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Latest News

Temporary Closure of Neal Smith Trail at Saylorville Lake
11/1/2024
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces that a portion of the Neal Smith Trail at Saylorville Lake will temporarily close beginning November 4th to facilitate a waterline...
Additional boat ramp to close at Saylorville Lake
7/10/2024
Due to rising water levels at Saylorville Lake, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District will be closing the Cherry Glen High Water Boat Ramp at 10 p.m. today. Ongoing closures remain in...
High water causes debris warning, closures at Saylorville Lake
6/25/2024
Following recent rainfall in northern Iowa and the Des Moines River watershed, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, has closed specific areas at Saylorville Lake for public safety...

Welcome to Saylorville Lake

Saylorville Lake is located on the Des Moines River in central Iowa, just north of the city of Des Moines. In addition to providing flood control, this 26,000 acre project fulfills a truly multipurpose role. The reservoir provides a minimum downstream river flow for water supply and water quality during drought periods. Park Rangers actively manage the natural resources, river, woodland, wetland, and prairie habitats. Saylorville staff, volunteers and contractors take pride in offering quality outdoor recreation including camping, boating, fishing, hiking, biking, wildlife watching and more.

Since placed in operation in 1977, it is estimated that by reducing the flows of the Des Moines River below the lake, the reservoir has prevented approximately $181,932,300 in additional flood damages.

Come and explore the treasures of Saylorville Lake and rejuvenate your spirit!

If you want a taste of the lake and recreation areas around it before you come out, be sure to check out Saylorville's virtual tour of the lake in the link below!

https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/virtual/saylor/tour.html