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Top 24 Hotels Near Saylorville Lake Recreation Area
5600 N.w. 78th Ave. Johnston, IA
GrandStay Hotel & Suites
The guest's journey from GrandStay Hotel & Suites in Johnston to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a easy drive, enhancing the sense of being in a convenient location.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites typically offers efficient check-in, modest lobby chairs, and self-serve coffee that emphasize budget-style convenience. Accommodations often include hardwood accents, compact seating, and rainfall showers, providing a modern yet approachable guest stay. Facilities often present vending areas, compact breakfast spaces, and guest laundries that help visitors manage routines while away.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, vending areas, and laundry rooms, reinforcing practical daily routines across visits.
AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines
From AmericInn by Wyndham Johnston Des Moines, Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a simple drive, a feature that gives guests more command over their travel.
Bright, evenly lit Wyndham reception zones keep the desk in clear view from the entrance, helping guests orient quickly and proceed confidently. Guest rooms pair crisp linens, noise-reducing drapes, and programmable thermostats, making it easier to sleep well in different time zones. Shared workspaces include communal desks, whiteboard walls, and quiet zones, supporting collaborative work without crowding guest rooms.
Wi-Fi, breakfast buffet, convenience store, meeting AV, valet service, and laundry pick-up combine for straightforward, low-friction stays for teams.
Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston
Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is an easy drive from Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston, a plan that ensures the trip there is a pleasant part of the experience.
Arrivals at Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston may highlight basic reception, complimentary parking, and vending machines for guest-oriented practicality. Rooms may feature premium linens, blackout curtains, and in-room coffee, supporting both rest and routine refreshment during travel. Shared spaces may highlight vending machines, modest seating, and breakfast rooms that provide practical balance during travel stays.
A stay often presents Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and guest laundries, reflecting straightforward budget travel ease.
Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines
The journey from Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a direct run, a perk that contributes to a well-rounded and convenient stay.
Ramada coffee stations in lobbies act as courtesy touches, signaling brand care while providing simple refreshment for travelers. Guest rooms provide branded bath amenities, modern showers, and fresh towels, refreshing personal routines with predictable clarity. Lobby seating clusters with bright lighting, chairs, and communal tables provide regrouping spaces and orientation clarity daily.
Pet accommodations, Wi-Fi, and breakfast counters pair with pools and laundry, making family routines predictable and convenient.
Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines - Merle Hay Road
This useful drive to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area from Quality Inn & Suites Des Moines - Merle Hay Road is a defining element, since it ensures the stay is built on simplicity.
Quality Inn places clear signage and readable maps in the lobby so rideshare, shuttle, and parking directions are easy to identify. Standard rooms provide a compact coffee maker, microwave, and mini-fridge so medication, snacks, and quick meals are handled in-room. Indoor pools provide lap lanes, lounge seating, and towel pickup, letting guests squeeze in a swim between meetings without fuss.
Fitness centers and pool access provide easy on-property spots to recharge so guests maintain wellness between flights or sessions.
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Des Moines - Northwest by IHG
Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a simple cross-town drive from Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Des Moines - Northwest by IHG, a plan that ensures travel plans are always straightforward.
Lobby designs at Holiday Inn & Suites emphasize clean décor and bright lighting, ensuring dependable orientation and comfort. All guest rooms feature plush beds, blackout shades, and digital thermostats, creating predictable comfort for nightly rest routines. Bars located in open lobbies offer cocktails, snacks, and seating, giving travelers casual hubs for unwinding and relaxed connection.
Pet-friendly policies, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi connect with laundry and parking, offering clarity for families on the road.
Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines / Urbandale
The primary travel advantage of Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines / Urbandale in Johnston is Saylorville Lake Recreation Area being a direct run, ensuring a simple arrival.
Hydration points beside seating at Hilton Garden Inn receptions give arrivals refreshing pauses, softening transitions from transit to stay. Each suite features blackout drapes, plush linens, and adjustable thermostats, helping guests create ideal conditions for nightly rest. Outdoor pools with lounge chairs, shaded tables, and towel service give guests balanced recreation that blends leisure and rest.
EV charging, complimentary breakfast, indoor pools, laundry service, and meeting rooms ensure amenities fit modern travel needs.
Tru by Hilton Grimes Des Moines
The hotel's spot an uncomplicated drive from Saylorville Lake Recreation Area gives Tru by Hilton Grimes Des Moines guests a direct option for their daily commute.
