With Governor Kim Reynolds’ recent proclamation that reopens campgrounds statewide, it’s important to note that there are still restrictions being instituted by local sites.

Dallas County Conservation has a few dedicated camping areas they operate, but Director Mike Wallace emphasizes that only one is now open and it’s only for a specific method of camping. The grounds at Sportsman Park near Dawson have been reopened, but only for self-contained units. Wallace explains, the facilities at the site, such as toilets, showers, and drinking water, are still closed to the public. As such, people with tents or campers without indoor amenities will still not be able to take advantage of the campsite.

Wallace points out that this is the same level of camping that was available in Dallas County prior to the Governor initially closing campgrounds in April. He adds, the outdoor campsite at the Kuehn Conservation Area near Earlham is not equipped to accommodate self-contained recreational vehicles, so camping at the site is still prohibited. Additionally, all the cabins and lodges throughout the County are still closed, and the online registration is still suspended. Anyone interested in camping at Sportsman, though, is encouraged to call Forest Park Museum at 515-465-3577.