## Overview

Prairie Flower Recreation Area is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake
Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.  
  
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including
boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Iowa's prairie heritage is celebrated in more than 40 acres of prairie
plantings throughout the campground. The wide variety of grass and flowers
provides vivid colors from mid-summer to fall. Wildlife is abundant throughout
the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game
animals roam the lands around the lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Prairie Flower Recreation Area is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.
<br/><br/>
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Iowa's prairie heritage is celebrated in more than 40 acres of prairie plantings throughout the campground. The wide variety of grass and flowers provides vivid colors from mid-summer to fall.  
 
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

PRAIRIE FLOWER RECREATION AREA 3

PRAIRIE FLOWER RECREATION AREA 1

PRAIRIE FLOWER RECREATION AREA Playground

Prairie Flower Recreation Area

## Overview

Oak Grove Picnic Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre
Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines
River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities,
including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Oak Grove lies among a heavily wooded forest of stately oak trees on the east
side of the lake. A large beach is within walking distance.  
  
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys,
pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the
lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Oak Grove Picnic Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Oak Grove lies among a heavily wooded forest of stately oak trees on the east side of the lake. A large beach is within walking distance.
<br/>
<br/>
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

Oak Grove Recreation Area

OAK GROVE PICNIC AREA 1

OAK GROVE PICNIC AREA

Oak Grove Picnic Area

## Overview

Cherry Glen Picnic Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre
Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines
River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities,
including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Cherry Glen is nestled on a compact 13-acre wooded ridge. Visiting with family
and friends while relaxing in the shade of one of the area's many trees is a
popular pastime.  
  
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys,
pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the
lake.

## Nearby Attractions

Cherry Glen Campground and Cherry Glen Boat Ramp.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Cherry Glen Picnic Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Cherry Glen is nestled on a compact 13-acre wooded ridge. Visiting with family and friends while relaxing in the shade of one of the area's many trees is a popular pastime. <br/>
<br/>
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.  
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Cherry Glen Campground and Cherry Glen Boat Ramp.

Cherry Glen Picnic Area

Cherry Glen Shelter

Cherry Glen Boat Ramp Fee Station

Cherry Glen Picnic

## Overview

Sandpiper Recreation Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre
Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines
River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities,
including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Sandpiper is situated in a broad, open area on the northeast side of the lake.
Dense timber stands surround the recreation area, but shade is limited within
the site.  
  
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys,
pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the
lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Sandpiper Recreation Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Sandpiper is situated in a broad, open area on the northeast side of the lake. Dense timber stands surround the recreation area, but shade is limited within the site.<br/>
<br/>
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

Sandpiper Overlook 1

Sandpiper Super Shelter

Playground

Sandpiper Overlook

Sandpiper Recreation Area

## Overview

Cherry Glen Campground is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project,
which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.  
  
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including
boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Cherry Glen, the oldest and most popular campground on the lake, is nestled on
a compact 13-acre wooded ridge. Wildlife is abundant throughout the project.
White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the
lands around the lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Cherry Glen Campground is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.
<br/><br/>
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Cherry Glen, the oldest and most popular campground on the lake, is nestled on a compact 13-acre wooded ridge. 
  
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

Cherry Glen Playground

Cherry Glen Campground - Campsite Photo

Cherry Glen Picnic Area - Just a walk away!

Cherry Glen Boat Ramp Fee Machine

Cherry Glen Campground

## Overview

Acorn Valley Campground is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake
Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.  
  
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including
camping, bicycling, boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Anglers enjoy the lake for its abundance of walleye, wiper, largemouth bass,
catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Anglers enjoy the lake for its abundance of walleye, wiper, largemouth bass,
catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

The mature Bur Oaks at the entrance to Acorn Valley beckon visitors to explore
its 26 acres on the fringe of an upland timber stand. Wildlife is abundant
throughout the area. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl and
other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Acorn Valley Campground is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. <br> <br>The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including camping, bicycling, boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting. </p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
Anglers enjoy the lake for its abundance of walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.<br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Anglers enjoy the lake for its abundance of walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.<br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The mature Bur Oaks at the entrance to Acorn Valley beckon visitors to explore its 26 acres on the fringe of an upland timber stand.  
 
Wildlife is abundant throughout the area. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

Acorn Valley Campground Playground

Acorn Valley Recreation Area

Acorn Valley Campground Playground 2

Acorn Valley

Acorn Valley Campground Comfort Station

## Overview

Walnut Ridge Recreation Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre
Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines
River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities,
including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

The 18-hole Walnut Ridge Disc Golf Course runs throughout the recreation area.
The beautifully manicured course contains both open and wooded fairways with
blind pins and tunnel shots.  
  
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing and swimming
opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish,
crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

The 18-hole Walnut Ridge Disc Golf Course runs throughout the recreation area.
The beautifully manicured course contains both open and wooded fairways with
blind pins and tunnel shots.  
  
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing and swimming
opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish,
crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

The area is situated on a wooded ridgeland on the west side of Saylorville
Lake. Large shade trees cover the area.  
  
