Iowa / Marion County

Howell Station

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates from mid-April through mid-October. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Howell Station Campground sits just below the Red Rock Dam and Lake on the north side of the Des Moines River. Lake Red Rock is Iowa's largest lake, located just 10 minutes from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 minutes from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world. The campground features electric hookup sites, modern restrooms with showers, drinking water, and two dump stations, making it ideal for RVers and tent campers alike. Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing, and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline. Anglers will find crappie, largemouth and striped bass, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike, and bluegill. Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area, including the 15-mile paved Volksweg Trail that stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and the Cordova Recreation Area. Hardwood forests cover the riverbanks at Howell Station, offering shade and scenic views. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrate through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March. White-tailed deer, turkeys, and other small animals are commonly viewed around the lake.

Directions

From Pella, Iowa, take Highway T-15 southwest for 5 miles, then turn east on Idaho Drive to 198th Place. Travel south and follow signs to campground.

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