PRAIRIE ROSE STATE PARK
Prairie Rose State Park is one of the most attractive outdoor recreation areas in western Iowa. The 422-acre park lies in a region of scenic hills, six miles east and three miles south of Harlan.
The park received its name from a small town called Village of Prairie Rose which was once located near the present park location. Plans for Prairie Rose were initiated in the 1930s. However, actual construction of the dam started in 1958 with the park dedication taking place in 1962.
Located in Shelby County, the land now known as Prairie Rose was historically prairie and farmland. European settlers displaced native vegetation with agriculture during westward expansion.
The park's establishment dates to 1958 when efforts began to create a recreational area for residents. It officially opened in 1962 after damming of a local creek created its central lake.
Historical features include remnants of early farmsteads and Native American presence, though specific structures are not widely publicized within the park itself. The surrounding region is rich with pioneer history and rural development stories from Iowa's past.
Facilities have been added including campgrounds, picnic areas, trails for hiking/biking/equestrian use; these enhance visitor experiences while preserving natural habitats. Conservation practices help maintain diverse ecosystems representative of pre-settlement times despite historical agricultural impacts on the landscape.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
Full Hookup Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Camping at Prairie Rose, whether for a weekend or a family vacation, is delightful. There are 97 campsites, 61 with electric hookups. Two campgrounds are available. The larger one features electrical hookups and modern shower and rest room facilities. The other campground, with non-modern rest room facilities, is popular with tenters. Starting February 13, 2006 advance campsite reservations can be booked through the park reservation system. Half of the campsites are still available for self-registration on a first-come, first-serve basis.
1. Prairie Rose State Park offers a large 218-acre lake for swimming.
2. The park's sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles before taking a swim.
3. Lifeguards are not provided, so swimmers should exercise caution while in the water.
4. Swimming areas are clearly marked to ensure safety of all visitors enjoying the waterside activities.
5. Restrooms and showers facilities near the beach area provide convenience after your refreshing dip in the lake.
The lake is popular for all types of boating from canoes and sailboats to motor boats and, in the winter, ice boats. Any size boat motors may be used at "no wake" speeds. Two modern boat ramps provide easy access to the lake.
Fishing:
Anglers of all ages will find a challenge at Prairie Rose. The lake provides excellent bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, bluegill and crappie fishing from boat or shoreline. Six new fishing jetties have just been completed. There are two fish cleaning docks located on the lake for successful anglers convenience.
Prairie Rose State Park is
Prairie Rose State Park provides a number of beautiful picnic areas with excellent views of the 218-acre lake. These are ideal places for family cookouts. Two open picnic shelters are available for a fee and may be reserved through the park office. Both of the shelters have electrical outlets available.
A nature trail is located in the northwest corner of the park, starting from near the beach area. Hikers can enjoy the scenery along the three mile trail. A bridge now crosses the spillway making it possible to travel from the camp area to the beach. It winds along the shore line and around the reestablished prairie and is a great place to observe a variety of plants and wildlife.
There is a multi purpose trail located in the eastern portion of the park and provides excellent wintertime fun, such as snowmobiling and cross country skiing. The two mile snowmobile trail is located in the eastern portion of the park and provides great wintertime fun.
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy a 1.4-mile paved trail, perfect for casual rides or family outings. Be mindful of pedestrians.
For those seeking more adventure, there's an off-road mountain bike path available too. Ensure proper safety gear is worn.
The trails are open year-round but conditions may vary with weather changes; always check before setting out on your ride.
Remember to respect nature and other park users by following the 'leave no trace' principles when cycling in this area.
Please note that bikes aren't allowed on all paths - adhere strictly to designated biking routes only.
Bike rentals might not be readily available within the vicinity so plan accordingly if you don't own one already.
The park offers birdwatchers a variety of species, including waterfowl and songbirds. A trail system provides easy access to different habitats for viewing opportunities. The lake attracts migrating birds in spring and fall seasons. Birding events are occasionally organized by the local Audubon Society chapter.
- Start from Des Moines, Iowa.
- Head west on I235 W.
- Take exit 124 to merge onto IA141 W towards Urbandale/Grimes.
- Continue straight for about 60 miles until you reach Harlan.
- In Harlan: Turn right onto Chatburn Ave and continue till the end of road.
- Prairie Rose State Park will be located at your left side.