Tru highlights its bold décor and playful lobby games, giving guests an energetic first impression that reflects brand personality. Guest rooms provide coffee makers, bedside outlets, and plush bedding, giving travelers comfort and convenience in daily routines. The breakfast station with its Top It bar offers cereals, fruits, and toppings, ensuring travelers enjoy variety and routine each morning.
With markets, pet-friendly rooms, Wi-Fi, and fitness facilities, travelers maintain balance between convenience and family needs.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott - Des Moines Urbandale
Guests at TownePlace Suites by Marriott - Des Moines Urbandale can rely on Saylorville Lake Recreation Area being within easy reach as a key perk that frames their entire stay.
Lobby coffee and breakfast stations at TownePlace Suites provide consistent rituals, giving arrival moments familiar comfort and calm. Suites blend spacious sleeping zones with kitchen unpacks, giving long-stay guests space to structure both efficiency and calm. Meeting room delivers soundproof panels and overhead projectors, ensuring professional presentations and meetings run with confidence and clarity.
Meeting space, outdoor patio, and valet dry cleaning fuse collaboration, leisure, and garment care in elegant support of stay delight.
Sonesta Essential Des Moines
In Johnston, Sonesta Essential Des Moines has a accessible location relative to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area, letting guests easily transition from their room to the event.
To enable short work bursts, Sonesta Essential arranges charging stations at communal tables so devices recharge while you plan the day ahead. Every suite supplies a sofa bed, extra storage, and room-dividing sightlines, allowing both daytime work and evening rest without friction. Poolside seating areas provide loungers, umbrellas, and small tables, helping guests relax between activities and keep plans on track.
From Wi-Fi and market cases to pool access, meeting rooms, and accessible parking, guests move through plans without unnecessary friction.
Red Lion Inn & Suites Grimes
For a trip to Johnston, Red Lion Inn & Suites Grimes's location an easy drive from Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a fundamental component of the guest journey.
A central lobby bar at a Red Lion hotel creates a vibrant social hub, offering a perfect spot to start the evening or meet up with friends. Suites offer spacious layouts with separate living areas and comfortable sleeper sofas, providing ample room for families and groups. Well-equipped fitness centers ensure that health-conscious guests can get in a complete workout, from a morning run to strength training.
With an indoor pool and hot tub, a free breakfast, a pet-friendly policy, and free Wi-Fi, guests can enjoy their trip without extra costs.
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Urbandale by IHG
For a trip where a direct drive is essential, Holiday Inn Express and Suites Urbandale by IHG offers a simple drive to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area, making it a logical hub for any itinerary.
Bright décor and open layouts at Holiday Inn Express create a welcoming tone, softening the move from transit to the beginning of a stay. Suites include sofa beds, large TVs, and multiple seating areas, offering flexible comfort for family groups or extended stays. Lobby lounges containing communal desks, soft chairs, and charging hubs foster both orientation and social connection easily.
Valet parking, reliable Wi-Fi, and free breakfast pair with fitness facilities and business lounges, balancing productivity and comfort.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Urbandale Des Moines
This easy drive to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area from Homewood Suites by Hilton Urbandale Des Moines lets guests to feel more in control of their schedule in Johnston.
At Homewood Suites, the Suite Shop® stands adjacent to reception, offering late-night arrivals immediate access to drinks and snacks. Each guest room supplies streaming TVs, blackout curtains, and climate control, ensuring both entertainment and relaxation nightly. Lobby seating clusters containing tables, sofas, and chairs provide a comfortable place for colleagues or families to gather casually.
With indoor pools, breakfast buffets, parking services, and laundry rooms, families keep routines consistent during travel days.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Urbandale
For visitors to Johnston, Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Urbandale keeps Saylorville Lake Recreation Area within easy reach, a detail that supports a stress-free travel plan.
Upon arrival, Fairfield Inn highlights clear paths from curb to desk with benches and map racks nearby so navigation feels immediate and simple. Guest rooms highlight lounge seating, flat-screen TVs, and blackout shades, offering travelers comfort and entertainment for balanced stays. Lobby areas highlight communal tables, modern seating, and bright décor, helping families and colleagues regroup comfortably before activities.
Guests benefit from meeting space, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi access, and fitness equipment, supporting productivity and balance every visit.
