The best camping near Des Moines with hiking

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If you want to camp near Des Moines with direct access to hiking trails, you’re in luck—there are over 1,600 campsites tailored to hikers in this area. Expect wooded paths, rolling prairies, and easy access to lakes for a post-hike swim. The average site runs about $45 per night, with some options dipping as low as $15. Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly sites are common, so you won’t have to rough it unless you want to. Top picks include Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure (206 reviews), Nature Heaven (192 reviews), and Rock N Ranch Events & Campground (114 reviews). Besides hiking, anglers and wildlife-watchers will find plenty to do, and you can usually cool off with a swim at many sites. Book early if you’re aiming for weekends—the best spots fill up fast.

97% (786) 98 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Des Moines

Greenhouse Camping

1. Greenhouse Camping

97%
(151)
15mi from Des Moines · 2 sites · RVs
We love this beautiful land that has been in our family since 1917, and think you will too! We are located 1/2 mile off I-35 at the north border of the City of Ankeny. Here you'll find the best of both worlds just fifteen minutes away from your quiet campsite - Boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing at Saylorville Lake. Canoe, kayak and paddleboat rental at Big Creek State Park. Swimming & waterplay for all ages at the Ankeny Aquatic Center. Upscale shopping and dining at the District. Or venture out a bit further to concert venues in Ames & Des Moines, local farmers markets, Des Moines' beautiful riverwalk and exciting nightlife, or the Iowa State Fair. It's the best of country and suburban living! End your day with a quiet stroll along the mowed walking path that overlooks one of the most beautiful areas of Four Mile Creek in Iowa, which circles right back to your cozy campfire. Learn more about this land: You'll love this relaxing space to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors!  Very easy access,  we are just 1/2 mile off of Interstate-35.  Our farm is bordered by nature on three sides and the city of Ankeny on the south.  This is a single campsite, private and quiet. Your campsite has an adjoining mowed private walking trail overlooking Four Mile Creek, and is also within walking distance of Ankeny sidewalks for biking, walking, jogging.  It’s the best of both worlds - town and country!  We're a 15 minute drive from Big Creek and Ledges State Parks, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake where you can enjoy fishing, skiing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and the beach life.  You'll find unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, a good movie, a thriving live music scene just 15 minutes away in downtown Des Moines, downtown and campus town Ames, and  at The District in Ankeny.   Upon your arrival you'll find the greenhouse mini-fridge is stocked with 4 complimentary bottles of water and everything you'll need for making S'mores.  
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$31
 / night
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

2. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

96%
(492)
25mi from Des Moines · 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
Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

3. Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

98%
(41)
44mi from Des Moines · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Threshold Learning Center is 28 acres of prairie, creek, woods, and our barn dormitory.  Threshold is first, an outdoor learning center for schools during the school year, and a summer camp offering several day camps, family camps, and trips.  As a non-profit, however, we are constantly trying to find a way to  offer our programs to everyone regardless of whether they are able to pay our fees while still making enough money to stay open.  We started renting TLC to the public 5 years ago for weddings, reunions, or just families who are looking to connect to the world around them.  Our motto is "No Child Left Inside" and we want every inner child to enjoy what we have at TLC.  We have 7 bedrooms in our dormitory, 5 camp sites, a large camp fire ring, a mini-golf course, and we are always willing to lead your group in an educational experience or take you on a hayrack ride.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Walnut Woods State Park

4. Walnut Woods State Park

100%
(3)
22 sites · West Des Moines, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Walnut Woods 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
Nature Heaven by lake red rock

