Des Moines West KOA Holiday Blog
Spring BOGO Getaway April 1 – May 21, 2026 Book one night. Get one free.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
18 miles west of I-35/I-80 interchange on I-80 Exit 106. North 1.5 miles on paved CR P-58 (L Avenue).
GPS: N41.541910, W94.079558
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Traveling with your dog makes camping even better. Whether your pup loves hiking trails, relaxing at the campsite, tagging along to breweries, or splashing around in the water, the Des Moines area is packed with pet-friendly adventures.
At Des Moines West KOA, we know many campers consider their dogs part of the family, and Iowa is actually a fantastic place for a pet-friendly camping getaway.
Here are some of our favorite tips, local spots, and dog-friendly places to explore during your stay.
Camping can be exciting and overstimulating for pets, especially if they are traveling or camping for the first time.
A few simple items can help your dog settle in and enjoy the trip:
If your dog enjoys relaxing outside with the family, patio-style RV sites can make a huge difference by giving everyone more room to spread out and unwind.
And trust us do not forget your dog’s favorite ball if you plan on visiting the river. That mistake can become the highlight of the trip for all the wrong reasons.
One of the best things about camping near Des Moines is the access to parks, trails, and outdoor recreation areas that welcome dogs.
This is one of the top outdoor destinations in the area for both people and pets. The park features trails, lake views, open green space, and a large dog park area. It’s a perfect stop if your pup needs to burn off energy after a road trip.
Many campers also enjoy walking portions of the connected trail systems around:
The Des Moines area has an extensive trail network that connects parks, neighborhoods, breweries, and entertainment districts, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring with your dog.
The Des Moines brewery scene is extremely dog friendly, especially on patios during spring and summer.
Located near downtown Des Moines, this brewery is well known for its dog-friendly patio and relaxed atmosphere. Some locations even offer dog treats and pup-focused menu items.
A local favorite with a laid-back patio that welcomes dogs. Great food, great beer, and an ideal stop after walking nearby trails.
Other popular dog-friendly brewery stops around the area include:
Many of these breweries are located near bike trails and outdoor recreation areas, making them perfect places to relax with your dog after a day outside.
If your dog could design their dream vacation stop, this would probably be it.
Paws & Pints combines:
It’s basically part brewery, part dog park, and part doggy social club all rolled into one. Many visitors describe it as one of the most unique pet-friendly spots in the Des Moines area.
Many restaurants around Des Moines, Adel, and nearby communities offer dog-friendly patios during warmer months.
You’ll find plenty of options where your pup can relax beside the table while you enjoy lunch, dinner, or local drinks.
Popular areas for dog-friendly patios include:
Spring and early summer are especially great times to explore because patio season is in full swing.
If your dog loves the water, tubing or floating along the Raccoon River can turn into an unforgettable adventure.
Many visitors spend summer days:
Some dogs absolutely love joining in on the fun, especially active breeds that enjoy swimming and retrieving toys.
Just remember: Bring the tennis ball. Seriously.
One of the best parts of camping is bringing the whole family along, and that includes your four-legged family members.
Between scenic trails, dog-friendly patios, breweries, parks, and outdoor adventures, the Des Moines area offers plenty of ways to make memories with your pup during your stay at Des Moines West KOA.
So pack the leash, grab the treats, and get ready for a camping trip your dog will love just as much as you do.
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
