Saylorville Lake

Overview

Saylorville Lake is managed by Us Army Corps of Engineers and is located near Johnston, Iowa. The Saylorville Lake Project is 26,000 acres, which stretches for over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. A wide variety of recreational activities are available including fishing, picnic areas with group shelters, boat launches, an accessible fishing pier, river fishing, hunting, and a 24-mile paved, multipurpose trail used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking, and in-line skating.

Things to Do at Saylorville Lake

Camping Opportunities

Saylorville Lake offers 11 campgrounds with various amenities and settings. From developed campgrounds with full facilities to primitive backcountry sites, there are options for every camping style.

Acorn Valley

Price:
$14 - $84 per night
Rating:
4.5 stars (245 reviews)

View all 11 campgrounds

Recreation Activities

Popular activities at Saylorville Lake include:

Nearby Activities

Plan Your Visit

Reservation Tips

Saylorville Lake is a popular destination. Campground reservations typically open several months in advance. For peak season visits, book as early as possible. Check individual facility pages for specific booking windows and availability.

Getting There

2.4 miles and becomes Hwy 415. Continue on Hwy 415 N to the lake area.
OR
From I-35/80: Take Exit 127 to Highway 141 N. Take Highway 141 N approximately 6 miles to exit 148 which is NW Saylorville Drive or Hwy 415. NW Saylorville Drive will lead into the lake area.

GPS Coordinates: 41.70360000000000, -93.68110000000000

Contact & Resources

Phone: (515) 276-4656

Additional Information:

Additional Information

All Facilities & Activities

Campgrounds (11)

Acorn Valley

From $14/night 4.5 stars

Bob Shetler Picnic Area

From $50/night 3.6 stars

Bob Shetler Recreation Area

From $22/night 4.2 stars

Cherry Glen Campground

From $24/night 4.5 stars

Cherry Glen Picnic

From $50/night 4.6 stars

Cottonwood Recreation Area

From $50/night 4.6 stars

Oak Grove Picnic Area

From $50/night 5.0 stars

Prairie Flower Recreation Area

From $20/night 4.6 stars

Sandpiper Recreation Area

From $110/night 4.5 stars

Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

From $50/night 4.5 stars

Photo Gallery