Discover the Natural Beauty of Elk Rock State Park
Explore the serene trails, pristine lake, and abundant wildlife at Elk Rock State Park, a natural gem in Iowa perfect for outdoor adventures.
Elk Rock State Park, nestled near Knoxville, Iowa, is a tranquil retreat for nature lovers, offering stunning lakes, diverse trails, and abundant wildlife, ideal for a memorable outdoor experience.
A brief summary to Elk Rock State Park
- 811 146th Ave, Knoxville, Iowa, 50138, US
- +1641-842-6008
- 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 or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, where you can relax and take in the scenery.
- Check the park's website for trail maps and any seasonal events or activities.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can change quickly, especially in the spring and fall.
Getting There
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Car
From any location in Northwest Iowa, head south towards Highway 163. If you are near towns like Sioux City or Storm Lake, take US-20 E to connect with I-35 S. Continue south on I-35 until you reach the exit for Highway 163 E towards Pella/Knoxville. Stay on Highway 163 until you see the signs for Knoxville, then take the exit for IA-14 S. Follow IA-14 S until you reach 146th Ave. Turn left onto 146th Ave, and Elk Rock State Park will be on your right at 811 146th Ave, Knoxville, IA 50138. There is no entry fee for the park.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. However, you can take a Greyhound bus to Des Moines, Iowa. From Des Moines, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare (like Uber or Lyft) to get to Elk Rock State Park. The distance from Des Moines to Elk Rock State Park is approximately 45 miles, and the taxi fare can range from $70 to $100 depending on the service and time of day. Always check the latest schedules and availability for bus services before planning your trip.
Discover more about Elk Rock State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scholte House Museum & Gardens
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The Klokkenspel
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Iowa Speedway
31.6 km
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Quality Inn Newton at I-80
31.8 km
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Culver’s
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Pizza Ranch
32.0 km
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Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
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Montana Mike's Steakhouse
32.1 km
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Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Newton, IA
32.1 km
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Super 8 by Wyndham Newton
32.2 km
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Hardee’s
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Love's Travel Stop
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Wagaman Mill & Museum
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Children's Forest
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cordova Observation Tower
2.7 km
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Lake Red Rock
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Cordova Park
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Red Rock Dam
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Vermeer Mill
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Pella Historical Village & Vermeer Windmill
14.4 km
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Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
24.0 km
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Tassel Ridge Winery
29.3 km
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Jasper County Historical Museum
31.9 km
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Rocky Marciano Memorial
32.1 km
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Maytag Park
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The leaning tower of Iowa
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Fred Maytag Bowl
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Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
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Essential places to dine
Dave's Pizza
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Okoboji Grill
32.1 km
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Taco Bell
32.1 km
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KFC
32.1 km
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Starbucks
32.2 km
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Chester's Chicken
32.2 km
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Godfather's Pizza
32.3 km
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Casey's
32.6 km
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Hy-Vee Chinese
33.4 km
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Hy-Vee Market Grille
33.5 km
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Jimmy John's
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Burger King
33.6 km
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Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh
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McDonald's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Shop 'n Save
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Store For Homes Furniture
33.4 km
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Willow's Melting Pot
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Baqara Floral at the ThunderDome
33.4 km
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Hy-Vee Grocery Store
33.5 km
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Newton Market
33.5 km
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Relics, LLC
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Fine Things Reclaimed
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Crazy Redhead Quilting
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Nancy's Canned Creations
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Choices
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EarthWise Pet Supply & Grooming Newton
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Murph and Mary's Pub
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503 Cocktail Lab and Tasting Room
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
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Nightingale Cocktail
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Black Sheep
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Bellhop
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The High Life Lounge
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