Ambrose A. Call State Park – Located in northwest Iowa, this park offers a scenic setting along the Little Sioux River. It’s a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and water-based activities, including fishing and boating.
Backbone State Park – Situated in eastern Iowa, Backbone State Park is known for its rugged terrain, including cliffs and deep ravines. It’s a popular park for hiking, picnicking, camping, and enjoying nature, with the iconic Backbone Rock formation as a focal point.
Badger Creek State Recreation Area – Located in central Iowa, Badger Creek is a peaceful area for camping, fishing, and boating. The 1,500-acre lake and surrounding woods offer numerous recreational opportunities for visitors.
Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park – Located near Indianola, this park features a series of picturesque lakes, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The park also offers trails and an opportunity to explore local wildlife and natural beauty.
Beeds Lake State Park – Situated in northern Iowa, Beeds Lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The park is known for its beautiful lake and surrounding natural areas, with a historic stone dam adding to its charm.
Bellevue State Park – Located on the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, Bellevue State Park features scenic bluffs, hiking trails, and opportunities for picnicking. The park also offers spectacular river views and a historic observation tower.
Big Creek State Park – Located in central Iowa near Polk City, Big Creek State Park is known for its large reservoir, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park offers hiking and camping, as well as great spots for picnicking.
Blackburn State Park – This small, quiet park in western Iowa offers a peaceful escape with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the natural surroundings of the area.
Black Hawk State Park – Situated in eastern Iowa, this park offers outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and camping, with a beautiful lake providing opportunities for boating and fishing. The park is named after the famous Native American leader, Black Hawk.
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area – Located in central Iowa, this park features a large lake, perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. It also has extensive trails for hiking and biking, and campgrounds for visitors to enjoy a weekend getaway.
Cedar Rock – Located in eastern Iowa, Cedar Rock is a small but unique park known for its striking rock formations and tranquil natural setting. The park offers scenic views, hiking trails, and opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Clear Lake State Park – Situated in north-central Iowa, Clear Lake State Park is a popular destination for water activities, including boating, swimming, and fishing. The park also offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and a peaceful environment for outdoor recreation.
Dolliver Memorial State Park – Located in western Iowa, Dolliver Memorial State Park is known for its scenic bluffs, deep ravines, and hiking opportunities. The park is named after a former Iowa congressman and offers great spots for picnicking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Elinor Bedell State Park – This park, located in central Iowa along the shores of Big Spirit Lake, provides a peaceful place for fishing, boating, and camping. The park also features a nature trail for hiking and birdwatching.
Elk Rock State Park – Located in southern Iowa, Elk Rock State Park is home to a large lake that provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also offers hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Emerson Bay State Recreation Area – Situated on the western shore of West Okoboji Lake in northwest Iowa, Emerson Bay is a popular area for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. The park offers sandy beaches and plenty of outdoor recreation.
Fairport State Recreation Area – Located in southeastern Iowa along the Mississippi River, this park offers great opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The park provides stunning views of the river and surrounding natural areas.
Fort Atkinson State Preserve – Found in northeast Iowa, Fort Atkinson is a historic site and park that preserves the remains of a 19th-century military fort. It offers hiking trails, picnicking, and a chance to learn about Iowa’s history.
Fort Defiance State Park – Located in north-central Iowa, Fort Defiance offers a mix of natural beauty and history. The park features a variety of wildlife, hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere, along with the remains of a Civil War-era fort.
Geode State Park – Situated in southeastern Iowa, Geode State Park is known for its beautiful lake, offering excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park also has picnic areas, hiking trails, and is a great spot for enjoying nature.
George Wyth State Park – Located near Waterloo in eastern Iowa, George Wyth State Park is known for its scenic lakes, hiking trails, and various outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The park also offers opportunities for cross-country skiing in winter.
Green Valley State Park – Found in southwestern Iowa, Green Valley State Park features a large lake for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park offers camping, hiking trails, and scenic picnic areas, making it a popular outdoor destination.
Gull Point State Park – Located on the northern shore of West Okoboji Lake, Gull Point State Park offers excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. The park also features a variety of hiking trails and campgrounds.
Honey Creek State Park – Situated in central Iowa, Honey Creek State Park is known for its lake and opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park offers scenic views, hiking trails, and a peaceful setting for outdoor recreation.
