Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground accepts reservations April through October and is closed November through March.

About

Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area in Linn County is a premier outdoor destination developed in the 1960s to provide accessible lake recreation for eastern Iowa communities. The park spans 1,927 acres and centers around a 410-acre lake known for excellent fishing opportunities, including muskellunge, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and white bass. The recreation area features three non-equestrian campgrounds with a mix of electric sites, full hookup sites, and non-electric sites, all supported by two modern shower and restroom facilities. Additionally, four rustic pine log camping cabins are available seasonally, equipped with microwaves, small refrigerators, basic furnishings, and electricity. All campsites are reservable, and reservations are required. Beyond camping, Pleasant Creek offers more than eight miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The lake supports various activities including kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving, and windsurfing, with four boat ramps and a dedicated kayak launch providing easy water access. A designated swimming beach operates from sunrise to sunset. The park also provides 1,517 acres of public hunting grounds for pheasants, cottontail rabbit, and white-tailed deer, along with picnic shelters and fishing jetties for shoreline access.

Directions

Located 4 miles north of Palo on McClintock Road in Linn County, Iowa.

Nearby Campgrounds