From cozy farm stays to swimming in Don Williams Lake, Boone camping trips have fun for everyone.
Under an hour from Des Moines, Boone is the perfect base camp for outdoor adventures in central Iowa. Escape from the city to hidden camping gems, including private tent and RV sites on working farms and unique dormitory-style stays in renovated barns. Or wander through the woods in Ledges State Park, just 10 minutes away, for views of Lost Lake and Peas Creek, then sleep under the trees at the park’s modern campground complete with showers, a dump station, and a playground. For a refreshing splash, head to Don Williams Lake and Recreation Area, where 600 acres of parkland offer canoeing, kayaking, a swimming beach, and trails around the lake. The first-come, first-served campground includes a mix of primitive and developed campsites. Just 20 minutes south of Boone, Swede Point Park also offers a quiet escape with plenty of family fun—a playground and sand volleyball court accompany the hiking trails and self-reservation campground, all waiting along the scenic banks of the Des Moines River.