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Bob Shetler Picnic Area

Saylorville Lake — lakeside, fishing, hiking

JOHNSTON, IA3.6 (5)
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Bob Shetler Picnic Area is a day-use facility located in the tailwater area below Saylorville Dam, and is a popular destination for shoreline fishermen. The 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.The day-use area offers two large group picnic areas with water and electric hookups.

Things to do nearby

Saylorville LakeDes Moines River

Best For

AnglersHikersWildlife watchersFamilies

Site Types

Tent

Amenities

Fire Rings
Picnic Tables
Flush Toilets
Electric Hookups
Fishing
Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Season

May through October

Max/site

6 people

Known Issues

Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.

Cancellation Policy

Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Bob Shetler Picnic Area cost per night?+
Bob Shetler Picnic Area costs $50 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: Electric hookups on select sites. No water/sewer.
What season is Bob Shetler Picnic Area open?+
Bob Shetler Picnic Area is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.
Does Bob Shetler Picnic Area have hookups?+
Electric hookups on select sites. No water/sewer.
What is the maximum RV length at Bob Shetler Picnic Area?+
Bob Shetler Picnic Area is primarily a tent camping facility. Contact the campground about RV access.
How do I make reservations at Bob Shetler Picnic Area?+
Bob Shetler Picnic Area is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.
How far is Bob Shetler Picnic Area from the nearest town?+
Bob Shetler Picnic Area is located in JOHNSTON, IA. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.
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$50/night
3.6(5)
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