The 140-foot tall bluffs at Yellow Banks Park rise above the Des Moines River and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The bluffs are formed from loess soil deposited by the wind during the time of the glaciers. Hiking trails at this 517-acre park lead to scenic overlooks, an oak savanna, a Native American burial mound, and a unique backpacking camping area. This is a prime area for viewing migrating raptors in spring and fall.
Location
The park, acquired by the Conservation Board in 1980, is located southeast of Pleasant Hill off SE Vandalia Road.
6801 SE 32nd Avenue
Pleasant Hill, IA 50327
(515) 266-1563
Features
- Ball diamonds
- Camping
- Fishing
- Geocaching
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Shelters
Operating Hours & Seasons
During day light savings time park is open 6:30 a.m. -10:30 p.m.
Sunrise to sunset the rest of the year.
Closures
Boat access is impassable at the Yellow Banks Boat Ramp. Canoes/kayaks can still be launched in the boat ramp area and fishing is still possible.