Lake Anita State Park

Overview

Brochure InfoLake Anita State Park, dedicated in 1969, is one of the most popular outdoor recreation facilities in southwest Iowa. The 1,062 acre park features a beautiful 171 acre artificial lake which was formed by creating a dam on a branch of the Nishnabotna River. This park truly has something for everyone; from hiking on a quiet trail, to relaxing in the campground, or splashing on the beach, Lake Anita is a great place to enjoy yourself in the great outdoors.Brochure Info - RecreationTrails A one-third mile self-guided trail is available, where park visitors can learn about a number of the shrubs and trees which abound in southwest Iowa. Lake Anita State Park also offers a four 3/8 mile multi-use trail which runs completely around the lake. The trail is paved and runs through restored prairie and by early successional timber, giving visitors a chance to view these diverse habitats and the different species of wildlife they hold. The paved Grass Roots Trail connects Lake Anita with the city of Anita leading to the downtown area. Lake Activities The beach at Lake Anita offers young and old opportunities for a refreshing dip or a game of sand volleyball on a hot summer day. Fishing is a very popular sport at Lake Anita. The 171 acre lake is home to largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish and walleye. Several jetties around the lake provide good shoreline fishing. Two boat ramps provide access to the lake for boat anglers. Dock space for pontoon boats may be reserved on a seasonal basis through the park office.Brochure Info - Facilities and RestrictionsPicnicking/Shelters Lake Anita State Park has a large number of picnic areas, many of which overlook the lake. The park is a wonderful place for a family get-together or just a quick outdoor meal. There are seven shelters available for reservations online. Camping All campsites are within easy access of the lake. The campground boasts electric, non-electric and full hook-up sites (water and sewer) as well as two modern shower/restroom buildings. Movies are shown every Saturday night in the campground, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. A playground is also provided.Brochure Info - Nearby AttractionsLake Anita is located five miles south of Interstate 80 from the Anita interchange. The park lies just south of the town of Anita. Adair is eight miles northeast. Atlantic is approximately twelve miles west.Key InfoLake Anita is open to boats running any size motors as long as they run at "no-wake" speeds. Friends of Lake Anita Concessions Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The concession is open on Saturdays, 8:00 - 11:00 PM at the popcorn shed. Souvenirs such as t-shirts, key chain flashlights, coolies, glow in the dark items and cup-holders available for sale during movie nights. Questions can be addressed at the Lake Anita State Park Facebook page. Yard games and firewood sales available through the campground host, typically 5:00 - 8:00 PM.Important Information for Daily EntranceDirectionFrom I-80, take exit 70 and go south on Highway 148. This will take you through Anita. The park is on the west side of Highway 148 south of Anita. From Highway 83, turn south onto Highway 148. The park is on the west side of Highway 148 south of Anita.Booking Window Product Info