Pine Lake State Park, Northeast Iowa Travel Guide

4.5 (437)

Explore Pine Lake State Park, a serene destination in Iowa, perfect for hiking, fishing, and camping amidst nature's beauty.

Home
Travel Guides
Iowa
Northeast Iowa
Pine Lake State Park

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Pine Lake State Park offers a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With beautiful hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picturesque views, it's a must-visit destination for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.

A brief summary to Pine Lake State Park

22620 Co Hwy S56, Eldora, Iowa, 50627, US
Click to display
Click to display

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pine Lake State Park.

Arrive early to enjoy the tranquility of the park before the crowds.
Bring your fishing gear to take advantage of the well-stocked lake.
Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic spots throughout the park.
Check local wildlife activity to enhance your wildlife watching experience.
Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage views.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Pikes Peak State Park

Dunning's Spring Park

Backbone State Park

Maquoketa Caves State Park

Bixby State Preserve

Explore Pine Lake State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pine Lake State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If you are driving from Waterloo, take US-63 N towards Waverly. Merge onto IA-20 W and then take exit 187 for IA-14 S towards Eldora. Continue on IA-14 S until you reach Eldora. Once in Eldora, turn left onto Co Hwy S56, and follow the signs for Pine Lake State Park, which will be on your right. The entire drive should take around 1 hour.
Car

If you are coming from Cedar Falls, head south on IA-58 S. Merge onto US-20 W and take exit 187 for IA-14 S towards Eldora. Follow IA-14 S until you get to Eldora. Turn left onto Co Hwy S56 and continue until you reach Pine Lake State Park on your right. This route takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Public Transportation

To reach Pine Lake State Park using public transportation, first take a bus to Eldora from larger nearby cities like Waterloo or Cedar Falls. Once you arrive in Eldora, you can use a local taxi or rideshare service to get to Pine Lake State Park, which is about a 10-minute drive from the bus station. Be sure to check local bus schedules for availability and plan accordingly.
Car

If you are coming from Des Moines, take I-80 E. Exit onto US-65 N towards Marshalltown. Merge onto IA-14 N and continue until you reach Eldora. In Eldora, turn right onto Co Hwy S56 and follow the signs to Pine Lake State Park, which will be a few miles ahead on your right. This drive typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Discover more about Pine Lake State Park

Pine Lake State Park is a stunning haven located in the heart of Eldora, Iowa, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors. Spanning over 1,000 acres, this park is a treasure trove of scenic landscapes, featuring lush woodlands, sparkling lakes, and rolling hills, providing a perfect backdrop for a variety of recreational activities. The park is particularly renowned for its extensive hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the rich flora and fauna that inhabit the region. The well-maintained paths wind through the picturesque surroundings, offering breathtaking views that are sure to captivate photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.Fishing aficionados will find Pine Lake State Park to be a perfect spot, as the serene lake is stocked with several species of fish, making it an ideal location for both casual anglers and serious fishermen. Whether you're casting your line from the shore or enjoying a peaceful day on a boat, the experience of fishing here is enhanced by the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. Additionally, the park features a designated fishing pier, ensuring easy access to the water for everyone.For those looking to extend their stay, Pine Lake State Park offers camping facilities that provide a unique opportunity to experience the outdoors overnight. As the sun sets, the park transforms into a magical landscape, perfect for stargazing or enjoying a campfire with family and friends. With its wide array of recreational options, including picnicking areas, playgrounds for kids, and opportunities for wildlife watching, Pine Lake State Park is an inviting destination that promises to create lasting memories for tourists and locals alike.