Lacey Keosauqua State Park – Located in southeastern Iowa near the town of Keosauqua, Lacey Keosauqua State Park is known for its beautiful woodlands, offering hiking trails, picnicking, and access to the Des Moines River. The park is ideal for camping, wildlife watching, and enjoying scenic views.
Lake Ahquabi State Park – Situated in central Iowa near Indianola, Lake Ahquabi State Park features a serene 85-acre lake for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has camping areas, picnic shelters, and hiking trails, making it a popular family destination.
Lake Anita State Park – Located in southwestern Iowa, Lake Anita State Park is a beautiful spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, with a 50-acre lake at its center. The park offers well-maintained campgrounds and hiking trails, as well as opportunities for picnicking and birdwatching.
Lake Darling State Park – This park is located in southeastern Iowa and is centered around a 225-acre lake. Popular for fishing, boating, and swimming, the park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and an excellent location for camping and enjoying outdoor recreation.
Lake Keomah State Park – Located in southeastern Iowa near Oskaloosa, Lake Keomah State Park offers a peaceful setting with a lake perfect for fishing and boating. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping, along with scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Lake Macbride State Park – Situated in eastern Iowa near Solon, Lake Macbride State Park is popular for boating, swimming, and fishing on its large lake. The park features trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, along with picnic areas and campgrounds for visitors to enjoy.
Lake Manawa State Park – Located near Council Bluffs in western Iowa, Lake Manawa State Park is known for its large freshwater lake, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park also has campgrounds, hiking trails, and a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.
Lake of Three Fires State Park – This park, located in southwestern Iowa, is named for the three historic tribal fires of the area. It features a beautiful 90-acre lake where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking, as well as hiking and camping opportunities.
Lake Wapello State Park – Situated in southeastern Iowa near Drakesville, Lake Wapello State Park is known for its picturesque lake and wooded landscape. It offers boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and hiking, along with peaceful natural beauty.
Ledges State Park – Located in central Iowa near Madrid, Ledges State Park features dramatic sandstone cliffs and deep ravines. Popular for hiking, picnicking, and camping, the park is also known for its scenic beauty and access to the Des Moines River.
Lewis and Clark State Park – Situated in western Iowa near Onawa, this park offers a large reservoir for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as hiking and camping opportunities. The park honors the famous explorers Lewis and Clark and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
Lower Gar State Recreation Area – Located in northwest Iowa, Lower Gar State Recreation Area is part of the Okoboji Lakes area and offers boating, fishing, and picnicking by the water. It is a great spot for enjoying outdoor recreation in a peaceful setting.
Loess Hills State Forest – This large state forest in western Iowa offers numerous hiking and horseback riding trails through the unique loess hills landscape. It also features scenic views, wildlife watching, and outdoor exploration in a pristine natural setting.
Maquoketa Caves State Park – Situated in eastern Iowa, Maquoketa Caves State Park is known for its stunning cave formations and picturesque trails. Visitors can explore the caves, hike the park’s trails, and enjoy picnicking, making it one of Iowa’s most scenic parks.
Marble Beach State Recreation Area – Located along the shores of East Okoboji Lake in northwest Iowa, Marble Beach State Recreation Area offers great opportunities for swimming, boating, and picnicking. The park also features scenic views and access to the lake’s beauty.
McIntosh Woods State Park – Situated in northern Iowa near Clear Lake, McIntosh Woods State Park offers access to the lake for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park features picnicking areas, hiking trails, and camping options in a peaceful lakeside environment.
Mines of Spain State Recreation Area – Located in eastern Iowa near Dubuque, Mines of Spain is a historical and natural park that preserves the area’s lead mining history. Visitors can explore scenic trails, enjoy birdwatching, and learn about local history through exhibits and historical sites.
Mini-Wakan State Park – Located in north-central Iowa near the Spirit Lake area, Mini-Wakan State Park offers a serene lake for fishing and boating, along with scenic trails for hiking. The park is a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to relax and enjoy nature.
Nine Eagles State Park – This park, located in northeastern Iowa near the town of Guttenberg, is known for its natural beauty and abundant wildlife. It offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and fishing in a tranquil setting along the Mississippi River.