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines / Urbandale
Because Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines / Urbandale keeps Saylorville Lake Recreation Area within easy reach, guests can easily transition to the next part of their day.
Lobby coffee service at Hampton Inn provides 24-hour refreshment, ensuring arrivals and late-night guests enjoy consistent comfort touches. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh comfortably after a day of activities. Indoor pools with lounge chairs, spa-style tubs, and towels provide restful areas where guests can recharge comfortably during visits.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi connectivity, indoor pools, fitness studios, and meeting spaces provide dependable routines for all travelers.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Urbandale / Des Moines
For a trip to Johnston, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Urbandale / Des Moines's location a direct run from Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a central part of its appeal to travelers.
Microtel may accommodate early key pickup when rooms are ready, cutting idle time so guests move straight from lobby to rest. Each guest room’s blackout shades pair with steady A/C, creating a cool environment that supports predictable rest overnight. Fitness rooms cap sessions with wipe dispensers and fresh towels, maintaining a clean rhythm that supports consistency across trips nightly.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and pet-friendly rooms at select sites, road trips remain predictable and low-stress overall.
Residence Inn by Marriott Des Moines Ankeny
Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is within easy reach of Residence Inn by Marriott Des Moines Ankeny, a convenience that allows the hotel to serve as an easy-to-navigate base.
Residence Inn lobbies feature sofa clusters and small tables, providing regrouping areas where families or groups can pause comfortably. All suites feature closets, drawer storage, and luggage benches, helping travelers organize belongings smoothly during extended stays. Fitness facilities with rowing machines, cardio stations, and weight benches give travelers the tools to maintain balance in their routines.
On-site markets, breakfast service, complimentary Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and fitness studios provide consistency for extended-stay comfort.
Tru by Hilton Ankeny
From Tru by Hilton Ankeny, Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a direct run, a perk that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
Guests entering Tru notice infused water at reception, showing attentiveness through simple hospitality details that feel consistent. Suites present microwaves, mini-fridges, and dining counters, providing families flexible setups to manage meals and snacks easily. Guests in the fitness room access treadmills, weights, and mats, supporting wellness habits that help maintain energy during trips.
Amenities include complimentary breakfast, parking access, Wi-Fi, and game lounges, ensuring trips remain reliable and enjoyable.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Ankeny
Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is an easy drive from Home2 Suites by Hilton Ankeny, a plan that ensures travel logistics are always straightforward.
With infused water, colorful art, and flexible seating, Home2 Suites lobbies deliver comfort while easing transitions from travel. Each guest room contains blackout drapes, adjustable lighting, and plush bedding, supporting restful nights and refreshed mornings. In the fitness area, treadmills, dumbbells, and mats support routines, letting wellness-focused travelers maintain daily balance.
Amenities such as business centers, pet-friendly policies, Wi-Fi, and breakfast ensure professionals and families enjoy balance daily.
Qube Hotel
This practical drive to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area from Qube Hotel is a key feature, because it promotes a relaxed and manageable itinerary.
Qube Hotel often provides no-frills check-in, nearby parking, and modest lobby seating that reinforce straightforward travel flow. Each guest room typically offers ergonomic seating, compact desks, and Wi-Fi, helping guests maintain productivity while on the road. Facilities often showcase compact lobbies, vending areas, and coin-operated laundry that emphasize functional routines for guests.
Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, compact breakfast areas, vending access, and laundry rooms, maintaining reliable routines for guests.
Staybridge Suites Des Moines North Ankeny by IHG
From Staybridge Suites Des Moines North Ankeny by IHG, the direct drive to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a core benefit to stay on schedule before the day begins.
Staybridge Suites keeps the lobby sightline open from entrance to desk, helping new arrivals identify staff and next steps at a glance. All suites supply cookware and measuring basics, making recipe prep manageable and the kitchen genuinely functional day to day. Courtyards arrange durable seating, planters, and shade, offering an easy outdoor option near lobby paths for short breaks or calls.
Complimentary washers and dryers with detergent vending connect with Wi-Fi and a quiet nook, making cycles easy to fit around plans.
Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG
Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is an uncomplicated drive of Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG, a convenience that allows for easy travel to other local points.
Concierge-style reception at Holiday Inn Express ensures orientation clarity, offering travelers confidence in their arrival process. Guest rooms highlight plush beds, blackout curtains, and climate controls, giving travelers restful nights across every stay type. Business centers offering Wi-Fi, terminals, and printers help travelers remain productive without needing to leave the property.
