des Moines River will have you relaxing in no time. This campground offers some of the best fishing in the Ames region.

Why You’ll Love Bob Shetler Campground

This park is a great place for RV camping near Ames. Easy access to the Des Moines River makes it the perfect place to go fishing. Each campsite comes with its own fire ring, so it’s easy to cook a meal outside or cozy up to the fire on a chilly night.

What People Are Saying About Bob Shetler Campground

“It’s a nice place to go and to camp or fish or ride your bike it’s also nice need to see the spillway the water is really high right now so you might even get wet from it” – Rhonda, Google Review

You may not need to pack food into your RV when you head to Dakins Lake Campground as you will want to clean and eat the fish that you catch in their well-stocked lake. Children enjoy riding their bikes here, and you can challenge your family to a game of sand volleyball.

Why You’ll Love Dakins Lake Campground

This small campground is very friendly to families. The park is known for being well-maintained with clean restrooms and shower facilities. Dakins Lake Campground is located about 30 miles from Ames.

What People Are Saying About Dakins Lake Campground

“Great little county park and campgrounds. The fish are biting and the catfish and bluegill are keepers for sure! 1 1/2 to 3 lbs on the catfish. Bass are not yet quite keepers but will give you a tussle for sure! The grass is kept mowed and the baths and showers are kept nice and tidy.” – Rod, Facebook Review

A nature center that opened in 2018 is a great way to introduce your children to the wonders of nature, and they will be amazed by the herds of bison that still roam here. Anglers adore the fishing, and long-term campers are warmly welcomed.

Why You’ll Love Jester Park Campground

The RV camping sites at Jester Park Campground are large, and most provide breathtaking views of the Iowa landscape. This long-term RV park near Ames, Iowa, also offers great fishing. Enjoy the large pull-through sites and the many places to picnic.

What People Are Saying About Jester Park Campground

“Our family camps a lot. Jester is where it all started. There are ample amounts of campsites and a mix of walk-up and reservable sites. Most of the sites are very large, and there are many tent sites near the water. Beautiful views and walking trails. If you have an RV, however, beware that the gravel here is very small and it can be messy.” – Heather, Google Review

Prairie Flower Campground is in Polk City, which is just outside of Des Moines. Prairie Flower Campground is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This campground is within walking distance of the Saylorville Lake, and there is a boat ramp right down the road

Why You’ll Love Prairie Flower Campground

Saylorville Lake is a great place to fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, or northern pike. In addition, Prairie Flower Campground features laundry facilities and campfire rings. This rustic campground offers electrical hookups, but it is located in a quiet and serene setting.

What People Are Saying About Prairie Flower Campground

“A gem of a state park. Nicely kept park (vs our IL parks…ugh), clean, and level sites. Super clean and nice bathrooms/showers. Only wish it was closer to our home!” – Mike, Google Review

Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground is located southeast of Fort Dodge. This RV park is quite large, and you can refill your propane tanks at Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground. In addition, you can access Wi-Fi at this RV park for a small fee.

Why You’ll Love Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground

Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground is in a rural location, but it is still close to Des Moines’ many amenities. This RV park features a large playground for kids, and there is a decorative pond on-site. To top it off, recreational games and dining tables are available within this RV park’s lodge.

What People Are Saying About Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground

“The owners were extremely welcoming and kind. The campground was immaculately clean, and everything worked well as expected.” – Amanda, Google Review

This RV park is part of a wide-spanning resort complex. Adventureland itself offers numerous rides, games, and stores. The Adventureland Campground, which is a couple of miles northeast of Des Moines, features spacious sites and well-kept accommodations.

Why You’ll Love Adventureland Campground

Adventureland Campground is a popular spot in the summer once the amusement park’s outdoor rides are open for business. Even in the winter, the indoor game room is available for your enjoyment. Those who are traveling on a budget will appreciate that Adventureland Campground offers discounted rates to large groups.

What People Are Saying About Adventureland Campground

“This is a very nice campground with generous sized sites. A pool is available during the season. Comfort stations are strategically placed throughout the grind with each one having restrooms and showers.” – Mark, Google Review

The Iowa State Fair Campground is located slightly to the east of Des Moines. Since this campground is part of the Iowa State Fairgrounds, various events are held on the property throughout the year. The campground fills up quickly in the summer, but you can make reservations online ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love Iowa State Fair Campground

The biggest event presented at this property is the Iowa State Fair, which is held every August. If you plan to come back to the fair next year, you can reserve a spot that will be held for you every August in perpetuity. Amenities at the fair include rides, food stalls, and livestock competitions.

What People Are Saying About Iowa State Fair Campground

“Huge park, very few level sites. BIG bathhouse. Nice that livestock trailers park far away.” – Mardi, Google Review

Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is to the east of Fort Dodge. This park is located where Brushy Creek dumps into a large reservoir. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area features one of the largest RV parks in Fort Dodge, and this campground caters especially to equestrian campers.

Why You’ll Love Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

With dozens of miles of horse trails in the area, Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is one of the best places for equestrian camping in Iowa. There is a horse wash area on-site, and every site at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area includes a picnic table. Plus, there are fishing tourments on Brushy Creek almost every weekend in the summer.

