LAKE ANITA STATE PARK
Lake Anita State Park, dedicated in 1961, 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. Lake Anita State Park truly has something for everyone; from hiking on a quiet trail to splashing on the beach, Lake Anita is a great place to enjoy yourself in the great outdoors.
Located in Cass County, the area now known as Lake Anita was originally prairie and farmland. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a role in its development during the 1930s, constructing dams to create water recreation areas across Iowa.
The lake itself is man-made, constructed for soil conservation and recreational purposes; it was completed by damming a branch of the Nishnabotna River. Officially established as a state park in 1961, this site spans over 1,062 acres with an approximately 171-acre lake at its heart.
Historical features within include remnants from CCC projects such as stone structures that are still visible today. Over time facilities have been added or improved upon including campgrounds, picnic areas and trails catering to outdoor enthusiasts seeking fishing boating hiking birdwatching etc.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
Full Hookup Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
The campground at Lake Anita is one of the most popular in southwest Iowa. The 161 camping sites are all within easy access of the lake. This includes 52 electrical hookups, 40 full hookups and two modern shower/restroom buildings. A playground is also provided. 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. Lake Anita State Park offers a designated swimming area on its 171-acre lake.
2. The sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles before or after swimming.
3. Lifeguards are not provided, so swimmers should exercise caution while in the water.
4. Swimming outside of the marked areas can be dangerous due to boat traffic and fishing activities.
5. Restrooms, showers, changing facilities are available near the beach for swimmer's convenience.
6. The park also provides picnic tables nearby where you can enjoy meals post-swimming session.
The park features a 171-acre man-made lake where visitors can enjoy various boating activities. Motorized boats are allowed, but they must adhere to the "no wake" rule for safety reasons and to maintain tranquility in the area. Paddleboats, rowboats and kayaks are available for rent within the park itself during summer months or you may bring your own equipment as well.
You can enjoy fishing in a 171-acre man-made lake, teeming with largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill. Catfish are also stocked regularly for anglers to catch. The park offers two boat ramps for easy water access. Ice fishing is popular during winter months too.
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. The eight open picnic shelters are available for use and may be reserved for a fee through the park office.
1. Lake Shore Trail: Circles the entire lake, offering scenic views of water and wildlife; approximately 2-mile loop suitable for all skill levels.
2. Woodland Trail: A shorter trail that delves into native woodlands surrounding the park; ideal for bird watching and a quick nature immersion.
3. Prairie View Path: Showcases Iowa's prairie landscape with interpretive signs explaining local flora and fauna; less than 1 mile long, perfect for an educational stroll.
4. Sunset Ridge Walkway: Positioned on higher ground providing panoramic sunset vistas over Lake Anita; relatively flat terrain makes it accessible to most hikers.
5. Fishing Cove Access Track: Leads directly to several fishing coves around the lake, combining hiking with angling opportunities; distances vary depending on chosen cove but are generally short walks from parking areas.
Biking enthusiasts can explore a 6-mile trail around the lake. Be aware, it's not paved and has some steep sections.
The path is shared with pedestrians so exercise caution when cycling to avoid accidents.
Remember that helmets are strongly recommended for safety purposes while biking on this trail.
During winter months, trails may be icy or snow-covered; consider these conditions before embarking on your ride.
Nighttime bicycling isn't advised due to limited visibility and absence of lighting along the paths.
Ensure you carry enough water as there aren't many refill stations available throughout the route.
Please respect wildlife by keeping distance and refraining from feeding them during your bike rides.
A one-mile self-guided nature trail is available, where park visitors can learn about a number of the shrubs and trees which abound in southwest Iowa. Lake Anita also offers a 4-mile trail which winds around the entire lake and is available for a pleasant walk. It is a great avenue for hikers and bicyclists wanting to enjoy the great outdoors.
Birding enthusiasts can enjoy spotting various species like waterfowl, songbirds and raptors in the park's diverse habitats. The 171-acre lake attracts numerous migratory birds throughout different seasons. Birdwatchers are recommended to bring binoculars for a better viewing experience.
Directions from Des Moines, Iowa:
- Start on I-235 W.
- Take exit 124 for US-6/US169 toward Adel/Winterset.
- Turn right onto US169 S/Hickman Rd.
Continuing to Lake Anita State Park:
- Continue straight onto IA141 W/N Ave.
Traveling through Casey and Adair:
- Follow signs for Interstate 80 E/Council Bluffs/Dsm Airport/Iowa Events Center.
- Merge with I80-E via the ramp to Council Bluffes.
- Use Exit 60 towards Atlantic/Stuart.
Reaching your destination:
- Keep left at fork; follow signs for Stuart/Atlantic/Lake Anita State Park.
- Turn Left onto Richland Road then continue until you reach Lake Anita state park entrance.