Bob Shetler Picnic Area

About

Bob Shetler Picnic Area is a day-use facility situated in the scenic tailwater area below Saylorville Dam, overlooking the Des Moines River. The area is particularly popular among shoreline anglers targeting walleye, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and northern pike. Large shade trees provide relief on warm days, and the open grassy areas offer pleasant river views. The picnic area features two reservable group shelters equipped with water and electric hookups, accommodating up to 100 people each. Shelters can be reserved up to 4 days in advance via Recreation.gov for $50, or used free on a first-come, first-served basis when unreserved. Additional amenities include flush toilets, a playground, volleyball court, fish cleaning station, and access to hiking trails including the 24-mile paved Neal Smith Trail. This is a day-use only facility with no overnight camping. For camping at Saylorville Lake, the adjacent Bob Shetler Recreation Area offers 67 electric campsites with full amenities.

Directions

From I-35, take Exit 90 (Oralabor Road) west 4.8 miles as it becomes Highway 415. Turn left onto NW 37th Street, go 0.3 mile, then turn right onto NW Horseshoe Road. Cross Saylorville Lake Dam to reach the picnic area. From I-80, take Exit 135 (2nd Avenue/Highway 415) north 3.5 miles, turn left onto Oralabor Road (Highway 415) for 2.6 miles, then left onto NW 37th Street and right onto NW Horseshoe Road.