About Saylorville Lake
The Saylorville Lake Project is 26,000 acres, which stretches for over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. A wide variety of recreational activities are available including fishing, picnic areas with group shelters, boat launches, an accessible fishing pier, river fishing, hunting, and a 24-mile paved, multipurpose trail used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking, and in-line skating.
How to Get There
2.4 miles and becomes Hwy 415. Continue on Hwy 415 N to the lake area.ORFrom I-35/80: Take Exit 127 to Highway 141 N. Take Highway 141 N approximately 6 miles to exit 148 which is NW Saylorville Drive or Hwy 415. NW Saylorville Drive will lead into the lake area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Saylorville Lake
Heading to Saylorville Lake? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Saylorville Lake?
No central reservation system listed for Saylorville Lake. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/161) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Saylorville Lake?
2.4 miles and becomes Hwy 415. Continue on Hwy 415 N to the lake area.ORFrom I-35/80: Take Exit 127 to Highway 141 N. Take Highway 141 N approximately 6 miles to exit 148 which is NW Saylorville Drive or Hwy 415. NW Saylorville Drive will lead into the lake area.
How do I contact Saylorville Lake?
You can reach the park at phone: (515) 276-4656.
References & Official Resources