Des Moines West KOA Holiday

We have stayed here many times and love this place. The green grass, large sites with patios and beautiful pond are always welcome after a long days drive. Another bonus is my husband always orders pizza so I don’t have to cook.

On our way from Indiana to the Badlands in South Dakota, we stopped at the Des Moines KOA in Iowa for one night. Since we were just looking for a place to sleep, we didn’t get to take full advantage of all the amenities available. However, we were impressed by the delivery menu—while I don’t recall any healthy options (mostly pizza and maybe wings), it was nice to have the convenience, and the prices were affordable. After we arrived (I believe it was a Saturday evening), we heard music coming from the front of the KOA—possibly a live singer or mini-concert. There were lots of happy people, and plenty of kids riding go-karts and bikes between the parked RVs. Some might not appreciate the lively atmosphere, but if you have kids, this place could be a vacation destination in itself! There’s a pool, a huge bounce pad, bike and go-kart rentals, a fishing spot, live performances, and food. It really sounds like a great family spot. For my husband and me, who were just looking for a quiet place to rest, it was perfect as well.

Bathhouse was VERY clean, grass clean and soft, air crisp, everyone quiet, friendly and respectful. We had a delicious dinner over the fire pit at our campsite down the hill below the doggie areas. The doggie areas aren't smelly at all so didn't impact our experience at all even being so nearby. Came after hours so didn't interact with staff directly but they did send a thank you text this morning after we left. Really beautiful campground, highly recommend if you're rolling through the area for sure.

Very large property. Customers and workers a like don’t keep the posted speed limit. It’s VERY dusty campground. Roadways and camp sides need to be redone. It is not a quiet place on the weekend. Children run unsupervised through campground. Adults and children a like walk through your side as you trying to enjoy your space. Does not seem that staff pays attention on much of what’s happening on the property unless there is a complaint. Very expensive night stay for what it is.

The Newton KOA made us feel like family! The second we arrived, we were greeted by the owners who were so happy for us to be there. Every staff member that we interacted with was very helpful and engaging. They wanted campers to have a great experience and it showed. We were not at a loss of things to do at this KOA; swimming, disc golf, the jumping pad, and live entertainment every Thursday. The campground was exceptionally clean, sites were spacious the grounds well kept, and the showers were A+. We especially love how easy it was to access the KOA, right off I 80. Just down the road was a Walmart, another bonus! Thank you so much for making our family feel so welcomed, we can’t wait to return! Chris & Morgan - The Live Out Loud Family