Public Campground
23E Host Site
Cassville, Iowa
Campground in Iowa.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About HOWELL STATION
Federal campground in Iowa.
Howell Station offers a wonderful escape into Iowa's natural landscape, providing RV travelers with a well-maintained public campground that serves as an excellent base for exploring the region. Located in the heart of Iowa, this destination appeals to a diverse range of visitors, from families seeking a peaceful getaway to outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the Midwest's distinctive charm and natural beauty.
The campground's strong 4.7-star rating from nearly 300 reviews speaks volumes about the quality of the experience visitors can expect. This public facility has earned its reputation by consistently delivering clean grounds, functional facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel at home during their stay. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from past campers indicates that management takes pride in maintaining the property and ensuring that every visitor enjoys their time here.
Iowa's landscape offers something special that many travelers overlook. The state's rolling prairies, scenic waterways, and agricultural heritage create a uniquely peaceful setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Howell Station provides the perfect jumping-off point for exploring these natural features. The area surrounding the campground offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors in ways that connect you with the genuine Midwest experience.
This location works wonderfully for travelers interested in Americana and rural heritage. The quiet surroundings make it ideal for those seeking tranquility, whether you're retired travelers on an extended journey or families looking for a slower pace of life. The area's charm lies in its authenticity and the chance to experience Iowa as it truly is, without pretense or overcrowding.
The central Iowa location also provides convenient access to larger towns and attractions while maintaining a peaceful, pastoral setting. Whether you're passing through on a cross-country journey or establishing a base camp for regional exploration, Howell Station delivers the reliable, quality camping experience that public campgrounds are known for when they're well managed and thoughtfully maintained.
The campground's strong 4.7-star rating from nearly 300 reviews speaks volumes about the quality of the experience visitors can expect. This public facility has earned its reputation by consistently delivering clean grounds, functional facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel at home during their stay. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from past campers indicates that management takes pride in maintaining the property and ensuring that every visitor enjoys their time here.
Iowa's landscape offers something special that many travelers overlook. The state's rolling prairies, scenic waterways, and agricultural heritage create a uniquely peaceful setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Howell Station provides the perfect jumping-off point for exploring these natural features. The area surrounding the campground offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors in ways that connect you with the genuine Midwest experience.
This location works wonderfully for travelers interested in Americana and rural heritage. The quiet surroundings make it ideal for those seeking tranquility, whether you're retired travelers on an extended journey or families looking for a slower pace of life. The area's charm lies in its authenticity and the chance to experience Iowa as it truly is, without pretense or overcrowding.
The central Iowa location also provides convenient access to larger towns and attractions while maintaining a peaceful, pastoral setting. Whether you're passing through on a cross-country journey or establishing a base camp for regional exploration, Howell Station delivers the reliable, quality camping experience that public campgrounds are known for when they're well managed and thoughtfully maintained.
4.7
Rating
298
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
West Des Moines 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 West Des Moines.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near West Des Moines. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
HOWELL STATION Reviews
Sign in to Review
G
Kevin Krygsheld
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kevin Krygsheld
Great place to camp. About 15 minutes outside of Pella and easy to get to. Sites are very spacious. Great walking/biking path. Fishing looks good but we didn't have the opportunity to actually do it.
G
Irma Ziebell
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Irma Ziebell
Beautiful, clean camp ground. Great views of the Des Moines River. Great place to camp. Wonderful bird watching opportunities. We saw several professional photographers taking photos of many birds. Pelicans, gulls, eagles, ducks, and geese. There is a wonderful paved interconnected trail you can access that goes for many miles along Lake Red Rock. Just a few miles from historical Pella, I... Beautiful, clean camp ground. Great views of the Des Moines River. Great place to camp. Wonderful bird watching opportunities. We saw several professional photographers taking photos of many birds. Pelicans, gulls, eagles, ducks, and geese. There is a wonderful paved interconnected trail you can access that goes for many miles along Lake Red Rock. Just a few miles from historical Pella, Iowa. If you have the America the Beautiful pass, the cost to camp is 50% off the listed price. Only $12 a night for us. 20, 30, 50 amping hook up. Potable water available. It is filtered and tastes good. Lots of clean bathrooms. Two showers in each bath house. Water is lukewarm. There are 2 dump stations nearby. The only drawback I had was there is scattered mobile service there. You will be able to make calls or text, but nothing else. Seek a campsite away from dam and you may get better cell service.
G
Quentin Plate
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Quentin Plate
Peaceful, Scenic, and Wonderfully Spacious Howell Station Campground is one of the best-kept secrets in central Iowa. The campsites are spacious, flat, and thoughtfully spread out giving you plenty of room to relax without feeling crowded. Whether you're in a tent or RV, it's easy to settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The location is unbeatable: nestled right next to the Des Moines Riv... Peaceful, Scenic, and Wonderfully Spacious Howell Station Campground is one of the best-kept secrets in central Iowa. The campsites are spacious, flat, and thoughtfully spread out giving you plenty of room to relax without feeling crowded. Whether you're in a tent or RV, it's easy to settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The location is unbeatable: nestled right next to the Des Moines River and Lake Red Rock, with water views and easy access for fishing, kayaking, or just soaking in the scenery. The bike trail that winds through the area is absolutely beautiful—perfect for a morning ride or evening stroll. Another bonus: it’s just a short drive to Pella, where you can enjoy charming Dutch architecture, boutique shopping, and some truly delicious dining. It’s the perfect blend of nature and culture. If you're looking for a quiet, scenic getaway with plenty of space and nearby attractions, Howell Station delivers. Highly recommended!
G
Kathy Kimzey
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kathy Kimzey
An absolute favorite for us. Stayed at site 101 recently and have now found our favorite site also. Close to Pella, Knoxville and even Des Moines is a reasonable drive. Bathrooms were clean and host were nice.
G
Shonda Bakker
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Shonda Bakker
This campground is top notch. Each site has about 1/4 of lush well maintained grass. There a bike trails everywhere. It is a very easy walk to the water and only 20$ a night for electric only sites. They do have a dump station and potable water. Showers are spotless. We will definitely visit this park again.
Own or manage HOWELL STATION?
Claim this listing for free to update info, respond to reviews, add real photos, and start accepting online bookings.
Nearby Parks
Pilot Point
West Des Moines, IA
0.1 miles away
Keokuk Village
West Des Moines, IA
0.1 miles away
Howell Station Recreation Area
West Des Moines, IA
0.1 miles away
Lake Prarie
West Des Moines, IA
0.2 miles away
Ivans Recreation Area
West Des Moines, IA
0.3 miles away
South Tailwater Picnic Shelter
West Des Moines, IA
0.6 miles away
