Check out a list of some of the less-popular state parks in Iowa that still offer natural beauty and plenty of activities.

Iowa’s 99 counties are home to more than 60 state parks—63 to be exact. These beautiful preserves showcase the incredible landscape of the state, allowing you to explore the prairies, woodlands, and wetlands all around Iowa.

No matter what season you visit, or if you set out on foot, by horseback, or in your vehicle, you are sure to grow your appreciation for Iowa during any visit to a state park. Of course, there are lots of well-known spots that Iowans gravitate to. However, these eight state parks across Iowa are lesser-known  gems that are absutely worth a visit.  

1. Beeds Lake State Park

1422 165th St., Hampton

Beeds Lake State Park is located in Franklin County near Hampton. It’s named after William Beed, who owned the land before it was purchased by the Civilian Conservation Corps and turned into a state park in 1938.

This park is well known among those who love to fish, whether from the shore, the dock, or by boat (operated at “no wake” speeds). Anglers often catch bass, catfish, and panfish in Beeds Lake, a 99-acre reservoir. There’s an easy two-mile trail that is great for a hike or a bike ride, or even cross-country skiing during winter months.

The main feature of the park is the spillway and dam, perhaps one of the most photographed in the Midwest. The park also features a lodge that can be reserved for day use, and there are ample camping sites available. 

2. Geode State Park

3333 Racine Ave., Danville

If you are a rockhound, then put a trip to Geode State Park on your to-visit list. This state park in southeast Iowa is named for the state rock, which is likely to be found in this part of the state. The central feature of the park is Lake Geode, covering 150 acres and offering a nice variety of activities like fishing, boating, and paddling.

While the geodes are a big draw, please remember that visitors are not allowed to remove geodes from the state park. Do make a point to stop in the park office to see some impressive geodes on display. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore and a fun playground for the kids as well. 

3. Lake of Three Fires State Park

2303 Lake Rd., Bedford

Lake of Three Fires State Park is named after a group of Native Americans from the Potawatomi tribe known as the “Fire Nation” who once inhabited this area in southwestern Iowa.

Lake of Three Fires was dedicated in 1935. Since then, the park has become known for its equestrian trail riding options. There’s also an 85-acre lake that draws those looking for a scenic picnic spot or those who enjoy fishing. Anglers often catch bluegill and bullhead in the lake. Ten miles of trails wander through the park, taking visitors along the lake and through both wetlands and the prairie. The park also has six studio cabins available for overnight rental. 

4. Mini-Wakan State Park

24490 100th St., Spirit Lake

The Great Lakes region in Iowa (very near the Minnesota border) is a well-known spot for outdoor recreation. Mini-Wakan State Park is located on the north side of Big Spirit Lake. This 20-acre gem of a park has a boat ramp with access to Big Spirit Lake, Iowa’s largest natural lake. But that’s not the only reason to pay this little park a visit.

Fishing here is highly recommended, and you can even do late-night fishing as long as you remain along the shoreline to do so. This is also a particularly popular spot for ice fishing during winter months. Mini-Waken State Park also has a newly renovated lodge that can be rented out for day use. 

5. Nine Eagles State Park

23678 Dale Miller Rd., Davis City

Head to south central Iowa to visit Nine Eagles State Park. Here, you’ll find some lovely valleys to explore among lush woodlands. One of the most picturesque parks in the southern part of the state, Nine Eagles is also a draw for those looking for native plants and those interested in birding.

The park features six miles of bridle trails and an additional nine miles of hiking trails, including a three-mile trail around the lake. It’s an ideal place to spend a day enjoying a long hike and a picnic. You might even cast a line and hope to catch bass, channel catfish, or bluegill. The lake covers just 68 acres, but is one of the clearest artificial impoundments in Iowa thanks to the surrounding woodlands watershed. Nine Eagles State Park covers 1,100 acres in all. 

6. Preparation Canyon State Park

Preparation Canyon Rd., Moorhead

Heading to western Iowa towards the Loess Hills, you’ll find Preparation Canyon State Park. This state park offers you a taste of the Loess Hills, packed into just 344 acres.

There’s plenty of hiking that rewards you with incredible views. Make sure you bring appropriate hiking footwear, as parts of the trail are loose dirt and have rougher terrain. Ten hike-in camping sites are available if you’re interested in spending the night.

This park is also packed with history, having once been home to the town of Preparation. The town was founded in 1853 during the Utah-bound Mormon Trail. It grew to include 67 houses, a school, a newspaper, a post office, a skating rink, and a blacksmith shop. But by 1900, nearly everyone had left town. Descendants of the original settlers sold the land to the state of Iowa to develop the state park. 

7. Viking Lake State Park

2780 Viking Lake Rd., Stanton

Viking Lake State Park is also located in western Iowa, although the landscape here is quite different from the distinctive Loess Hills. At Viking Lake, you can enjoy many activities on the water, including boating (via four boat ramps) and swimming off the small sandy beach. Fishing here offers the chance to hook bluegill, red-ear sunfish, largemouth bass, and more.

Wildlife sightings are another draw at Viking Lake State Park. Keep your eyes open for beavers, turkeys, ducks, and white-tailed deer who like to enjoy the parts of the 1,000-acre park that have been left in their natural state. There’s a one-mile Bur Oak nature trail that offers a leisurely stroll. If you are looking for a longer excursion, take the 5.5-mile trail that goes around Viking Lake.

And don’t let the name fool you. There’s not really evidence of Vikings in the area, although many Native American artifacts were found when the park was being established. 

8. Wapsipinicon State Park

21301 County Road E34, Anamosa

Wapsipinicon State Park is less well-known than some other state parks in Eastern Iowa. Located just outside of Anamosa, this small state park is a great spot for overnight camping. Thanks to the surrounding woodlands and rolling hills, it’s particularly beautiful during the fall. There’s a very cool (and often photographed) stone arch bridge that is on the National Register of Historic Places, along with several other structures in the park that were built decades ago by prisoners from the nearby Anamosa State Penitentiary.

There are three miles of multi-use trails, one leading to Horse Thief Cave, another to Ice Cave, and yet another to Dutch Creek, which are all unique features of the park you’ll want to check out. There are also great fishing opportunities along the Wapsipinicon River that runs right through the park. It’s a walleye feeding area. Lastly, there is a nearby nine-hole golf course if you want to get in a quick game.