RED HAW STATE PARK
Red Haw State Park is a serene 649-acre park located near Chariton in Lucas County, Iowa. It was officially established as a state park in 1935. The main feature of the park is Red Haw Lake, which spans approximately 72 acres and offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating (electric motors only), and swimming.
The landscape surrounding the lake includes rolling hills covered with hardwood forests that provide picturesque hiking trails throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy camping at one of its well-maintained campsites or rent cabins available within the park's boundaries. With abundant wildlife and diverse plant species, it's also popular among nature enthusiasts for bird watching and botany exploration.
Located in Lucas County, the land now known as Red Haw State Park was originally prairie and forest. Indigenous peoples inhabited the region before European settlers arrived for farming and homesteading. The park's centerpiece is a man-made lake created during the 1930s by damming Medicine Creek.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a role in early development, constructing roads, picnic areas, and other facilities still used today. Officially established as a state park in 1950 to provide recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking, fishing.
Historical features include remnants of past agricultural practices alongside CCC structures reflecting New Deal-era craftsmanship. Over time amenities have been added or improved upon including modern campgrounds and updated trails systems enhancing visitor experience while preserving natural beauty.
Surrounding area history includes coal mining towns that once thrived nearby but declined after mines closed post-World War II era leading to reforestation efforts within these regions adjacent to the park lands.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
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. 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.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. The 70-acre lake allows both motorized and non-motorized boats, with an on-site boat ramp available for easy access to the water. Rowboats are also available for rent from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend at the concession stand near the beach area.
Enjoy fishing in two well-stocked lakes, home to largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. Boat rentals are available too.
Ice-fishing is a popular winter activity when the lake freezes over; remember safety precautions though!
Fishing jetties provide easy access for anglers of all ages while shoreline spots offer peaceful solitude.
A valid Iowa Fishing License is required before you cast your line into these waters teeming with fish species.
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 for a fee through the park manager.
Biking enthusiasts should note that the park lacks designated biking trails. Caution is advised when cycling on hiking paths.
The terrain can be challenging, with uneven surfaces and steep inclines.
It's important to respect other trail users; always yield to pedestrians or horseback riders.
Remember, off-road biking isn't permitted due to potential damage it may cause natural habitats within the area.
Ensure you're well-equipped for emergencies as cell service might not cover all areas of this vast space.
Always wear a helmet while riding your bike in order ensure safety during unexpected situations.
Hiking trails wind through the park and around the lake. A multi-use trail which allows snowmobiles follows the lake shore on the east and south side of the lake with several loops to offer some diversity. A hiking trail for pedestrians only follows along the west end of the lake.
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species such as warblers, vireos and waterfowl. The park features diverse habitats including woodland, prairie and lake environments. Birding is best during migration seasons in spring and fall. Trails provide easy access to prime bird-watching spots.
- Start from Des Moines, Iowa.
- Head east on I235 E.
- Take exit 137A to merge onto US65 S toward Indianola.
- Continue for approximately 20 miles.
- Turn right onto IA92 E/IA5 S/E Salem Ave and continue following IA92E signs.
Next steps:
- After about a mile, turn left at the first cross street onto N Jefferson Way/N Kenwood Blvd (signs for U.S Highway Business Route).
- Drive straight until you reach W Ashland Avenue.
Continuing:
- Make a slight right towards W Ashland Avenue after passing Casey's General Store on your left side.
- Follow this road which will eventually become County Road R57/S23 Hwy.
Final directions:
- Stay in the same direction till you see Red Haw State Park signboard; it should be around an hour drive south of Chariton.
- Once there, follow park signage to find parking lots or specific amenities within the state park area itself.
What a peace full setting. If you want a quiet, clean, well kept place to camp this is it. My 3 year old Grandson Kolin gives it 2 thumbs u!
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