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys,
pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the
lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Walnut Ridge Recreation Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.<h2>Recreation</h2>
The 18-hole Walnut Ridge Disc Golf Course runs throughout the recreation area. The beautifully manicured course contains both open and wooded fairways with blind pins and tunnel shots.<br/> 
<br/>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.<br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
The 18-hole Walnut Ridge Disc Golf Course runs throughout the recreation area. The beautifully manicured course contains both open and wooded fairways with blind pins and tunnel shots.<br/> 
<br/>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.<br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The area is situated on a wooded ridgeland on the west side of Saylorville Lake. Large shade trees cover the area. <br/>
<br/>
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Walnut Ridge Entrance

Disk Golf

Shelter

## Overview

Lake View Recreation Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre
Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines
River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities,
including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.

The paved Neal Smith Trail (East side of the lake) winds 24 miles from Des
Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side
of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for
biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.

The paved Neal Smith Trail (East side of the lake) winds 24 miles from Des
Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side
of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for
biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Lakeview View Shelter is situated on a ridge overlooking the West side of the
lake. Dense timber stands surround the recreation area, but shade is limited
within the site.

Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys,
pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the
lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Lake View Recreation Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. </p>

<p>The paved Neal Smith Trail (East side of the lake) winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. </p>

<p>The paved Neal Smith Trail (East side of the lake) winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>Lakeview View Shelter is situated on a ridge overlooking the West side of the lake. Dense timber stands surround the recreation area, but shade is limited within the site.</p>

<p>Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.</p>

Inside view of Lake View Recreation Area Shelter.

Inside View

Lake View Recreation Area Shelter

Overlook of Saylorville Lake, Boat Ramp, and Main Dam.

Overlook from Shelter

Lake View Recreation Area (Saylorville)

## Overview

Bob Shetler Recreation Area is located in the tailwater area below the
26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up
the Des Moines River Valley.  
  
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including
boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. The paved Neal
Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and
connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a
National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and
in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. The paved Neal
Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and
connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a
National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and
in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Large shade trees dot the open grassy areas of the campground, which offers
excellent views of the Des Moines River. Most campsites are within easy
walking distance of the shore. Wildlife is abundant throughout the project.
White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the
lands around the lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Bob Shetler Recreation Area is located in the tailwater area below the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.
<br/><br/>
The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
 
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
 
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Large shade trees dot the open grassy areas of the campground, which offers excellent views of the Des Moines River. Most campsites are within easy walking distance of the shore.  
 
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

Bob Shetler Archery Range

Main Dam Outlet

Bob Shetler Entrance

BOB SHETLER RECREATION AREA 1

Bob Shetler Recreation Area

## Overview

Bob Shetler Picnic Area is a day-use facility located in the tailwater area
below Saylorville Dam, and is a popular destination for shoreline fishermen.  
  
The 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project stretches over 50 miles up the Des
Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational
activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Large shade trees dot the open grassy land around the picnic area, which
offers pleasant views of the Des Moines River.  
  
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys,
pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the
lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Bob Shetler Picnic Area is a day-use facility located in the tailwater area below Saylorville Dam, and is a popular destination for shoreline fishermen. <br/><br/>
The 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Large shade trees dot the open grassy land around the picnic area, which offers pleasant views of the Des Moines River. <br/>
<br/>
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

BOB SHETLER PICNIC AREA Shelter

BOB SHETLER PICNIC AREA 2

BOB SHETLER PICNIC AREA 1

Bob Shetler Picnic Area

Picnic Area Playground

## Overview

Cottonwood Recreation Area is a day-use facility located in the tailwater area
below Saylorville Dam. The 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project stretches over
50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of
recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and
hunting.

## Recreation

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Facilities

Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water
skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye,
wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike.  
  
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State
Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is
designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking,
jogging, walking and in-line skating.

## Natural Features

Cottonwood covers a large open and flat lowland area bordering the east side
of the Des Moines River.  
  
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys,
pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the
lake.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Cottonwood Recreation Area is a day-use facility located in the tailwater area below Saylorville Dam. The 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. <br/>
<br/>
The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Cottonwood covers a large open and flat lowland area bordering the east side of the Des Moines River.<br/>
<br/>
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.

Cottonwood Roadway

Cottonwood Recreation Area Water Access

Cottonwood Picnic Area

Pelicans in Flight Over Cottonwood

Fishermen out on Des Moines River.

Cottonwood Recreation Area

The Saylorville Lake Project is 26,000 acres, which stretches for over 50
miles up the Des Moines River Valley. A wide variety of recreational
activities are available including fishing, picnic areas with group shelters,
boat launches, an accessible fishing pier, river fishing, hunting, and a
24-mile paved, multipurpose trail used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking,
and in-line skating.

The Saylorville Lake Project is 26,000 acres, which stretches for over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley.  A wide variety of recreational activities are available including fishing, picnic areas with group shelters, boat launches, an accessible fishing pier, river fishing, hunting, and a  24-mile paved, multipurpose trail used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking, and in-line skating.

Prairie Flower Recreation Area

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

Directions

Reviews

Camp Sites

Nearby Campgrounds