Saylorville Lake Iowa
A vast reservoir offering flood control and abundant recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking and camping amidst Iowa's natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer people
Saylorville Lake Iowa
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast reservoir offering flood control and abundant recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking and camping amidst Iowa's natural beauty.
"This is one of the more beautiful, peaceful nature places in Iowa."
Weekday Calmness :fishing_pole:
Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, ideal for water sports like skiing. :thumbsup:
Shoreline Hiking :hiking_boot:
Be prepared for rough terrain if fishing from shore; consider boat access points. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dam and Vast Reservoir
Saylorville Dam
Witness the impressive scale of the man-made reservoir and its dam, a testament to flood prevention efforts.
Jester Park Nature Trails
Jester Park
Explore scenic nature trails offering incredible views and opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Butterfly Garden
Near Visitor's Center
A serene spot to observe pollinators and vibrant zinnias, offering a peaceful nature walk.
Sunset Views
Various viewpoints around the lake
Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the expansive water, perfect for photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Amoeba Alerts
Shoreline Access & Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Weekday Calmness :fishing_pole:
Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, ideal for water sports like skiing. :thumbsup:
Shoreline Hiking :hiking_boot:
Be prepared for rough terrain if fishing from shore; consider boat access points. :warning:
Sunset Photography :camera:
The lake offers stunning sunset views, perfect for capturing memorable photos. :star:
Butterfly Garden Delight :butterfly:
Visit the butterfly garden near the Visitor's Center for a peaceful nature experience. :flower:
Tips
from all over the internet
Weekday Calmness :fishing_pole:
Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, ideal for water sports like skiing. :thumbsup:
Shoreline Hiking :hiking_boot:
Be prepared for rough terrain if fishing from shore; consider boat access points. :warning:
Sunset Photography :camera:
The lake offers stunning sunset views, perfect for capturing memorable photos. :star:
Butterfly Garden Delight :butterfly:
Visit the butterfly garden near the Visitor's Center for a peaceful nature experience. :flower:
Check Water Advisories :droplet:
Be aware of potential amoeba warnings before swimming in the lake. :microbe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Saylorville Lake for its beautiful, peaceful natural setting, vast water expanse, and opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and camping. The sunset views are frequently highlighted as a major draw. Some find shoreline fishing access difficult due to terrain, and occasional construction can impact trail access.
"First time visiting!! It was an experience seeing all of that water in the lake and the dam. It was really nice."
Lonique Jackson
"Not hospitable to shoreline fishermen. Since the lake is 50 feet below the original shoreline it can make for a lot of hiking across very rough terrain to get to the water’s edge. If this is your intention you might try down the shore to Cherry Cove or some other boat access or beach area."
R Caron
"This is one of the more beautiful, peaceful nature places in Iowa. There is a Lake for boating, an area for camping and a path to run, walk or bike. We found this area by accident when driving around in Ankeny. I highly recommend checking out the serene Lake. Camping area is opening in the next few days!"
Michelle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saylorville Lake is easily accessible from Des Moines. Take I-35 North and then follow signs for IA-415 North towards Polk City. The lake and its various recreation areas are well-marked from there. Many visitors use their own vehicles, as public transport options directly to the lake are limited.
Key access points include the Saylorville Dam area, Jester Park, Cherry Glen Recreational Area, and various boat ramps and beaches managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers and Polk County Conservation. 
The lake is quite large, but signage for recreation areas and boat ramps is generally good. Using a GPS or a map of the park areas is recommended for first-time visitors.
While possible, it's challenging. Ride-sharing services might be an option to reach the perimeter, but exploring the lake's vast recreation areas without a car is difficult. Renting a car or carpooling is the most practical approach.
During peak season or after heavy rain, some park roads might experience temporary closures or congestion. It's always a good idea to check the official Saylorville Lake or Polk County Conservation websites for any alerts before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no general entrance fee to access Saylorville Lake and its public recreation areas. However, specific activities like camping or renting facilities may incur charges.
Most recreation areas are open from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may have their own operating hours, which are best checked on the official US Army Corps of Engineers or Polk County Conservation websites.
