Bob Shetler Recreation Area
4.20269 reviewsSAYLORVILLE LAKE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, 5600 NW 78TH AVENUE, JOHNSTON, IA, 50131-1941, USA
Bob Shetler Recreation Area
$22.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $22 to $26 per night for standard electric sites and $24 per night for shelter electric sites during peak season. Additional fees may apply for reservation services, changes, or cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled in the shadow of Saylorville Lake Dam, Bob Shetler Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 67 well-appointed campsites, each equipped with electric hookups for modern comfort. This riverside haven serves as your gateway to adventure, where the gentle flow of the Des Moines River sets the rhythm for days filled with fishing, hiking scenic trails, and pedaling along winding bike paths. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or gathering around the campfire at dusk, this campground seamlessly blends natural beauty with accessible recreation.
Bob Shetler Recreation Area offers various camping accommodations, including tent camping, RV camping, and group sites.
Historical SignificancePositioned in the heart of the Des Moines River Valley, this land tells a story of ecological resilience and natural abundance. The creation of Saylorville Lake Dam transformed this area into a recreational paradise, where the controlled waters below the dam create unique habitats that support diverse wildlife communities. Today, visitors experience a landscape where human engineering and nature coexist in remarkable harmony.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, inviting days perfect for water activities and exploration, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally sweep through to refresh the landscape. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to comfortable afternoons ideal for hiking. Winter transforms the area into a quiet retreat, with cold temperatures creating a peaceful off-season atmosphere for hardy souls seeking solitude.
ElevationThe campground's gently rolling terrain follows the natural contours of the river valley, creating varied vantage points throughout the recreation area.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering shade trees create a natural canopy over spacious, grassy camping areas, offering cool respite on warm summer days. This verdant landscape serves as home to an impressive array of wildlife – morning visitors might spot white-tailed deer grazing in meadows, while wild turkeys strut through the underbrush. The nearby waters attract graceful waterfowl, turning each day into a wildlife watching opportunity that delights photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic Des Moines River Valley, the campground occupies the unique tailwater environment below the massive 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project. This distinctive geological setting creates a dynamic ecosystem where river currents meet lake-controlled waters, fostering rich biodiversity and creating ideal conditions for both recreation and wildlife observation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include concrete pads, which provide easy leveling for campers. However, issues were noted regarding restroom access for wheelchairs, including narrow stalls and high thresholds.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some accommodating large RVs and providing spacious cement pads. For example, one user stated, 'We had a pull-through site which was great for our larger fifth wheel.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels depend on the site location, with some sites being more secluded while others are closely spaced. One review noted, 'Sites are power-only and close together, with minimal shade and privacy.'
Total Campsites67 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the river offer better views and quieter surroundings; non-river sites may face noise challenges from nearby roads.
Best CampsitesSite 51 is frequently praised for its proximity to amenities and spaciousness. Sites near the river (e.g., 12, 14, 17) are also popular for their views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site are unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops with electric hookups at all sites. Sites are varied in size, with pull-through and back-in options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to October 14, with reservations opening 6 months in advance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, via the app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up or first-come, first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee with additional charges for late cancellations. Late fees are applied starting midnight one day before check-in. Full details on change and cancellation fees are provided in the authoritative sources.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Bob Shetler Recreation Area provides a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The Neal Smith Trail, designated as a National Recreation Trail, connects the area to broader hiking and biking networks. Anglers have access to fish species such as catfish, white bass, and crappie.
Hiking
The Neal Smith Trail runs 24 miles and connects the campground to Big Creek State Park, offering opportunities for biking, jogging, walking, and in-line skating. However, user reviews emphasize its popularity and occasional overcrowding.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with species like catfish, white bass, and crappie commonly caught near the dam outlet. A user stated, 'Fishing by the dam outlet is crowded but seemed well worth it.'Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the Saylorville Lake area, although specific designated swimming areas within the campground are not mentioned.Biking
The Neal Smith Trail offers excellent biking opportunities, connecting the campground to Des Moines and other recreation areas. One user highlighted, 'You can bike into Des Moines and several breweries.'Boating
Boating is supported on Saylorville Lake, with nearby boat ramps providing access. Activities such as sailing, water skiing, and kayaking are common.Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and waterfowl. One user stated, 'Watching all the anglers and wildlife was enjoyable.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not noted for this campground.Water Sports
Opportunities for kayaking, sailing, and water skiing exist on Saylorville Lake, but no specific details are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted with local firewood only, in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include raccoons, which have been reported to enter locked containers and steal food, as well as poison ivy in some areas.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories are noted.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include Johnston Police Department (~7 miles) and UnityPoint Health - Iowa Lutheran Hospital (~10 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - October 14
Trash and recyclingThere are no detailed descriptions of trash and recycling facilities, but users noted the need for better waste management, such as 'adding dumpsters on the way out.'
Proximity to water featuresMost campsites are within walking distance of the Des Moines River and spillway area; fishing docks are nearby.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include unclean bathrooms, noise from nearby roads, and poorly placed electrical boxes.
HostMixed reviews about campground hosts, with some users finding them helpful and others reporting rude behavior.
Campground Map
SAYLORVILLE LAKE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, 5600 NW 78TH AVENUE, JOHNSTON, IA, 50131-1941, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-35, take exit 90 to Ankeny/Oralabor Road and go west for 4.8 miles. The road turns into Highway 415. Turn left onto 37th Street, then turn right onto Horseshoe Road. Turn right and drive across the Saylorville Lake Dam to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads; directions include major highways and straightforward turns. Seasonal road closures or terrain challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
Johnston (~7 miles), Des Moines (~10 miles), Ankeny (~5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and supplies can be found in Johnston (~7 miles) and Ankeny (~5 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.2
269 reviews
Bob Shetler Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Bob Shetler Recreation Area are highly varied, with ratings ranging from 1 to 5 stars. Positive reviews praise the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to recreational opportunities. Negative reviews often criticize maintenance issues, lack of shade, loud music at night, and inadequate restroom facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 269 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the cleanliness of sites, helpful staff, proximity to bike trails, and scenic views. One user commented, 'The dam is stunning and just right when the sun is going down.' Another...
Based on 269 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Reviews frequently mention maintenance issues such as dirty restrooms, standing water in showers, and broken amenities. Noise from nearby parking lots and music late at night are also common...
Based on 269 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest bringing an extension cord due to oddly placed electrical hookups and noise-canceling headphones for late-night disturbances. Others recommend arriving early to locate water fill...
Based on 269 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months receive mixed reviews due to noise, maintenance issues, and overcrowding. Fall reviews are generally more positive, highlighting peace, quiet, and scenic beauty.
Based on 269 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The dam is stunning, and you can see lots of rainbows in the evening.' 2. 'Bathrooms were not cleaned for the entire weekend.' 3. 'Fishing by the dam outlet is crowded but worth it.'
Based on 269 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews identify Site 51 as a favorite for its spaciousness and proximity to amenities. Site 67 received complaints about inadequate electrical connections and proximity to sewage odors.
Based on 269 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are appreciated, but users emphasized the need for improvements in restroom facilities for wheelchairs and designated handicapped sites.
Based on 269 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related reviews note a lack of enforcement of leash rules, with some owners leaving pets unattended. Positive reviews highlight ample space for dogs to roam and play.
Based on 269 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025