Rock Creek State Park, nestled in the scenic eastern part of Jasper County, Iowa, is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known particularly for its exceptional camping facilities, the park also offers a diverse array of day-use activities that cater to all interests. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape into nature or an action-packed adventure, Rock Creek State Park provides a memorable experience for every visitor.
Explore the Recreational Activities at Rock Creek State Park
Rock Creek State Park is a hub of outdoor recreation, boasting activities for every season.
Miles of Trails for Hiking, Biking, and More
For those who love to explore on foot or wheels, Rock Creek State Park features an extensive trail system. Over 8.5 miles of multi-use, non-paved trails meander around the picturesque perimeter of Rock Creek Lake. These trails are perfect for hiking and mountain biking during the warmer months. As the seasons change, they transform into ideal paths for cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and even snowmobiling in the winter.
Adding to the biking opportunities, a dedicated 5.5-mile paved bike trail extends along the park’s eastern edge, offering a smooth ride all the way to the charming town of Grinnell. This trail provides both recreational cyclists and commuters with a safe and scenic route.
Lake Activities: Boating, Fishing, and Swimming in Rock Creek Lake
Rock Creek Lake is the sparkling jewel of the park, renowned as one of central Iowa’s most popular lake destinations. The shoreline is thoughtfully designed with several artificial jetties adjacent to convenient boat ramps, making lake access easy for boaters and anglers alike.
The south boat ramp is equipped with universally accessible fishing amenities, ensuring everyone can enjoy casting a line. Boat slips are available for rent from April 15th to October 15th, providing a convenient base for extended lake adventures. Rock Creek Lake is teeming with fish, promising rewarding catches of crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish.
For those seeking a refreshing dip, a designated beach area offers unsupervised swimming. And when hunger strikes or you need supplies, the park concession store is your one-stop shop for snack food, boat rentals, bait and tackle, and firewood. You can reach the concession directly at 641-236-3876 for specific inquiries.
Park Facilities: Camping, Picnics, and Shelters
Rock Creek State Park is exceptionally well-equipped to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Camping: A Central Iowa Hotspot
Camping at Rock Creek State Park is a truly immersive experience in nature. Recognized as a camping hotspot in central Iowa, the park provides a variety of campsite options to suit different preferences. Choose from electric and non-electric campsites, or opt for a site right alongside the water for stunning lakeside views. The campground is equipped with a modern restroom and shower building, adding convenience to your outdoor stay. Please note that overnight accommodations for equestrian riders are not available within the park.
Picnicking and Shelters: Perfect for Gatherings
For day visitors, Rock Creek State Park offers inviting picnic areas and shelters. Two picnic shelters are available, providing shade and a gathering space for meals and relaxation. One shelter is reservable, ideal for planned events, while the other operates on a first-come, first-served basis, perfect for spontaneous outings.
Nearby Attractions: Explore Beyond Rock Creek State Park
Extend your adventure beyond the park boundaries and discover exciting attractions nearby.
Thrilling Races and Natural Wonders
Just a short drive from Rock Creek State Park, you can find diverse attractions. Motorsports enthusiasts can head to the Iowa Speedway outside of Newton and the Knoxville Raceway, located approximately 30 miles south of Newton on Highway 14. These venues host numerous racing events throughout the summer, offering high-octane entertainment.
For a different kind of experience, nature lovers can explore the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge and Prairie Learning Center, about 35 miles southwest off Interstate 80. This center provides insightful exhibits, a movie, and a bookstore/gift shop focused on prairie ecosystems and restoration. The refuge itself offers hiking trails and a unique drive-through bison and elk enclosure, allowing close encounters with these magnificent animals.
Nearby Towns: Kellogg, Newton, and Grinnell
Rock Creek State Park is conveniently located near several charming Iowa towns. Kellogg is the closest, situated just three miles west and two miles south of the park. Newton is a slightly larger town, located four miles south and ten miles west on Highway 6. Grinnell, known for its college and vibrant downtown, is seven miles east of Rock Creek, offering additional dining and supply options.
Services & Amenities: Everything You Need for a Great Visit
Rock Creek State Park provides a comprehensive list of services and amenities within the park and in the immediate vicinity to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.
Within the Park:
- Bait for fishing enthusiasts
- Bird watching opportunities for nature lovers
- Boat launch ramp for easy lake access
- Boat rental options for exploring the lake
- Boating for leisurely days on the water
- Canoe rental for paddling adventures
- Canoeing for exploring the lake’s waterways
- Concession stand for snacks and supplies
- Dock slips available for boat mooring
- Dump station for RV convenience
- Firewood and firewood sales for campfires
- Fish cleaning station for anglers
- Fishing in the well-stocked lake
- Handicap access to facilities and fishing
- Hiking trails for all skill levels
- Horseback riding trails for equestrian enthusiasts
- Horseshoe pits for friendly competition
- Ice sales for keeping coolers cold
- Jogging/running paths for fitness
- Kayaking for paddling adventures
- Modern restrooms for comfort and hygiene
- Paddle boat rentals for family fun
- Park Lake, the central feature of the park
- Park Office for information and assistance
- Parking areas throughout the park
- Picnic area for outdoor dining
- Playground for children’s entertainment
- Registration building for check-in
- Restrooms conveniently located
- Retail, seasonal concessions for supplies and treats
- Showers for freshening up
- Swimming beach for summer fun
- Telephone access
- Toilet, pit/vault options available
- Trash dumpster for waste disposal
- Walking paths for leisurely strolls
- Water hydrants for easy access to water
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
Less Than 1 Mile:
- Hunting opportunities nearby
Within 10 Miles:
- Hospital for medical services
- Town amenities and services
Important Information and Alerts for Your Visit
Attention Equestrian Riders:
For visitors planning to bring horses, mules, or donkeys, please be aware of Iowa state regulations regarding interstate animal transport. A current Certification of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) and a negative Coggin’s test (EIA) are required for animals transported across state lines. This documentation must accompany the animal into Iowa and is applicable to equestrian camping, day-use, and trail riding in all state-owned parks and forests. For detailed information, please refer to www.iowaagriculture.gov/animalindustry/horseadmissionregs.asp. Remember, overnight accommodations for equestrian riders are not available at Rock Creek State Park.
Concessions Information:
The concession store typically operates from roughly April 15th through October 15th, with daily hours (closed on Easter). During the peak season, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, hours are extended: Sunday 7 AM to 7 PM, Monday through Thursday 7 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday 7 AM to 9 PM. The concession offers a wide range of rentals including pontoons, fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats. You can also purchase live bait, tackle, ice, firewood, fishing licenses, camping accessories, convenience store items, and snacks.
Getting to Rock Creek State Park: Directions and GPS
GPS Coordinates: 41.75306, -92.83694 (41°45’11″N, 92°50’13″W)
Directions:
- From Interstate 80: Take Kellogg Exit number 173 onto Hwy 224. Head north on Hwy 224 through Kellogg, IA, for approximately 6 miles. Turn East onto County Road F-27 and travel for about 3 miles. The third right turn south will lead you to the campground entrance.
- From Hwy 30: Take the Hwy 14 exit and head south on Hwy 14. Hwy 14 will go through Laurel and intersect with County Road F-17. Turn east onto F-17 and continue until Hwy 224. Turn south on Hwy 224 for approximately 2 miles. At the intersection of 224 and County Road F-27, turn east onto Hwy F-27. Travel approximately 3 miles and turn south into the third park entrance off County Road F-27.
Contact Information:
Mailing Address:
Rock Creek State Park
5628 Rock Creek East
Kellogg IA 50135
Phone Number:
Information: (641)236-3722
