- /
- Waterside Camping
The best lakeside camping near Des Moines
99% (483) • 71 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Des Moines
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
1. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
96%
(493)
25mi from Des Moines · 55 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
The Waypoint
2. The Waypoint
99%
(55)
29mi from Des Moines · 5 sites
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
Nature Heaven by lake red rock
3. Nature Heaven by lake red rock
96%
(317)
33mi from Des Moines · 9 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
Saylorville Lake
4. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
Park 14mi from Des Moines · 446 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Ahquabi State Park
5. Lake Ahquabi State Park
100%
(3)
State park 20mi from Des Moines · 104 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Ahquabi State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Timberline West RV Campground
6. Timberline West RV Campground
100%
(3)
14mi from Des Moines · 116 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
Timberline West RV Campground, Cabins
7. Timberline West RV Campground, Cabins
100%
(3)
14mi from Des Moines · 11 sites
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
Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay
8. Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay
100%
(1)
27mi from Des Moines · 1 site
We invite you to turn off your phone and unwind on the front porch rocking chair as you watch one of our breathtaking sunsets or sunrises. Pasture and grassland with 7 ponds are accessible by a short hike along the cattle trails. A marked perimeter trail follows Wolfe Creek, home to wildlife and a shady cool spot during the hot days of summer.
Mulberry Cottage is at the northeast corner of a 200-acre cattle ranch where we practice rotational grazing on ten paddocks. The cabin, surrounded by Mulberry and Osage Orange (Hedge Trees) are host to berry eating birds and mammals. (And the occasional marsupial). Cattle are fenced outside the cabin area but may be close by where you hear them and see them. Deer and coyotes are common on the property as plenty of birdlife. The cabin is a farm-stay experience with farm fresh eggs, and Mulberry preserves for your baked goods in the morning.
You will need your muck boots and cowboy hat to hike our cattle trails and wade in the creeks. Try your hand at "frogging" in the marshes of one of our 7 ponds. Bottle-feeding a calf or collecting eggs are some of the chores you are welcome to participate in. You'll be amazed at the variety of wildflowers and birding opportunities. The head cowboy himself will invite you to chore time or have a farm tour of our grazing and regenerative practices. Our natural beef and tallow products are all for sale at the farm or grill up some "Ohnemusbeef" available at our farm store.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Timberline East RV Campground, RV & Tent Sites
9. Timberline East RV Campground, RV & Tent Sites
100%
(2)
32mi from Des Moines · 12 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
Elk Rock State Park
10. Elk Rock State Park
100%
(1)
State park 30mi from Des Moines · 85 sites
Elk Rock State Park: A Haven for Campers and Nature Enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ledges State Park
11. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
State park 32mi from Des Moines · 94 sites
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Red Rock
12. Lake Red Rock
100%
(5)
Park 32mi from Des Moines · 390 sites
Discover Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake with endless recreation and scenic beauty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Red Haw State Park
13. Red Haw State Park
State park 43mi from Des Moines · 80 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Red Haw State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Timberline East RV Campground, Cabins & Glamping Sites
14. Timberline East RV Campground, Cabins & Glamping Sites
32mi from Des Moines · 7 sites
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
Chasing Nirvana Retreat
15. Chasing Nirvana Retreat
34mi from Des Moines · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Chasing Nirvana Retreat - a peaceful 40-acre escape in the heart of rural Iowa, designed for campers, RV travelers, and van-lifers seeking space, quiet, and open skies.
Our land offers multiple private sites suitable for tent camping and RVs, along with our thoughtfully converted Sprinter van stay, Chasing Nirvana, for guests looking for a glamping experience. Whether you arrive with a tent, an RV, or just a sense of adventure, you’ll find room to spread out and truly unplug.
Each site is surrounded by wide-open prairie, offering stunning sunrises, star-filled nights, and the kind of stillness that makes time slow down. Guests are free to explore the acreage, relax by their campsite, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of nature.