What People Are Saying About Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

“Great little campground tucked in amongst the sprawling crop fields of Iowa! They had really nice showers and bathrooms and some really choice camping spots. We camped in one of the equestrian grounds and it was neat seeing people and their horses milling around. People seemed pretty respectful of the quiet hours and signing up to get a site was really easy. The park ranger on duty at the office was also super helpful!” – Katt, Google Review

Located on the edges of Waukee, Iowa, this park is home to shady, peaceful campsites and clean, well-maintained facilities. Plus, since it’s only a few miles west of Des Moines, it’s the perfect spot for campers looking to stay close to the city while avoiding the buzz and noise that usually accompany it. Because of the immaculate services provided, Timberline Campground has been the highest rated park in Iowa by Trailer Life for five consecutive years!

Why You’ll Love Timberline Campground

Timberline provides everything you may need during your stay. You can pick up firewood, ice, groceries, and other supplies at the camp store, take Fido to the dog park for some furry fun, spend the day cooling off in the pool or try some of Iowa’s best wines. No matter what you’re looking for, Timberline has something for you to enjoy!

What People Are Saying About Timberline Campground

“Totally impressed by this place! Well maintained ground So! Very nice folks running the place! Close to the city but you don’t have any city noise!! If we’re back through this way, we’ll definitely stop in again.” – Katelyn, Google reviews

Dolliver Memorial State Park is southeast of Fort Dodge. It is on the Des Moines River, and this park includes a small campground. Fishing is available on the river, and there is an amphitheater on-site.

Why You’ll Love Dolliver Memorial State Park

Unlike some options for RV camping in Fort Dodge, Dolliver Memorial State Park offers limited electrical hookups. There is a day-use lodge on-site, and there is also a free dump station. Popular activities at Dolliver Memorial State Park include birding, boating, and hiking.

What People Are Saying About Dolliver Memorial State Park

“There is no cell phone service in a quiet park far enough away from all the cards of the world to unplug from it all in the picturesque Des Moines River valley. See the sandstone formations and tive American burial mounds. There are also quiet paved secondary roads in the area perfect for bicycling.” – Jacob, Google Review

River Oaks RV Park is a family-owned and pet-friendly campground located in Hartford, Iowa, just 20 minutes southeast of Des Moines. The park is full of fun things to do and is one of the premier campgrounds in Iowa.

Why You’ll Love River Oaks RV Park

You can spend your day biking and hiking the miles of trails carved through the woods or enjoy the serene atmosphere throughout the park. You'll enjoy mature hardwood trees and large RV sites during your stay. Also, take advantage of the one-acre stocked fishing pond or cast a line out on the Des Moines River!

Des Moines West KOA Holiday is in Adel, which is just west of Des Moines. This RV park offers common KOA amenities such as a communal kitchen, firewood, and a snack bar. Plus, you can rent a bike or go fishing at this KOA RV park.

Why You’ll Love Des Moines West KOA Holiday

Unlike many Des Moines campgrounds, the sites at this KOA property are big enough to accommodate any RV. Propane is offered on-site, and every site includes access to cable TV. Best of all, Des Moines West KOA Holiday features a large dog park for your furry friends.

What People Are Saying About Des Moines West KOA Holiday

“We stayed a week 5/28 – 6/4/18 while attending family celebrations in the Des Moines area. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The evening of our arrival one young man on staff checked back with us before he went home for the night to assure we were able to get our refrigeration working. The park is clean and well cared for. We look forward to a return visit” – Kristen, Google Review

Newton/Des Moines East Koa is a medium-sized RV park only 30 minutes east of Des Moines, Iowa. Bring a lawn chair and cast a line in the campground’s fishing pond for bluegill, bass, and channel catfish. You’ll also find that firewood, ice, and groceries are offered at this RV park’s Kamp Store.

Why You’ll Love Newton/Des Moines East KOA

When you stay at Newton/Des Moines East KOA, you’ll be able to enjoy the adjoining 1 mile ture trail, pitch horseshoes or let your children enjoy the playground. Best of all, Wi-Fi is available throughout the campground.

What People Are Saying About Newton/Des Moines East KOA

“My first time staying at a KOA. We had a really great time. Staff was very friendly. My son loved the sandbox and the bounce pad. Admittedly, I had a pretty great time jumping with him. The facilities were immaculate! It feels so good to take a shower after a long day of travel in a well taken care of bathroom. Thank you for that! If ever we’re passing through this area again, we will definitely be back.” – Corissa, Google Review

Kellogg RV Park is home to a restaurant known as Iowa’s Best Burger Cafe. There is also a convenience store on-site, and you can fill up your tanks at the gas station. While this RV park is quite small, the diner and extra amenities more than make up for it.

Why You’ll Love Kellogg RV Park

Kellogg RV Park offers all of the amenities you need to fuel up and move on. The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition, you can stock up on RV supplies at the convenience store. For added peace of mind, Kellogg RV Park includes an F-5 tornado shelter that can protect you from any storms.

What People Are Saying About Kellogg RV Park

“We stayed in the campground over 6 weeks while waiting on our home to be ready. Met some great people, ate at the burger cafe (many times) enjoying most of their menu and the ice cream… It was a great treat! Had a few campfires with other campers and that was a ton of fun!” – Toni, Google Review