Prairie Flower Recreation Area
Open for the 2026 season. The campground operates from May 1 through October 20. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov. Check-in is 2:00 PM, checkout is 12:00 PM. Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights per 30-day period.
Heat Advisory issued August 31 at 2:54AM CDT until September 2 at 7:00PM CDT by NWS Des Moines IA
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 100-103 degrees. * WHERE...Portions of central and south central Iowa, including the Des Moines metro. * WHEN...From 1 PM this afternoon to 7 PM CDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...While heat index values may not reach 105 degrees each day, the combination of the longevity of the heat and little or limited relief during the overnight periods with warm lows have prompted the multi-day Heat Advisory.
About
Prairie Flower Recreation Area occupies a scenic stretch of Saylorville Lake's eastern shore, where more than 40 acres of restored prairie create vivid displays of native grasses and wildflowers from midsummer through fall. The campground is divided into North and South sections, with the South area's Aster, Blazingstar, Coneflower, and Dogbane loops offering paved pads and full electric service for larger RVs. Saylorville Lake spans over 6,000 surface acres and supports excellent fishing for walleye, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and northern pike. Boaters enjoy easy access to water skiing, sailing, and windsurfing. The paved Neal Smith Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail, runs 24 miles from Des Moines through the campground to Big Creek State Park, serving cyclists, joggers, and inline skaters. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and waterfowl inhabit the surrounding project lands. A visitor center, volleyball courts, and disc golf course are nearby. Educational programs and group shelters make Prairie Flower popular for family reunions and scout groups.
Directions
From I-35, take exit 90 onto Oralabor Road and head west for 4.8 miles. The road becomes Highway 415; continue following signs to the campground.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $22 - $96 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 85ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 85ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (515) 984-6925 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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