George Wyth State Park

Overview

Brochure InfoGeorge Wyth Memorial State Park is considered an "urban wildlife sanctuary" located between Waterloo and Cedar Falls in Black Hawk County. Visitors can "get away" from the busy metropolitan area and take advantage of a variety of outdoor activities in a very natural setting.Brochure Info - RecreationTrails George Wyth has 3.5 miles of paved multi-purpose trails, which are great for biking, in-line skating, running and walking. The park also offers 10 miles of soft trails. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are very popular. These trails are linked to a 100 mile trail network within the cities of Waterloo and Cedar Falls. This trail system provides links for parks, playing fields, lakes, businesses, shopping districts, schools and neighborhoods in the metro area. The Lake-to-State Park Bike Route is a 50 mile route connecting Pine Lake and George Wyth State Park. The route primarily utilizes county highways and established bike routes and paths once inside Cedar Falls/Waterloo. Lake Activities George Wyth has four lakes each with its own niche. Brinker Lake (formerly East Lake) is 180 acres and open for power boating after 9 a.m. George Wyth Lake is a 75 acre "no-wake"lake with a universally accessible fishing pier. The beach, one of the most popular swimming spots in the area, is located on George Wyth Lake where wind surfing is also a popular activity. Fisher Lake is a 40 acre natural lake and an oxbow to the Cedar River which borders the park. Alice Wyth Lake is 60 acres and only allows electric motors. Anglers can try their luck for crappie, bluegill, walleye, northern, bass and channel catfish in any of the lakes. There is a boat ramp at each of the lakes and there are three universally accessible jetties around George Wyth Lake. The Cedar Valley Paddlers Trail is the first looped water trail. It starts at Fisher Lake in George Wyth. All four lakes in George Wyth, Cedar River, and two lakes at Hartman Reserve Nature Center make up the trail. The trail is 10 miles with 1.6 miles of portaging and 8.4 miles of water. This can change some depending on water levels during the year. People of all ages can enjoy this trail because you can create your own smaller or bigger trails within this one. George Wyth also has a bird blind located at the back of the park. Birders have seen more than two-hundred species of birds throughout the year, with many rare birds spotted. Other wildlife can also be seen through the blind.Brochure Info - Facilities and RestrictionsPicnicking/Shelters/Lodge The scenic beauty of George Wyth State Park makes it a very popular picnic spot. There are three open shelters near the river and Fisher Lake that may be reserved for a family picnic or special occasion. At the back of the park you will find our popular day-use lodge ideal for family reunions, weddings and receptions. The lodge may be reserved through the reservation system as well. Camping A growing number of campers are enjoying the experience of camping within a metropolitan area. The campground boasts both electric and non-electric sites, modern showers, restrooms and a dump station. There is access to the Cedar Valley Trails right from the campground.Brochure Info - Nearby AttractionsThe Accel Triathlon is held in July. There is a George Wyth mountain bike race in August. Nearby Towns Cedar Falls and Waterloo.Key InfoConcessions Open Memorial Day weekend thru Labor Day weekend; 7 days a week, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM weekdays, 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM weekends. Services include recreational rentals such as kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, pedal boats, lake floats, river tubes; concession snacks and ice cream, firewood, ice and fishing bait. Additional information at www.maxxrentals.comImportant Information for Daily EntranceDirectionLocated off of Hwy 218. Coming from the south follow Hwy 218 north and take Broadway Street/Waterloo Airport Exit and follow the signs. Coming from the north, follow Hwy 218 south and take the Broadway St./Waterloo Airport Exit, then turn right at the stoplight. The park is on the right. Coming from the west, take Hwy 20 east to Hwy 58 north, to Hwy 218 south, then take the Broadway St./Waterloo Airport exit, turn right at stoplight, and the park will be on the right. Coming from the east, take Hwy 20 west to Hwy 218 north, then take the Broadway St. /Waterloo Airport exit and follow the signs.Booking Window Product Info