State Parks

UPDATED 1/6/2021.

Please note new changes to parks operations during the COVID-19 health emergency.

In accordance with state recommendations pertaining to COVID-19, we want to share with you important information about Iowa state parks. 

State Parks, Forests and Preserves visitors are reminded to strictly abide to the social distancing rules and not gather in groups. Remember to stay home if you feel sick, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and bring supplies from home including disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer and other hygiene products.

Park Facility Changes (Updated 1/6/2021):

• Campgrounds are open for winter camping. Winter camping is dependent upon weather conditions. Heavy snowfalls may prevent access to the campground as not all roads are routinely maintained. Modern restrooms and shower buildings are closed. Water may not be available in some parks. It is recommended that campers may want to call ahead and check the weather and road conditions before planning a camping trip.  Campers and visitors should follow gathering size, social distancing and increased hygiene requirements and recommendations.
• Year-round cabins and yurts are open. All kitchenware has been removed from cabins, including dishes, pots and pans; please bring your own from home. Additionally, check-in time is now 5:00 p.m. and check-out time is now 9:00 a.m. (changed from 4:00 p.m. and 11:00 a.m, respectively) to allow for extra time to clean between rentals. 
• Year-round lodges are open. Check-in time is now 10 a.m. (changed from 8:00 a.m.). Groups must follow gathering size, social distancing and increased hygiene requirements and recommendations.
• Customers with lodge reservations will be allowed to cancel up to 7 days prior to the arrival date without penalty and receive a full refund of the rental fees and taxes paid. No cancellation fee will be charged. The original non-refundable reservation fee ($4.00 for online reservations and $6.00 for reservations made through the call center) will not be refunded. Lodge cancellations less than 7 days prior to the arrival date will be subject to the regular reservation cancellation policy. To cancel, contact the customer service call center at (877) 427-2757.   
• Playgrounds are open.  Equipment is not sanitized, user discretion is advised.
• Programs and events at all state parks are limited in order to follow gathering size, social distancing and increased hygiene requirements and recommendations. Check the special event system to see which events are still scheduled. 
• Visitor centers, museums and nature centers are closed for the year. Lewis & Clark visitor center is open by appointment only.
• We are monitoring the situation. We promise to remain diligent and intentional in protecting you and making your visit a great experience. As conditions change, so may our policies on park visitation and overnight stays. We will keep you informed of any changes moving forward.
• Other areas of state parks and forests are open this winter.  Access to these areas is dependent upon weather conditions.

Thank you for your patience and flexibility. We appreciate your support of Iowa state parks as we all work together to keep each other safe