Elk Rock State Park: A Popular Iowa Park for Boating, Camping, and Equestrian Use

Parking at west boat ramp — Parking lot/west boat ramp at Elk Rock State Park

Elk Rock State Park is on the shores of Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake! It’s a popular place for boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and equestrian use.

But that’s not all! With its proximity to Red Rock and Pella, there’s much more to explore. And that makes the area one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the state!

Mile Long Bridge at Red Rock Lake — Mile-Long Bridge at Red Rock Lake (near Elk Rock State Park)

A Brief History of Elk Rock State Park

Fossils from the Pennsylvanian Period (320 – 286 million years ago) were found on the sandstone bluffs near the park.¹ And Elk Rock got its name from a unique rock formation on the park’s north shores.

Also, evidence of Native American cultures dates back thousands of years. For example, burial mounds indicate the Woodland Culture once resided nearby.¹ And, in 1842, the local Sac and Fox tribes signed a treaty turning part of their land over to European Settlers.

In 1969, the US Army Corps of Engineers completed Red Rock Dam. Soon after, the Iowa Conservation Commission leased land north and south of the lake. Then, in 1978, they leased “South Elk Rock,” now known as Elk Rock State Park.

Things To Do at Elk Rock State Park

Go boating!

Elk Rock is right on Red Rock Lake’s south shore, so it’s the ideal place to go boating!

Two boat ramps at opposite ends of the park offer lake access. The west boat ramp is near the entrance, with six lanes and a large parking area. The east ramp is smaller and near the park office (on the back side of the park).

Elk Rock State Park West Boat Ramp — Six-lane boat ramp on Lake Red Rock

Hike or ride the trails

Over eight miles of multi-use trails wind through the park and are perfect for exploring the woods–and catching lake views. Trails are open to hikers, mountain bikes, equestrian use, and snowmobiles. See the trail map for details.

Trail at Elk Rock State Park — West Loop Trail

Go camping

With everything there is to do in the park and around Red Rock Lake, you’ll definitely want to stay awhile! The good news is traditional and equestrian camping is available. And both have electric and non-electric campsites with access to modern facilities. See the campground section below for more information.

Primitive Tent Site — Primitive tent site at Elk Rock

Use the equestrian facilities

An equestrian campground, day-use area, and several miles of trails make Elk Rock a popular stop for visitors with horses! And it’s the only equestrian area around Red Rock Lake.

Equestrian Campground Stalls — Stalls at the equestrian campground

Park Map

Elk Rock State Park Campgrounds

Traditional and equestrian campgrounds are available at the park. See below for details, and make reservations at ReserveAmerica.com.

Traditional campground

Three separate loops with 21 electric sites (back-in and pull-through)
9 primitive tent sites
One playground
Modern restroom/shower facility and vault toilets
Dump station near the park’s entrance

Equestrian campground

35+ electric sites (back-in, pull-through & buddy sites available)
15 primitive tent sites
Playground
Modern restroom/shower facility and vault toilets
Dump station near park’s entrance
Stalls and hitching rails
Riding arena
Small picnic shelter (reservable)

Electric Campsite at Elk Rock State Park — Electric campsite at traditional campground

Campsite at Equestrian Campground — Electric campsite at equestrian campground

Things To Do Nearby

The park is right on the shores of Lake Red Rock, the largest lake in Iowa. Whether you want to boat, swim, camp, fish, picnic, hike, or bike, you’ll find plenty to do around the lake. North Overlook Beach, Red Rock Marina, and the Red Rock Visitor’s Center are excellent spots to check out.

Cordova Park is just north of the park across the mile-long bridge. Climb the Cordova Observation Tower, an old water tower with views of the Des Moines River Valley. The cost is $0.50 per person.

Roberts Creek Park is on the lake’s north side and is only 8 miles from Elk Rock State Park. It offers excellent (full hookup) camping, disc golf, fishing, and more!

While in the area, experience the Volksweg Trail, a 13+ mile paved trail extending from Pella to Red Rock Lake. See the map here.

The historic City of Pella is steeped in Dutch history—and it’s less than 30 minutes from the park! Stop by to shop, eat, and tour the museums.

Slideways is just 10 minutes away in Knoxville and has plenty of fun activities to keep you busy! It has mini-golf, go-karts, food, and drinks too.

While in Knoxville, see a sprint car race or another event at the Knoxville Raceway, just 7 miles from Elk Rock. Check out their event schedule here.

The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is an 8600-acre restoration project with activities for all ages! The Prairie Learning Center, auto tour, and trails make it the perfect place to spend a day outdoors. Find the refuge 25 miles northwest of the park.