Jester Park Campground

For Iowans seeking a diverse and engaging outdoor experience right in the heart of our state, Jester Park Campground stands out as a premier destination. More than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV, Jester Park offers a sprawling 1,661 acres of natural beauty along the west shore of Saylorville Lake, providing a rich tapestry of recreational opportunities. Whether you're a family looking for educational wildlife encounters, a group of friends seeking adventure, or an individual desiring a peaceful escape, Jester Park Campground provides a welcoming and vibrant setting for making lasting memories in Central Iowa. Its combination of natural scenery and accessible activities makes it a beloved "getaway" for locals.

Jester Park Campground is strategically located at 12130 NW 128th St, Madrid, IA 50156, USA. While the mailing address may be Madrid, the park itself is situated closer to Granger and Polk City, placing it conveniently just 30 minutes northwest of downtown Des Moines. This prime location offers the best of both worlds: a serene natural environment that feels a world away from city life, yet is easily accessible for residents across Central Iowa. Its proximity to Saylorville Lake, a major recreational reservoir, further enhances its appeal, providing ample opportunities for water-based activities.

Access to Jester Park has been improved over the years, with a master plan that proposed relocating the park's main entrance to its west side, which has reduced travel distance to various facilities. While one review mentions "Roads are confusing especially in the RV lot," the overall access to the park via well-maintained county roads is generally straightforward. Its central location in Iowa means it's a manageable drive for most residents, making it an ideal choice for weekend trips or longer vacations without extensive travel.

Jester Park Campground offers a comprehensive array of services and facilities designed to cater to a wide range of campers and visitors, from those seeking rustic simplicity to those desiring modern comforts.

Services Offered:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The park features over 148 campsites, including 80 electric sites (some reservable in advance), 62 non-electric sites (some reservable), and four primitive walk-in sites for a more secluded experience. Two reservable youth areas are also available for groups.
• Modern Shower Houses: Two campground shower houses with flush toilets are open from mid-April through the end of October (weather permitting), ensuring clean and comfortable facilities for campers.
• Cabins and Lodge Rentals: For those seeking more comfort, Jester Park offers four modern reservable cabins and a Lodge rental facility, perfect for family getaways or group retreats.
• Picnic Areas & Shelters: Numerous picnic tables and shelters are scattered throughout the park, accommodating both small and large groups for day use.
• Boat Ramps: Convenient boat ramps provide direct access to Saylorville Lake for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
• Equestrian Facilities: The Jester Park Equestrian Center offers riding lessons, trail riding, wagon and sleigh rides, camps, and allows for equestrian layovers, making it a unique offering for horse lovers.
• Golf Courses: Jester Park boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, a 9-hole par 3 course, and a modern Golf Learning and Practice Facility with a driving range.
• Outdoor Recreation & Wellness Center: Features an indoor archery and air rifle range, as well as a bouldering room. Equipment like canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, cross-country skis, and snowshoes are available for rent.
• Dump Station: Available for RV users.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in the campground, with restrictions (e.g., must be leashed).

Jester Park Campground distinguishes itself with an impressive array of features and highlights that make it a truly special place for Iowans to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities.

Features / Highlights:

• Jester Park Nature Center: A central hub for education and exploration, offering year-round nature programs and exhibits. It's an "entertaining and educational stop" that helps visitors learn about Iowa's natural heritage.
• Bison and Elk Herds: A significant draw, as noted by a reviewer: "There were tiny frogs everywhere, and a place for Buffalo to roam. This is a great place to bring children to educate on wildlife." The Elk and Bison Educational Plaza offers an accessible observation deck and educational displays.
• Expansive Trail System: Over 8 miles of natural trails are available for hiking, including the 5-mile Lakeshore Trail along Saylorville Lake. Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are also popular in winter when conditions permit.
• Saylorville Lake Access: The park's location on the west shore of Saylorville Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the lake scenery.
• Natural Playscape & Playgrounds: An open-ended concept playground built from natural materials encourages children's creativity and discovery, in addition to traditional playground equipment.
• Diverse Recreational Activities: Beyond camping, the park offers miniature golf, an archery range, horseback riding, and various water activities on Saylorville Lake, ensuring there's something for everyone.
• Beautiful Scenery: Reviewers consistently praise the "Beautiful scenery" and "amazing views" of the campground, with options for sites offering lake views or tucked away in shaded, secluded wooded areas.
• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Multiple reviews commend the "clean facilities," "clean bathhouses," and neatly mowed grounds, indicating a high standard of upkeep by Polk County Conservation.
• A Place for Learning and Discovery: Beyond just recreation, the park fosters educational opportunities through its Nature Center, wildlife exhibits, and even interpretive art sculptures along trails.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Jester Park Campground and its extensive facilities, you can use the following contact details:

Contact Information:

Address: 12130 NW 128th St, Madrid, IA 50156, USA (Note: While Madrid is the address, Jester Park is often associated with Granger, IA as well.)

Main Park Phone: (515) 323-5300 (This is a general contact for Jester Park managed by Polk County Conservation.)

Jester Park Nature Center Phone: (515) 323-5350

Ranger Cell Phone Number (for trail conditions/updates): (515) 249-3229

Reservations for cabins and some campsites can be made online at www.mycountyparks.com.

For Iowans, Jester Park Campground is an indispensable local treasure, offering a wealth of experiences just a short drive from our major population centers. Its vast 1,661 acres provide ample space for various activities, ensuring that every visit can be unique. The "Great little get away!" sentiment from a customer perfectly encapsulates its appeal—it's a convenient escape that feels truly immersive. The opportunity to educate children on wildlife through the accessible bison and elk herds, as highlighted in a review, makes it particularly suitable for families seeking both fun and learning.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful camping spot by Saylorville Lake, an adventurous day of hiking and golfing, or an educational visit to the Nature Center, Jester Park has it all. The consistent praise for its "Beautiful scenery" and the overall welcoming atmosphere make it a reliable choice for your next outdoor adventure in Iowa. It's a place where you can truly connect with our state's natural heritage, create lasting family memories, and enjoy the diverse recreational offerings right in your own backyard.

To get a better visual of what Jester Park offers, consider watching this video about the (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhhZd3R-1W4).

Jester Park Campground

12130 NW 128th St, Madrid, IA 50156, USA