OAK GROVE PICNIC AREA
federal · Johnston, IA
- dump station0.6 mi
- fuel station2.4 mi

Saylorville Lake Staff · Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview Oak Grove Picnic 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 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 offers two group picnic shelters with electric and water hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, a playground, volleyball court and hiking trails. Natural Features Oak Grove lies among a heavily wooded forest of stately oak trees on the east side of the lake. A large beach is within walking distance. 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.
- 0.6 mi
dump station
Dump station
- 2.4 mi
fuel station
Casey's General Store
- 2.5 mi
grocery
Fareway
- 1.4 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 2.2 mi
attraction
Viewpoint
- 0.6 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.