Pet-friendly policies, Wi-Fi, and breakfast buffets align with pools and laundry, easing the stay experience for diverse travelers.
Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - Urbandale
The journey from Extended Stay America Select Suites - Des Moines - Urbandale to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area is a simple drive, a benefit that adds to the overall sense of convenience.
A friendly welcome from the staff helps guests at Extended Stay America feel at home, setting a positive tone for their entire stay. A large, flat-screen TV in each guest room offers premium channels, providing a simple way to unwind after a day of work or activities. On-site laundry rooms are a major asset for guests, providing the autonomy to do wash on their own schedule without leaving the hotel.
A smart amenity package including a full kitchen, guest laundry, a fitness center, and a grab-and-go breakfast caters to modern travelers.
Des Moines Marriott Downtown
This direct car trip to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area from Des Moines Marriott Downtown allows guests enjoy a bit of Johnston before their event.
Reception pathways at Marriott are clearly defined, supporting orientation clarity for both first-time and returning guests on arrival. Guest rooms provide ergonomic work surfaces, reliable Wi-Fi, and charging outlets, making it easy to balance work and leisure routines. The business center contains shared terminals and printers, giving guests convenient access to essential tools for staying productive.
Valet parking, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi pair with breakfast service and meeting spaces, ensuring stays remain balanced and efficient.
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Saylorville Lake Recreation Area Local Area Guide
Welcome to Saylorville Lake Recreation Area, a prominent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports lovers in the Des Moines metropolitan area. This guide is designed to help you plan your visit, whether you're arriving for a day of recreation, a weekend camping trip, or a special event. You’ll find essential information on navigating the area, discovering nearby attractions, finding convenient dining options, and understanding the local climate to make your Saylorville Lake experience seamless and enjoyable. Prepare to explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities this expansive lake has to offer.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Saylorville Lake Recreation Area (Johnston, IA)
Saylorville Lake is situated just north of Des Moines, Iowa, making it an accessible natural escape within the urban landscape. Its primary access points are off Northwest 78th Avenue and further north via U.S. Highway 69, connecting seamlessly to major interstates like I-80 and I-35 for broader regional travel. The lake’s extensive shoreline is dotted with marinas, campgrounds, and recreational facilities, creating a vibrant hub for outdoor activities. The nearest major airport is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located approximately 15-20 miles south of the lake, with typical drive times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Navigating to the lake is generally straightforward, though specific recreation areas or marinas may have dedicated access roads that can become busy, especially on weekends or during peak event times. Planning to arrive earlier in the day, particularly between 8 AM and 10 AM on Saturdays and Sundays during the summer, is highly recommended to secure preferred parking and avoid potential delays at popular entry points. Utilize GPS or the provided facility maps to pinpoint your desired destination within the expansive recreation area.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Saylorville Lake Recreation Area
The immediate vicinity around Saylorville Lake is primarily composed of natural landscapes and recreational facilities rather than dense hotel clusters. Most lodging options are concentrated in the nearby communities of Johnston, Urbandale, and the northern parts of Des Moines. These areas offer a range of hotels, from budget-friendly motels to mid-tier chains, catering to visitors seeking convenient access. While some accommodations are within a 10-15 minute drive of certain lake access points, true walkability to the lake itself is limited to specific campgrounds or boat-in facilities. Many visitors, especially those participating in organized events or camping, choose accommodations that offer easy transport for their gear and a quick commute to their planned activities. Demand for hotels in the surrounding Des Moines suburbs typically spikes around major lake events, holidays, and during the peak summer recreation season, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Booking accommodations well in advance, ideally 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends or event dates, is a wise strategy. Utilizing map filters to identify hotels closest to your primary lake destination and checking for shuttle services or easy drive times will enhance your planning.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM) offers typical drive times of 30–45 minutes to Saylorville Lake.
- Arrive early on summer weekends, ideally before 10 AM, to secure prime parking at popular recreation areas.
- Adjacent to the lake, explore the Jester Park area for nature trails and outdoor amenities.
- In inclement weather, consider the Des Moines Art Center or the Science Center of Iowa for indoor activities.
