Discover the Natural Splendor of Big Creek State Park
Explore Big Creek State Park, Iowa's natural oasis for hiking, boating, and wildlife watching, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.
Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Big Creek State Park is a stunning natural sanctuary perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With its serene lake, picturesque trails, and abundant wildlife, it offers a perfect escape for tourists seeking adventure or relaxation. Whether you're hiking, biking, or enjoying a peaceful day by the water, this park is a must-visit destination.
A brief summary to Big Creek State Park
- 8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, Iowa, 50226, US
- +1515-984-6473
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring a picnic basket to enjoy by the lake, and don't forget sunscreen!
- Check the park's website for seasonal events and guided tours.
- Rent a kayak or canoe to explore the scenic beauty of the lake.
- Wear sturdy footwear for hiking the trails, as some areas can be uneven.
Getting There
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Bicycle
Start at the Ankeny Market & Pavilion located at 715 SW 3rd St, Ankeny, IA. From there, head west on SW 3rd St until you reach the intersection with SW 8th St. Turn left onto SW 8th St and continue north. After about a mile, you will reach the intersection with State St. Turn right onto State St and follow it as it curves into NW 18th St. Continue on NW 18th St until you reach NW 125th Ave. Turn left onto NW 125th Ave, and Big Creek State Park will be on your right at 8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, IA 50226.
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Public Transit
From Ankeny's main bus stop at Ankeny Market & Pavilion, take the DART bus route 1 towards downtown Des Moines. Get off at the stop at NW 86th St & NW 26th St. From there, transfer to bus route 3 going towards Polk City. Get off at the nearest stop and walk north along NW 125th Ave. Big Creek State Park is located at 8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, IA 50226, which is approximately a 15-minute walk from the bus stop.
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Walking
If you are located in central Ankeny, start at the Ankeny Public Library. Walk west on SW 2nd St until you reach the intersection with SW 3rd St. Turn right and head north until you reach State St. Turn left on State St and continue until you reach NW 18th St. Turn right onto NW 18th St and follow it until you reach NW 125th Ave. Turn left onto NW 125th Ave, and you will find Big Creek State Park at 8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, IA 50226, which is about a 3-mile walk.
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
3.4 km
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Jester Park Natural Playscape
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Iowa Gold Star Military Museum
10.2 km
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Greentree Park
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Argo Christmas Lights
10.7 km
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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
12.0 km
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Cottonwood Recreation Area
12.1 km
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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
12.0 km
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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
13.0 km
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Maria Vincent Boutique
13.1 km
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The Olive Tap
13.1 km
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Mainstream Boutique - Ankeny
13.1 km
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The Style Bar Boutique
13.1 km
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Rodman Comics
13.1 km
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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
12.0 km
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Grubb's Pub
12.5 km
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The Waiting Room
12.6 km
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Jakes
12.8 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
18.3 km
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Infinity Bar & Night Club Des Moines
18.3 km
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Plaza Pub
18.4 km
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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
19.7 km
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