Lake View Recreation Area (Saylorville)
federal · Johnston, IA
- dump station1.3 mi
- fuel station1.8 mi

USACE · Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview Lake View Recreation Area is a day-use facility located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting. Recreation Visitors come to Saylorville Lake for its great boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. The paved Neal Smith Trail (East side of the lake) winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating. Facilities This day-use area contains a picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 50 people. Amenities include water and electricity, public bathroom with flushing toilets, boat ramp and access to hiking and biking trails. The attached restroom is available for the general public. Natural Features Lakeview View Shelter is situated on a ridge overlooking the West side of the lake. Dense timber stands surround the recreation area, but shade is limited within the site. Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 1.3 mi
dump station
Dump station
- 1.8 mi
fuel station
Kum & Go
- 2.7 mi
grocery
Fareway
- 1.6 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 0.4 mi
attraction
Viewpoint
- 0.2 mi
recreation site
Boat launch
Contact & access
- SAYLORVILLE LAKE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE · Johnston, IA 50131
- 515-276-4656
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/5/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.

