Pine Lake State Park

Pine Lake State Park is a hidden gem with wooded trails, deep ravines, and scenic lake views in the midst of Iowa’s rolling farmland. Historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Works Progress Administration (WPA) can be found throughout the park, including the Pine Lodge, beach house and stone cabins, which have been carefully restored. Pine Lake is filled with beautiful picnic areas to enjoy a quiet setting by the river or an overlook of the park’s lake. The park originally was home to Iowa’s southernmost stand of native pine trees which were wiped out by a severe hailstorm in August 2009; today hundreds of caged tree seedlings are scattered throughout the park as part of a reforestation effort.

Hike a variety of trails winding through wetland areas around the lake, along the bluffs of the Iowa River and through unique forest ecosystems. Hikers can see beautiful views of Lower Pine Lake and its surrounding forests by exploring the South Trail along the south shore of the lake. A 2.5-mile paved trail connects the lake to the nearby town of Eldora, and will soon be connected to a 10-mile paved loop through Pine Lake and Steamboat Rock. Visitors may catch a glimpse of wildlife while exploring the park’s trails.

Fish in the waters of Upper Pine Lake, Lower Pine Lake and the Iowa River. The lakes are hotspots for catching bass, crappie and catfish, and the Iowa River is popular for smallmouth bass, northern pike and walleye. Anglers can fish from shore or a fishing jetty at the lakes. Only electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake.

Stay overnight in one of four cozy cabins at Pine Lake, with stone fireplaces and outdoor fire rings. One cabin is ADA accessible, and all cabins include a full kitchen and bath, along with heating and air conditioning for year-round stays. The park’s campground offers electric sites with modern showers and restrooms and a trailer dump station. Some campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and advanced campsite and cabin reservations can be made online.

Reserve one of two shelters on Upper Pine Lake. Pine Lodge can be reserved through the online reservation system for Pine Lake State Park, for weddings, family reunions or other special events.

• Hiking trails
• Playground
• Swimming beach
• Boat ramp and dock
• Fishing jetties
• Fish cleaning station
• Day-use lodge (1); ADA accessible
• Shelters (4)
• Modern restrooms
• Showers 
• Modern family cabins (2)
  • The Pine Creek cabin is ADA accessible
• Studio family cabins (2)
• Electric campsites (94)
• Full hook-up campsites (2)
• Non electric campsites (24)
• Youth group only campsites (1)
• Dump station