It is highly recommended to book campsites in advance, especially during peak season (summer weekends and holidays), as they can fill up quickly.
Pets are generally allowed in most outdoor areas of Saylorville Lake, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific park regulations for any exceptions.
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas. However, it's crucial to be aware of any water advisories, such as those related to rare amoebas, which have been a concern in Iowa lakes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Saylorville Lake offers a wide range of activities including boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Jester Park also features nature trails and a natural playscape.
Yes, Saylorville Lake is popular for fishing, with species like crappie, bass, and walleye. However, shoreline fishing can be challenging due to the lake's level. Boat access is often preferred.
Absolutely! Jester Park offers extensive nature trails, and there are also bike paths that connect various recreation areas around the lake.
Hiking trails are generally well-maintained, especially in areas like Jester Park. However, reaching the water's edge for shoreline fishing can involve traversing rough, uneven terrain due to the lake's fluctuating levels.
Yes, Saylorville Lake is a popular destination for boating, with numerous boat ramps available. It's a large reservoir, offering plenty of space for various watercraft.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly within the Saylorville Lake recreation areas. However, nearby Polk City offers several eateries, including The Creamery for ice cream, which is a popular spot.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are designated picnic areas with tables and grills available throughout the recreation areas.
Polk City, located near Saylorville Lake, has several local restaurants and cafes. The Creamery is a notable spot for treats. It's advisable to check current local listings for the most up-to-date dining information.
Yes, you can find grocery stores in nearby towns like Polk City or Ankeny, which are convenient for stocking up on picnic supplies or camping essentials.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics and camping. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the lake clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam area offers dramatic views, while Jester Park provides scenic nature trails. Sunsets over the lake are particularly stunning and a favorite for photographers. The butterfly garden is also a picturesque spot.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography. Sunsets are especially popular and create vibrant colors over the water.
The butterfly garden with its pollinators and zinnias offers unique close-up photography opportunities. The vastness of the reservoir and the dam also provide grand, scenic shots.
You might spot various birds, butterflies, and other small wildlife, especially in the natural areas and the butterfly garden.
Drone usage is subject to federal aviation regulations and specific park rules. It's essential to check with the US Army Corps of Engineers or Polk County Conservation for current drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated picnic areas, making for a relaxed and budget-friendly meal. While swimming is an option, always check for water advisories before letting children enter the water.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
However, be aware that shoreline fishing can be challenging due to the lake's fluctuating levels, often requiring a trek across rough terrain to reach the water. If you're planning a fishing trip, consider visiting on a weekday when the lake is less crowded and potentially calmer for boating activities.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
The surrounding wetlands and prairie areas also provide opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the Iowa scenery. Consider visiting in the fall for crisp air and changing foliage, or during the spring for blooming wildflowers. Weekdays offer a more serene experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty without the hustle of weekend crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Purpose of Saylorville Lake
This massive lake covers approximately 26,000 acres and is surrounded by numerous public recreation areas. Its creation involved submerging existing land, leading to local lore about lost towns beneath the water, a topic that has even garnered attention on platforms like TikTok.
The lake's dual role as a flood control measure and a recreational hub makes it a vital asset to the region, offering a balance between environmental management and public enjoyment.
Recreational Activities and Access
For those who prefer to stay on land, Saylorville Lake boasts an extensive network of hiking and biking trails. Jester Park, in particular, is highlighted for its incredible views and nature trails, offering loops of varying distances.
Camping is another significant activity, with campgrounds available for those wishing to extend their stay. Beyond these core activities, visitors can enjoy swimming in designated areas, picnicking, and exploring natural areas like the butterfly garden, which is a peaceful spot for observing pollinators.
Navigating Shoreline Fishing Challenges
This difficulty in accessing the water from the shore has led to advice for fishermen to consider alternative access points. Exploring down the shore towards areas like Cherry Cove or other designated boat access or beach areas might provide a more manageable experience for shoreline fishing.
While the terrain can be demanding, the fishing itself can be rewarding. However, preparation is key. Sturdy footwear and an understanding of the landscape are essential if you plan to attempt shoreline fishing at Saylorville Lake.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit