UNION GROVE STATE PARK
Union Grove State Park, located in Tama County near Gladbrook, Iowa, spans approximately 110 acres of picturesque landscape. Established in 1938 as a state park.
The main feature is Union Grove Lake which covers about 110-acres and offers excellent opportunities for fishing with species like bass, bluegill and catfish prevalent. The lake also supports boating activities (electric motors only) and has a swimming beach area for visitors to enjoy during warmer months.
In addition to water recreation, the park provides various amenities including picnic areas equipped with shelters that can be reserved; campsites ranging from electric hookups to non-electric sites; modern restrooms facilities are available seasonally along trails suitable for hiking through diverse habitats such as woodlands and prairie remnants offering glimpses of local wildlife.
Union Grove State Park, located in Tama County near Gladbrook, Iowa, was established in 1938. Originally a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) project during the Great Depression era, it spans over 110 acres and is named after Union Grove Lake which lies at its heart.
Before state park designation, the land served agricultural purposes with local farmers utilizing the fertile soil for crops and livestock grazing. The area's natural resources were also used by Native American tribes before European settlement.
Historical features within include remnants of CCC construction such as stone picnic shelters built using locally quarried rock. These structures reflect early-20th-century conservation efforts to develop recreational facilities while providing employment opportunities during economic hardship.
The surrounding region has historical significance due to nearby pioneer settlements and connections to Midwest agriculture development throughout the 19th century. It played a role in westward expansion narratives common across much of rural Iowa.
Over time changes have included upgrades like modern camping amenities alongside preservation projects aimed at maintaining original CCC constructions' integrity-balancing recreation needs with heritage conservation objectives.
Environmental stewardship initiatives evolved too; reforestation programs replaced some farmland areas back into native woodland habitats supporting diverse wildlife populations-a shift from utilitarian use towards ecological mindfulness.
1. Electric Campsites: Offer electrical hookups for RVs and tents.
2. Non-Electric Campsites: Basic sites without electricity for tent camping.
3. Group Camping Area: Designated area available by reservation for large groups.
4. Youth Camping Area: Special area reserved exclusively for supervised youth groups.
Located in Iowa, this park offers fishing opportunities on a 110-acre lake. Anglers can catch catfish, crappie and bluegill. There's also an abundant population of largemouth bass for sportfishing enthusiasts to enjoy. Ice fishing is popular during winter months too.
Union Grove State Park is located near Marshalltown
Union Grove State Park offers picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters. A lodge is available for larger gatherings.
Biking enthusiasts can explore the 4-mile trail, but be aware it's shared with hikers. Safety should always come first.
The terrain varies from flat to moderately steep hills; beginners might find some sections challenging.
Remember that biking is only permitted on designated trails and roads within this park for conservation reasons.
During winter months, these paths may not be suitable due to snow or ice conditions - plan accordingly!
Night cycling isn't recommended as there are no lights along the pathways.
Always wear a helmet while riding and follow all posted rules for your safety.
Check local weather forecasts before setting out since Iowa's climate can change rapidly affecting road conditions significantly.
1. Briddle Path Trail: This 0.5-mile trail is easy and suitable for all skill levels, offering a gentle walk through forested areas with opportunities to observe local wildlife.
2. Woodland Trail: At approximately 0.75 miles in length, this moderate difficulty loop winds through dense woods providing hikers with shade and scenic views of the park's natural landscape.
3. Lake View Trail: Stretching around 1 mile long, this trail offers picturesque vistas overlooking Union Grove Lake; it features slight elevation changes making it moderately challenging.
4. Prairie Ridge Trail: A shorter path at about 0.25 miles that guides visitors along the edge of restored prairies showcasing native grasses and wildflowers during warmer months.
5. Tornado Alley Loop: Spanning roughly one-third of a mile, Tornado Alley Loop takes its name from damage caused by past storms ; today , it provides an interesting look at regrowth after natural disturbances.
6. Oak Savannah Path: Notable for passing through rare oak savannah ecosystems, this half -mile stretch presents unique plant species adapted to drier conditions found within these habitats.
7. Cedar Bluff Spur: As a short spur off other trails measuring less than quarter-mile Cedar Bluff gives access to high points featuring expansive overlooks including dramatic limestone outcroppings.
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species such as warblers, sparrows and waterfowl. The park's diverse habitats attract different birds throughout the year. Birding trails are available for exploration with binoculars recommended to spot high-flying or distant birds.
- Start on US Highway 30 East.
- Take the exit towards Tama/Toledo.
- Turn right onto Business Hwy 30/East Marshall Street.
- Continue to follow Business Hwy 30 until you reach S County Road (CR) V37/N Avenue.
- Make a left turn at this junction and continue straight ahead for about five miles.
Union Grove State Park:
This park is located in Gladbrook, Iowa off of N Ave/S Co Rd V37 road.
Sites are about 20 feet apart unlike what it looks like on the campsite map.
Tent sites are all sloping on the grassy hillside. They could improve it by making some level ground. Level sites are in the middle (6,8,10,11).
Nice trail through the woods. Lake is shallow on campground side but its an easy drive around to the other side.
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