- The Prairie Flower Casino or local restaurants in Johnston serve as convenient regrouping spots.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan your arrival to coincide with the event's suggested entry time, typically aiming for about an hour before the scheduled start. This buffer allows ample time for navigating parking, which can be congested on event days, and locating your specific event area or campsite. Familiarize yourself with the designated parking zones for your event beforehand to streamline your approach. If arriving by rideshare, identify the designated drop-off and pick-up points to ensure smooth transitions. Once parked, orient yourself with the site map and proceed to the registration or check-in area if applicable.
During the Event
Stay hydrated and prepared for the outdoor elements, especially during warmer months. Keep track of the event schedule to make the most of planned activities or performances. If you need a break or a meal, identify accessible concession areas or pre-planned picnic spots. Designate a clear meeting point with your group should you become separated amidst the activity. Remember to be mindful of the natural environment and follow any posted regulations regarding noise levels or restricted areas to ensure everyone enjoys their experience.
Post-Event & Departure
Allow for a staggered departure to avoid peak exit traffic, which can occur immediately after an event concludes. If time permits, linger for a short while to let the initial crowds dissipate before heading to your vehicle. Have your exit route in mind and be patient as you navigate out of the parking areas. If you are camping, ensure your site is clean and all belongings are packed before vacating. Consider a brief stop at a nearby restaurant or convenience store on your way out of the area to allow traffic to further ease.
Things to Do Near Saylorville Lake Recreation Area
Walkable
Saylorville Lake Marina
The Saylorville Lake Marina serves as a central hub for lake activities, offering boat rentals, kayak and paddleboard launches, and fishing supplies. It’s a prime spot for launching your own watercraft or simply enjoying the views of boats coming and going. The marina area often features picnic tables and is a great place to start your exploration of the lake’s recreational offerings. Visitors can also find information on local fishing conditions and upcoming boating events.
On siteU.S. Army Corps of Engineers Visitor Center
Located near the Saylorville Dam, the Visitor Center provides educational exhibits about the lake's history, purpose, and the surrounding ecosystem. It offers a great overview of the area's natural and engineered features, including interactive displays suitable for all ages. The center often has knowledgeable staff available to answer questions about the lake and its recreational opportunities. Panoramic views of the lake and dam from the visitor center grounds are also a significant draw.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Jester Park
Jester Park offers a diverse range of outdoor activities beyond just the lakefront, including hiking and biking trails, a nature center, and a playground. It's known for its scenic beauty and ample green space, making it ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls. The park also features opportunities for wildlife viewing and educational programs hosted by the Polk County Conservation. This park is a family-friendly destination providing a complement to the direct water-focused recreation at Saylorville.
Granger, IA · 5.2 miPrairie Flower Casino
For those seeking a different kind of diversion, the Prairie Flower Casino offers entertainment, dining, and gaming options. It provides a comfortable indoor environment, a welcome change from outdoor activities, with various slot machines and table games. The casino also features a restaurant and bar, making it a convenient stop for a meal or a relaxed evening. Check their schedule for any live entertainment or special events they might be hosting during your visit.
Peosta, IA · 4.9 miBeyond the Event: Venture slightly further afield and you can explore more extensive city parks within Des Moines, such as the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden for a unique horticultural experience or the Blank Park Zoo for animal encounters. The vibrant downtown Des Moines area also offers cultural attractions like the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the Des Moines Art Center. These options provide a well-rounded itinerary that balances the natural recreation at Saylorville Lake with urban exploration and cultural enrichment.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Saylorville Lake Recreation Area
Inside & Adjacent
Lakeview Inn (at Saylorville Marina)
The Lakeview Inn, located at the Saylorville Marina, provides a convenient dining option directly on the water. It offers a casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying a meal with a view of the lake and marina activity. The menu typically features classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers, making it a reliable choice for a relaxed lunch or dinner after a day on the water. It's a great spot to refuel without straying far from your chosen activities.
On siteSmokey Row (Campground Concessions)
Operating seasonally, Smokey Row often provides concession services within the lake's campgrounds, offering quick and easy food options for campers. This typically includes items like pizza, snacks, drinks, and basic grilled foods. It's an ideal spot for families or groups staying at the campground who need a simple, accessible meal without leaving the recreation area. Availability and menu can vary, so checking current hours is advised.
