Aster Loop

For Iowans seeking a fantastic outdoor getaway that combines the beauty of nature with convenient amenities, the Aster Loop campground at Prairie Flower Recreation Area is a standout choice. Nestled on the expansive Saylorville Lake Project, stretching over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley, this campground offers a vibrant hub for recreation and relaxation right here in Central Iowa. It’s a place where you can truly unplug and reconnect with the natural world, whether you're bringing your RV, pitching a tent, or enjoying a group outing.

Prairie Flower Recreation Area, and specifically its popular Aster Loop, is part of the extensive Saylorville Lake project managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This means campers benefit from well-maintained facilities and a focus on preserving the natural environment. The campground itself covers more than 60 acres and features 153 family sites and 10 group sites, all equipped with electric hookups, making it comfortable for a variety of camping styles. Many of the family sites, particularly in the southern section where Aster Loop is located, offer pleasant views of the 6,000-acre lake.

Reviews from fellow Iowa campers consistently highlight the quality of the experience at Prairie Flower Recreation Area, with Aster Loop being a favored section. One detailed review noted, "All in all, the Iowa Corp of Engineers has done a wonderful job with their campgrounds and Prairie Flower has to be at the top of the list. To date, in Iowa, this is by far our favorite place to camp." This sentiment is echoed by others who praise the "spacious campsites with cement pads" and the "Fantastically clean & well maintained facilities." The specific mention of Aster Loop having "very nice, modern play areas" makes it especially appealing for families with children, ensuring there's plenty to keep the younger campers entertained.

What truly makes Aster Loop and Prairie Flower Recreation Area suitable for us Iowans is its perfect blend of accessibility and abundant recreational opportunities. We value our outdoor spaces, and Saylorville Lake offers an incredible playground for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking, all within a short drive from Des Moines and other major Iowa cities. The convenience of electric hookups, clean facilities, and the availability of group sites means it caters to various needs, from a quiet family weekend to a larger gathering of friends or youth groups. Plus, the celebration of Iowa’s prairie heritage with over 40 acres of prairie plantings within the campground adds a unique local touch, showcasing our beautiful native landscapes.

Aster Loop is located within the Prairie Flower Recreation Area at P8W6+W9, Polk City, IA 50226, USA. This places it on the east side of Saylorville Lake, a prime location for enjoying all the lake has to offer. For those coming from Des Moines and surrounding areas, access is straightforward. From I-35, you can take exit 90 to Ankeny/Oralabor Road, head west for 4.8 miles, and then follow Highway 415 and the signs to the campground. This makes it an incredibly convenient destination for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation for Central Iowans. Its proximity to Polk City means easy access to any last-minute supplies or services you might need, blending the tranquility of nature with practical conveniences.

• Electric Hookups: All 153 family sites and 10 group sites at Prairie Flower Recreation Area, including those in Aster Loop, offer 20, 30, and 50 amp electric hookups.
• Flush Toilets: Modern and clean restroom facilities are available for campers.
• Showers: Well-maintained shower houses provide hot showers, ensuring comfort even when camping.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable drinking water is available throughout the campground via well spigots.
• Dump Station: A well-kept dump station is conveniently located near the entrance for RVs to empty their waste tanks.
• Paved Roads & Pads: Main roads throughout the campground are paved, and sites in Aster Loop are gravel but noted as very level, with some loops offering concrete pads.
• Playgrounds: Aster and Coneflower Loops specifically feature "very nice, modern play areas" for children.
• Group Shelters: Available for group gatherings and events.
• Educational Programs: The recreation area sometimes provides educational programs, enriching the camping experience.
• Visitor Center: A nearby visitor center offers additional information and resources.
• Fee Booth: Staffed fee booths are available for check-in and inquiries.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome, with the expectation that they are leashed and waste is picked up.

