Discover the Best Camping Escapes Near Des Moines, IA for an Unforgettable Adventure!
Are you in search of a great outdoor adventure that is close to home? Look no further than the exciting camping escapes found near Des Moines, IA! This area offers an abundance of beautiful campgrounds and scenic locations that are perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and families looking to create unforgettable memories.
Whether you prefer a rustic camping experience with only the bare essentials, or something a bit more luxurious with modern amenities and recreational opportunities, Des Moines has it all. From hiking and fishing to boating and kayaking, there are endless possibilities for exploring the beauty of the great outdoors.
Some of the top camping destinations in the area include Lake Red Rock, Walnut Woods State Park, and Prairie Flower Campground. With stunning scenery and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, you are sure to have an amazing time during your visit to any of these locations.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack up your camping gear, grab your favorite people, and head out to discover the best camping escapes near Des Moines, IA, for an unforgettable adventure! With so much to see and do, you won't regret taking the time to explore all that these beautiful locations have to offer.
Introduction
Camping is one of the best ways to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and get in touch with nature. Des Moines, IA, offers some of the best camping experiences in the Midwest, with stunning natural landscapes and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. In this article, we will explore some of the best camping escapes near Des Moines, IA, and help you plan an unforgettable adventure.
Table Comparison
| Campground | Location | Facilities | Activities | Price per Night |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ledges State Park | Boone, IA | Campfire rings, showers, picnic areas | Hiking, fishing, mountain biking, kayaking | $16-20 |
| Walnut Woods State Park | West Des Moines, IA | Campfire rings, shower house, playgrounds | Fishing, hiking, hunting, bird watching | $11-17 |
| Yellow Banks County Park | Pleasant Hill, IA | Campfire rings, restrooms, boat ramp | Fishing, boating, hiking, playgrounds | $12-15 |
Ledges State Park
Location
Ledges State Park is located in Boone, IA, just 45 minutes northwest of Des Moines. The park covers over 1,000 acres and features towering sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, and dense forests.
Facilities
The campground at Ledges State Park has 45 campsites, each equipped with a campfire ring and picnic table. Showers and restrooms are also available for campers. The park also has several picnic areas and shelters for day use.
Activities
Ledges State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking. The park has several miles of trails that wind through the sandstone cliffs and valleys, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Des Moines River and Pea's Creek also offer excellent opportunities for fishing and kayaking.
Price per Night
The cost to stay at Ledges State Park is $16-20 per night, depending on the time of year.
Walnut Woods State Park
Location
Walnut Woods State Park is located in West Des Moines, IA, just 20 minutes from downtown. The park is situated along the scenic Raccoon River and features mature walnut trees and abundant wildlife.
Facilities
The campground at Walnut Woods State Park has 22 campsites, each equipped with a campfire ring and picnic table. The shower house and playgrounds are located near the campground. The park also has several picnic areas and shelters for day use.
Activities
Walnut Woods State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, hunting, and bird watching. The Raccoon River is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for catfish and walleye. The park's trails wind through the mature walnut trees and along the river, providing a peaceful and scenic hiking experience.
Price per Night
The cost to stay at Walnut Woods State Park is $11-17 per night, depending on the time of year.
Yellow Banks County Park
Location
Yellow Banks County Park is located in Pleasant Hill, IA, just 25 minutes southeast of Des Moines. The park sits along the banks of the Des Moines River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Facilities
The campground at Yellow Banks County Park has 75 campsites, each equipped with a campfire ring and picnic table. The park also has restrooms, showers, and a boat ramp for easy access to the Des Moines River.
Activities
Yellow Banks County Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and playgrounds for children. The Des Moines River provides excellent opportunities for fishing and boating, while the park's trails wind through a mix of woodlands and open fields.
Price per Night
The cost to stay at Yellow Banks County Park is $12-15 per night, depending on the time of year.
Conclusion
No matter what your preferred outdoor activities may be, there is a camping escape near Des Moines, IA, that will provide the perfect adventure. Whether you prefer the towering cliffs of Ledges State Park or the peaceful woods of Walnut Woods State Park, you can find a campground that meets your needs. So grab your camping gear and get out there to enjoy the beauty of nature!
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best camping escapes near Des Moines! We hope that it has been informative and helpful in planning your next outdoor adventure.
As we have explored, there are numerous options for camping within a short drive of Des Moines, each offering their own unique attractions and activities. From the pristine beauty of Lake Ahquabi State Park to the rugged terrain of Ledges State Park, there is something for every type of camper.
We encourage you to get out and explore all that central Iowa has to offer. Pack up the tent, round up some friends or family, and head out into the great outdoors for an experience you won’t soon forget. Happy camping!
People also ask about Discover the Best Camping Escapes Near Des Moines, IA for an Unforgettable Adventure!
- What are the best campsites near Des Moines?
- What activities can I do while camping near Des Moines?
- What is the best time of year to go camping near Des Moines?
- What amenities can I expect at a campground near Des Moines?
- How much does it cost to camp near Des Moines?
Some of the best campsites near Des Moines include Jester Park Campground, Cherry Glen Campground, and Walnut Woods State Park.
While camping near Des Moines, you can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. You can also visit nearby attractions such as the Iowa State Capitol, Blank Park Zoo, and the Science Center of Iowa.
The best time of year to go camping near Des Moines is from May to September when the weather is warm and dry. However, if you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, you can also go camping in the spring or fall.
Most campgrounds near Des Moines offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, showers, and playgrounds. Some may also have electric and water hookups, dump stations, and WiFi.
The cost of camping near Des Moines varies depending on the campground and the season. On average, campsites range from $15 to $35 per night for tent camping and $25 to $50 per night for RV camping.