Elk Rock State Park
Open through October 31. The campground is 100% reservable with no first-come-first-served sites. Equestrian trails are currently closed due to recent rain but remain open for pedestrian hiking and biking.
Heat Advisory issued August 31 at 11:43AM CDT until September 2 at 7:00PM CDT by NWS Des Moines IA
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 100-103 degrees. * WHERE...Portions of central and south central Iowa, including the Des Moines metro. * WHEN...Until 7 PM CDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...While heat index values may not reach 105 degrees each day, the combination of the longevity of the heat and little or limited relief during the overnight periods with warm lows have prompted the multi-day Heat Advisory.
About
Elk Rock State Park encompasses over 50,000 acres of public land along Lake Red Rock in Marion County, Iowa. The park operates two distinct campgrounds: an equestrian campground with 42 sites (including buddy sites for groups), horse stalls, hitching rails, and a 100' x 200' riding arena; and a non-equestrian campground with 30 standard sites. Both areas feature modern shower buildings, and the park has a centrally located dump station. The 13-mile multi-use trail system supports horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, and winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Lake Red Rock provides extensive water recreation with six-lane and secondary boat launch ramps, dock facilities, and excellent fishing and boating opportunities. A self-dispensing firewood machine operates from May 1 through September 30. The campground is 100% reservable through ReserveAmerica, with reservations available up to three months in advance. Sites range from primitive non-electric options to full electric hookups with 20/30/50 amp service. Select equestrian sites also offer water hookups. Check-in is at 4:00 p.m. and check-out at 3:00 p.m.
Directions
From Knoxville, take Highway 14 south. The park entrance is at 888 HWY 14, Knoxville, IA 50138.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | Yes |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $16 - $78 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 80ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | Yes |
Contact
| Elk_Rock@dnr.iowa.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (641) 842-6008 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!