This retreat is ideal for:
-Tent campers looking for space and privacy
-RV travelers seeking a quiet overnight or multi-day stay
-Van-lifers and road trippers craving a unique rural stop
-Couples, families, furry friends, and solo travelers who love the outdoors
If you’re chasing rest, simplicity, fresh air, and Nirvana- you’ve found your spot!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Springbrook State Park
16. Springbrook State Park
State park 46mi from Des Moines · 111 sites
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
99% (483) • 71 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Des Moines
Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
1. Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
96%
(493)
25mi from Des Moines · 55 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
The Waypoint
2. The Waypoint
99%
(55)
29mi from Des Moines · 5 sites
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
Nature Heaven by lake red rock
3. Nature Heaven by lake red rock
96%
(317)
33mi from Des Moines · 9 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
Saylorville Lake
4. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
Park 14mi from Des Moines · 446 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Saylorville Lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Ahquabi State Park
5. Lake Ahquabi State Park
100%
(3)
State park 20mi from Des Moines · 104 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Ahquabi State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Timberline West RV Campground
6. Timberline West RV Campground
100%
(3)
14mi from Des Moines · 116 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
Timberline West RV Campground, Cabins
7. Timberline West RV Campground, Cabins
100%
(3)
14mi from Des Moines · 11 sites
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
Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay
8. Hoofs 'n Horns Ohnemusbeef Farmstay
100%
(1)
27mi from Des Moines · 1 site
We invite you to turn off your phone and unwind on the front porch rocking chair as you watch one of our breathtaking sunsets or sunrises. Pasture and grassland with 7 ponds are accessible by a short hike along the cattle trails. A marked perimeter trail follows Wolfe Creek, home to wildlife and a shady cool spot during the hot days of summer.
Mulberry Cottage is at the northeast corner of a 200-acre cattle ranch where we practice rotational grazing on ten paddocks. The cabin, surrounded by Mulberry and Osage Orange (Hedge Trees) are host to berry eating birds and mammals. (And the occasional marsupial). Cattle are fenced outside the cabin area but may be close by where you hear them and see them. Deer and coyotes are common on the property as plenty of birdlife. The cabin is a farm-stay experience with farm fresh eggs, and Mulberry preserves for your baked goods in the morning.
You will need your muck boots and cowboy hat to hike our cattle trails and wade in the creeks. Try your hand at "frogging" in the marshes of one of our 7 ponds. Bottle-feeding a calf or collecting eggs are some of the chores you are welcome to participate in. You'll be amazed at the variety of wildflowers and birding opportunities. The head cowboy himself will invite you to chore time or have a farm tour of our grazing and regenerative practices. Our natural beef and tallow products are all for sale at the farm or grill up some "Ohnemusbeef" available at our farm store.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Timberline East RV Campground, RV & Tent Sites
9. Timberline East RV Campground, RV & Tent Sites
100%
(2)
32mi from Des Moines · 12 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
Elk Rock State Park
10. Elk Rock State Park
100%
(1)
State park 30mi from Des Moines · 85 sites
Elk Rock State Park: A Haven for Campers and Nature Enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ledges State Park
11. Ledges State Park
100%
(4)
State park 32mi from Des Moines · 94 sites
Discover a lost lake and gorgeous sandstone cliffs at this state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Red Rock
12. Lake Red Rock
100%
(5)
Park 32mi from Des Moines · 390 sites
Discover Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake with endless recreation and scenic beauty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Red Haw State Park
13. Red Haw State Park
State park 43mi from Des Moines · 80 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Red Haw State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Timberline East RV Campground, Cabins & Glamping Sites
14. Timberline East RV Campground, Cabins & Glamping Sites
32mi from Des Moines · 7 sites
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
Chasing Nirvana Retreat
15. Chasing Nirvana Retreat
34mi from Des Moines · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Chasing Nirvana Retreat - a peaceful 40-acre escape in the heart of rural Iowa, designed for campers, RV travelers, and van-lifers seeking space, quiet, and open skies.
Our land offers multiple private sites suitable for tent camping and RVs, along with our thoughtfully converted Sprinter van stay, Chasing Nirvana, for guests looking for a glamping experience. Whether you arrive with a tent, an RV, or just a sense of adventure, you’ll find room to spread out and truly unplug.
Each site is surrounded by wide-open prairie, offering stunning sunrises, star-filled nights, and the kind of stillness that makes time slow down. Guests are free to explore the acreage, relax by their campsite, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of nature.
This retreat is ideal for:
-Tent campers looking for space and privacy
-RV travelers seeking a quiet overnight or multi-day stay
-Van-lifers and road trippers craving a unique rural stop
-Couples, families, furry friends, and solo travelers who love the outdoors
If you’re chasing rest, simplicity, fresh air, and Nirvana- you’ve found your spot!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Springbrook State Park
16. Springbrook State Park
State park 46mi from Des Moines · 111 sites
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
N
Nancy
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven by lake red rock
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Dome, which offered a beautiful view. We were fortunate to experience perfect weather and a stunning sunset. I wholeheartedly recommend this location for a peaceful escape from the city. The host was readily available for communication, which I greatly appreciated. The generator unfortunately stopped working on the second day, and we had some difficulty with electricity, but we managed to resolve it. One area I hope they will consider upgrading is the restroom facilities. I was quite disappointed with the bathroom situation, as we had to travel to a gas station for our needs due to cleanliness issues, including spiderwebs, dust, and an unclean toilet. I would love to return, but I would need to be prepared to bring my own portable restroom.