• Saylorville Lake Access: Located directly on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, offering unparalleled opportunities for boating, swimming, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing, and fishing.
• Abundant Water Activities: Anglers can enjoy catching walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and northern pike.
• Neal Smith Trail: The paved Neal Smith Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail, winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park, connecting the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It's perfect for biking, hiking, jogging, walking, and in-line skating.
• Prairie Plantings: Over 40 acres of beautiful prairie plantings within the campground celebrate Iowa’s prairie heritage, offering vivid colors from mid-summer to fall and enhancing the natural scenery.
• Abundant Wildlife: The area is rich in wildlife, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl, and other small game animals, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Spacious & Level Sites: Campers praise the spacious and level campsites, ensuring an easy and comfortable setup for both tents and RVs.
• Clean Facilities: Reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the bathhouses and restrooms, which are regularly maintained.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With playgrounds and various recreational activities, it's an excellent choice for families with children.
• Proximity to Big Creek State Park: The Neal Smith Trail connects directly to Big Creek State Park, offering even more recreational options and expanded outdoor exploration.
• Well-Managed by US Army Corps of Engineers: The campground is part of a larger federal project, indicating high standards of maintenance and management.

As a public campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Aster Loop and Prairie Flower Recreation Area typically operate with standard fee structures rather than ongoing commercial promotions. However, there are notable benefits for specific groups. Persons with America the Beautiful (ATB) Senior or Access Passes are entitled to a 50% discount on camping fees and free day use at all USACE beaches and boat ramps. This discount is not valid on group camping or shelter reservation fees. These passes can be purchased at the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center. Campsite pricing can be checked on Recreation.gov, where reservations are also made. It is always recommended to reserve well in advance, especially for popular loops like Aster, as sites can fill up quickly, particularly during peak seasons.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Aster Loop campground within the Prairie Flower Recreation Area, please use the following contact details:

Address: P8W6+W9, Polk City, IA 50226, USA (This is a plus code for the location; the physical address for inquiries is the main administration office)

Saylorville Lake Administration Office

5600 NW 78th Avenue

Johnston, IA 50131-1941

Phone Number for campground inquiries: (515) 984-6925

Online Reservations: www.recreation.gov (Search for Prairie Flower Recreation Area)

Aster Loop at Prairie Flower Recreation Area is more than just a campground; it’s an integral part of Iowa’s outdoor recreation landscape, perfectly suited for locals. Its location on the vast Saylorville Lake Project means Iowans have immediate access to one of our state's premier aquatic playgrounds. Whether you're passionate about boating, a keen angler, or simply enjoy swimming, the lake offers endless opportunities for family fun and individual relaxation. The convenience of having such a comprehensive recreational area so close to Central Iowa's population centers makes it an undeniable asset for weekend trips or longer vacation stays, cutting down on travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment.

What truly resonates with us Iowans is the well-maintained nature of the park, a testament to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' dedication. The clean facilities, including modern restrooms and showers, enhance the comfort of the camping experience, a factor highly valued by visitors. The availability of electric hookups across all sites accommodates modern camping needs, from RVs to larger family tent setups, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.

Beyond the practical amenities, the natural features of Prairie Flower Recreation Area are a significant draw. The extensive prairie plantings celebrate Iowa’s unique natural heritage, offering beautiful scenery and a chance to observe local wildlife. The paved Neal Smith Trail provides an excellent avenue for exercise and exploration, connecting campers to miles of scenic pathways ideal for biking, hiking, or jogging. This blend of active recreation and serene natural beauty embodies the best of Iowa’s outdoor offerings.

For families, the presence of modern playgrounds, especially within the Aster Loop, makes it an excellent choice for keeping kids engaged and entertained. The strong positive reviews from fellow Iowans consistently highlight the campground as a top choice, reinforcing its reputation as a beloved local spot. Aster Loop at Prairie Flower Recreation Area is a place where Iowans can truly embrace the outdoors, create lasting memories, and enjoy the natural splendor of our own backyard.