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Iowa
52

Iowa State Parks

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Iowa
Southeast Region
Honey Creek State Park
Eastern Goldfinch © stateparks.com
Eastern Goldfinch
Eastern Goldfinch © stateparks.com
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HONEY CREEK STATE PARK
HONEY CREEK STATE PARK
12194 Honey Creek Place
Moravia, Iowa   52571
(lat:40.8654 lon:-92.9347) map location

Phone: 641-724-3739
Honey Creek State Park in southern Iowa features 828 acres of rolling, timbered hills with the beautiful backdrop of Iowas second largest lake, Rathbun Lake. Many wooded areas offer visitors a secluded setting for wildlife viewing, especially abundant eer and turkey, along with numerous bird species. Honey Creek State Park is a few miles down the road from Honey Creek Resort State Park.

Stay overnight in one of four rustic camping cabins or at the park's campground. The pine log cabins feature covered porches, basic furnishings, electricity, microwaves, small refrigerators and heating and air conditioning. Water and sanitary facilities are not available in the cabins, but restrooms and showers are in the campground. The campground has modern sites, a universally accessible site, electricity and a dump station. One fourth of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and advance reservations can be made through the online reservation system for Honey Creek State Park.
History of the Area
Located in Appanoose County, the area now known as Honey Creek State Park was originally inhabited by Native American tribes. European settlers arrived and used the land primarily for agriculture and settlement purposes throughout the 19th century.

The park's establishment dates back to when conservation efforts recognized its natural beauty and recreational potential. It officially opened to visitors seeking outdoor activities like camping, hiking, fishing, and boating.

Historical features within this region include remnants of early settler life such as farm structures or tools found occasionally on hikes. The surrounding areas have a rich history tied to Iowa's development during westward expansion.

Facilities were added including campgrounds with modern amenities; trails were improved for better accessibility while preserving ecological integrity. Land management practices evolved focusing on sustainability-protecting wildlife habitats while accommodating public enjoyment.

Recent years saw additional enhancements: upgraded lodging options introduced alongside educational programs.
Camping
1. Modern Campground: Offers electric hookups and modern restrooms/showers.
2. Non-Electric Sites: Available for tents or RVs without the need for electricity.
3. Group Camping Area: Designed to accommodate larger groups with multiple camping units.
4. Cabins: Year-round cabins available for rent, some with full amenities including kitchens and bathrooms.
5. Equestrian Campsites: Specialized sites that allow campers to bring horses along.
Swimming
1. Honey Creek State Park offers a sandy beach for swimming on the shores of Rathbun Lake.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is free and open to all park visitors during daylight hours only.
4. The lake's clear water makes it suitable for both adults and children to enjoy swimming activities safely.
5. There are no designated lanes or areas specifically set aside for competitive swimmers in this state park.

Boating
Boat or Fish in the waters of Rathbun Lake. The lake is a focal point of the area, and several recreational opportunities such as fishing and paddling can be enjoyed. The North Boat Ramp is the largest on the lake, providing fishing and boating access.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shores or boats in Rathbun Lake. Species include crappie, walleye, catfish and largemouth bass. Fishing equipment rentals are available on-site for convenience. Ice fishing is popular during winter months too.



Picnicking
Honey Creek State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. Some spots have shelters for larger gatherings.
Bicycling
Be aware that the park offers several miles of multi-use trails suitable for biking.

Remember to bring your own bike as rentals are not available.

The terrain varies, so be prepared for both flat and hilly sections on these paths.

Some areas can get muddy after rain; caution is advised during such conditions.

Always wear a helmet when cycling in this area due to potential hazards along the trail.

Check local weather forecasts before planning any bicycling activities within the park's boundaries.

Keep an eye out for wildlife crossing while you're riding through wooded areas or open fields.
Trails
Hike five miles of multi-use trails at Honey Creek or travel along the Woodland Interpretive trail to learn about the 17 ancient Woodland Native American mounds in the park. Interpretive displays at the beginning of the trail detail the history of Honey Creek State Park.
Birding
Birdwatchers can explore diverse habitats, including woodlands and prairies. Numerous bird species such as warblers, sparrows, hawks are spotted here often. The park also offers guided birding tours for enthusiasts.

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Area Campgrounds
Dogg's RV Park LLC
16999 Highway J18
Moravia, IA
641-724-3762
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Directions from Des Moines, Iowa:

- Start on I-235 W.
- Take exit 137B to merge onto IA-141 N towards Urbandale/Grimes.
- Continue for about 17 miles.

Next steps:

- Turn right onto NW Beaver Dr.
- After approximately two miles, turn left onto NW Johnston Dr.
- Stay on this road until you reach the T-intersection with Pioneer Parkway.

Following directions:

- At the intersection of Pioneer Pkwy and NW Johnston Drive, take a right turn heading westbound.
- Follow it around as it curves northward becoming Merle Hay Road.
- Keep going straight past Jester Park Golf Course.

Final instructions:

- You will see signs directing you toward Honey Creek State Park; follow these signs carefully.
- The park entrance is located off Woodland Hills Ave., which branches out from Merley Hay Rd.

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Iowa
52

Iowa State Parks

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