Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC Introduce
For Iowa families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a truly delightful and hassle-free camping experience, Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC in Earlham is a charming and highly recommended destination. Described by visitors as the "sweetest little place," this campground offers a unique blend of intimate charm and extensive amenities, making it perfect for creating lasting memories right here in our beautiful state. With a focus on cleanliness, hospitality, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Shady Brook is quickly becoming a favorite among Iowans looking for a convenient and enjoyable escape.
Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC is conveniently located at 36026 Jewell Ct, Earlham, IA 50072, USA. This prime location places it just 15 minutes from West Des Moines, offering easy access for residents of the greater Des Moines metropolitan area and beyond. For Iowans traveling from various parts of the state, the drive to Earlham is straightforward, providing a quick transition from city life to the peaceful countryside. While it offers a sense of being "off the beaten track" on a gravel road for about two miles, its proximity to I-80 ensures excellent visibility and accessibility for travelers. The campground is situated on a scenic landscape featuring ample open spaces, beautiful old-growth oak trees, and the year-round flow of Bear Creek, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. This strategic location means campers can enjoy the tranquility of nature while still being a short drive from significant attractions like Madison County's famous covered bridges, the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum, and a plethora of shopping and dining options in the Des Moines area.
Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures prides itself on offering a wide array of services and amenities designed to cater to various camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for everyone. The commitment to guest satisfaction and modern conveniences is evident in their offerings:
- Diverse Campsite Options: The park includes 60 RV sites, with 22 full-service pull-through sites. There are also 11 sites with 50-amp electrical pedestals, and 27 sites with 100-amp electrical pedestals. Additionally, 35 sites provide water access, and 22 sites include sewer connections. For traditional campers, 12 primitive tent sites are available, each with fire rings, picnic tables, and auto access.
- Unique Lodging Options: Beyond RV and tent sites, Shady Brook offers unique accommodations, including a 6-person cabin with full amenities, a 2-3 person cabin with a new deck, and the "FIRST ascending Tree Tents in Iowa," providing a very new and unique option for sleeping in the trees with electric and water hookups. They also have a 33-foot, 3-slide KZ travel trailer for rent.
- Brand New Bathhouse: A highlight for many campers, the "brand new building with updated fixtures & kept very clean" bathhouse provides showers and restrooms. It even includes a heater for chilly weather, ensuring comfort year-round.
- On-Site Laundry Facilities: A dedicated laundry area within the lodge/office building offers convenience for longer stays.
- Free Wi-Fi: High-speed Wi-Fi is available across the campground, allowing guests to stay connected.
- Community Fire Pit & Individual Fire Pits: A large central fire pit fosters a sense of community, perfect for gatherings, while each site also features its own fire pit for a more intimate evening.
- Camp Store & Office: An on-site store caters to campers' needs with essentials like ice, firewood, and basic grocery items. Campers can also order pizza and other food options from the office.
- Pet-Friendly Policies: Shady Brook welcomes pets (excluding buildings), with clear guidelines for leashing and waste disposal, making it a great option for families traveling with their furry companions.
- Mail Service: For long-term or seasonal campers, the convenience of having mail sent directly to the campground is a significant benefit.
Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures is packed with features and highlights that truly set it apart as a premier camping destination for Iowa residents:
- Ideal for Families with Young Kids: Reviewers rave about its suitability for families, noting, "Perfect for a family with younger kids, due to its small size, kids can roam free here, and parents do not have to worry about what their kids are doing." This sense of safety and freedom is invaluable for parents.
- Exceptional Cleanliness and Maintenance: Consistent feedback highlights the cleanliness of the facilities, especially the bathhouse, and the well-maintained grounds, with owners who "keep the place mowed and looking nice."
- Unique "Tree Tent" Experience: The "FIRST ascending Tree Tents in Iowa" offer a novel and memorable way to experience camping, providing a comfortable and elevated sleeping arrangement amidst the trees.
- Welcoming and Non-Discriminatory Owners: Positive reviews emphasize that "The owners are very nice, they aren't discriminatory at all," fostering an inclusive and friendly environment for all guests.