On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Smokey Row Coffee House & Cafe
A popular local spot, Smokey Row offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for coffee, breakfast, lunch, or a casual dinner. Known for its extensive coffee menu and comfort food offerings, it’s a great place to relax and gather with friends or family. The cafe often features a welcoming vibe and can accommodate groups looking for a laid-back dining experience. It’s a reliable choice for a quality meal and a wide selection of beverages in a relaxed setting.
West Des Moines, IA · 7.5 miSmokey Row - Prairie Flower Casino
This location of Smokey Row is situated within the Prairie Flower Casino, offering a convenient dining option for those visiting the casino or looking for a meal in the vicinity. It provides a comfortable setting with a menu that aligns with the Smokey Row brand, often featuring a mix of classic American dishes and drinks. It’s a good option for a bite before or after gaming or simply as a pleasant place to dine that is relatively close to the lake.
Peosta, IA · 4.9 miLocal & Elevated Picks
808 Grindz
For a taste of unique island flavors, 808 Grindz offers authentic Hawaiian cuisine with dishes like poke bowls, plates, and smoothies. This spot provides a flavorful departure from typical American fare, focusing on fresh ingredients and vibrant tastes. It’s a great choice for lunch or a casual dinner for those seeking something different and delicious in the Johnston area, offering a refreshing culinary experience.
Johnston, IA · 7.1 miTavern Olde Town
Tavern Olde Town in Urbandale presents a more upscale yet still approachable dining experience with a focus on American cuisine and a well-curated bar selection. The atmosphere is often lively, featuring a diverse menu that includes steaks, seafood, and crafted cocktails. It's an excellent destination for a more refined meal or for groups looking to celebrate or enjoy a well-prepared dinner in a sophisticated setting.
Urbandale, IA · 8.2 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Weekend mornings and holiday afternoons at popular boat ramps and swim beaches can experience significant traffic congestion.
- Consider weekday visits to Saylorville Lake for a more relaxed experience, especially if you prefer quieter watersports.
- Cell service can be spotty in certain coves and deeper parts of the lake; download offline maps or notify others of your plans.
- Many smaller campgrounds and primitive sites are first-come, first-served and fill up quickly during peak season.
- Boating and fishing regulations are strictly enforced; familiarize yourself with current Iowa DNR rules before heading out.
Weather & Seasons at Saylorville Lake Recreation Area
- Winter: Winter temperatures at Saylorville Lake can be quite cold, with average highs in the low 30s (°F) and lows often dropping below 10°F. Visitors should bundle up in heavy layers, including insulated coats, hats, and gloves, for any outdoor activities like ice fishing or exploring the frozen landscape. Roads are generally clear, but caution is advised, especially if temperatures are near freezing.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings milder weather, with temperatures gradually warming from the 50s (°F) into the 70s as summer approaches. Light jackets or long sleeves are recommended for mornings and evenings, while shorts and t-shirts are suitable for afternoons. This is a great time for hiking and exploring, though occasional rain showers are common, so packing a light raincoat is wise.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer typically features warm to hot and humid conditions, with average highs in the upper 80s (°F) and occasional peaks into the 90s. Lightweight, breathable clothing like shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops are essential. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for protecting against strong UV rays. Staying hydrated is crucial, and cooling off in the lake is a popular activity.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp, cool weather, with average highs in the 60s (°F) gradually cooling into the 40s by late season. Layers are key, including sweaters, fleeces, and light jackets, especially for early mornings and late evenings. The changing foliage provides beautiful scenery for hiking and outdoor exploration. Pack comfortable walking shoes and consider a waterproof layer for unpredictable weather.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible in any season, with spring and summer often experiencing thunderstorms. Light rain gear or umbrellas are useful. Winter can bring snow, typically moderate amounts, which can temporarily impact driving conditions and outdoor activities. If snow is present, waterproof boots and warm, water-resistant outer layers are recommended for comfort and safety.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary facility: Saylorville Lake Recreation Area
- Neighborhood: Northern Polk County / Johnston Area
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Large lots at marinas, campgrounds, and recreation areas; can fill on peak days
- Walkable district: Limited to specific park areas and campgrounds
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee, Fareway in Johnston/Urbandale
- Pharmacy: Walgreens, CVS in Johnston/Urbandale
- Urgent care: Various clinics in Johnston and Urbandale
- Downtime: Jester Park Nature Center, local cafes
- Pro tip: Check the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website for lake conditions and advisories.

