97% (604) • 79 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
Nature Heaven by lake red rock
3. 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
Saylorville Lake
4. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
446 sites · Polk City, Iowa
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)
104 sites · Indianola, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Ahquabi State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Waypoint
6. 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
Adventureland Resort Campground
7. 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!
Elk Rock State Park
8. 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
Lake Red Rock
9. 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
Rock Creek State Park
10. 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
11. Red Haw State Park
80 sites · Chariton, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Red Haw State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Springbrook State Park
12. Springbrook State Park
111 sites · Lake Panorama, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
97% (604) • 79 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
Nature Heaven by lake red rock
3. 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
Saylorville Lake
4. Saylorville Lake
100%
(9)
446 sites · Polk City, Iowa
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)
104 sites · Indianola, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Ahquabi State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Waypoint
6. 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
Adventureland Resort Campground
7. 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!
Elk Rock State Park
8. 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
Lake Red Rock
9. 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
Rock Creek State Park
10. 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
11. Red Haw State Park
80 sites · Chariton, Iowa
Discover the serene beauty of Red Haw State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Springbrook State Park
12. Springbrook State Park
111 sites · Lake Panorama, Iowa
Discover the natural allure of Springbrook State Park's diverse landscapes.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Xavier
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Shadybrook Camping and RV Adventure
Great roadside stop. Safe and comfortable. Would reccomend.
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
Jennifer
October 2025
19 ft campervan
With pets
My dogs and I loved our stay on Robin’s land. He is very kind and had everything we needed. Peaceful location and close to everywhere we were going. Will definitely stay again.
See more
Laura
October 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
Perfect location, beautiful sunset (picture included) nice grassy trail for an anytime still by yourself or with your dog. Speaking of dogs, Robin has installed a HUGE and I mean HUGE Dog Park. Water, electric and convenient extras if you want them🫶🏼 I’ll be back!
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
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
J
James
September 2025
Tent
The facilities were good, the site was nice (trees, nearby creek), and the staff were friendly and helpful.
The only potential downside to this campsite is that there was fairly continual traffic noise from an interstate highway that was about a half mile to the north of the site; the noise eventually faded into the background of our awareness and didn't impact our ability to sleep at night
See more
Patricia
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Hostess was friendly and helpful. The site was large and shady. The facilities were clean. Directions, actually coordinates, were for a location about a mile away. I had to call to find the campground. Site T3 was very close to I-80 so it became noisy at times. The brook had an area of extremely slow moving water which seemed to attract mosquitoes. Perhaps that was seasonal. I would highly recommend for RVs and camper vans. Only can rate a maybe for tent camping..
See more
Amanda
September 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Convenient metro location with easy access to food and nature areas. Loved the location and didn’t mind the minor road/interstate noise. Clean. Great basic campsite with some extra touches.
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 moreE
Executive
September 2025
33 ft travel trailer
This so calm and relaxing. Lots of space and quiet. Right now there is a lot of construction going on in the area, but it was still quiet during our three night stay. Robin stopped by the first night to make sure we were settled in and had what we needed. Very friendly. Met the other camper there who was taking their two dogs to the dog run. Nice fenced in area that is quite large. We don't have dogs, but that was a nice area to take them to play. We will definitely try to stay again if we are in the area.
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.
See moreM
Maria
August 2025
16 ft car
Nice little spot. Could use some updated pictures showing the housing development and construction going on across the road. Well-kept yard and very nice dog park. I wasn’t sure where the walking paths were and I didn’t get much information about the property when I checked in with the host. Could use a new bench and fire pit, as well as empty the port-a-pot. It was good for an impromptu night away.
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 moreM
Michele
August 2025
18 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Nice place to pull in for the night. The little dog park was a bonus.
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
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.
See more
