Discover the Natural Beauty of Big Creek State Park
Explore the scenic wonders and recreational activities at Big Creek State Park, a premier outdoor destination in Iowa.
Immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of Big Creek State Park, a prime destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its picturesque trails, sparkling lake, and diverse wildlife, this state park is perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and family picnics. Experience the tranquility and adventure that awaits you in this beautiful Iowa gem.
A brief summary to Big Creek State Park
- 8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, Iowa, 50226, US
- +1515-984-6473
- Visit website
- Monday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Thursday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Friday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 4 am-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and the best chance to see wildlife.
- Bring your own picnic supplies, as the park offers beautiful spots for a meal outdoors.
- Consider renting a kayak or canoe to explore the lake from the water.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to dress appropriately for outdoor activities.
- Take note of park hours; it opens at 4 AM, perfect for early risers.
Getting There
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Bicycle
Start at Ankeny City Hall located at 410 W 1st St, Ankeny, IA. Head west on 1st St towards S Ankeny Blvd. Turn right onto S Ankeny Blvd and continue for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left onto NW 36th St and follow this road until you reach the intersection with NW 125th Ave. Turn right onto NW 125th Ave. Big Creek State Park will be on your left after about 2 miles. The total distance is approximately 5 miles. Enjoy the scenic route through the park!
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Public Transit and Walking
From Ankeny, take the bus route 1 towards Des Moines. Get off at the stop at NW 36th St & S Ankeny Blvd. From there, walk north on NW 36th St until you reach the intersection with NW 125th Ave. Turn right onto NW 125th Ave and continue walking for about 2 miles. Big Creek State Park will be on your left. The total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the bus schedule.
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Walking
If you're starting from the center of Ankeny, begin at the Ankeny Market & Pavilion at 715 SW 3rd St. Head west on 3rd St until you reach S Ankeny Blvd. Turn left and walk south for about 0.5 miles. Turn right onto NW 36th St and continue for about 1.5 miles until you reach NW 125th Ave. Turn left onto NW 125th Ave and you will see Big Creek State Park after walking approximately 2 miles. The total walking distance is about 4.5 miles and will take around 1.5 hours.
Discover more about Big Creek State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Big Creek Lake
2.2 km
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Big Creek Historical Museum
2.9 km
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Ankeny Community Theatre
11.2 km
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Prairie Ridge Aquatic Center
11.3 km
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Madrid History & Clay Castle
11.7 km
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Filet Steakhouse
12.0 km
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Rosati's Pizza
12.2 km
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Which Wich Superior Sandwiches
12.2 km
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Paul J Trier House - Frank Lloyd Wright
12.4 km
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Ankeny Towing
12.4 km
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TrailSide Tap
12.5 km
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Yankee Clipper
12.6 km
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Ankeny City Hall
12.6 km
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Uptown Ankeny
12.6 km
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Tweedle Dee's
12.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jester Park
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Jester Park Natural Playscape
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Iowa Gold Star Military Museum
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Greentree Park
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Argo Christmas Lights
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Prairie Ridge Sports Complex
11.1 km
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Backspin Indoor Golf
11.5 km
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Ankeny Art Center
12.0 km
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Sunset Park
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Cottonwood Recreation Area
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Hawkeye Park
12.2 km
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Cascade Falls Aquatic Center
12.4 km
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Firetrucker Brewery
12.4 km
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Ankeny Miracle Park
12.5 km
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Uptown Garage Brewing Co.
12.8 km
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Essential places to dine
36th Street Tavern
10.4 km
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Luddy's Tavern
11.5 km
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Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille
11.9 km
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Cancun Grill and Cantina - Ankeny
12.0 km
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Nonna’s Pizza & Pasta
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fun chinese cuisine
12.2 km
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Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh
12.2 km
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JJ’s Tavern + Grill
12.3 km
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Fiesta Jalapenos Ankeny
12.3 km
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Sports Page
12.3 km
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Uptown Food & Beverage Co.
12.5 km
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Mullets - Uptown Ankeny
12.6 km
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Siam Table
12.7 km
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The Breakfast Club
13.0 km
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Magee’s Irish Pub & Eatery
13.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dungeon's Gate
12.0 km
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Bridal Connection
12.6 km
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Real Deals Ankeny, IA
12.6 km
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Paisley Pineapple Children's Boutique
12.6 km
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Uptown Gaming & Collectibles
12.6 km
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Charmed Chic Boutique
12.7 km
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Krazy Krates Bin Store Krazy Deals
12.7 km
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Shops of Ankeny
12.9 km
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eve. boutique
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Maria Vincent Boutique
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The Olive Tap
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Mainstream Boutique - Ankeny
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The Style Bar Boutique
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Rodman Comics
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Grey Lotus Lifestyle Clothing
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Good Times
11.3 km
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SilverBullet
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Grubb's Pub
12.5 km
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The Waiting Room
12.6 km
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Applebee's Grill + Bar
14.2 km
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The Carney Tap
16.0 km
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Stormy's
18.3 km
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Finn's Pub
18.3 km
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Cottontail Lounge
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Infinity Bar & Night Club Des Moines
18.3 km
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Plaza Pub
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Smoking Goat Pub
19.2 km
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Groucho's Lounge
19.3 km
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Denny Arthur's
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