Bigelow Park - Brown's Lake
Brown's Lake is managed by the DNR. It is a natural oxbow of the Missouri River formed when the river was free to meander across the river valley. Brown's Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass and northern pike. A fishing dock and boat ramp provides access to the lake, which is a popular area for recreational boaters and water skiers as well.
Location
Bigelow Park is located one mile west of Salix on a 600-acre lake known as Brown's Lake. Originally a state park, Bigelow Park has been managed by the Woodbury County Conservation Board since 1970 and includes numerous amenities.
Bigelow Park Office:
722 Bigelow Park Road
Salix, IA 51052
712-946-7114
GOOGLE MAP LOCATION
Features
On site facilities:
- electric campsites (fee charged)
- tent or non-electrical campsites (fee charged)
- new shower house with family shower facilities, flush toilets and hot water, also serves as a tornado safe room
- dump station
- enclosed shelter house (fee charged)
- open picnic shelter
- sand volleyball court
- picnic sites
- playground equipment
- beach area (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
- boat ramp
- fishing dock
- open sports area
- trails
- winter activities: ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling (confined to ice only)
- birdwatching
A public hunting and wildlife management area is located on the west side of Brown's Lake.
Operating Hours & Seasons
Park facilities are open and pressurized water systems are available May 1 through October 31. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and feature self-registration. Firewood is available from the park officer for a nominal fee.
Camping Fees
~ $15/day for Non Electrical Sites
~ $20/day for Electrical & Water Sites
~ $6/bundle for Firewood
