Picnic areas offer a splendid view of the lake and are equipped with grills. There are many tables by the water's edge
and the whole area is carpeted with mowed grass. A rustic
open picnic shelter, located atop a hill, is a fine spot for large gatherings. This shelter and four smaller ones
may be reserved online through the
park reservation system.
Red Haw's shady campground overlooks the beautiful lake. There are 80 camping units (60 with electrical hookups), paved
roads, modern rest rooms, showers and a trailer dumping station. A playground provides fun for little campers. A boat
ramp is conveniently located near the campground. Advance campsite reservations can be
made through the park reservation system . Half of the campsites are
available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
A multi-use trail around the lake offers a scenic view for hikers, bird watchers, snowmobilers, cross-country
skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
(swimming, boating, fishing)
Un-supervised swimming is available at the beach.
Two boat ramps provide easy access to the lake, where only electric trolling motors are allowed.
Fishing for bluegills, crappies, catfish and bass is popular during the summer, and ice fishing is allowed during
the winter. Red Haw is known as one of Iowa's premier "panfish" lakes.
Red Haw State Park has an additional 229 acres south of the existing park designated for public hunting. This area
offers upland opportunities and can be accessed by a county road south of the park.
No matter what the season, the trees make Red Haw a beautiful place to visit. The 649-acre park is filled with
hawthorns, oaks, maples and pine trees. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy swimming and boating. In the
winter, visitors can enjoy ice skating, sledding, skiing and snowmobiling. Hiking trails wind through the park and
around the sparkling clear 72- acre lake.
Nearby Towns
Chariton is one mile west. Russell is seven miles southeast. Des Moines is 50 miles northwest.
24550 U.S. Hwy. 34
Chariton, IA 50049
ph. 641/774-5632
fax 641/774-8821
E-mail address: Red_Haw@dnr.iowa.gov
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Picnicking/Shelters/Lodge