Camping at Prairie Flower Recreation Area

Location and Contact Information

Prairie Flower Recreation Area is located at Saylorville Lake Park, which is part of the Saylorville Lake Project managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is situated near the city of Des Moines, Iowa.

• Address: 5600 NW 78th Ave, Johnston, IA 50131, United States
• For more information on reservations and site availability:
  • Phone: +1 877-444-6777
  • Online: Reservations can be made through the Recreation.gov website or by calling the reservation number.

Camping and Accommodations

Prairie Flower Recreation Area offers several camping options including:

• Single Campsites: Equipped with electric hookups and access to shower and restroom facilities.
• Group Campsites: Ideal for larger parties, may offer additional amenities.
• Tent Sites: For those who prefer traditional camping.

Campsite features often include picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. The campground provides amenities such as:

• Restrooms with showers
• Drinking water
• Dump station
• Playground

Activities and Recreation

Visitors to the Prairie Flower Recreation Area can enjoy a variety of activities including:

• Boating: Saylorville Lake is a popular destination for boating and other watercraft.
• Fishing: The lake offers opportunities for bass, crappie, and catfish fishing among other species.
• Hiking and Biking: There are multiple trails in the area for a range of skill levels.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, making it perfect for bird watching and nature photography.
• Swimming: There may be designated beaches or swimming zones in the vicinity.

Operational Details

• Season: The campground is typically open from early spring through late fall.
• Check-in and Check-out Times: There are established times for check-in and check-out, be sure to familiarize yourself with these to avoid any inconveniences.
• Quiet Hours: To ensure a pleasant experience for all campers, quiet hours are typically enforced.

Rules and Regulations

• Fires: Only light fires in designated rings or grills and follow all fire safety guidelines.
• Pets: Pets are commonly allowed but must be kept on a leash and under control.
• Wildlife: Feeding wildlife is usually prohibited to protect both animals and visitors.
• Alcoholic Beverages: There may be restrictions on alcoholic beverages, so check the local regulations.

Reservation and Fees

• Site Reservation: Campsites can be reserved in advance, which is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
• Camping Fees: Fees will vary depending on the site type and length of stay. Check Recreation.gov or call for the most current pricing.

Accessibility

Prairie Flower Recreation Area is committed to providing enjoyable recreational opportunities for people of all abilities. Visitors with disabilities can enjoy accessible facilities and campsites.

Important Reminders

• Weather can change rapidly; be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.
• Always leave the site cleaner than you found it to preserve the natural beauty.
• Check for any local advisories (e.g., burn bans, wildlife alerts) that may impact your stay.

Before heading out, it is advisable to check the latest information from the official Saylorville Lake website or contact the park directly for the most current information and conditions.