99% (272) • 57 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ames
The Waypoint
1. The Waypoint
99%
(55)
44mi from Ames · 5 sites · RVs
A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35.
18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community.
If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.
Pets
from
$35
/ night
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
2. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
96%
(492)
43mi from Ames · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property has a year round running creek called Bear Creek. They also mined the stone off the property for the State Capital in Des Moines, Iowa. Abundant wildlife and
mature beautiful trees. Hiking trails, playground equipment, dog park, shelterhouse, showerhouse/restrooms, community fire pit, all sites have fire pits and picnic tables, laundry area, rec room, and welcoming staff!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Timberline Campground, Waukee
3. Timberline Campground, Waukee
100%
(3)
33mi from Ames · 128 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the unique charm of Timberline Campground, where the tranquility of nature meets the convenience of urban life. Located on the outskirts of Waukee, Iowa, this gem offers a peaceful retreat while being easily accessible from Interstate 80, just a mile and a half away.
Timberline Campground features spacious, shaded campsites that provide a perfect blend of privacy and comfort. Guests consistently rave about the pristine facilities and pool, weekend youth activities and special entertainment like themed grill outs, band appearances and more. We offer cute cabins and "Yellowstone" inspired vintage sleeping campers for non-RV owners who wish to join you during your stay. Check out our cabin and Horseshoe Bend glamping listing on Hip Camp.
You must visit Myrtle the Turtle in the camp store; she was voted Waukee Best Mascot!
After a day of adventure, you can enjoy local restaurants and shops that are just a short drive away. Explore nearby hot spots, including Raccoon River Valley Trail, Vibrant Music Hall, Barn Town Brewery and Jordan Creek Mall to name a few. Let your hosts at Timberline Campground show you how to enjoy country camping with all the conveniences of city life.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$38
/ night
Ledges State Park
4. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
94 sites · Luther, Iowa
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Saylorville Lake
5. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
446 sites · Polk City, Iowa
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa
6. Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa
39mi from Ames · 7 sites · Lodging
Discover the unique charm of our centrally located KOA, where you immerse yourself in the beauty of an open, rolling landscape. We offer spacious cabins and the cutest vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters in the popular series Golden Girls (we are lovingly referred to as the Silver Sisters).
Take a refreshing dip in our pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or relax by our catch and release fishing pond, full of bluegill, bass, and channel catfish.
We are close to many Central Iowa attractions and events, including Alta House Wedding and Event Center, the Iowa Speedway, Knoxville Nationals, Pella Tulip Time and downtown Des Moines Farmers Market. Our campground features spacious RV and tent sites too; check out the Newton/Des Moines East Campground listing on Hip Camp for more information.
It's always a Great Day at Newton/Des Moines East KOA!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$111
/ night
Timberline Cabins, Waukee
7. Timberline Cabins, Waukee
100%
(3)
33mi from Ames · 15 sites · Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Timberline Campground, where the tranquility of nature meets the convenience of urban life. Located on the outskirts of Waukee, Iowa, this gem offers a peaceful retreat while being easily accessible from Interstate 80, just a mile and a half away.
Timberline Campground features a variety of spacious cabins and (New in 2025!) glamping area known as Horseshoe Bend. The newest section of our camp includes vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters from the iconic series Yellowstone. Horseshoe Bend campers each sleep up to 4 and make a fun and memorable spot for family gatherings, reunions or twinkling star getaways. Guests consistently rave about the pristine facilities and pool, weekend youth activities and special entertainment like themed grill outs, band appearances and more. You must check out Waukee Best Mascot Myrtle the Turtle in the camp store!
After a day of adventure, you can enjoy local restaurants and shops that are just a short drive away. Explore nearby hot spots, including Raccoon River Valley Trail, Vibrant Music Hall, Barn Town Brewery and Jordan Creek Mall to name a few. Let your hosts at Timberline Campground show you how to enjoy country camping with all the conveniences of city life!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$92
/ night
Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey
8. Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey
100%
(2)
39mi from Ames · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the unique charm of our centrally located KOA, where you immerse yourself in the beauty of an open, rolling landscape. Our campground features spacious RV and tent sites, including gravel full hook-up pull-through sites and large grassy back-in sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
Take a refreshing dip in our pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or relax by our catch and release fishing pond, full of bluegill, bass, and channel catfish. We offer spacious cabins and the cutest vintage sleeping campers (the Silver Sisters) for those who want to bring non-RV owners along on vacation. Check out our cabin and glamping listing on Hip Camp too!
As the sun sets, enjoy the cooler evenings by hiking the adjoining 1-mile nature trail, challenging yourself to the 9-hole disc golf course and watching your children explore our playground, jumping pad, and GaGa pit. We even have weekend pancake breakfasts, kiddie train rides and craft activities (peak season months).
