Camping at Acorn Valley Campground
Location and Contact Information
Acorn Valley Campground is located within Saylorville Lake Park, near Johnston, Iowa. It is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Here's the contact information for planning your visit:
- Address: Acorn Valley Campground, Saylorville Lake, Johnston, IA 50131
- Phone: For campground information, you can contact the Saylorville Lake Administration Office or the Campground Reservation System.
- Saylorville Lake Administration Office: +1 515-276-4656
- Reservation System (Recreation.gov): +1 877-444-6777
Camping Facilities and Amenities
Acorn Valley Campground offers a variety of facilities and amenities to enrich your camping experience:
- Campsites: There are numerous campsites available, including standard electric sites, non-electric sites, and group sites.
- RV Accommodations: Many sites are equipped to accommodate RVs with electrical hookups.
- Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring for cooking and campfires.
- Restroom Facilities: The campground provides restrooms with flush toilets and shower facilities for campers.
- Drinking Water: Access to drinking water is available throughout the campground.
- Dump Station: There's a designated dump station for RVs.
- Playground: There are play areas for children to enjoy.
Activities and Recreation
Saylorville Lake offers many recreational activities, which campers at Acorn Valley Campground can take advantage of:
- Boating: With the proximity to Saylorville Lake, boaters can enjoy activities such as sailing, water skiing, and fishing.
- Fishing: Saylorville Lake is known for excellent fishing, with the potential to catch bass, catfish, crappie, and walleye.
- Trails: The area around the lake has trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.
- Water Sports: The lake is suitable for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing.
- Nature Observation and Photography: Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can take pleasure in the diverse wildlife and scenic views perfect for photography.
Reservations and Fees
To ensure you have a spot at Acorn Valley Campground during your desired dates, it's important to make a reservation:
- Reservation: Campsites can be reserved in advance through the Recreation.gov website or by calling the reservation line.
- Fees: The cost to camp at Acorn Valley Campground varies depending on the type of site and amenities. You should check the current rates when planning your trip, as they are subject to change.
Important Rules and Regulations
Campers should adhere to several important rules and regulations to ensure a peaceful and safe experience:
- Quiet Hours: Typically there are quiet hours in the evening and nighttime that all campers are expected to respect.
- Pets: Pets may be allowed but must be kept on a leash and managed at all times.
- Firewood: To prevent the spread of invasive insects, some campgrounds regulate the transportation of firewood; check the rules about firewood at the time of your visit.
- Alcohol and Smoking: Restrictions may apply regarding the consumption of alcohol and smoking within the park.
- Safety: Always follow safety guidelines, especially when boating, swimming, or partaking in other water-related activities.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Weather in Iowa can be variable, and it's important to plan accordingly:
- Summer: Summers can be hot and humid.
- Spring/Autumn: These seasons may feature a mix of warm and cool weather, with potential for rain.
- Winter: The campground may be closed or have limited services during the winter, as Iowa experiences cold temperatures and snow.
Before you leave for your camping trip to Acorn Valley Campground, it's wise to check the latest weather forecast and any seasonal advisories or operational updates from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or the Recreation.gov website.
Always come prepared with appropriate clothing, gear for weather changes, and sufficient supplies to make your camping experience enjoyable and safe.
