Mcintosh Woods State Park

Closed — Closed for the 2025-2026 winter season due to scheduled campground renovation. The campground closed November 15, 2025 and will remain closed through March 31, 2026. Reservations available starting April 1, 2026 via the Iowa State Parks online system.

About

McIntosh Woods State Park is a 60-acre natural refuge located on the northwest shore of Clear Lake in northern Iowa. Founded in 1944, the park serves as a major access point to Clear Lake, the state's second-largest natural lake, and is a popular destination for anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. The park features a shaded campground with 45 electric sites and 4 non-electric sites, along with the distinction of hosting the only two yurts in the Iowa state park system. One yurt is ADA accessible. Modern amenities include a restroom and shower building, dump station, and a new playground. The campground is 100% reservable through Iowa State Parks' online system. Site driveways range from 30 to 82 feet, with one pull-through site available. Recreational opportunities abound at McIntosh Woods. The park provides the largest boat ramp on Clear Lake with extensive paved parking, making it a premier launch point for anglers pursuing walleye, muskie, northern pike, catfish, yellow bass, and panfish. Two fishing jetties offer shoreline access, one of which is ADA accessible, along with a modern fish cleaning station. A sandy beach on the peninsula provides swimming opportunities, while a one-mile interpretive hiking trail winds through the park, featuring a boardwalk through Mallard Marsh that leads to a wildlife viewing blind. Winter visitors enjoy ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Two open picnic shelters and numerous grassy, shaded picnic areas are available throughout the park.

Directions

Take Exit 194 off Interstate 35 and go west on Highway 18 approximately 5 miles to McIntosh Road. Turn south to the park entrance.

Nearby Campgrounds