North Woods Park located in the NE part of Bremer County consists of 82 acres. The majority of
the park was purchased in 1961 from Gillet, et al. An additional 5 acre tract was purchased from Ernest
and Rena Miller later that year. The park was completed in 1986 when the conservation board
purchased a small parcel of land (0.86 acres) from Fayette County.
The park offers a variety of recreational activities for area citizens and visitors. Over 1 mile of trail
winds through the park and Wilson Grove Wildlife Area. A picnic area with a playground provides safe
day-use recreation. A sand volleyball court and horseshoe pits are also available. Two shelters with
electricity are accessible on a first come - first serve basis unless reserved.
The campground offers both 20 and 30 amp electrical outlets. Camping is on a first come - first
serve basis. The park has two wells for drinking water and a pit latrine for restrooms. A modern
restroom and showers are in the process of being built.
Fishing is available at the two ponds in the Wilson Grove Wildlife Area, a short walk from the
campground. Wilson Grove (90 acres) joins North Woods Park on the north side including timber,
upland, and river bottom. Abundant wildlife provides a rewarding experience for hunters, fishing
enthusiasts and wildlife watchers.
A.F. Miller Preserve is nestled within North Woods and designated a state preserve in 1985.
Geologically, the preserve is a depression in the flood plain of the Little Wapsi River. Over time, the
wetland has become partially filled with silt and vegetation. This process has allowed the area to
become slightly acidic and overgrown with trees. Today, this bog harbors several of Iowa's rare and
endangered plants. Purple-Fringed Orchid, Cotton Grass, Bog Birch, White Turtlehead and several
species of Gentian all grow within the preserve.
The park gate is open from May 1st to October 31st. The park is closed to vehicle traffic after October
31st, however, remains open for a multitude of recreational activities and is accessible by walking.
Location
North Woods Park is located 1 mile north of Sumner.
Features
- Camping
- Primitive
- Electric - 20 and 30 amp
- 2 Shelters
- Electricity
- Drinking Water
- Pit Latrine - Modern Restroom building in progress
- Play Equipment
- Picnic Areas
- Hiking/Walking Trails
- Sand Volleyball Court
- 3 Horseshoe Pits
- A.F. Miller Preserve
- Wilson Grove Wildlife Area
- Recycling Stations
Operating Hours & Seasons
- Hunting November 1st - January 10th
- Fishing
Closures
North Woods Park is closed from November 1st - April 30th.