Cherry Glen Campground

cherry glen campground, cherry glen campground iowa, cherry glen campground camping

Welcome to Cherry Glen Campground, a highly sought-after and meticulously maintained RV camping destination nestled along the picturesque shores of Saylorville Lake in Polk City, Iowa. For local residents and visitors to the Hawkeye State, this campground offers a fantastic blend of serene natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, making it a truly ideal spot for a memorable outdoor escape. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Cherry Glen is renowned for its cleanliness, friendly atmosphere, and strategic location that provides easy access to one of Central Iowa's largest and most popular lakes. Our goal with this comprehensive overview is to provide you with all the essential information to plan your next relaxing and activity-filled adventure at this popular local gem.

Iowa, with its diverse landscapes and welcoming communities, offers a variety of outdoor experiences. Cherry Glen Campground stands out as a prime example of well-managed public land, consistently praised by visitors for its "clean and well-maintained" facilities and overall inviting atmosphere. The presence of "campground hosts on site" is a significant advantage, ensuring that assistance is readily available and that the grounds remain well-ordered and pleasant for all campers. This dedicated oversight contributes greatly to the positive and relaxed environment that defines Cherry Glen.

One of the most appealing aspects of Cherry Glen Campground is its intimate connection to Saylorville Lake. This expansive 26,000-acre lake (part of the Saylorville Lake Project) provides a vast playground for water enthusiasts. Campers have "close access to a boat dock," making it incredibly convenient to launch their vessels. The lake is large enough to accommodate a wide range of activities, whether you prefer to "paddle a kayak, use a jet ski or boat." This versatility ensures that everyone, from anglers seeking "good fishing" (with the lake being regularly stocked) to thrill-seekers looking for water sports, can find their preferred activity on the water. Many sites even offer "lovely lake views," enhancing the overall camping experience.

Beyond the aquatic adventures, Cherry Glen offers excellent opportunities for land-based recreation. The campground is surrounded by "lots of trails for walking and biking," with the notable Neal Smith Trail running directly through it. This paved, multipurpose trail connects to miles of scenic paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a family bike ride, or a more vigorous run. The presence of mature trees provides ample "shade" throughout the campground, offering a comfortable retreat, especially during warmer Iowa summers. Reviewers consistently highlight the spaciousness of the sites, often with "lots of shade" and good spacing between lots, contributing to a feeling of privacy and comfort.

It's crucial for prospective campers to note a key detail about the campsites at Cherry Glen: "REMEMBER these sites are electric only. There are no water or sewer hookups" directly at individual sites. This means campers should be prepared to fill their fresh water tanks and utilize the "dump stations and water hydrants... placed around the property." While this requires a bit more planning for RV users, the modern restrooms with "clean bathrooms and showers" and dump stations are well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable stay despite the lack of individual water and sewer connections at each site. This transparency helps campers arrive prepared and enjoy their stay without unexpected surprises.

The popularity of Cherry Glen, especially during peak seasons, means that "you gotta book in advance." This reflects its reputation as a desirable camping spot. The efficient check-in and check-out process, described as "easy" with specific times similar to a hotel (in after 2 pm, out by noon), further streamlines the camping experience, allowing visitors to maximize their time enjoying the lake and trails. For those with a senior pass, a "50% off" discount is often available, making it an even more attractive and affordable option.

Cherry Glen Campground is conveniently located at 4338 NW 94th Ave, Polk City, IA 50226, USA. This prime location places it directly on the eastern shore of Saylorville Lake, a major recreational hub in Central Iowa. Situated just north of Des Moines and west of Ankeny, the campground offers excellent accessibility from various parts of the state.

The address allows for straightforward navigation via well-maintained roads, ensuring easy access for RVs and trailers. Its proximity to Polk City means campers have convenient access to local amenities such as grocery stores and restaurants, blending the tranquility of a lakeside retreat with the practicality of nearby services. Furthermore, being part of the larger Saylorville Lake Project means easy access to other recreational areas and attractions around the lake, including Big Creek State Park. This balance of natural immersion and convenient access makes Cherry Glen Campground a highly practical and desirable destination for any camping trip in Iowa. The smooth "check in/out" process further enhances the accessibility and ease of visiting this popular spot.

• 125 campsites, primarily for RVs and tents.
• Electric-only hookups at individual sites (50 amp available).
• Modern restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers.
• Dump stations available on-site.
• Water hydrants located throughout the property for tank filling.
• Picnic tables and fire rings with grills at each site.
• On-site campground hosts.
• Direct access to Saylorville Lake for boating, fishing, and water sports.
• Close access to a boat dock and boat ramp.
• Access to miles of walking and biking trails (e.g., Neal Smith Trail).
• Kids' play area with swings and slides.
• Pets allowed.
• Online reservation system.

• Lakefront Location: Situated directly on Saylorville Lake, offering excellent water access and views.
• Clean & Well-Maintained: Consistently praised for its cleanliness and upkeep.
• Friendly Campground Hosts: On-site hosts provide assistance and ensure a pleasant atmosphere.
• Extensive Trails: Direct access to paved trails for walking and biking, including the Neal Smith Trail.
• Water Activities Galore: Ideal for kayaking, jet skiing, boating, and fishing on Saylorville Lake.
• Electric-Only Sites: Provides essential power hookups for RVs, with central water and dump stations.
• Shaded & Spacious Sites: Many sites offer ample shade from mature trees and good spacing for privacy.
• Family-Friendly: Includes a playground area for children and welcoming to pets.
• Reservations Recommended: Popularity requires booking in advance, ensuring a secured spot.

Address: 4338 NW 94th Ave, Polk City, IA 50226, USA

Phone: (515) 964-8792

Mobile Phone: +1 515-964-8792

For residents of Iowa, Cherry Glen Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly desirable destination for their next outdoor adventure, offering a perfect blend of recreational opportunities and the comforts of a well-maintained facility, all within easy reach.

Firstly, its prime location on Saylorville Lake is a significant draw for Iowans. The lake is a major recreational hub for Central Iowa, and having a "clean and well-maintained" campground directly on its shores means immediate access to a vast array of water activities. Whether it's "paddling a kayak, use a jet ski or boat," or enjoying "good fishing" on the regularly stocked lake, locals can effortlessly indulge in their favorite aquatic pastimes. This accessibility to such a large and diverse body of water is a cherished resource for those living in a landlocked state.

Secondly, the campground's commitment to cleanliness and the presence of "campground hosts on site" resonate strongly with Iowans' appreciation for well-managed public spaces and friendly service. Knowing that facilities like "clean restrooms and showers" are readily available, even with "electric only" sites, ensures a comfortable and worry-free stay. This attention to detail and customer experience fosters a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits, making Cherry Glen a trusted local favorite.

Furthermore, the extensive network of "trails for walking and biking," including access to the Neal Smith Trail, provides ample opportunities for land-based recreation, catering to the active lifestyles of many Iowans. Combining a day of hiking or biking with an evening by a campfire under the shade of mature trees creates a holistic outdoor experience. The family-friendly amenities, such as the playground, also make it an ideal spot for Iowan families looking to create lasting memories together in nature.

Finally, the strategic location in Polk City, with convenient access to nearby towns for supplies and dining, strikes a perfect balance between a natural retreat and practical convenience. It means locals can enjoy the tranquility of the lakeside setting without being too isolated from essential services. For Iowans seeking a high-quality, activity-rich camping experience that feels both familiar and rejuvenating, Cherry Glen Campground offers a reliable and beloved choice, ensuring countless enjoyable returns to the shores of Saylorville Lake.

Cherry Glen Campground

4338 NW 94th Ave, Polk City, IA 50226, USA