PRAIRIE ROSE STATE PARK
Prairie Rose State Park is one of the most attractive outdoor recreation areas in western Iowa. The 422-acre park lies in a region of scenic hills, six miles east and three miles south of Harlan.
The park received its name from a small town called Village of Prairie Rose which was once located near the present park location. Plans for Prairie Rose were initiated in the 1930s. However, actual construction of the dam started in 1958 with the park dedication taking place in 1962.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
Full Hookup Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Camping at Prairie Rose, whether for a weekend or a family vacation, is delightful. There are 97 campsites, 61 with electric hookups. Two campgrounds are available. The larger one features electrical hookups and modern shower and rest room facilities. The other campground, with non-modern rest room facilities, is popular with tenters. 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.
The lake is popular for all types of boating from canoes and sailboats to motor boats and, in the winter, ice boats. Any size boat motors may be used at "no wake" speeds. Two modern boat ramps provide easy access to the lake.
Fishing:
Anglers of all ages will find a challenge at Prairie Rose. The lake provides excellent bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, bluegill and crappie fishing from boat or shoreline. Six new fishing jetties have just been completed. There are two fish cleaning docks located on the lake for successful anglers convenience.