- Large Central & Individual Fire Pits: The versatility of a large communal fire pit for group gatherings and individual fire pits at each site offers flexible options for evening relaxation and socializing.
- Abundant Wildlife: The property is rich with wildlife, offering opportunities for viewing deer and other local fauna, enhancing the natural experience.
- Proximity to Area Attractions: Just 15 minutes from West Des Moines, the campground is a convenient base for exploring Madison County's famous covered bridges, wineries, cideries, hiking trails, and the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum. Bear Creek also flows year-round through the property.
- Designated as a "Best in Iowa" Runner-Up: Shady Brook was named the 2024 Hipcamp Best in Iowa Runner-Up, a testament to its exceptional amenities and scenic beauty.
- Playgrounds and Recreational Areas: The presence of two playgrounds, a large central lawn area, a dog park, a shelter house, and a rec room ensures ample space and activities for children and adults alike.
For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC, please use the following contact details:
Address: 36026 Jewell Ct, Earlham, IA 50072, USA
Phone: (515) 238-1998
Mobile Phone: +1 515-238-1998
It is highly recommended to visit their official website or call directly for the most current information regarding site availability, booking unique lodging options, and any specific policies. Given their various site types and unique offerings, direct communication can ensure you find the perfect spot for your adventure.
Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures is an ideal destination for Iowa locals, offering a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and natural beauty right in their home state. Its close proximity to the Des Moines metro area means less travel time and more time enjoying your outdoor escape. For families, the "sweetest little place" truly lives up to its name, providing a safe and engaging environment where kids can freely explore and parents can relax. The thoughtful amenities, including brand new bathhouses with heating, free Wi-Fi, and convenient on-site firewood, significantly enhance the camping experience. Whether you're looking for a full-hookup RV site, a traditional tent spot, or a unique adventure in one of their "Tree Tents," Shady Brook caters to diverse preferences. The welcoming and non-discriminatory owners create an inclusive atmosphere that fosters community and makes every guest feel at home. It’s not just a place to camp; it’s a place to build "memories that will stay with me forever," as one reviewer eloquently put it. For Iowans seeking a truly special and memorable outdoor getaway, Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC stands out as a top choice.
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Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC Location
Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC
36026 Jewell Ct, Earlham, IA 50072, USA
Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, LLC Reviews
This is the sweetest little place! Perfect for a family with younger kids, due to its small size, kids can roam free here, and parents do not have to worry about what their kids are doing. This would be the best place for a gathering of friends/family with its large central fire pit. However, each site has its own pit for a more intimate evening. The bath house is brand new building with updated fixtures & kept very clean. There's even a heater for chilly weather. I will definitely come back!
May 31, 2025 · beth martinI love living here. The owners are very nice, they keep the place mowed and looking nice. They aren't discriminatory at all AND I just found out we can have our mail sent there! Staying at long as they'll have us.
Jun 27, 2025 · Mo LThis campground is a hidden gem! We only stayed for the night while passing through. The owners were super nice.The campground is well kept and has clean facilities. Lovely setting!
Jun 25, 2025 · Jill KriestenI found this gem driving through on Memorial Day weekend. Even with the busy time they had a beautiful tent site with so much space. My dogs loved the trails, the landscape is amazing. There are porta potty’s right next to the tent area which was great. Treats and such at the office. Quick drive to Des Moines and MANY hiking trails and conservation areas nearby. The woman in the office (owner I think) Deana, was very pleasant and friendly. What a treat, thank you Shady Brook!
May 25, 2025 · Tsan Diltz-RydelI am planning to head to the area for an extended work trip and did my research into local camping situations. After finding this location and reading the reviews, I have decided to avoid this place due to the guy by the name of Dave. Because of his overwhelming need to disregard any negativity or concerns that the patrons of his business express. He responded with straight-up argumentative responses and name calling, statements like "outright lies" instead of handling it in a more professional manner like a respectable business owner would. Dave people can see your responses to others on here, and their reviews DO matter. So take that and learn from it because it can be very damaging to your business plan. Granted, there are a lot of good reviews saying things that really had me wanting to visit, and Dave responds very kindly and professionally to those, but his true colors come out on the criticism.
Jun 06, 2025 · Joe Moss
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