Sometimes, the best finds on the road are the ones you don’t see advertised on giant billboards. They’re the quiet, unassuming spots tucked away down a country road, offering a much needed break from the relentless pace of the interstate. If you’ve ever found yourself cruising west on I-80 out of Des Moines, you know that the landscape quickly opens up into rolling cornfields, and the services for RVers become noticeably sparse. It’s in this stretch, between the capital and the Nebraska border, that a place like Beaver Lake Campground becomes so valuable. Located just four miles south of the small town of Dexter, down a classic Iowa gravel road, this campground is a peaceful haven that fills a critical gap for travelers needing to empty their tanks and recharge their batteries.
This isn't a bustling resort; it's a slice of quiet country life. The campground offers reliable 30 and 50 amp hookups, clean potable water, and a simple, easy to access dump station. It’s the kind of place you pull into and immediately feel the stress of highway driving melt away. The air is fresh, the scenery is pastoral, and the pace is slow. For full timers or those on a long journey, finding a spot like this feels like hitting a small jackpot. It’s a reminder that not every stop has to be at a noisy truck stop or a crowded state park. Sometimes, the best a place can offer is simple peace and quiet, and Beaver Lake delivers that in spades.
The nearby town of Dexter might be small, but it’s steeped in some fascinating American history. It’s probably most famous for being the site of the dramatic 1933 shootout involving Bonnie and Clyde. For history buffs, visiting the memorial site is a must do. Dexter is also situated along the historic White Pole Road, which was once known as "Iowa’s Main Street." Driving this scenic route is a journey back in time, a chance to see the small towns and landscapes that define this part of the country. For the more active traveler, the fantastic Raccoon River Valley Trail is nearby. With 89 miles of paved surface, it’s a paradise for cyclists, offering a safe and beautiful way to explore the Iowa countryside. And even though you feel like you’re a world away from the city, downtown Des Moines, with attractions like the renowned Pappajohn Sculpture Park, is less than a 40 minute drive away.
The dynamic at a small, family run campground like Beaver Lake is refreshingly informal. When you arrive to use the dump station, you’ll likely just pop into the office to pay the fee. The folks who run these places are usually friendly and laid back. From there, you’ll follow simple signs to the dump station. It’s a single lane setup, typically positioned near the exit and close to the trailhead for the on-site fishing pond. Because this is a private campground with a much lighter guest turnover than a big state park, you’ll almost never have to wait in line. At most, you might find one other rig ahead of you. It’s a low stress, no rush process, which is exactly what you need when you’re handling the least glamorous task in RVing.
The amenities here are straightforward and practical, geared towards a self sufficient RVer. Most of the sites come with both water and 50 amp power, which is great. If you happen to be boondocking or just passing through, there’s a central water hydrant where you can easily fill your fresh tank. There is a bathhouse with showers, but it’s a good idea to have some quarters handy, as the hot water is often metered. This is pretty common in smaller, private parks as a way to conserve resources and keep costs down. If you’re traveling with a pet, you’ll be happy to know they are welcome on a leash, and the open fields surrounding the campground are perfect for a game of sunrise fetch.
One very important thing to know, especially if you’re just stopping for the day, is the trash policy. The dumpsters on site are reserved for overnight campers. Day visitors are expected to pack out their own trash. This is a crucial piece of etiquette to follow. Come prepared with a sturdy trash bag and a plan to dispose of it later. It’s a small act of respect that helps keep these wonderful little campgrounds in business. Also, as you might expect in a rural location like this, there’s no fuel or propane sold on site. The small gas stations in Dexter have limited hours, so your best bet is to fill up your tanks in larger towns like Earlham or Stuart before you head down the gravel road to the campground.
When it comes to cost, you’re looking at a great value. Reviews often mention a nightly camping rate of around $20, which is very reasonable and typically includes the use of the dump station. If you’re just coming for the day to dump your tanks, the fee is likely to be in the $5 to $10 range, which is a fantastic deal for the convenience and tranquility. As always with these smaller parks, it’s a smart move to call ahead to confirm the standalone dump fee and their preferred payment method. A quick phone call can save you a lot of guesswork.
A few insider tips for a smooth visit. The last stretch of road to the campground, Del Rio Road, is gravel. Do your fellow travelers and the local farmers a favor and slow down to about 10 miles per hour. It keeps the dust from kicking up and coating everything in sight, including the nearby grazing cattle. Also, this is western Iowa, which means the weather can change in a hurry. While you can hear the local severe weather sirens from the campground, it’s always wise to have a NOAA weather radio on board. Those prairie storms can move in fast. Finally, plan your grocery shopping before you arrive. The options in Dexter are very limited, so stock up on all your essentials at a big Hy-Vee in West Des Moines before you head west on I-80.
So, what’s the final word on Beaver Lake Campground? It’s a peaceful, no frills gem that provides a vital service in an underserved area. It’s the perfect place to empty your tanks, take a breath of fresh country air, and maybe even spend a quiet night under the vast Iowa stars. Just be sure to call ahead to verify the day use dump cost, remember to pack out your own trash, and enjoy the blissful quiet that comes from being off the beaten path. This is a spot that truly embodies the simple joys of the RV lifestyle.
35335 Del Rio Rd, Dexter, IA 50070
(515) 789-4661
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
