Big Creek State Park

About

Big Creek State Park, located just north of Des Moines near Polk City, is one of Iowa's most visited day-use recreation areas. The park surrounds Big Creek Lake, an 883-acre impoundment popular for fishing, boating, and swimming. Anglers target largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish, while the marina offers kayak, paddleboard, and pontoon rentals. The park features extensive day-use amenities including 22 picnic shelters and cabanas scattered around the lakeshore, a sandy swimming beach with modern restrooms, multiple boat ramps, a disc golf course, volleyball courts, and a large wooden playground. The 27-mile paved Neil Smith Trail passes through the park, connecting to Des Moines via the Saylorville Lake area. Importantly, Big Creek State Park does not have camping facilities. Visitors seeking overnight accommodations should look to nearby Saylorville Lake, which has several federal campgrounds approximately four miles away.

Directions

From Des Moines, take I-80 west to exit 124 (Ankeny/Polk City). Head north on NW Polk City Drive approximately 8 miles to Polk City, then follow signs to Big Creek State Park. The main entrance is at 8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, IA 50226.