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Iowa State Parks

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USA Parks
Iowa
Southwest Region
Lake Ahquabi State Park
Eastern Goldfinch © stateparks.com
Eastern Goldfinch
Eastern Goldfinch © stateparks.com
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LAKE AHQUABI STATE PARK
LAKE AHQUABI STATE PARK
1650 118th Avenue
Indianola, Iowa   50125

Phone: 515-961-7101
Reservations: 515-961-7101
Email: park email button icon
"Ahquabi" is a Sauk and Fox word meaning "resting place," and it is a fitting name for this scenic 770-acre park. The park site was recommended by "Ding" Darling, nationally known Iowa political cartoonist and conservationist, and was dedicated in 1936. Many of its structures were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930's and remain available for the enjoyment of park visitors.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Electric Sitesyes
 Full Hookup Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
AccommodationsGolf Courseyes
Lodge
A stone lodge overlooking the lake may be rented through the park manager. Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, it is very popular for family reunions, weddings and other large gatherings.
Camping
The campground is located by the lakeshore. There are 141 campsites (85 with electrical hookups), modern rest rooms and showers and two trailer dump stations. Each campsite has a picnic table and fireplace. An organized youth group camping area is inside the main campground in the "non-electric" area. 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. A playground is located near the campground.
Swimming
1. Lake Ahquabi State Park in Iowa offers a designated swimming area for visitors.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is free and open during park hours from 4 am to 10: 30 pm.
4. The lake's sandy beach provides an ideal spot for sunbathing or building sandcastles before taking a dip.
5. Pets are prohibited within the swimming areas of the park but can enjoy other parts with supervision.

Boating
Boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats are available for rent through the concessionaire. Bait is also available through the concessionaire.

A modern boat ramp is located at the northern end of the park. Another ramp is located in the campground. Lake Ahquabi is popular with anglers. A number of fishing jetties and a handicapped accessible fishing pier provide great places for a day of shoreline fishing.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shore, a boat or on ice during winter. The lake is stocked with bluegill, crappie and largemouth bass. There are also catfish available for catch-and-release fishing. A handicap-accessible pier provides easy access to deeper waters.
Canoeing
The campground is located by the lakeshore. There are 141 campsites (85 with electrical hookups), modern rest rooms and showers and two trailer dump stations. Each campsite has a picnic table and fireplace. An organized youth group camping area is inside the main campground in the "non-electric" area. 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. A playground is located near the campground.


Location
Lake Ahquabi State Park is located near Des Moines, Indianola and Norwalk

Picnicking
Three open shelters are available for picnics and may be reserved for a fee through the park manager.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts should tread carefully on the 6.5-mile trail circling a serene, man-made lake in this Iowa gem.

The park's multi-use trails are shared with hikers and runners; cyclists must remain alert to avoid collisions.

Mountain bikers might find these paths less challenging as they're mostly flat, but still require careful navigation due to occasional loose gravel or fallen branches.

Cyclists need not worry about traffic since motorized vehicles aren't allowed on the trails - just watch out for pedestrians!

Remember that biking is seasonal here: winter months can make conditions slippery and hazardous so it's best avoided during those times.

Rental bikes may be unavailable at certain periods of time throughout the year - plan ahead accordingly!

Lastly, always wear protective gear while cycling around this beautiful location nestled within nature's bounty.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of species, including waterfowl and songbirds. The park's diverse habitats attract many birds year-round. Birding trails offer opportunities for close encounters with these creatures in their natural environment.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 28 Excellent trail around the reservoir
park review stars; one to five This park has a great 4 mile trail around the reservoir. Its wooded, but not well signposted. Pretty flat.
October 3 Outdoors by basspro23
park review stars; one to five This place is just a great place to kick back and relax. The fishing for kids is amazing for bluegills!
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