DES MOINES, Iowa — Governor Reynolds issued a new proclamation opening campgrounds in the state of Iowa, effective Friday, May 8, 2020.
The Iowa DNR will open state campgrounds at 8:00am on Friday, May 8 to campers with self-contained restrooms only. Self-contained is defined as a tent or pop-up camper with a portable toilet or an RV with a functioning, self-contained bathroom. Walk-in campers may begin registering at 8 am.
Friday, May 8 – Sunday, May 10: walk-in only, first come, first served basis
Monday, May, 11: reservations will go into effect
The DNR’s campground reservation system will begin accepting reservations starting Friday, May 8 at 9:00am.
All other reservations will continue as reserved beginning May 15, unless otherwise notified directly by the DNR. The DNR extends an apology to those that had reservations scheduled during the May 8 – May 14 time period. Those reservations will not be honored because refunds have already been issued and the transactions are complete.
While state parks have seen a great influx of visitors at our parks, it is expected to see the same at the campgrounds. Parks staff will be closely monitoring these areas to avoid gatherings of groups larger than 10. Staff presence throughout the parks and campgrounds will remind and educate visitors to continue physical distancing while enjoying some of Iowa’s most beautiful public places. Campers should also abide by the following guidelines:
Visitors will not be allowed in the campgrounds, only those occupying the campsites
Campfires at the individual campsites will be limited to campers occupying that campsite
Six occupants per campsite, unless immediate family contains more than six
Some pit latrines are now open in busier day use areas
All modern restrooms and shower buildings, including water fountains, remain closed
Communal picnic tables and
