About This Park
Overview
Cherry Glen 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 six group picnic shelters, all with electric hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, a playground and hiking trails. Cherry Glen Campground is adjacent as well as Cherry Glen Boat Ramp.
Natural Features
Cherry Glen is nestled on a compact 13-acre wooded ridge. Visiting with family and friends while relaxing in the shade of one of the area’s many trees is a popular pastime.
Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.
Nearby Attractions
Cherry Glen Campground and Cherry Glen Boat Ramp.
Quick Information
- Type: Federal Park
- Network: Federal – Other
- Price Range: $15-35
- Rating: 4.5625 / 5
Amenities
- ✓ Water Hookup
- ✓ Electric Hookup
- ✓ Restrooms
- ✓ Pet Friendly
Contact & Location
SAYLORVILLE LAKE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE 5600 NW 78TH AVENUE
JOHNSTON, IA 50131
Phone: 515-276-4656
Book This Park
At altitude, expect crisp mornings, quieter nights, and scenery that's hard to leave behind. The nearby waterway is a highlight for fishing fans — a peaceful spot to cast a line and unwind. Year-round access makes this a viable option across seasons, though conditions vary significantly.