SPRINGBROOK STATE PARK
Two beautiful open picnic shelters, one located on the lakeshore near the beach, may be reserved for a fee through the park office. Picnic areas have tables, grills, water and restroom facilities.
Located in Guthrie County, the land that would become Springbrook State Park was originally prairie and forest. Native American tribes hunted and lived on this terrain before European settlers arrived.
In the 19th century, homesteaders cultivated the area for agriculture. The landscape transitioned from natural to farmland.
The park's establishment dates back to 1926 when it began as a conservation experiment under Iowa's Fish and Game Department.
During its early years, efforts focused on reforestation projects aimed at restoring some of its original woodland character after agricultural use diminished native vegetation.
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp operated here during the Great Depression; CCC workers built roads, trails, picnic areas, shelters - many structures still stand today reflecting historical craftsmanship.
Post-World War II saw an increase in recreational development with amenities added such as camping facilities enhancing visitor experience while preserving nature aspects.
Over time management practices have evolved emphasizing habitat restoration including oak savanna ecosystems once prevalent across much of Iowa but now rare due to past land-use changes.
Today visitors can explore over eight miles of hiking trails or engage in various water activities thanks largely to a man-made lake created by damming Spring Creek decades ago.
Day-UseFishingyes
Huntingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Springbrook's six rustic family cabins provide great opportunities for an economical getaway. Available for weekly rental, the cabins will accommodate up to four people. They are equipped with refrigerators, stoves, water and flush toilets. Cabin users must provide their own bedding, towels, dishes and other camping items. Hot water is not available, however, showers are located in the campground. The cabins can be reserved for a fee through the Internet at www.reserveiaparks.com or by calling toll-free 1-877-IAPARKS.
The large campground has 118 campsites (81 with electrical hook-ups). Modern showers and restrooms, a trailer dump station, fireplaces and tables are available. 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.
Visitors can enjoy boating on the 17-acre man-made lake. Motorized boats are not allowed, making it a peaceful environment for canoeing and kayaking. A boat ramp is available to make launching easier. Canoes and paddleboats are also available for rent at the concession stand during summer months.
Visitors can enjoy fishing in a 17-acre lake, teeming with largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. There's also an opportunity to fish for bullhead or crappie species. The park provides boat rental services too. Fishing from the shoreline is another popular option among visitors.