The Pottawattomi tribe, a large group of Native Americans known as the "Fire Nation," once roamed the prairies of southern Iowa. According to legend, two other tribes joined the Pottawattomi to form a loose confederacy known as "Three Fires." It is believed the three tribes held a great council meeting to join forces for protection against invading tribes. Runners were sent to wandering Indian nations to tell of the great rendezvous. Smoke from three fires signaled the exact location. The fires were built atop the highest hills so smoke could be seen from any direction. One such point overlooked the valley now covered by the waters of Lake of Three Fires. Three fires were kept burning as long as the three tribes joined together. If any of the fires went out it meant the tribes had left the area to continue on their own. Lake of Three Fires State Park was dedicated in 1935.

Lake of Three Fires is a fine place for a family vacation at an economical cost! The modern cabins will comfortably accommodate four persons each. They are heated, cooled, and equipped with a refrigerator, microwave and cooktop stove. Renters must provide bedding, towels, cooking and eating utensils. The cabins can be reserved for a fee through the Internet at www.reserveiaparks.com or by calling toll-free 1-877-IAPARKS. For more background information on the the park reservation system click here. Showers may be taken in the nearby camp areas.

Two modern campgrounds located a short distance from the lake provide 140 campsites (30 with electrical hookups), restroom, shower facilities and a trailer dump station. 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.

There is also an equestrian campground that provides 22 camp sites, 8 with electrical hookups. In addition, there are 15 holding pens.