We cater to your furry friends with a fenced dog park, allowing them to run free and off-leash while you unwind nearby. We are close to many Central Iowa attractions and events, including Alta House Wedding & Event Center, the Iowa Speedway, Knoxville Nationals, Pella Tulip Time and downtown Des Moines Farmers Market.
It's always a Great Day at Newton, Des Moines East KOA!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Black Oak Tiny Cabin
9. Black Oak Tiny Cabin
100%
(2)
48mi from Ames · 1 site · Lodging
Unique tiny cabin experience! Black Oak Cabin has been recently updated and sleeps up to four people. Relax, unwind, and take a break from technology. It features a stunning view of our lake and private deck for sipping your cup of coffe in the morning. Commune with nature on our private trails, beach and more!
Black Oak Cabin features a mini fridge, mircowave, and coffee maker. Hot water, A/C and heater.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
Pine Lake State Park
10. Pine Lake State Park
100%
(1)
127 sites · Eldora, Iowa
Discover Pine Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Springbrook State Park
11. Springbrook State Park
111 sites · Lake Panorama, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Union Grove State Park
12. Union Grove State Park
22 sites · Gladbrook, Iowa
Discover Union Grove State Park's natural charm and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Spruce Tiny Cabin
13. Spruce Tiny Cabin
100%
(2)
48mi from Ames · 1 site · Lodging
Pilgrim Heights is an oasis of natural beauty and outdoor recreation for all ages! We sit on 100 private wooded acres with an 80 acre recreational lake complete with a beach, and stunning views from our private cabins. From fishing to canoeing to hiking, the center is bursting with enriching activities.
100 private wooded acres
80-acre recreational lake
Beach
Fishing
Boating
Swimming
Hiking
Campfires
Challenge Course
Frisbee Golf
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
99% (272) • 57 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ames
The Waypoint
1. The Waypoint
99%
(55)
44mi from Ames · 5 sites · RVs
A vanlife destination located at the confluence of I80 and I35.
18 acres of land featuring a limestone quarry pond, perfect trees for hanging hammocks, flat ground for parking vans and so much space for community.
If you’re interested, we are happy to coordinate introducing you to our small herd of alpacas and Great Pyrenees dogs.
Pets
from
$35
/ night
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
2. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
96%
(492)
43mi from Ames · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property has a year round running creek called Bear Creek. They also mined the stone off the property for the State Capital in Des Moines, Iowa. Abundant wildlife and
mature beautiful trees. Hiking trails, playground equipment, dog park, shelterhouse, showerhouse/restrooms, community fire pit, all sites have fire pits and picnic tables, laundry area, rec room, and welcoming staff!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Timberline Campground, Waukee
3. Timberline Campground, Waukee
100%
(3)
33mi from Ames · 128 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the unique charm of Timberline Campground, where the tranquility of nature meets the convenience of urban life. Located on the outskirts of Waukee, Iowa, this gem offers a peaceful retreat while being easily accessible from Interstate 80, just a mile and a half away.
Timberline Campground features spacious, shaded campsites that provide a perfect blend of privacy and comfort. Guests consistently rave about the pristine facilities and pool, weekend youth activities and special entertainment like themed grill outs, band appearances and more. We offer cute cabins and "Yellowstone" inspired vintage sleeping campers for non-RV owners who wish to join you during your stay. Check out our cabin and Horseshoe Bend glamping listing on Hip Camp.
You must visit Myrtle the Turtle in the camp store; she was voted Waukee Best Mascot!
After a day of adventure, you can enjoy local restaurants and shops that are just a short drive away. Explore nearby hot spots, including Raccoon River Valley Trail, Vibrant Music Hall, Barn Town Brewery and Jordan Creek Mall to name a few. Let your hosts at Timberline Campground show you how to enjoy country camping with all the conveniences of city life.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$38
/ night
Ledges State Park
4. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
94 sites · Luther, Iowa
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Saylorville Lake
5. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
446 sites · Polk City, Iowa
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa
6. Newton KOA Cabins & Glamping, Iowa
39mi from Ames · 7 sites · Lodging
Discover the unique charm of our centrally located KOA, where you immerse yourself in the beauty of an open, rolling landscape. We offer spacious cabins and the cutest vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters in the popular series Golden Girls (we are lovingly referred to as the Silver Sisters).
Take a refreshing dip in our pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or relax by our catch and release fishing pond, full of bluegill, bass, and channel catfish.
We are close to many Central Iowa attractions and events, including Alta House Wedding and Event Center, the Iowa Speedway, Knoxville Nationals, Pella Tulip Time and downtown Des Moines Farmers Market. Our campground features spacious RV and tent sites too; check out the Newton/Des Moines East Campground listing on Hip Camp for more information.
