Prairie Flower Recreation Area

Discover the beauty of the Prairie Flower Recreation Area, nestled within the stunning Saylorville Lake Project, which spans over 26,000 acres and meanders through the picturesque Des Moines River Valley. This expansive campground encompasses more than 60 acres of unforgettable outdoor experiences, showcasing Iowa’s rich prairie heritage.

Available Campsites

The campground features a total of 153 family sites and 10 group sites, all equipped with electric hookups. The family sites are primarily located at the southern end, offering spectacular views of the adjacent 6,000-acre lake. The northern end is designed for groups, fostering a unique ‘circle-the-wagon’ atmosphere, perfect for gatherings.

Camp, RV, and Explore Outdoors

With ample camping options, Prairie Flower Recreation Area caters to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. The site amenities ensure a comfortable stay, including:

Flush Toilets
Showers
Drinking Water
Dump Station
Group Shelters
Playgrounds
Swimming Beach

Natural Features

The Prairie Flower area is adorned with over 40 acres of stunning prairie plantings, providing vibrant colors from mid-summer through fall. Visitors can enjoy the sight of abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and various waterfowl, all thriving in their natural habitat by the lakeside.

Recreation Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the wide variety of recreational activities available, including:

Boating
Swimming
Fishing (species include walleye, catfish, and northern pike)
Hiking
Hunting

The paved Neal Smith Trail, stretching 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park, is ideal for biking, jogging, and inline skating, enhancing your camping adventure.

Nearby Amenities

In addition to the campsite amenities, Prairie Flower Recreation Area is conveniently located near several attractions:

Visitor Center
Volleyball Courts
Disc Golf Course
Boat Ramps
Fishing Docks

Need to Know

To fully enjoy your visit, it’s crucial to protect the local environment. Remember to:

Buy firewood locally to combat tree-killing pests.
Clean, drain, and dry boats and gear to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Get Involved

Whether you’re looking to build a trip or need trip inspiration, Prairie Flower Recreation Area invites you to explore America’s outdoor destinations and plan unforgettable adventures.

Driving Directions

Accessing the campground is easy; take exit 90 off I-35 towards Ankeny/Oralabor Road, head west for 4.8 miles, and follow the signs to the campground.

Experience the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation at the Prairie Flower Recreation Area—your gateway to an unforgettable camping experience!

Prairie Flower Recreation Area