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.
Prairie Rose State Park is
Prairie Rose State Park provides a number of beautiful picnic areas with excellent views of the 218-acre lake. These are ideal places for family cookouts. Two open picnic shelters are available for a fee and may be reserved through the park office. Both of the shelters have electrical outlets available.
A nature trail is located in the northwest corner of the park, starting from near the beach area. Hikers can enjoy the scenery along the three mile trail. A bridge now crosses the spillway making it possible to travel from the camp area to the beach. It winds along the shore line and around the reestablished prairie and is a great place to observe a variety of plants and wildlife.
There is a multi purpose trail located in the eastern portion of the park and provides excellent wintertime fun, such as snowmobiling and cross country skiing. The two mile snowmobile trail is located in the eastern portion of the park and provides great wintertime fun.
The park offers birdwatchers a variety of species, including waterfowl and songbirds. A trail system provides easy access to different habitats for viewing opportunities. The lake attracts migrating birds in spring and fall seasons. Birding events are occasionally organized by the local Audubon Society chapter.
2011 - there is No water in the lake; must be getting ready to fix it up. The lake bottom has some man made structure but very very litte of it. This is a good time to get some equipment in there and do it right, if money permits. Then it will take a while to stock it with fish..
We love coming here, the DNR people are always friendly and you never feel crowded if when the campground is full! 
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