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BOB SHETLER PICNIC AREA
Public Campground

BOB SHETLER PICNIC AREA

Polk City, Iowa
4.4 (539 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About BOB SHETLER PICNIC AREA

Federal campground in Iowa.

Bob Shetler Picnic Area offers a welcoming escape in Iowa where nature and community converge to create a memorable camping experience. This public campground provides a peaceful retreat for RV travelers seeking the genuine charm of the Midwest, complete with well-maintained grounds and convenient access to outdoor recreation.

The picnic area setting creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to unwind away from the hustle of city life. The natural surroundings offer a genuine connection to Iowa's landscape, with open spaces and shade trees that provide comfort throughout your stay. The grounds are thoughtfully maintained to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Iowa's heartland location places you near some of the state's most appealing attractions and natural areas. The region offers visitors a chance to explore authentic small-town Americana, local shops, and regional dining options that showcase the area's character. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding landscape provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying scenic views that capture the beauty of the Midwest. Bird watchers and nature photographers will find plenty of subjects to capture, as Iowa's diverse ecosystems support various wildlife species throughout the seasons.

The area appeals to travelers interested in slower-paced getaways, where you can spend time enjoying the simple pleasures of outdoor living. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer camping adventure, Bob Shetler Picnic Area provides a comfortable staging point for discovering what makes Iowa's countryside special. The friendly atmosphere and accessible facilities make it particularly welcoming for families with children and those new to RV camping.

With its solid reputation reflected in positive visitor reviews, this public campground demonstrates the kind of reliable hospitality that makes for stress-free travel planning. The setting encourages you to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with what matters most, whether that's quality time with loved ones, personal reflection, or simply enjoying the outdoors at your own pace.
4.4

Rating

539

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Polk City is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Iowa weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Polk City.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Polk City. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

BOB SHETLER PICNIC AREA Reviews

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Connected bangla

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Connected bangla

Bob Shetler Campground is a peaceful and well-kept spot near the Saylorville Dam. The sites are clean, spacious, and easy to access. I love that it’s right by the dam where I used to catch some giant fish — perfect for anyone who enjoys fishing and relaxing by the water. A great place to unwind close to the city

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Kim Meyer

Mar 18, 2026

2.0

Google Review by Kim Meyer

I only gave 3 stars 🌟 because there was sooooo much dog poop 💩 on my site!!! I have a dog and am irresponsible pet parent and pick up after my dog. The amount of poop that was there meant that nobody attended and cleaned up my sight before I arrived. Otherwise our stay was wonderful quiet and peaceful.

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TerryLisa Moore

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by TerryLisa Moore

We love COE parks as the sites lend to be large, are by water, & often out of town. This one is very close to Des Moines & thus very populated by fisherman & car traffic; with fishermen still present & racing cars at 3 am on a Thursday evening. Not the peace & quiet we were looking for. We stayed 3 nights in site 9 which is a lovely FHU site. Shower house is used by campground & non campground fol... We love COE parks as the sites lend to be large, are by water, & often out of town. This one is very close to Des Moines & thus very populated by fisherman & car traffic; with fishermen still present & racing cars at 3 am on a Thursday evening. Not the peace & quiet we were looking for. We stayed 3 nights in site 9 which is a lovely FHU site. Shower house is used by campground & non campground folk, so was not the cleanest.

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Anna Puffett

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Anna Puffett

Five stars with the caveat of....know this place will be busy! A ton of people fishing and driving over the dam. If you know that going in, there really aren't any complaints! Hookups were easy, sites were level. Good signage and easy to access. Womens bathroom was not clean but other than that, our experience was great! Kids caught a number of fish and loved watching the dam output. So reasonably... Five stars with the caveat of....know this place will be busy! A ton of people fishing and driving over the dam. If you know that going in, there really aren't any complaints! Hookups were easy, sites were level. Good signage and easy to access. Womens bathroom was not clean but other than that, our experience was great! Kids caught a number of fish and loved watching the dam output. So reasonably priced! Definitely would stay again!

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AdamLTW

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by AdamLTW

Very nice Corp of Engineers campground located at the base of Lake Sayerville dam. Close by marina for boating and fishing. Sites are gravel and not completely level. There is a good amount of space in each site but no significant privacy. Bathroom was clean but showers were flooded and temperature of the water could not be regulated.

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