It's always a Great Day at Newton/Des Moines East KOA!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$111
/ night
Timberline Cabins, Waukee
7. Timberline Cabins, Waukee
100%
(3)
33mi from Ames · 15 sites · Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Timberline Campground, where the tranquility of nature meets the convenience of urban life. Located on the outskirts of Waukee, Iowa, this gem offers a peaceful retreat while being easily accessible from Interstate 80, just a mile and a half away.
Timberline Campground features a variety of spacious cabins and (New in 2025!) glamping area known as Horseshoe Bend. The newest section of our camp includes vintage sleeping campers inspired by characters from the iconic series Yellowstone. Horseshoe Bend campers each sleep up to 4 and make a fun and memorable spot for family gatherings, reunions or twinkling star getaways. Guests consistently rave about the pristine facilities and pool, weekend youth activities and special entertainment like themed grill outs, band appearances and more. You must check out Waukee Best Mascot Myrtle the Turtle in the camp store!
After a day of adventure, you can enjoy local restaurants and shops that are just a short drive away. Explore nearby hot spots, including Raccoon River Valley Trail, Vibrant Music Hall, Barn Town Brewery and Jordan Creek Mall to name a few. Let your hosts at Timberline Campground show you how to enjoy country camping with all the conveniences of city life!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$92
/ night
Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey
8. Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey
100%
(2)
39mi from Ames · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the unique charm of our centrally located KOA, where you immerse yourself in the beauty of an open, rolling landscape. Our campground features spacious RV and tent sites, including gravel full hook-up pull-through sites and large grassy back-in sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
Take a refreshing dip in our pool, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or relax by our catch and release fishing pond, full of bluegill, bass, and channel catfish. We offer spacious cabins and the cutest vintage sleeping campers (the Silver Sisters) for those who want to bring non-RV owners along on vacation. Check out our cabin and glamping listing on Hip Camp too!
As the sun sets, enjoy the cooler evenings by hiking the adjoining 1-mile nature trail, challenging yourself to the 9-hole disc golf course and watching your children explore our playground, jumping pad, and GaGa pit. We even have weekend pancake breakfasts, kiddie train rides and craft activities (peak season months).
We cater to your furry friends with a fenced dog park, allowing them to run free and off-leash while you unwind nearby. We are close to many Central Iowa attractions and events, including Alta House Wedding & Event Center, the Iowa Speedway, Knoxville Nationals, Pella Tulip Time and downtown Des Moines Farmers Market.
It's always a Great Day at Newton, Des Moines East KOA!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Black Oak Tiny Cabin
9. Black Oak Tiny Cabin
100%
(2)
48mi from Ames · 1 site · Lodging
Unique tiny cabin experience! Black Oak Cabin has been recently updated and sleeps up to four people. Relax, unwind, and take a break from technology. It features a stunning view of our lake and private deck for sipping your cup of coffe in the morning. Commune with nature on our private trails, beach and more!
Black Oak Cabin features a mini fridge, mircowave, and coffee maker. Hot water, A/C and heater.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
Pine Lake State Park
10. Pine Lake State Park
100%
(1)
127 sites · Eldora, Iowa
Discover Pine Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Springbrook State Park
11. Springbrook State Park
111 sites · Lake Panorama, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Union Grove State Park
12. Union Grove State Park
22 sites · Gladbrook, Iowa
Discover Union Grove State Park's natural charm and outdoor activities.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Spruce Tiny Cabin
13. Spruce Tiny Cabin
100%
(2)
48mi from Ames · 1 site · Lodging
Pilgrim Heights is an oasis of natural beauty and outdoor recreation for all ages! We sit on 100 private wooded acres with an 80 acre recreational lake complete with a beach, and stunning views from our private cabins. From fishing to canoeing to hiking, the center is bursting with enriching activities.
100 private wooded acres
80-acre recreational lake
Beach
Fishing
Boating
Swimming
Hiking
Campfires
Challenge Course
Frisbee Golf
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Michael A
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Timberline Cabins, Waukee
Rented one of the cabins by the pond. From the moment arriving we were greeted with such great customer service. We enjoyed every moment of our stay especially sitting by the pond having a fire and just enjoying the stars and all the deer that were roaming bye. We will definitely be back again.
See more
J
Josh
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
Emma and her husband Jason always go above and beyond to make any visit to the Waypoint awesome! The stay was perfect as usual and I will definitely be back again
See more
E
Eric
October 2025
2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
Absolutely love the cute little cottage and the fun playground areas.
See more
Rayven
October 2025
2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
We had a great stay! The cabin was cozy and clean, tucked on the outskirts of Des Moines in a quiet little RV park and campground. The host was super friendly and helpful, and we appreciated that it wasn’t crowded at all. There were fun swings to discover around the property, and we enjoyed a perfect evening campfire—firewood was conveniently available on-site. Would definitely stay again!
