Iowa’s state parks are encouraging all Iowans to include them in their vacation plans.
“We really want people to use their vacations, and see all that our state parks offer,” said Todd Coffelt, DNR State Parks bureau chief. “Workers need to take time off to decompress and relax, whether it’s by themselves or with family and friends.”
State park receipts show more people are using state parks as their go-to destinations.
Last year, state parks welcomed more than 15 million visitors, up more than 750,000 over the previous year. And over the last five years, guest camping days in state parks have increased 18 percent.
Iowa state parks has added more than 300 existing campsites to their reservation system this year, making reserving that perfect spot a little easier. These sites will be available on the reservation system ahead of the Memorial Day weekend reservation window.
For those planning a stay during one of the major summer holidays, camping reservation windows will open Feb. 26 for Memorial Day, April 4 for Fourth of July and June 1 for Labor Day.
State parks offer campsites that appeal to a broad range of campers, from the more primitive hike-in sites to those with all the popular amenities.
A total of 92 cabins are available to rent in 19 state parks, and 10 parks have cabins available year-round. They start at $25 per night for simple camping cabins to $200 per night for the multi-family cabin at Springbrook State Park.
Day users and party planners may want to consider the new Lakeview shelter at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area in Webster County. The shelter holds 140 people and rents for $75 per day plus tax. The shelter is similar to the three large shelters at Big Creek State Park in Polk County that each hold 180 and rent for the same price.
Both Brushy Creek and Big Creek have new beach cabanas as well for smaller group gatherings — nine at Big Creek and four at Brushy Creek. Beach cabanas rent for $15 per day and have a maximum capacity of 10.
“We hope Iowa workers plan to take time off and visit a state park this year,” says Coffelt. “The cure for a stressful day is literally a walk in the park.”