Ledges State Park RV & Campground Guide
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One of the first dedicated state parks in Iowa, Ledges melds history, scenic views, and recreation for one of the most popular stops in the state. Peas Creek, a tributary of the Des Moines River, winds through the park and has created a sandstone gorge. As you go down Canyon River along the creek, you'll find stunning views of the bluffs, some up to 100 feet above the river, and the iconic stone bridges and other structures built by the CCC many decades ago. After the construction of the Saylorville Dam downriver, Ledges is prone to flooding, with those flood waters damaging many historic areas of the park. However, even when flooding occurs, it affects only a tiny portion of the land, leaving a vast area to explore. During your visit, be sure to head down the road, check out the Boone Scenic Valley Railroad, and take a trip through Ames, home of the Iowa State Cyclones.
Nearby Cities:
Boone, IA
Ames, IA
Ankeny, IA
Des Moines, IA
Spring 46-72 F
Summer 81-85 F
Fall 47-76 F
Winter 28-33 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Ledges State Park
Campground Accommodations
Ledges State Park Campground
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Max RV length: 138 feet
Other amenities: Modern restrooms, showers, playground, dump station, fire rings with cooking grates, picnic tables, firewood sales
Don Williams Recreation Area
Don Williams Recreation Area is the largest park in the county, and you can go fishing, hiking, and boating there. Rates at the campground start at $11 per night.
Water hookup: No
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: No
Wi-Fi: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: fishing lake, hiking trails, boat ramp
Swede Point Park
Swede Point Park offers a sand volleyball court, hiking trails, and a playground. Rates start at $11 per night.
Water hookup: No
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: No
Wi-Fi: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: volleyball court, hiking trails
What to Do at
Ledges State Park
With hiking, birding, fishing, and more, Ledges has enough recreation to keep you entertained for the duration of your visit and beyond. In the summer months, you'll find young and old folks along the side of the road waiting for cars to splash through the overflowing creek waters, giving them a chance to cool off. Families can enjoy a walk through the stream, catching a glimpse at the ledges, the wildlife, and the historic structures along the way. Hiking is a premier sport in Ledges, with 4 miles of trails to traverse.
You'll want to bring your hiking shoes, water sandals, and binoculars for your visit to Ledges State Park. Wander down the hiking trails, taking in the breathtaking views of the bluffs. Find an easy spot to relax and scope out the birds and other wildlife that call the park home. Stroll along the creek, catching a glimpse at the natural beauty of the gorge created by Peas Creek, capturing mesmerizing photos along the way.
Inside Ledges State Park
If you love creek wading and rock collecting, then Ledges State Park is the perfect spot for you. It's also the ideal destination for an outdoor adventure. Steep hiking trails lead to beautiful scenic overlooks. Prefer something easier? Stroll along the interpretative trail to learn more about the plants that thrive in the sandstone cliffs' cracks and along the shallow riverbed.
Fishing
The Des Moines River hosts white bass, catfish, walleye, striped bass, and flathead for anglers to set their sights on. The river is accessible from Lower Ledges Road west of the park. Fish from shore or get out your canoe or kayak
Geocaching
Check out the official Geocache website for clues to a couple of hidden caches in the park. Be sure to have your GPS handy and take some time to indulge in nature while on your adventure.
Nature Watching
With over 1,000 acres, Ledges is home to some of the most beautiful nature views in the state. Watch the birds and mammals scurry around, and marvel at the 100-foot-deep gorge left by the creek with crevasses and geological markings.
Stargazing
A clear night sky over Iowa is like nothing else. Check out the stars, moon, and perhaps another planet using your own eyes, a telescope, or a stargazing app.
Flora and Fauna
Nearly 500 plant species grow in and around Ledges State Park. You'll find shaded and wooded areas lined with oak, maple, conifers, and meadows with wild grass, wildflowers, and shrubs. White-tailed deer, raccoons, beavers, and woodchucks make their homes in the park. Overhead, you'll spot several species of birds, including the pileated woodpecker, bald eagle, and many songbirds.
Hiking
A 4-mile trail system takes you through the gorge and along the creek. Many trails include steep inclines and bluffs, making the trails a bit trickier for inexperienced hikers.
Boating
Canoes and kayaks are perfect for fishing and exploring the nearby Des Moines River.
Swimming
There is no designated swimming location at Ledges State Park. Kids and adults may enjoy wading through Peas Creek, though it is rarely more than ankle-deep.
How to Get to
Ledges State Park
Ledges State Park sits south of Boone. From Highway 30, go south on R27 to 250th Street. Head west on 250th until you reach the entrance to the park. There are several parking areas along Canyon Road.
Entering Ledges State Park
Additional parking for guests is also available in the campground. There is no entry fee required to visit Ledges State Park.
If you have spent time exploring Ledges State Park, then share your memories with us. Be sure to tag RVshare.com on your social media posts as we want to see what you and your friends have to say. Perhaps you could give some tips about visiting the park to your fellow RVers. You can also send your stories and photos to [email protected]. As the oldest state park in Iowa, Ledges State Park has offer fun experiences for several generations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ledges State Park
Ledges State Park boasts warm, comfortable temperatures from late spring through early fall, perfect for hiking and stream walking. The fall colors are stunning, with orange, red, yellow, and purple leaves.
White-tailed deer, raccoons, opossums, rabbits, squirrels, woodchucks, and beavers inhabit Ledges State Park. Additionally, dozens of bird species call the park and surrounding area home for excellent bird-watching.
There are 69 RV campsites in the campground at Ledges State Park. Sixteen of these sites have full water, electric, and sewer hookups. Fifty-three sites have electric hookups only.
All campsites at Ledges State Park are reserved online, by phone, or at the park office. A reservation may be made up to the time of your visit, choosing an open spot and self-registering. Campsites range from $12 to $20 per night.
Pets are welcome to join their humans for adventures at Ledges State Park. While in the park, pets should be kept on a leash and supervised at all times.