Scott County Park
Scott County Park is the largest park in the county with its 1,280 acres of recreational haven. This Woodall's-recommended campground rates as one of the best for its year-round accommodations and amenities. Campers can enjoy the park's 12 picnic area, shelters, grills and fire rings. Aside from picnicking and camping, play baseball in the field or explore the radio-controlled airplane site. Hikers can trek several nature trails, while winter visitors can cross-country ski and go sledding. Tent campgrounds are available with restrooms and shower facilities. Additionally, you can dive or take swimming lessons in the park's Olympic-size heated swimming pool.
Scott County Park
270th Street
Davenport, IA
563-328-3282
scottcountyiowa.com
Acorn Valley Campground
Acorn Valley Campground is situated right on the 26,000-acre expanse of the Saylorville Lake Project that leads up to the scenic Des Moines River Valley, making this tent campground one of the best in the state. Tent campers can explore the park's 26 acres of upland timber with an array of many activities. The camp has 108 campsites, 79 of which are walk-in tent areas. Anglers can fish the 6,000-acre Saylorville Lake for species like walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and northern pike. Facilities include picnic areas, group shelters, fishing pier and boat launches. While exploring the grounds, you may see wildlife such as white-tailed deer, turkey, waterfowl and pheasant. Hikers can trek the camp's 24-mile paved Neal Smith Trail, a designated national recreation trail that runs from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park. This trail is multipurpose and can be used for biking, running and in-line skating.
Acorn Valley Campground
5600 NW 78th Avenue
Johnston, IA
515-276-0429
recreation.gov
Spook Cave and Campground
Not many campgrounds can offer camping and a cave tour like the Spook Cave and Campground. This campground offers guided boat tours of the underground Spook Cave. Early settlers used to get spooked from the strange noises originating from a hole at Bloody Run Creek's base until the cave was finally discovered. Shaded and grassy camping sites are available. Other activities you can enjoy include swimming, hiking, trout fishing and picnicking right by the water.
Spook Cave and Campground
13299 Spook Cave Road
Mc Gregor, IA
563-873-2144
spookcave.com
