County Parks in Adams County, Iowa

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Activities in Adams County

Adams County Conservation Board invites all to visit and spend time enjoying the many activities available at Lake Icaria. No Recreational Motor Vehicles are allowed in any ACCB area including ATVs, Snowmobiles, Dirt bikes, Golf Carts, etc. ACCB-owned vehicles are exempt from this rule.

• Fish – There is no such thing as a bad day when you are fishing and there is plenty of fishing at Lake Icaria. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, wipers, walleye, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. Fish off the shore using the many jetties around the lake or the handicapped pier on the north side. There are ample wake-free zones on the lake that you can get to by using one of the many boat ramps.

• Boat – Life is good when you are boating around Lake Icaria. The lake features a 1 ¼ mile tubing and ski zone. You can also slow it down in the 5-mph wake-free areas for fishing and enjoying nature. No inboard motors or jet skis are allowed. Only outboard and stern drives are allowed.

• Kayak, Canoe, or Paddleboard – Paddle your way around Lake Icaria and explore the wonders of nature on the water. The lake is calm enough for those just learning and large enough for those looking for a challenge. Grab your kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, or rent from Bobber’s Down Marina (641-322-5234), and head out to the lake.

• Swim – Enjoy the 300-foot sandy beach with a roped-off swimming area. The beach area also has first-come, first-serve shelter areas with grills and picnic tables. Show your skills on the sand volleyball court or have the kids play on the playground.

• Hike – Explore over six miles of nature trails across bridges, stairs, and natural landscape. Stroll the open prairie or see a new view of the lake. Hiking allows physical fitness, is economical and convenient and allows one to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Lake Icaria.

• Disc Golf – Whether you are an amateur or professional, you will progress down the fairways of the 18-hole Disc Golf Course with ease. This is a free course for the public that will be enjoyed by people of all ages.

• Picnic – Enjoy a small picnic, a large family reunion, or a work gathering at one of the four shelters. Playgrounds are located conveniently for the kids to play. Each shelter has a stand-up grill and multiple picnic tables for use. All four shelters can be reserved on mycountyparks.com

• Archery Range – Take your best shot! Come out to sharpen your skills or learn a new skill with your bow and arrows at our free public range. This range is open year-round and has permanent targets at distances of 10, 20, 30, and 40 yards. Please, do not use broadheads.

• Public Hunting – Hunting is zoned on the more than 1200 acres of land surrounding the lake. You will find it here if you are targeting deer, turkey, dove, or ducks and geese. Public Hunting maps can be found at the bottom of this page under the link ‘Public Hunting Map’.

• Camping – Campsites, Cabins, and Cottages, oh my! There is something for everyone when it comes to staying under the stars at Lake Icaria. There are 24 Tent sites, 57 Electric Sites, 23 Electric/Water Sites, and 49 Full-Service Sites. Not to mention the 14 Cabins that place you comfortably in nature. If you are looking for something even more glam, stay at one of the two 10-person Cottages. They are furnished with all your camping needs. See below at ‘Facilities’ for more details.

Facilities in Adams County

Reservations can be made throughout the year. No Refunds are given under any circumstance. Per ACCB cancellation policy you may change a reservation, only if you contact the office 7 days before the reservation (limited to two times). To find out more information or to book your next reservation click on the ‘Facilities’ tab at the top-left side of this page.

• Cottages – The tranquil lakeside cottages at Lake Icaria have ample room for 10 people. Your family will enjoy the amenities of a fully stocked kitchen, satellite tv, and all bedroom and bathroom linens provided. Cottages are handicap-accessible. View the stunning Iowa sunsets on our covered deck while fixing your favorite meal on the large stand-up grill or enjoy roasting marshmallows around the fire pit. Private docks are provided. Cottages can be reserved 2 years in advance.

• Cabins – Relax in one of our 14 rustic cabins at the lake. Two styles of cabins are featured: Full-Service and Sleeper. All will enjoy the outdoors while using the stand-up grill and open fire pit provided at each cabin. Air conditioning and heater units in all cabins. Full-service cabins also have a small kitchenette and bathroom attached, are open year-round, and are handicap-accessible. Cabins can be reserved 2 years in advance.

• Campgrounds – Lake Icaria features two campgrounds open year-round: Lake View Campground and Timber Ridge Campground. With 154 total graveled campsites there is a perfect spot for everyone. Lake View Campground is first-come, first-serve and is open year-round. Timber Ridge Campground can be reserved online and is open year-round. Timber Ridge Campground also can be used as a first-come, first-serve campground, if not reserved online. Each site features playgrounds, modern bathrooms, and shower houses, and is handicap accessible. At the beginning of each campground, there is an RV Dump Station and Water Hydrants for camper convenience.