Open
This is a day-use picnic shelter only. No overnight camping is permitted. Shelter occupancy is allowed until dusk. When not reserved, the shelter is available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
About
South Tailwater Picnic Shelter is a day-use only facility situated on the Des Moines River at the south end of Red Rock Dam, adjacent to the Lake Red Rock visitor center. Iowa's largest lake, Red Rock offers boating, water skiing, swimming, and excellent fishing for crappie, walleye, bass, catfish, and bluegill. The area is rich in wildlife, with American White Pelicans migrating through in spring and fall, and bald eagles observable from November through March.
The shelter is a conventional open-air structure equipped with 20 amp electrical service, picnic tables, and an outdoor grill. Flush toilets are located nearby. Occupancy is permitted until dusk only; there is no overnight camping allowed at this facility.
When not reserved, the shelter is available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov. Special event permits are required for events open to the public, gatherings exceeding 100 attendees, events featuring amplified music, or those serving alcohol. Golf carts, UTVs, ATVs, and inflatable play equipment are prohibited without permits.
Directions
From Pella, Iowa, take County Highway T-15 southwest for 4 miles, then follow signs to South Tailwater Recreation Area.