6. Nature Heaven by lake red rock

96%
(315)
33mi from Des Moines · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We open year-round!! The winter camping is on the way! We believe each season has its special nature-beauty, so we open year-round. This secluded, beautiful, pet-friendly 40 acres of fenced camping site is on hilly land and is rare in Iowa, with a view of 3.5 private fishing ponds and a far view of the Red Rock Lake. There are 10 acres nature timber area that keep you away from the other campers and the rest of the world. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and a solar light. The drinking water is at the entrance, but no electricity on. There are tons of natural features, you may see deer, rabbits, and other game birds by your campsite. Each camping sites have good distance to keep privacy from each other. A recently built 20ft diameter geodesic glamping dome tent is for those who want a more climate-controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent gifts. For surrounding areas, the nearby White Breast Beach is open from May 23 to September 3, 2026, with boating, hunting, and hiking activities in Lake Red Rock. For our campers' safety, any hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come hunting with Iowa hunting tags, a couple of public hunting grounds are near our camping ground. The recently built glamping geodesic Dome tent is located on top of a hill. You will have a fantastic sunset view of ponds and a lake view while enjoying the great nature and having a comfortable stay. The cell phone signals are good from most providers; you may use your cell phone hotspot work remotely at this astonishing Lake Red Rock Oasis ^_^. Hope you will find joy, peace, and happiness in this wonderful piece of natural land and the Red Rock Lake areas. A little history of this land: These 40 acres of land were a surface mining site. The reclamation works done during the 1970s. But over the years, the soil was seriously eroded. Anna and Peilin, who have Master's and PhD in soil and environmental health backgrounds, bought this land several years ago and started to restore the vegetation. Now the site looks beautiful and ready for the nature lovers and campers to enjoy the fantastic view of the lake, ponds, hills, and tall grass, Butterflys... The site is totally different from what Google Maps shows now.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
The Waypoint

7. The Waypoint

99%
(55)
29mi from Des Moines · 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
Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

8. Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

98%
(209)
39mi from Des Moines · 14 sites · Lodging
Our retirement dream is to share our beautiful property with people who love the outdoors.  We started with our rustic tent sites and slowly added cabins.  We go from primitive to sites with heat and air conditioning.  We are not far from the Interstate but sure seems like we are as you travel the 4.6 miles of gravel road to step back in time.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Rooted Timbers

9. Rooted Timbers

100%
(20)
36mi from Des Moines · 4 sites · Tents
We're Ben, Trinh, Camille, and Sage. We purchased this 12 acres in Fall '20 as a way to share our love of the outdoors with our friends and family. As time went on, we noticed a need in making outdoor activities more accessible and inclusive to those outside our network. Rooted Timbers was created with the intention of making it easier for you to disconnect from business and connect with stillness.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Lake Ahquabi State Park

10. Lake Ahquabi State Park

100%
(3)
104 sites · Indianola, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Ahquabi State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Elk Rock State Park

11. Elk Rock State Park

100%
(1)
85 sites · Knoxville, Iowa
Elk Rock State Park: A Haven for Campers and Nature Enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ledges State Park

12. 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
Lake Red Rock

13. Lake Red Rock

100%
(5)
390 sites · Pella, Iowa
Discover Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake with endless recreation and scenic beauty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Adventureland Resort Campground

14. Adventureland Resort Campground

8.3mi from Des Moines · 21 sites
Experience the magic of Adventureland Campground, where your family can enjoy a unique blend of outdoor fun and proximity to Adventureland Resort. Nestled just steps away from the excitement of the park, this campground offers an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike. Spend your days exploring thrilling rides and attractions, and unwind in the evenings around a cozy campfire, gazing up at the twinkling stars. Adventureland Resort Campground is a full-service facility designed to cater to all your camping needs. With amenities such as electric hookups, modern showers, and restrooms, you can enjoy the comforts of home while immersed in nature. The campground also features RV facilities, tent camping options, a refreshing swimming pool, and recreational areas for family fun. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Adventureland Campground is the perfect base for your family getaway. Don't miss out on creating lasting memories—your ultimate family adventure is just around the corner!
Lakeside Casino Resort RV Park

15. Lakeside Casino Resort RV Park

38mi from Des Moines · 11 sites
Discover the unique charm of Lakeside Casino Resort RV Park, nestled in the heart of Osceola, Iowa. This exceptional RV park offers 47 fully equipped sites, each featuring water, sewer, and 30/50 amp electrical hookups, making it an ideal destination for both short and long-term stays. Guests at Lakeside RV Park enjoy breathtaking views of West Lake, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation. The park's prime location means you're just steps away from the excitement of Lakeside Casino, where you can try your luck at gaming or indulge in a satisfying meal at the Westlake Bar & Grill. In addition to the vibrant entertainment options, the area boasts excellent amenities, including easy access to fishing, outdoor activities, and nearby natural attractions. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Lakeside Casino Resort RV Park is the perfect place to unwind. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Rock Creek State Park

16. Rock Creek State Park

193 sites · Oakland Acres, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Rock Creek State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Red Haw State Park

17. Red Haw State Park

80 sites · Chariton, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Red Haw State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Springbrook State Park

18. Springbrook State Park

111 sites · Lake Panorama, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

If you want to camp near Des Moines with direct access to hiking trails, you’re in luck—there are over 1,600 campsites tailored to hikers in this area. Expect wooded paths, rolling prairies, and easy access to lakes for a post-hike swim. The average site runs about $45 per night, with some options dipping as low as $15. Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly sites are common, so you won’t have to rough it unless you want to. Top picks include Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure (206 reviews), Nature Heaven (192 reviews), and Rock N Ranch Events & Campground (114 reviews). Besides hiking, anglers and wildlife-watchers will find plenty to do, and you can usually cool off with a swim at many sites. Book early if you’re aiming for weekends—the best spots fill up fast.

