Des Moines West KOA Holiday Events

Campground Events

Christmas in July Photo

Christmas in July

Christmas in July at the Des Moines West KOA from July 24–26 with a fun and festive camping weekend just outside Des Moines in Adel, Iowa.

Guests are encouraged to decorate their campsites, enjoy holiday-themed activities, and experience the spirit of Christmas during the summer camping season.

This unique themed weekend combines the fun of summer camping with a festive atmosphere that the whole family can enjoy.

Reserve your RV site, cabin, or tent site and enjoy a memorable Christmas in July camping experience.

Halloween Weekends 2026 (weather permitting) Photo

Halloween Weekends 2026 (weather permitting)

Halloween Weekends 2026 at the Des Moines West KOA Holiday are officially on the calendar, and they are some of the most anticipated camping weekends of the year.

Each fall, families return to Adel to celebrate Halloween in a fun, festive, and family friendly campground setting. If you are looking for Halloween camping near Des Moines, RV sites for fall weekends, or a cabin rental for a spooky getaway, our campground offers the perfect balance of seasonal fun and peaceful evenings.

Halloween Weekends 2026 will include themed activities such as site decorating contests, costume contests for all ages, pumpkin decorating while supplies last, and interactive attractions designed to bring out the spirit of the season. Guests are encouraged to decorate their campsites and join in the fun, as participation is part of what makes these weekends so memorable.

Camping during Halloween allows families to enjoy fall weather, colorful scenery, and community atmosphere while creating traditions that many guests return for year after year. After a full day of activities, relax around your campfire and enjoy crisp autumn evenings in a quieter setting just outside Des Moines.

Des Moines West KOA Holiday offers full hookup RV sites, pull through and back in RV sites, tent camping, glamping tents, one room camping cabins, deluxe cabins, and RV rental units. Whether you are traveling with a large motorhome or booking a cabin for the weekend, we provide accommodations for families, couples, and groups looking for Halloween camping in central Iowa.

Halloween Weekends are among the most popular dates of the fall season, and availability fills quickly. If you are searching for RV parks near Des Moines for Halloween, cabin rentals in Adel Iowa for fall, or family friendly Halloween camping experiences, we encourage booking early to secure your preferred dates.

We are keeping a few tricks up our sleeves for 2026, with additional details to be announced as the season approaches.

Reserve your site now and start planning your costumes.

Pumpkin Palooza Photo

Pumpkin Palooza

Halloween Weekends begin at the Des Moines West KOA from September 25–27, bringing a full weekend of festive fall camping just outside Des Moines in Adel, Iowa.

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities including a site decorating contest, costume contest, pumpkin decorating, and a haunted maze throughout the campground (weather permitting of course).

Halloween camping is one of the most popular times of the season, offering a fun and memorable experience for families and campers of all ages.

Reserve your RV site, cabin, or tent site early and enjoy a weekend of fall camping fun.

Haunted Campground Photo

Haunted Campground

Haunted Campground Weekend takes place October 2–4 at the Des Moines West KOA, offering a fun and festive fall camping experience just outside Des Moines in Adel, Iowa.

Guests can enjoy decorated campsites, a costume contest, pumpkin decorating while supplies last, and a haunted maze throughout the campground. Activities are available weather permitting.

Halloween weekends are some of the most popular of the season, providing a unique camping experience for families and guests of all ages.

Reserve your RV site, cabin, or tent site and enjoy a memorable fall camping weekend.

Spooky Campfire Photo

Spooky Campfire

Spooky Campfire Weekend is coming up October 9–11 at the Des Moines West KOA, offering a fun and festive fall camping experience just outside Des Moines in Adel, Iowa.

Guests can enjoy spooky decorations throughout the campground, a costume contest, pumpkin decorating while supplies last, and a variety of family-friendly Halloween activities. Activities are available weather permitting.

This popular fall weekend is a great opportunity to enjoy cooler weather, campfires, and time outdoors with family and friends.

Reserve your RV site, cabin, or tent site and enjoy a memorable Halloween camping experience.

Monster Bash Photo

Monster Bash

Monster Bash Weekend takes place October 16–18 at the Des Moines West KOA, marking the final Halloween weekend of the season just outside Des Moines in Adel, Iowa.

Guests can enjoy decorated campsites, a costume contest, pumpkin decorating while supplies last, and a haunted maze throughout the campground. Activities are available weather permitting.

This final fall weekend is a great opportunity to enjoy cooler weather, campfires, and one last themed camping experience before the season winds down.

Reserve your RV site, cabin, or tent site and end the season with a memorable camping weekend.

Local Area Events

2026 RAGBRAI LIII Route: Stay Near Guthrie Center & Boone Photo

2026 RAGBRAI LIII Route: Stay Near Guthrie Center & Boone

The 2026 RAGBRAI LIII route has officially been announced, and the Des Moines West KOA is perfectly positioned for riders, support crews, and spectators seeking a comfortable place to stay along the route.

