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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Experience one of Iowa's most popular community events at the Downtown Farmers' Market in Des Moines. Held every Saturday morning from May through October in the Historic Court District, this vibrant market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and entertainers from across the region. Stroll through rows of vendors offering fresh fruits and vegetables, farm-fresh eggs, locally raised meats, homemade baked goods, handcrafted items, flowers, and unique gifts. The market is also a great place to meet up with family and friends, enjoy live entertainment, and experience the energy of downtown Des Moines. Whether you're looking for fresh ingredients for your next campground meal, unique Iowa-made products, or simply a fun morning exploring the city, the Downtown Farmers' Market offers something for everyone. Located just a short drive from Des Moines West KOA Holiday, the market makes for a perfect day trip during your camping getaway. Spend the morning shopping and exploring downtown, then return to the campground to relax and enjoy the rest of your day. The Downtown Farmers' Market is a must-visit attraction for campers looking to experience local flavor, support small businesses, and discover the best of central Iowa.
Looking for an active way to experience Central Iowa this fall? The Living History Farms Race returns November 7, 2026, offering runners a unique five mile course through the historic grounds of Living History Farms in Urbandale.
The race combines running, outdoor recreation and Iowa history for an experience that is different from a typical city road race.
For runners traveling to the Des Moines area, staying at Des Moines West KOA Holiday in Adel can turn race day into a weekend camping getaway. After completing the race, slow down at the campground, explore Adel or discover another attraction around the Des Moines metro.
If you enjoy running, outdoor recreation and camping, this event is worth adding to your November plans.
Check Living History Farms for current registration information, race details and event updates.
Holiday shopping gets a handmade twist in Des Moines November 13–15, 2026, when Iowa's Largest Arts and Crafts Show returns to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
With more than 300 exhibitors expected, shoppers can browse handmade products, unique gifts and creative finds while getting a jump start on their holiday shopping.
For guests staying at Des Moines West KOA Holiday, the November arts and crafts show is an easy way to add shopping to a fall or early winter camping weekend. Spend the day at the show, explore the Des Moines area and then return to Adel for a quieter evening.
If you prefer unique gifts and handmade items over traditional retail shopping, this event could be a great addition to your Central Iowa itinerary.
Check the official event listing for current hours, admission and exhibitor information.
The holiday season comes to life in Winterset during the Festival of Lights on November 27, 2026.
The historic courthouse square becomes the center of holiday activity with lighted displays, Santa, food and beverages, a lighted parade and a free showing of Elf at the Iowa Theater.
For families staying at Des Moines West KOA Holiday, the Winterset Festival of Lights is a wonderful way to turn Thanksgiving weekend into a holiday getaway. Spend the day exploring Madison County before enjoying the evening festivities in downtown Winterset.
The small town setting gives this celebration a warm, community focused holiday atmosphere that makes it especially appealing for families looking for a festive evening outside the larger Des Moines metro.
Check the Madison County Chamber for the latest 2026 schedule and event details.
Experience a little European holiday tradition in the heart of Des Moines during Christkindlmarket Des Moines December 3–13, 2026.
Held at Principal Park, the holiday market features handcrafted gifts, European food, cultural traditions, entertainment and family activities. It is an opportunity to enjoy something a little different during the holiday season while exploring downtown Des Moines.
Guests staying at Des Moines West KOA Holiday can make Christkindlmarket part of a winter camping getaway. Spend the day exploring the city, visit the market and enjoy the festive atmosphere before returning to Adel.
With multiple dates and daytime and evening opportunities, the market can easily fit into a longer Central Iowa visit.
Check the official Christkindlmarket Des Moines schedule before visiting because dates and hours vary throughout the event.
Step back in time and experience an old fashioned holiday season at Living History Farms Family Christmas on December 5, 2026.
The annual event brings historic holiday traditions, demonstrations and family activities together for a festive day in Urbandale. It offers families a chance to enjoy the holiday season while learning more about Iowa's past.
For families staying at Des Moines West KOA Holiday, Family Christmas is a fun addition to a December camping trip. Spend the afternoon at Living History Farms, explore more of the Des Moines area and then return to Adel for a cozy evening at the campground.
The event can be especially enjoyable for children, grandparents and multigenerational families looking for something memorable to do together.
Check Living History Farms for the latest admission information, schedule and activities before visiting.
Holiday shopping gets a small town Iowa twist during the Winter Solstice Market in Winterset December 11–12, 2026.
The market brings curated arts, crafts and food vendors to the historic courthouse square, creating an opportunity to shop for unique gifts while supporting local makers and small businesses.
For guests staying at Des Moines West KOA Holiday, the Winter Solstice Market is a great reason to explore Winterset during the holiday season. Pair the market with a meal in town, a scenic drive through Madison County or another local attraction for a full winter day trip.
If you are looking for holiday shopping with more local character and less of the traditional mall experience, this is an event worth considering.
Check current event information before traveling for the latest 2026 market schedule and participating vendors.
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.
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