Iowa / Marion County

North Tailwater Picnic Shelter

Closed — Closed for the season. The picnic shelter operates seasonally, typically from spring through fall. When open and not reserved, the shelter is available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis until dusk.

About

North Tailwater Picnic Shelter sits on the scenic north bank of the Des Moines River at the north end of Red Rock Dam, just 10 minutes from Pella and 15 minutes from Knoxville. This day-use facility features a conventional open shelter with 20 amp electrical service, picnic tables, an outdoor grill, and nearby flush toilets. When not reserved, the shelter is available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis until dusk. Overnight camping is not permitted. The location offers prime access to Lake Red Rock's extensive recreation opportunities. Anglers can fish for crappie, walleye, largemouth and striped bass, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike, and bluegill. The area provides excellent boating, water skiing, and designated water trails for kayakers and canoeists. The 15-mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and Cordova Recreation Area, offering excellent biking and hiking. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with American White Pelicans migrating through in spring and fall, bald eagles observable from November through March, and white-tailed deer and turkeys commonly seen. The shelter requires an event permit for gatherings over 100 people, events open to the public, those involving live or amplified music, or where alcohol will be served. Golf carts, UTVs, and ATVs are not permitted.

Directions

1004 216th Place, Pella, IA 50219. From Pella, take Highway T-15 southwest for 5 miles, then turn east on Idaho Drive to 198th Place. Travel south and follow signs to North Tailwater Recreation Area.

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