RAGBRAI LIII runs July 18–25, 2026, covering 391.4 miles with 16,027 feet of climb across Iowa. We're located just 37 minutes from Guthrie Center (Day 2) and 54 minutes from Boone (Day 3), making our campground an ideal stop for rest, recovery, and a quieter night before the next ride.

Many riders stay with the main group, but not everyone wants to push to exhaustion. Whether you're riding part of the route, supporting a team, or simply want full hook-ups, showers, and a peaceful night's sleep, the Des Moines West KOA offers a refreshing alternative.

Why stay with us during RAGBRAI:

  • Easy access to Guthrie Center and Boone
  • Full hook-up RV sites, cabins, and tent sites
  • Clean showers and restrooms
  • A quieter atmosphere on Monday, July 20
  • A relaxed, refreshed start for Tuesday's ride into Boone

Route highlights:
  • Day 0: Onawa – July 18 (RAGBRAI Expo)
  • Day 1: Harlan – July 19 (58.5 miles)
  • Day 2: Guthrie Center – July 20 (53.9 miles)
  • Day 3: Boone – July 21 (59.5 miles)
  • Day 4: Marshalltown – July 22
  • Day 5: Independence – July 23
  • Day 6: Dyersville – July 24
  • Day 7: Dubuque – July 25

Updated route information: Add the Des Moines West KOA to your RAGBRAI plans and enjoy a comfortable, well-earned break along the journey.

Hinterland 2026 Photo

Hinterland 2026

If you're planning to attend the Hinterland Music Festival, there is another way to experience one of Iowa's biggest music events without roughing it in a crowded festival campground.

Located just outside Des Moines, Des Moines West KOA Holiday offers a comfortable and convenient place to stay while enjoying everything Hinterland has to offer. Whether you travel by RV, prefer tent camping, or want the comfort of a cabin, our campground provides a relaxing alternative to traditional festival camping.

Hinterland Music Festival attracts music lovers from across the Midwest, including RV travelers, tent campers, young families, couples, and groups of friends. Many festival attendees already enjoy camping, making Des Moines West KOA a natural fit for your festival weekend.

After a full day of live music, food vendors, and festival activities, return to a spacious campsite, a comfortable cabin, or a glamping tent instead of dealing with crowded festival grounds. Enjoy a hot shower, stretch out around your campfire, relax by the pool, and get a good night's sleep before heading back for another day of music.

Des Moines West KOA offers full hookup RV sites, pull through and back in RV sites, tent camping, glamping tents, one room camping cabins, deluxe cabins, and an RV rental unit. Whether you are traveling with a large motorhome or looking for a cabin near Hinterland Music Festival, we have accommodations to fit your style.

Many guests choose to make their festival trip into a full Iowa getaway by exploring Adel, Des Moines, and the surrounding area before or after the event. Staying at a campground allows you to enjoy both the excitement of the festival and the peace and quiet that comes with being away from the crowds.

If you are searching for places to stay near Hinterland Music Festival, RV parks near Des Moines, cabin rentals near St. Charles, Iowa, or camping options for Hinterland weekend, Des Moines West KOA Holiday is a great choice.

Skip crowded festival camping and enjoy the best of both worlds. Experience the music, then return to a comfortable campsite, cabin, or glamping tent at Des Moines West KOA.

Reserve your stay early, as festival weekends are among the most popular dates of the summer season.

National Balloon Classic Photo

National Balloon Classic

Looking for a unique summer event during your camping trip? The National Balloon Classic returns to Indianola, Iowa, July 31 through August 8, 2026, bringing colorful hot air balloons, family activities, live entertainment, and unforgettable views to central Iowa.

If you are searching for places to stay near the National Balloon Classic, Des Moines West KOA Holiday offers a relaxing camping experience within easy driving distance of the event. Spend your day watching dozens of hot air balloons fill the sky, then return to a peaceful campground setting away from the crowds.

The National Balloon Classic is one of Iowa's most photographed summer events. Guests can enjoy morning balloon launches, evening balloon glows, live music, food vendors, fireworks, drone shows, and family friendly activities throughout the week. It is a great event for couples, families, RV travelers, photographers, and anyone looking for a memorable summer experience.

After a full day at the event, return to Des Moines West KOA and enjoy the comforts of camping. Relax by your campfire, unwind at the pool, take a walk around the campground, or simply enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.

Des Moines West KOA offers full hookup RV sites, pull through and back in RV sites, tent camping, glamping tents, one room camping cabins, deluxe cabins, and RV rental units. Whether you are traveling in a motorhome, towing a camper, or looking for a cabin near the National Balloon Classic, we have accommodations for every type of traveler.

Many guests choose to combine the National Balloon Classic with visits to Des Moines, Adel, and other central Iowa attractions, turning a single event into a full summer getaway.

If you are looking for RV parks near Indianola, cabin rentals near the National Balloon Classic, tent camping near Des Moines, or a comfortable place to stay during Balloon Classic week, Des Moines West KOA Holiday is a great choice.