See more
A
Arjan
October 2025
4 nights at Timberline Cabins, Waukee
We stayed a few nights in this cabin. It was nicely situated with view on the small lake. Liked the firepit. Staff was very helpful.
See more
Lloyd
September 2025
Tent
Courteous, helpful, quiet clean, Comfortable. Really a slower pkace
See more
D
Dave
August 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With kids
We had a wonderful, relaxing weekend at Waypoint. We enjoyed walking the nature trails and fishing in the pond. We even visited the alpacas. Emma kindly gave us an educational tour of all of their animal friends including dogs, cats, chickens, goats, and alpacas. Emma was very patient with our kid's many questions. The land is kept wild except for the camping spots and trails. We will definitely return.
See more
K
Karl
August 2025
16 ft campervan
Nice little place. We didn’t get to stay very long, but it is very peaceful and quiet.
See more
Dudley
August 2025
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is a wonderfully quiet place with gorgeous trees! It was a little too hot for pups and I to explore much but our camping area was very secluded and private. Emma is an incredibly responsive and kind hostess!
See moreJ
Jj
August 2025
18 ft campervan
With pets
This place was very secluded with private campsites. Our dogs loved it also. Obviously certain months bring bug spray lol. Had it not been overcast I'm sure we would have been able to enjoy millions of stars. If you e joy outdoors and seclusion 100% recommend!
See moreB
Barbara
August 2025
20 ft Class B
Our first night in our new camper van was spent in this very private peaceful location! Nice walk to beautiful pond - enjoyed the stay!
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d
donald
July 2025
25 ft Class C
We just stopped for the night as we was traveling through. Everything was nicely laid out and worked out great.
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Mary
July 2025
21 ft campervan
The Waypoint is peaceful and gorgeous! We love the access to great gravel bike rides and proximity to the conservancy.
See moreA
Amanda
July 2025
Tent
The staff at Timberline was so friendly and helpful! I arrived late (around 9p) and was surprised to find the office was still open. When they saw I had a trailer attached to my car, they were able to change my tent spot to a pull-through so I wouldn't have to worry about backing in with a trailer. Overall they were accommodating, friendly, and the campgrounds were clean and felt safe (even for a solo traveler). They even had a pancake breakfast for charity scheduled for the next morning.
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T
Toni
July 2025
2 nights at Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
We were in town for the Midwest National Softball tournament and found this little place to make our home for 3 nights. It's out of the way....but pretty close to interstate traffic noise. Although with the air conditioning running, it wasn't an issue.
The entire compound was very clean and set up to be private Nice hot showers only a short ways from the cabin.
We fell in love with the small town of Earlham. It's like the perfect quintessential town depicted in movies. The downtown bar and grill has great food.
And short drives on dirt roads to visit the covered bridges of Madison county.
We would certainly recommend Shady Brook to others considering a stay in the Des Moines area.
See more
H
Heather
June 2025
With pets
The little cabin is was nice! We really enjoyed our stay. The office manager/co-director was on top of anything we needed. She even brought us firewood!! The only thing I would add is the cabin is part of a larger camp. So there is no guarantee you will have it all to yourself as the description says. However, it was very quiet and we were not disturbed any other campers. I would recommend 10 out of 10!
See moreD
Daniel
May 2025
9 ft campervan
Group trip
Amazing is all I have to say. A nice “in the cut” spot to get away but not too far away from the city. The hosts were very clear and helpful with whatever you may request.
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Mark
May 2025
With pets
The good: At night you'll have crickets and frogs singing for you, and in the morning birds will take over. Waking up to a sun rising over the lake is wonderful. The host was friendly, and they provide pretty much everything you'll need. There is a great truck stop just a few minutes away, too.
The bad: There were dead bugs everywhere. The bed wasn't the most comfortable. The road is in terrible condition, and I worried about getting out if it rained. If I'd been on the motorcycle it would have been impossible to do.
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M
Mia
May 2025
23 ft travel trailer
We spent the weekend at The Waypoint in Iowa for our maiden voyage with our new Airstream, and it couldn’t have been a better choice. The site is peaceful and remote, yet easy to find and conveniently close to the interstate. The setting is beautiful—quiet, open, and surrounded by nature, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. On the drive to the camping spot, we passed by the hosts’ friendly animals, including llamas, chickens, and their two beautiful white Pyrenees dogs, which added a charming, pastoral touch to the experience. The hosts were friendly and welcoming, and the site itself was well-maintained and thoughtfully set up. We left feeling refreshed and are already looking forward to returning. Highly recommend The Waypoint for anyone looking for a serene and comfortable camping experience.
See moreC
Chris
March 2025
16 ft Class C
Great quiet place to stay, nice camping spots! Fire rings are nice to have and there are plenty of spots to chose from
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