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Home >  United States  >  Iowa  >  Keosauqua  >  

Lacey Keosauqua State Park

Lacey Keosauqua State Park

United States, Iowa, Keosauqua 

Sandee

Lacey Keosauqua State Park

United States, Iowa, Keosauqua 

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Lacey-Keosauqua State Park, nestled along the Des Moines River in Iowa, is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The park spans 1,653 acres of diverse landscapes, including oak-hickory bluffs and valleys. Established as Big Bend State Park in 1921, it was later renamed in honor of John Fletcher Lacey, a prominent figure in Iowa's conservation efforts. The park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, with its sandstone formations and glacial erratics, alongside historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression.

Visitors can explore the Keosauqua Sandstone and Pella Limestone formations, which have been utilized in many of the park's architectural wonders. The lake, created by an earthen dam constructed by the CCC, provides scenic views and recreational activities.

The area is also rich in cultural heritage, featuring ancient Indian mounds and being part of the Mormon Pioneer Trail

Keosauqua offers a variety of dining options nearby Lacey-Keosauqua State Park. Great Day Cafe is known for its casual atmosphere and excellent breakfast options, offering comfort food, coffee, and healthy choices. Another popular spot is Misty's Malt Shop, which provides a cozy setting for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with a focus on comfort food and quick bites. For those looking for a more substantial meal, Riverbend Pizza & Steakhouse offers a combination of pizza and steakhouse options, featuring a family-friendly environment with free Wi-Fi and great service.

Visitors to Lacey-Keosauqua State Park have several accommodation options in Keosauqua. The Hotel Manning is a standout choice, offering historic charm and modern amenities, with many rooms recently restored to maintain their original character. While there are no other hotels with web links in the immediate area, nearby options like Mason House Inn Bed & Breakfast provide additional choices for those seeking a quieter experience.

Lacey-Keosauqua State Park offers an array of amenities for visitors. The park includes picnic shelters, a golf course, and a lake bathhouse, all constructed in a rustic style evoking the park's historical significance. The bathhouse, located near the lake, provides convenient access to water activities. Restrooms are available throughout the park, ensuring comfort for all visitors.

For those interested in exploring the park, several trails are available, including one that follows the Des Moines River, offering scenic views and insights into the area's geology.

Visitors to Lacey-Keosauqua State Park can enjoy a wide range of activities. Swimming and boating are popular pastimes at the man-made lake, while hikers can explore trails that meander through forests and along bluffs, offering stunning views of the Des Moines River. Bird watching is also a favorite activity due to the park's diverse habitats that attract many species of birds.

For history buffs, the park's connection to the CCC and its role in the Mormon Pioneer Trail makes it an intriguing destination for historical exploration.

The park strives to provide accessible facilities for all visitors. Many of the picnic shelters, restrooms, and other buildings are designed to be wheelchair accessible. Additionally, the lodge and other central facilities are built with considerations for accessibility in mind, allowing everyone to enjoy the park's amenities.

Parking facilities at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park are generally convenient, with designated parking areas located near major attractions like the lake and picnic shelters. These allow visitors to easily access the park's amenities without long walks. However, specific information on parking fees or capacity is not readily available.

Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is interestingly located in the south-central part of Van Buren County, Iowa, marking it as a significant historical site named after John Fletcher Lacey, a veteran and notable conservationist. It holds several geological and historical attractions, including the Keosauqua Sandstone formations and historic CCC structures.

The park is also famous for its birdwatching opportunities due to its diverse habitats along the Des Moines River. Furthermore, it is the largest state park in Iowa, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

One of the main attractions of Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is its unique geological formations, particularly the Keosauqua Sandstone and Pella Limestone. The park is also home to historic CCC constructions, including a notable bathhouse and several bridges. Additionally, the Indian mounds in the area provide a glimpse into Native American culture and history.

The Des Moines River's scenic bend offers a picturesque backdrop for both recreation and contemplation.

Basic Details

INRestroom Available

INP269+WF Keosauqua, IA, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Fishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Bikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Foot Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

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  • LGBTQ+

  • Lacey Keosauqua State Park - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Lacey Keosauqua State Park have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    Yes, this Beach provides free parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.

    Does Lacey Keosauqua State Park have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Lacey Keosauqua State Park a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Lacey Keosauqua State Park good for swimming?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered a good swimming beach.

    Does Lacey Keosauqua State Park have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Lacey Keosauqua State Park a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Lacey Keosauqua State Park?

    Yes, this Beach has multiple restaurant options near or on the beach.

    What are the activities at Lacey Keosauqua State Park?

    Yes, this Beach is a good place to Camping

    Does Lacey Keosauqua State Park have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is Lacey Keosauqua State Park a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Lacey Keosauqua State Park good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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