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Latest News

Water levels at Saylorville Lake to be temporarily raised for data collection
3/8/2024
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, is temporarily raising water levels at Saylorville Lake to 1.8 feet above the normal conservation pool to conduct bathymetric data collection...
Work to cause temporary closure of roadway over Saylorville Dam beginning March 11
3/7/2024
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces the temporary closure of the road across the Saylorville Lake Dam beginning March 11. The closure, which is necessary for preventative...
Portion of Neal Smith Trail to close for resurfacing at Saylorville Lake
2/29/2024
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces a portion of the Neal Smith Trail at Saylorville Lake will temporarily close for resurfacing starting March 4th...

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