See more
A
Allison
February 2026
With pets
This little slice of Iowa is gorgeous, easy to get to, secluded and a beautiful find.
They really have thought of everything you would need for a couple nights away. I was pleasantly surprised by all the camping essentials there. We were able to leave most of our supplies in the truck and just enjoy everything that was there.
Even with temps getting down to 22 it was cozy in the dome with the wood stove and plenty of blankets for our pack to stay toasty and warm. What a beautiful site! Thanks for sharing your space and land with us.
See more
K
Kristina
February 2026
30 ft Class C
With pets
Dave and Dena were great hosts! We really enjoyed our time!
See more
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
C
Cristian
October 2025
Tent
Great location, and accommodating host. Great directs and signs as you go through. Defined trailed with class 2 base gravel for easy 2wd access. Saw multiple deer both day for short time I was there. Well maintained.
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
G
Georgia
September 2025
Tent
Wow this place is just so gorgeous. We fit one 2 person tent and one 4 person tent very comfortably next to each other. When you’re in or around your tent, or sitting at the bonfire it’s incredibly private, but you can still walk out just 30 feet and see the beautiful wide open view. Definitely will be back soon a recommending this site to all of my friends!!!
See more
Cristian
September 2025
Tent
10/10 returning soon again beautiful area quiet away from everyone perfect spot
See more
E
Eric
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Nature Heaven by lake red rock
Loved the location, the view. And the fun setup. Had a great time!
See more
Lloyd
September 2025
Tent
Courteous, helpful, quiet clean, Comfortable. Really a slower pkace
See more
Kit
September 2025
Tent
My friend and I had a lovely time camping on Anna’s land! When we arrived there was someone already in our spot but Anna quickly sorted out another spot for us that we think was even nicer than what we had planned. We had a great view with a gentle breeze. All the spots offer lots of privacy.
See moreC
Cody
September 2025
30 ft toy hauler
With kids
Anna’s Hipcamp spot near Lake Red Rock is beautiful-lovely prairie with peaceful sunsets and sunrises. It’s great for stargazing and telescope use, with private access, a water fill, fire pits, and good campsites. The hosts are great, and it’s boondocking on restored land that feels truly serene.
See more
E
Erin
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Loved the land and the campsite. Everything was exactly as it was described and pictured. Very friendly couple that owns the land- only 12 mins from Pella. Beautiful views of the lake and sunset from this spot.
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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.
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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.
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M
Michelle
August 2025
With kids
We enjoyed the unique dome experience with breath taking views! Our stay was during the middle of the week, so we enjoyed the peace & quiet with no campers around us. Taking a peaceful walk while watching the sunset & sunrise was beautiful.
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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!
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The best lakeside camping near Des Moines guide
Where to go
Botanical Gardens
Des Moines hosts one of the more active botanical gardens you will ever encounter. The grounds are fantastic with open green spaces and gardens on display. They have plenty of public space and even have live music, yoga sessions and educational events for gardening. Located downtown, the 12-acre property is the perfect stop while visiting the city. It’s open all year and has a cafe to enjoy between stops at the various gardens.
Racoon River Trails
The city has numerous parks, trails and wildlife areas to enjoy. Many are situated around the Racoon River where wooded bottomlands and open space prevail. Walnut Woods State Park is a perfect stop with 260 acres to explore. It has campsites available and is on the edge of the city for easy access. The Great Western Trailhead, Denman’s Woods Trail, Bill Riley Trail and plenty more are located on or near the river for hiking and biking.
Saylorville Lake
The large reservoir of the Des Moines River is a recreational paradise with around a dozen campgrounds for both RV and tent campers. The lake has big beaches like Oak Grove Beach, numerous bays and a ton of water to enjoy. Take a summer swim, play volleyball on the beach, go fishing or bring a boat and go water skiing. With 26,000 acres and ample public access, Saylorville Lake offers something for every type of camper.
When to go
As with most of Iowa, the winters are long and cold. The parks in and around Des Moines are perfect for ice fishing, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Most campgrounds will close during the winter however and campers should have a heat system and winter gear. Summer is the prime visiting season with June, July and August being ideal for water based activities. Temperatures are often comfortable but can become hot and humid at times. September is a quieter month and is an excellent time to enjoy cooling weather and changing colors. The city itself has great dining and indoor experiences to enjoy year-round.