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:
- 29 electric, water & sewer campsites (fee charged)
- 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
- fishing pier (handicap accessible)
- two fishing jetties (one handicap accessible)
- boat ramp and boat dock with kayak launch
- beach area (Memorial Day to Labor Day, 11 am - 8 pm - No lifeguards)
- new beach restrooms and concession building selling a variety of beverages, snacks and camping supplies
- kayak, pedalboat, and paddleboard rentals (fee charged)
- 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
~ $30/day for Electrical, Water & Sewer Sites
~ $5/bundle for Firewood
