Campground Rules
FEQUENTELY ASKED QUESTIONS
CAMPING:
At the time of registering site must have the camping unit already on the site
No holding a campsite for a late arrival, picnic shelter are not a designated camping unit.
Extra tent must be registered prior to setting up.
No camping under the stars.
Must be 18 years old to register a site.
SHELTER:
No vehicles parked away from parking lot; in or near shelter buildings
Keg beer only with deposit
Closing 10:30 pm
Reserved shelters are for entire day reserved
PARK HOURS:
6:30 a.m. – 10:30p.m.
(From daylight savings time in the spring until standard time in the fall.
GATE CLOSURES:
Upon reentering the park after hours, person must know site number and name of registered party.
Not locked only clasped with chain
PETS:
Must be on leash and not left alone at site
6 foot leash
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Do my visitors need to leave the park at 10:30 p.m. even if they are visiting us at our campsite?
Section 12 of our Park Rules and Regulations states: all visitors are required to leave the park prior to closing time, which is 10:30 p.m. during the summer hours and by sunset during off season.
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We don't have a tent, can we sleep under the stars, if we register a campsite?
No. Under our Park Rules and Regulations, you need to have a designated "Camping unit" in order to camp in a county park, a "camping unit" is a tent, trailer or motor vehicle specifically designated for such use as a temporary residence at a camp area. Section 13 (E).
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What is the latest I can set up a camping spot?
For walk-ins and not reserving a campsite, Section 14 (K) of our Park Rules and Regulations stipulates: There will be no taking down or putting up of camping units after 10:00 p.m.
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Do you lock the gates at 10:30pm?
No, we do not lock the gates. If you return to the park after hours and you notice that the gate is closed, the gate is closed with a chain and a clasp. We ask that when you open the gate and drive through, that you close the gate and reclasp the fastener. You may be stopped by the ranger, in which case let them know your returning to your camp site.
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Can both a trailer and fold down occupy one site?
No, as stated in our regulations, Section 13 E. “Camping unit or camp”: a tent, trailer or motor vehicle specifically designed for such use as a temporary residence at a camp area. A camper with an additional tent or a tent with a second tent is an extra $6 fee. You are able to have two tents on the same site, however, two trailers, are not permitted.
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Do my visitors need to leave the park at 10:30 p.m. even if they are visiting us at our campsite?
Section 12 of our Park Rules and Regulations states: all visitors are required to leave the park prior to closing time, which is 10:30 p.m. during the summer hours and by sunset during off season.
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We don't have a tent, can we sleep under the stars, if we register a campsite?
No. Under our Park Rules and Regulations, you need to have a designated "Camping unit" in order to camp in a county park, a "camping unit" is a tent, trailer or motor vehicle specifically designated for such use as a temporary residence at a camp area. Section 13 (E).
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How do we contact a ranger?
If it is for an emergency, dial -911. The emergency services will notify the ranger on duty. Otherwise, phone contact information is provided in our park brochures and information kiosks. You may also contact our main office at 515.323.5300.
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Where can I ride my ATV in Polk County?
Section 20. The use of ATV's or similar vehicles is prohibited in county parks, this includes trails as well; you will find this website helpful: http://www.iowadnr.gov/law/atv/index.html
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What is the latest I can set up a camping spot?
For walk-ins and not reserving a campsite, Section 14 (K) of our Park Rules and Regulations stipulates: There will be no taking down or putting up of camping units after 10:00 p.m.
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Do you lock the gates at 10:30pm?
No, we do not lock the gates. If you return to the park after hours and you notice that the gate is closed, the gate is closed with a chain and a clasp. We ask that when you open the gate and drive through, that you close the gate and reclasp the fastener. You may be stopped by the ranger, in which case let them know your returning to your camp site.
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Can both a trailer and fold down occupy one site?
No, as stated in our regulations, Section 13 E. “Camping unit or camp”: a tent, trailer or motor vehicle specifically designed for such use as a temporary residence at a camp area. A camper with an additional tent or a tent with a second tent is an extra $5 fee. You are able to have two tents on the same site, however, two trailers, are not permitted.
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