Conservation

Camping

Polk County Conservation has four campgrounds within a half-hour of downtown Des Moines.

  • Jester Park [2023/2024 NOTE: All reservable electric sites at Jester Park (Campground 1&2) will close September 5th, 2023 for electrical and cosmetic upgrades. Reservations for 2024 will open 12/1/23 to confirm renovations are complete prior to booking.]
  • 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.]

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).
  • Discount 7-day rate camping booklets are available to the general public by calling 515-323-5300 or by inquiring in person at the Administration Office. The 7-day rate for electric sites is $150 ; non-electric is $120. These discounts do not apply to online reservations. This discount booklet is available for non-consecutive stays under 7 days.
  • 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.