Watch the balloons rise, enjoy the excitement of the event, and return to peace and quiet each evening.

Reserve your campsite or cabin early, as summer event weekends are among the most popular times of the year.

Iowa State Fair 2026 Photo

Iowa State Fair 2026

The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and most iconic summer events in the Midwest. Held each August in Des Moines, the fair brings together Grandstand concerts, nationally recognized entertainers, livestock shows, 4H exhibits, food vendors, carnival rides, and agricultural showcases that draw visitors from across Iowa and surrounding states.

Each year, the Iowa State Fair Grandstand features big name artists spanning country, rock, pop, and comedy, making it one of the premier live entertainment venues of the summer. In addition to headline concerts, fairgoers enjoy daily live music, competitions, exhibits, and some of the most famous fair food in the country.

If you are searching for places to stay near the Iowa State Fair, consider camping just outside the city at the Des Moines West KOA Holiday in Adel. Located approximately 30 minutes from the Iowa State Fairgrounds, our campground offers convenient access to the excitement while allowing you to return each evening to a peaceful and quiet setting away from city traffic and congestion.

After a full day of concerts, crowds, rides, and stimulation, you can unwind at your campsite, relax by the pool, enjoy a campfire, and experience open skies and calm surroundings. Many guests prefer staying outside Des Moines to avoid hotel crowding while still being close enough to attend daily fair events with ease.

We offer full hookup RV sites, pull through and back in RV sites, tent camping, glamping tents, one room camping cabins, deluxe cabins, and an RV rental unit. Whether you are traveling with a motorhome, trailer, or looking for a cabin rental near the Iowa State Fair, we provide accommodations for families, couples, and groups.

Camping near the Iowa State Fair allows you to turn your fair visit into a full summer getaway. Spend your day enjoying headline entertainment and fair attractions, then return to quiet evenings just 30 minutes away.

Stay close to the action while enjoying peace and quiet at the end of the day.

World Food & Music Festival Photo

World Food & Music Festival

Take your taste buds on a trip around the world at the annual World Food & Music Festival in downtown Des Moines.

Held each summer at Western Gateway Park, this popular event celebrates cultures from around the globe through food, music, dance, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy international cuisine, live performances, cultural demonstrations, cooking presentations, and interactive activities throughout the festival grounds.

The World Food & Music Festival brings together dozens of food vendors representing countries and culinary traditions from around the world, giving guests the opportunity to sample unique flavors and discover new favorites. Live music and cultural performances add to the festive atmosphere, creating an experience that is both entertaining and educational.

Whether you are looking to try something new, enjoy live entertainment, or spend a fun day exploring downtown Des Moines, the World Food & Music Festival offers something for every member of the family.

Located just a short drive from Des Moines West KOA Holiday, the festival makes an excellent day trip during your camping getaway. Spend the day experiencing global food and culture, then return to your campsite, cabin, or RV site to relax and unwind.

If you enjoy trying new foods, experiencing different cultures, and attending unique Iowa events, the World Food & Music Festival is a must-visit attraction during your stay.

Madison County Covered Bridge Festival Photo

Madison County Covered Bridge Festival

Experience one of Iowa's most beloved fall traditions at the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival in nearby Winterset. Held every second full weekend in October, this annual event attracts visitors from across the Midwest to celebrate the history, beauty, and charm of Madison County's famous covered bridges.

Visitors can browse handcrafted goods, sample local food favorites, enjoy live performances, and experience the welcoming atmosphere that has made this festival a fall favorite since 1970.

One of the highlights of the weekend is the opportunity to visit Madison County's iconic covered bridges. For those looking to avoid festival traffic and gravel roads, the Winterset Rotary Club offers guided bus tours of several historic bridges, including the Roseman Bridge, Hogback Bridge, and Cutler-Donahoe Bridge, along with the historic North River Schoolhouse. Knowledgeable guides share the history, stories, and local lore that have made these landmarks famous throughout Iowa.

History enthusiasts will also enjoy visiting the Madison County Historical Complex during its special "History on the Hill" celebration. Guests can explore historic buildings, enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, visit a Civil War encampment, watch reenactments, and participate in family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

Sunday brings even more excitement with one of central Iowa's largest car shows, organized by the Central Iowa Auto Club. Hundreds of classic and custom vehicles gather near Winterset Elementary School, creating a must-see attraction for automobile enthusiasts. The weekend concludes with the Covered Bridge Festival Parade on Sunday afternoon.

Located just a short drive from Des Moines West KOA Holiday, the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival makes an excellent day trip during your camping getaway. Spend the day exploring Winterset, discovering historic covered bridges, shopping local vendors, and enjoying seasonal festivities before returning to your campsite, cabin, or RV site for a relaxing evening.

If you are searching for fall festivals in Iowa, things to do in Winterset, covered bridge tours, or family-friendly autumn events near Des Moines, the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival is a must-see destination.

Make plans to experience Madison County's signature annual event and discover why visitors return year after year.