97% (786) 98 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Des Moines

Greenhouse Camping

1. Greenhouse Camping

97%
(151)
15mi from Des Moines · 2 sites · RVs
We love this beautiful land that has been in our family since 1917, and think you will too! We are located 1/2 mile off I-35 at the north border of the City of Ankeny. Here you'll find the best of both worlds just fifteen minutes away from your quiet campsite - Boating, skiing, jet-skiing, fishing at Saylorville Lake. Canoe, kayak and paddleboat rental at Big Creek State Park. Swimming & waterplay for all ages at the Ankeny Aquatic Center. Upscale shopping and dining at the District. Or venture out a bit further to concert venues in Ames & Des Moines, local farmers markets, Des Moines' beautiful riverwalk and exciting nightlife, or the Iowa State Fair. It's the best of country and suburban living! End your day with a quiet stroll along the mowed walking path that overlooks one of the most beautiful areas of Four Mile Creek in Iowa, which circles right back to your cozy campfire. Learn more about this land: You'll love this relaxing space to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors!  Very easy access,  we are just 1/2 mile off of Interstate-35.  Our farm is bordered by nature on three sides and the city of Ankeny on the south.  This is a single campsite, private and quiet. Your campsite has an adjoining mowed private walking trail overlooking Four Mile Creek, and is also within walking distance of Ankeny sidewalks for biking, walking, jogging.  It’s the best of both worlds - town and country!  We're a 15 minute drive from Big Creek and Ledges State Parks, Jester Park and Saylorville Lake where you can enjoy fishing, skiing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and the beach life.  You'll find unique shopping experiences, delicious dining, a good movie, a thriving live music scene just 15 minutes away in downtown Des Moines, downtown and campus town Ames, and  at The District in Ankeny.   Upon your arrival you'll find the greenhouse mini-fridge is stocked with 4 complimentary bottles of water and everything you'll need for making S'mores.  
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$31
 / night
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

2. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure

96%
(492)
25mi from Des Moines · 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
Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

3. Sleep in an Iowa Barn @ TLC

98%
(41)
44mi from Des Moines · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Threshold Learning Center is 28 acres of prairie, creek, woods, and our barn dormitory.  Threshold is first, an outdoor learning center for schools during the school year, and a summer camp offering several day camps, family camps, and trips.  As a non-profit, however, we are constantly trying to find a way to  offer our programs to everyone regardless of whether they are able to pay our fees while still making enough money to stay open.  We started renting TLC to the public 5 years ago for weddings, reunions, or just families who are looking to connect to the world around them.  Our motto is "No Child Left Inside" and we want every inner child to enjoy what we have at TLC.  We have 7 bedrooms in our dormitory, 5 camp sites, a large camp fire ring, a mini-golf course, and we are always willing to lead your group in an educational experience or take you on a hayrack ride.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Walnut Woods State Park

4. Walnut Woods State Park

100%
(3)
22 sites · West Des Moines, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Walnut Woods 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
Nature Heaven by lake red rock

