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Iowa
52
Iowa State Parks
My husband, dog, and I hiked entirely around the lake today. Took us about four hours, and we went eight miles! It was a gorgeous day and an invigorating hike, but we were unprepared for all the steep hills. Wow! How challenging! If you hike the entire trail like we did, wear good walking or trail shoes, make sure you take plenty of water and other provisions, like trail mix or something. And make sure you remember exactly where your car is parked. Great park. We will be back. 
I often walk the trails with my dog in the evening before it gets too dark. It is rare that I hear people, and when I do it is only when we pass right near a campground site. I enjoy listening to the animals (mostly deer) walking around me, the frogs, and the birds chirping. It is among my favorite places. On 10-20-10, hiked around the entire lake and found the trail well kept, easy to follow and beautiful! A great afternoon for two 50 somethings - not too strenuous, but took about 3 hours by the time we made photo stops, etc.
We stay in the fall for the past 20+ years. The showers are filthy every year. Last year the bathrooms were not replenished for 3 days ( with a full campgound) Great State Park and Campground. Bass fishing is good. Lake is becoming silted in however and E-coli is common in the water. Have been camping there for over 40 years and will continue to do so. With the amount of usage the state should seriously consider adding water and waste hookups to at least half the RV sites. This campground is very friendly and clean. Never have has any issues and will continue to camp here as long as we are in the area. This park has it all. Whether you intend to fish, hike or just do a little nature watching you will not be disappointed.
In my experience, it is beautiful and peaceful. 
