Best camping near Des Moines

3 campgrounds · 3 ranked · updated 2026-06-22 · off-season

Explore the best camping near Des Moines, Iowa — every spot ranked by our conditions-aware Snoflo score: live conditions first, then visitor reviews and logged trips. Click a pin on the map for the score and what's driving it.

Showing the top 3 of 3 campgrounds · best 15 shown on the map
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Cherry Glen Campground
#1 Cherry Glen Campground Good
10.3 mi away
· Mild night · low 54°F· Light wildfire smoke · Light· Comfortable day · high 73°F
Cherry Glen Campground is located in Iowa and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. Nearby activities include hiking, fishing, and boating. The campground has amenities…
Why 89: live conditions (good) · 62 things to do within 15 mi
89Elite
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Acorn Valley Campground
#2 Acorn Valley Campground Good
11.4 mi away
· Mild night · low 54°F· Light wildfire smoke · Light· Comfortable day · high 73°F
Acorn Valley Campground is a picturesque camping area located in the beautiful state of Iowa. This campground offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable…
Why 89: live conditions (good) · 57 things to do within 15 mi
89Elite
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Water Trail Campsite
#3 Water Trail Campsite Good
16.7 mi away
· Mild night · low 54°F· Light wildfire smoke · Light· Comfortable day · high 74°F
The Water Trail Campsite is a scenic camping area located in Iowa, attracting nature lovers and campers alike. The campsite boasts stunning views of the natural surroundings…
Why 89: live conditions (good) · 29 things to do within 15 mi
89Elite

Camping near Des Moines

The Des Moines area has 3 campgrounds on Snoflo, ranked by live conditions, visitor reviews, and logged trips — so the best, closest options rise to the top.

How we rank the best camping near Des Moines

How are these campgrounds ranked?

Each gets a daily Snoflo score blending live conditions, visitor review ratings, and logged trips. The order reflects what's best right now and re-ranks every day.

How often does it update?

Daily, as new conditions, reviews, and trips arrive — so "best right now" means right now.

What do the numbers on the map mean?

Each pin shows that spot's current Snoflo score; tap it for the breakdown and a link to the full report.

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