Okamanpedan State Park – Situated in north-central Iowa near the town of Emmetsburg, Okamanpedan State Park features a large lake for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park offers picnic areas, trails, and campgrounds for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Palisades-Kepler State Park – Located in eastern Iowa near Mount Vernon, Palisades-Kepler State Park offers hiking trails with views of the Cedar River and towering limestone bluffs. It is known for its scenic beauty and is popular for camping, picnicking, and outdoor recreation.
Pikes Peak State Park – This park in northeastern Iowa near McGregor is famous for its breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and scenic vistas, with opportunities for camping and exploring the nearby river.
Pikes Point State Park – Located along the shores of West Okoboji Lake in northwest Iowa, Pikes Point State Park offers swimming, boating, and picnicking. The park provides a peaceful setting for outdoor relaxation and recreation.
Pilot Knob State Park – Situated in northern Iowa, Pilot Knob State Park is home to one of the highest points in the state, offering scenic views of the surrounding area. The park offers hiking trails, camping, and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Pine Lake State Park – Located in central Iowa, Pine Lake State Park features a scenic lake that provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park offers camping, picnicking, and hiking in a peaceful forested environment.
Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area – Located in eastern Iowa near Palo, Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area offers a beautiful lake for fishing, swimming, and boating. The park also has campgrounds, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Prairie Rose State Park – Situated in southwestern Iowa, Prairie Rose State Park is known for its scenic 90-acre lake, which offers fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has trails for hiking and biking, as well as picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
Preparation Canyon State Park – Located in western Iowa, Preparation Canyon State Park is nestled in the Loess Hills and offers scenic hiking trails and picnic areas. It is a quiet park for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
Red Haw State Park – Situated in southern Iowa near Chariton, Red Haw State Park features a beautiful lake ideal for fishing and boating. The park offers camping, hiking, and picnicking opportunities, making it a great place for family gatherings.
Rice Lake State Park – Located in north-central Iowa near the town of Lake Mills, Rice Lake State Park is known for its birdwatching and fishing opportunities. The park offers hiking trails and camping facilities, making it a quiet escape for nature lovers.
Rock Creek State Park – This park, located in central Iowa near Kellogg, features a 300-acre lake perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. It also offers hiking, camping, and picnicking, with a peaceful environment for relaxation.
Shimek State Forest – Located in southeastern Iowa, Shimek State Forest is a large forested area with opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and camping. The forest is known for its diverse plant and animal life, offering a great place for nature exploration.
Springbrook State Park – Located in central Iowa, Springbrook State Park offers hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and a beautiful setting for picnicking. The park also provides campsites for visitors who want to stay and enjoy the outdoors.
Stephens State Forest – This large state forest in southern Iowa offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking in a natural forested environment. The forest provides a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor exploration.
Stone State Park – Located in northwest Iowa near Sioux City, Stone State Park features scenic trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities for wildlife watching. The park is a great spot for hiking, biking, and exploring nature.
Templar State Recreation Area – Situated in central Iowa near the town of Boone, Templar State Recreation Area offers access to Boone Lake for fishing and boating. The park also has picnic areas and hiking trails for visitors to enjoy.
Trappers Bay State Park – This small park in north-central Iowa near the Spirit Lake area offers hiking, picnicking, and beautiful lake views. It is a peaceful spot for outdoor activities in a scenic location.
Twin Lakes State Park – Located in north-central Iowa, Twin Lakes State Park features two scenic lakes that provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also offers picnicking areas and hiking trails.
Union Grove State Park – Situated in central Iowa near the town of Gladbrook, Union Grove State Park is home to a peaceful lake where visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating. The park also offers hiking trails and picnic areas.
Viking Lake State Park – Located in southwestern Iowa, Viking Lake State Park features a 100-acre lake for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park offers camping, picnicking, and hiking trails, making it a popular outdoor recreation destination.
Volga River State Recreation Area – This park in northeastern Iowa offers scenic views of the Volga River and a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. The park is known for its natural beauty and peaceful environment.
Walnut Woods State Park – Located near Des Moines in central Iowa, Walnut Woods State Park is famous for its forested landscape and opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The park also features the historic Racco