Ox-Eye Loop

For Iowans yearning for a relaxing and engaging outdoor experience close to home, Ox-Eye Loop campground offers an excellent opportunity. Situated within the expansive Saylorville Lake Project in Polk County, this campground provides a comfortable and scenic setting for everything from weekend getaways to longer family vacations. It's a prime example of the fantastic recreational opportunities available right here in our own backyard, blending the tranquility of nature with convenient amenities that make camping accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Ox-Eye Loop is part of the larger network of campgrounds managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers around Saylorville Lake, a massive reservoir stretching over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. This means visitors can expect well-maintained facilities and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area. While specific reviews for Ox-Eye Loop itself are often embedded within broader feedback for the Saylorville Lake campgrounds, the overall sentiment for these Corps of Engineers sites is overwhelmingly positive. Campers consistently praise the cleanliness, the spaciousness of the sites, and the overall quality of the camping experience.

The Saylorville Lake area is renowned among Iowans for its diverse recreational offerings. The 26,000-acre lake itself is a hub for water sports, fishing, and boating, while the surrounding land provides extensive opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Campgrounds like Ox-Eye Loop are designed to be the perfect base camp for these adventures, providing a comfortable place to return to after a day of exploration. This dedication to outdoor recreation, combined with well-managed facilities, makes the Saylorville Lake campgrounds, including Ox-Eye Loop, highly sought-after by local enthusiasts.

What truly makes Ox-Eye Loop and its surrounding area suitable for us Iowans is its accessibility and the sheer variety of activities on offer. We pride ourselves on our beautiful landscapes and the opportunities they provide for outdoor enjoyment, and Saylorville Lake exemplifies this. Whether you're a seasoned camper with a large RV, a family looking for a comfortable tent site, or a group planning a reunion, the facilities are designed to accommodate a wide range of needs. Plus, the ongoing commitment to maintaining these natural spaces ensures that they remain a valuable resource for generations of Iowans to come.

The campground operates seasonally, typically opening in mid-April and closing in mid-October, allowing Iowans to enjoy the best of our spring, summer, and fall weather in the outdoors. Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as the popularity of these well-regarded sites means they fill up quickly. This testament to their quality further underscores why Ox-Eye Loop is a favored spot for a true Iowa outdoor adventure.

Ox-Eye Loop is nestled within the scenic expanse of Polk County, IA 50226, making it an easily accessible retreat for residents across Central Iowa. While a specific street address isn't always given for loop sections within larger parks, its location within the Saylorville Lake Project means it's part of a well-signposted and established recreational area. For those traveling from Des Moines, the drive is relatively short and straightforward, typically involving routes that lead directly to the Saylorville Lake area. This close proximity to major urban centers is a significant advantage for Iowans looking for a convenient escape from city life without extensive travel.

The campground's placement within Polk County also means it benefits from the county's broader conservation efforts and infrastructure, ensuring that roads leading to the campground are well-maintained. The natural setting, combined with ease of access, allows visitors to quickly transition from their daily routines to the tranquil environment of the lake and surrounding woodlands. This blend of convenience and immersion in nature makes Ox-Eye Loop an attractive choice for both planned vacations and spontaneous outdoor excursions.

• Electric Hookups: Most sites at the Saylorville Lake campgrounds, including loops like Ox-Eye, typically offer 20, 30, and 50 amp electric hookups for RVs and other camping needs.
• Flush Toilets: Modern and clean restroom facilities with flush toilets are available, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.
• Showers: Well-maintained shower houses provide hot showers for campers.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is accessible throughout the campground via well spigots.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVs to dispose of wastewater.
• Paved Roads & Pads: While specific site details can vary, many areas within Saylorville Lake campgrounds feature paved main roads and level gravel or concrete pads for easy setup.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are provided at each campsite for campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Trash Disposal: Designated dumpsters are available for proper trash disposal.
• Pet Friendly: Pets are generally welcome, provided they are kept on a leash (6 feet or shorter) and their waste is properly disposed of.
• Reservations: Advance reservations are required for most campsites and can be made online via Recreation.gov.
• Fee Booth: Staffed fee booths are available for check-in and assistance.

