Camping
Polk County Conservation has four campgrounds within a half-hour of downtown Des Moines.
- Jester Park
- Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt
- Yellow Banks Park[2024 NOTE: All campsites must be reserved online.]
- Thomas Mitchell Park [2024 NOTE: Construction to expand campsites is set to begin this summer, to complete these upgrades the primitive campground will close beginning 7/8/24.]
- Advance reservations are required at most campsites.
- Some of the sites are offered as first-come, first-served.
- Campsite Reservation Agreement
- Rules & Regulations
- Out of State Firewood is Prohibited
Camping
- First-come, first-served campers should set up camp on their site before registering.
- Campground showerhouses are open mid-April through mid-October.
- Reservable rates are $25 for electric sites and $20 for non-electric.
- First-come, first-served camping rates are $25 for electric sites and $20 for non-electric.
- Campgrounds are closed from December 1 - March 31 (except to walk-in tent camping, which is allowed year-round).
- Youth Campground rates are $25.
- Firewood is available for purchase at all parks.
- Campground cooking recipes can be found here to try out on your next camping trip!
Online Reservations
Online reservations can be made up to one year in advance for reservable campsites in each of these parks.
- Reservations and prices for campsites can be made at www.mycountyparks.com. Online reservations are available for camping between April 1 and November 30. Maximum length of stay is 14 days.