6. Nature Heaven by lake red rock

96%
(315)
33mi from Des Moines · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We open year-round!! The winter camping is on the way! We believe each season has its special nature-beauty, so we open year-round. This secluded, beautiful, pet-friendly 40 acres of fenced camping site is on hilly land and is rare in Iowa, with a view of 3.5 private fishing ponds and a far view of the Red Rock Lake. There are 10 acres nature timber area that keep you away from the other campers and the rest of the world. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and a solar light. The drinking water is at the entrance, but no electricity on. There are tons of natural features, you may see deer, rabbits, and other game birds by your campsite. Each camping sites have good distance to keep privacy from each other. A recently built 20ft diameter geodesic glamping dome tent is for those who want a more climate-controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent gifts. For surrounding areas, the nearby White Breast Beach is open from May 23 to September 3, 2026, with boating, hunting, and hiking activities in Lake Red Rock. For our campers' safety, any hunting activities are not allowed within our camping ground. However, in case you come hunting with Iowa hunting tags, a couple of public hunting grounds are near our camping ground. The recently built glamping geodesic Dome tent is located on top of a hill. You will have a fantastic sunset view of ponds and a lake view while enjoying the great nature and having a comfortable stay. The cell phone signals are good from most providers; you may use your cell phone hotspot work remotely at this astonishing Lake Red Rock Oasis ^_^. Hope you will find joy, peace, and happiness in this wonderful piece of natural land and the Red Rock Lake areas. A little history of this land: These 40 acres of land were a surface mining site. The reclamation works done during the 1970s. But over the years, the soil was seriously eroded. Anna and Peilin, who have Master's and PhD in soil and environmental health backgrounds, bought this land several years ago and started to restore the vegetation. Now the site looks beautiful and ready for the nature lovers and campers to enjoy the fantastic view of the lake, ponds, hills, and tall grass, Butterflys... The site is totally different from what Google Maps shows now.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
The Waypoint

7. The Waypoint

99%
(55)
29mi from Des Moines · 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
Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

8. Rock N Ranch Events & Campground

98%
(209)
39mi from Des Moines · 14 sites · Lodging
Our retirement dream is to share our beautiful property with people who love the outdoors.  We started with our rustic tent sites and slowly added cabins.  We go from primitive to sites with heat and air conditioning.  We are not far from the Interstate but sure seems like we are as you travel the 4.6 miles of gravel road to step back in time.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Rooted Timbers

9. Rooted Timbers

100%
(20)
36mi from Des Moines · 4 sites · Tents
We're Ben, Trinh, Camille, and Sage. We purchased this 12 acres in Fall '20 as a way to share our love of the outdoors with our friends and family. As time went on, we noticed a need in making outdoor activities more accessible and inclusive to those outside our network. Rooted Timbers was created with the intention of making it easier for you to disconnect from business and connect with stillness.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Lake Ahquabi State Park

10. Lake Ahquabi State Park

100%
(3)
104 sites · Indianola, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Ahquabi State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Elk Rock State Park

11. Elk Rock State Park

100%
(1)
85 sites · Knoxville, Iowa
Elk Rock State Park: A Haven for Campers and Nature Enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ledges State Park

12. 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
Lake Red Rock

13. Lake Red Rock

100%
(5)
390 sites · Pella, Iowa
Discover Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake with endless recreation and scenic beauty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Adventureland Resort Campground

14. Adventureland Resort Campground

8.3mi from Des Moines · 21 sites
Experience the magic of Adventureland Campground, where your family can enjoy a unique blend of outdoor fun and proximity to Adventureland Resort. Nestled just steps away from the excitement of the park, this campground offers an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike. Spend your days exploring thrilling rides and attractions, and unwind in the evenings around a cozy campfire, gazing up at the twinkling stars. Adventureland Resort Campground is a full-service facility designed to cater to all your camping needs. With amenities such as electric hookups, modern showers, and restrooms, you can enjoy the comforts of home while immersed in nature. The campground also features RV facilities, tent camping options, a refreshing swimming pool, and recreational areas for family fun. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Adventureland Campground is the perfect base for your family getaway. Don't miss out on creating lasting memories—your ultimate family adventure is just around the corner!
Lakeside Casino Resort RV Park

15. Lakeside Casino Resort RV Park

38mi from Des Moines · 11 sites
Discover the unique charm of Lakeside Casino Resort RV Park, nestled in the heart of Osceola, Iowa. This exceptional RV park offers 47 fully equipped sites, each featuring water, sewer, and 30/50 amp electrical hookups, making it an ideal destination for both short and long-term stays. Guests at Lakeside RV Park enjoy breathtaking views of West Lake, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation. The park's prime location means you're just steps away from the excitement of Lakeside Casino, where you can try your luck at gaming or indulge in a satisfying meal at the Westlake Bar & Grill. In addition to the vibrant entertainment options, the area boasts excellent amenities, including easy access to fishing, outdoor activities, and nearby natural attractions. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Lakeside Casino Resort RV Park is the perfect place to unwind. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Rock Creek State Park

16. Rock Creek State Park

193 sites · Oakland Acres, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Rock Creek State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Red Haw State Park

17. Red Haw State Park

80 sites · Chariton, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Red Haw State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Springbrook State Park

18. Springbrook State Park

111 sites · Lake Panorama, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field