• Saylorville Lake Access: The primary highlight is immediate access to Saylorville Lake, a vast 26,000-acre reservoir, offering unparalleled opportunities for water recreation.
• Boating & Water Sports: Ideal for motorboating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing, and kayaking across the expansive lake.
• Excellent Fishing: Saylorville Lake is a popular fishing destination, known for species like walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and northern pike.
• Neal Smith Trail Connectivity: The paved Neal Smith Trail, a National Recreation Trail, runs for 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park, connecting various campgrounds around Saylorville Lake. It's perfect for biking, hiking, jogging, walking, and in-line skating.
• Rich Wildlife Observation: The diverse habitats around the lake support a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, waterfowl, and other small game, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Scenic Views: Many campsites, particularly those closer to the lake, offer pleasant views of the water and surrounding natural landscapes.
• Managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Ensures high standards of maintenance, environmental stewardship, and a focus on public recreation facilities.
• Spacious Campsites: Campgrounds in the Saylorville Lake Project are often noted for having spacious and well-spaced campsites, providing a sense of privacy and comfort.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With ample space for outdoor activities and nearby attractions, it's well-suited for family camping trips.
• Prairie Habitat: The area incorporates significant prairie plantings, showcasing Iowa's natural heritage and providing unique aesthetic and ecological value.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Ox-Eye Loop typically operates under standard federal camping fees rather than commercial promotions. However, there are established benefits for specific groups. Holders of the America the Beautiful (ATB) Senior Pass or Access Pass are eligible for a 50% discount on camping fees. This discount applies to the campsite rate and does not extend to group camping or shelter reservation fees. These passes can often be purchased at the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center or Administration Office. It is always advisable for campers to check the Recreation.gov website for the most up-to-date pricing, availability, and any specific policies regarding discounts or long-term stays, as these public campgrounds are very popular and reservations, especially during peak season, fill up quickly.

For more detailed information, current availability, or to make a reservation for Ox-Eye Loop or other campgrounds within the Saylorville Lake Project, please refer to the following contact information. While a direct phone number for "Ox-Eye Loop" specifically isn't provided, general inquiries about Saylorville Lake campgrounds are handled by the main project office:

Address (for Saylorville Lake Project Office): 5600 NW 78th Avenue, Johnston, IA 50131-1941, USA (Note: This is the administrative address, not the campground entrance)

Campground Inquiries Phone: (515) 984-6925 (This number is often associated with the Prairie Flower Recreation Area, which Ox-Eye Loop is part of or closely related to)

Online Reservations: www.recreation.gov (Search for Saylorville Lake or specific campgrounds like Prairie Flower Recreation Area)

For us Iowans, Ox-Eye Loop campground represents an exceptional opportunity to experience the natural beauty and recreational abundance of our state without venturing far from home. Its location within the Saylorville Lake Project in Polk County is a significant draw, offering immediate access to one of Central Iowa's most cherished and dynamic outdoor destinations. We value convenient access to quality outdoor spaces, and Ox-Eye Loop delivers precisely that, making it perfect for both planned vacations and spontaneous escapes.

The comprehensive amenities, including electric hookups, flush toilets, and showers, cater to a comfortable camping experience, whether you're in an RV or a tent. This level of comfort, combined with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' reputation for maintaining clean and well-managed facilities, ensures a positive and worry-free stay. The spacious campsites provide room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet, a welcome reprieve from daily life.

Beyond the campground itself, the recreational opportunities at Saylorville Lake are immense and perfectly align with the interests of many Iowans. From the excitement of boating and fishing on the expansive lake to the tranquility of hiking or biking on the paved Neal Smith Trail, there's an activity for every age and interest. The presence of diverse wildlife and native prairie plantings also allows for a deeper connection with Iowa's unique natural heritage.

Ultimately, choosing Ox-Eye Loop means choosing a well-regarded, accessible, and activity-rich camping experience that truly embodies the spirit of Iowa's outdoors. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, friends can gather, and individuals can find solace in nature, all within the familiar and welcoming landscapes of our home state. This campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation to explore and appreciate the natural gems that Polk County has to offer.