Pillsbury Point State Park: A Tranquil Lakeside Retreat
Discover a peaceful lakeside escape at Iowa's smallest state park, rich in history and natural beauty on West Okoboji Lake.
Pillsbury Point State Park, Iowa's smallest state park, offers a peaceful escape on the shores of West Okoboji Lake in Arnolds Park. This 6.48-acre urban park features scenic walkways, historic stone structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and a poignant connection to the 1857 Spirit Lake Massacre.
A brief summary to Pillsbury Point State Park
- 23 Prairie Ln, Arnolds Park, Iowa, 51331, US
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a prime picnic spot, especially on weekends.
- Bring binoculars for excellent birdwatching opportunities along the lake.
- Visit during the fall to enjoy the stunning autumn foliage surrounding West Okoboji Lake.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and exploring the park's historic features.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Arnolds Park, Pillsbury Point State Park is easily accessible by foot. Head towards the lake and follow the scenic paths along the shoreline. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and offers beautiful views of West Okoboji Lake. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Check for local bus services that operate in the Iowa Great Lakes region, particularly to Arnolds Park. Depending on your starting point, you may need to transfer buses at a central hub like Spirit Lake or Okoboji. Once you arrive in Arnolds Park, you will need to walk approximately 0.5 miles to reach Pillsbury Point State Park. Bus fares vary depending on the distance traveled but typically range from $1.00 to $3.00 for a short trip within the region.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Arnolds Park. From the Arnolds Park Amusement Park, a taxi or ride-share to Pillsbury Point State Park will cost approximately $8-$15, depending on demand and distance. Pickup times may be longer than in larger cities.
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Car
From any location in the Iowa Great Lakes region, head towards Arnolds Park. Use local roads or follow Main Street to reach Highway 86. Then, take Highway 86 North until you reach the intersection with 240th Avenue. Turn left onto 240th Avenue and continue until you see Prairie Lane. Turn right onto Prairie Lane and follow it to Pillsbury Point State Park. The park is well-marked, and there is parking available. Parking is free.
Discover more about Pillsbury Point State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lower Gar Lake
2.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lower Gar Lake in Iowa, a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking adventure and relaxation.
West Okoboji Lake
2.4 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of West Okoboji Lake - Iowa's hidden gem for outdoor adventures and scenic relaxation.
Inn at Okoboji
2.5 km
Discover the charm and history of Inn at Okoboji, a lakeside landmark that blends nostalgia with modern comfort in the heart of Iowa's scenic beauty.
AmericInn by Wyndham Okoboji
3.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at AmericInn by Wyndham Okoboji, your gateway to exploring the beauty of Iowa's lakeside paradise.
East Okoboji Lake
3.0 km
Explore East Okoboji Lake: A serene retreat in Iowa offering stunning scenery, recreational activities, and charming local culture.
Big Spirit Lake
13.5 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Big Spirit Lake in Iowa – a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for unforgettable experiences.
Clay County Heritage Center
25.2 km
Explore the rich history of Clay County at the Heritage Center, where local stories and cultural heritage come alive in Spencer, Iowa.
Lost Island Lake
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Iowa Lake
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Five Island Lake
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Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption
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West Bend Historical Society
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Jeffers Petroglyphs
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Dutch American Heritage Museum
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End-O-Line Railroad Park and Museum
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Unmissable attractions to see
Spirit Lake Massacre Monument
0.2 km
Explore the Spirit Lake Massacre Monument in Iowa, a poignant reminder of history amidst the beauty of nature, perfect for reflective visits.
Abbie Gardner Cabin
0.2 km
Explore the Abbie Gardner Cabin in Arnolds Park, Iowa - a historical museum that celebrates the life of a pioneer woman and her remarkable resilience.
Riddle Me That
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of adventure and teamwork at Riddle Me That, Iowa's premier escape room destination perfect for families and friends.
Arnolds Park Amusement Park
0.5 km
Discover the magic of Arnolds Park Amusement Park, where thrilling rides and vibrant community events create unforgettable experiences for all ages.
Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf
0.5 km
Experience a world of fun at Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, where families and friends create unforgettable memories in a whimsical pirate-themed setting.
The Queen II
0.6 km
Experience fun and scenic boat rides at The Queen II in Arnolds Park, Iowa, an amusement park perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.
Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum
0.6 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage of the Iowa Great Lakes at the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum in Arnolds Park, a must-visit for history lovers.
Iowa Rock 'n Roll Music Association Hall of Fame & Museum
0.6 km
Explore Iowa's vibrant music scene at the Iowa Rock 'n Roll Music Association Hall of Fame & Museum, celebrating rock legends and their legacies.
Freedom Boat Club Okoboji
0.9 km
Experience the ultimate boating adventure at Freedom Boat Club Okoboji, where stunning lakes meet unforgettable memories in the heart of Iowa.
Sawmill Park
1.4 km
Explore the natural beauty and recreational offerings of Sawmill Park in Arnolds Park, Iowa, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Lower Gar State Recreation Area
1.7 km
Explore the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Lower Gar State Recreation Area, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Iowa.
Arnolds Park Public Beach
1.7 km
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beautiful sunsets at Arnolds Park Public Beach on the shores of West Okoboji Lake in the Iowa Great Lakes region.
Speier Park
2.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and recreational opportunities at Speier Park in Okoboji, Iowa, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Terrace Beach Park
2.0 km
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Higgins Museum
2.0 km
Explore the captivating history and culture of Okoboji at the Higgins Museum, where local heritage comes to life through engaging exhibits.
Essential places to dine
O'Farrell Sisters
1.8 km
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Tweeter's Bar & Grill
2.1 km
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Outrigger Restaurant & Lounge
2.2 km
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SmackHaus
2.7 km
Discover SmackHaus in Okoboji – where juicy burgers meet delicious sandwiches in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for all ages.
The Barefoot Bar at Okoboji
4.5 km
Experience vibrant lakeside dining at The Barefoot Bar at Okoboji, where delicious grilled food meets stunning views and lively entertainment.
Snappers & Parks Boat Club
4.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Snappers & Parks Boat Club in Okoboji - where delicious cuisine meets stunning waterfront views.
Arby's
4.9 km
Discover hearty flavors at Arby's in Spirit Lake – your go-to spot for delicious fast food and quick service!
Pub19 Bar & Grill
5.7 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Pub19 Bar & Grill in Spirit Lake - where flavor meets community spirit!
McKeens Pub & Grill
6.3 km
Discover the heart of Spirit Lake's culinary scene at McKeens Pub & Grill - where flavor meets friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Subway
6.6 km
Savor deliciously crafted sandwiches with fresh ingredients at Subway in Spirit Lake – perfect for a quick bite during your travels.
Pizza Ranch
6.7 km
Discover the delicious buffet experience at Pizza Ranch in Spirit Lake - perfect for families craving pizza and fried chicken.
Godfather's Pizza
6.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Godfather's Pizza in Spirit Lake – where every slice tells a story of tradition and taste.
Hibachi 88
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Discover Hibachi 88: A culinary haven offering exquisite Chinese dishes and fresh sushi in Spirit Lake, Iowa.
El Mariachi Bar & Grill
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Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at El Mariachi Bar & Grill in Spirit Lake—where every meal is a fiesta!
Javi's Grill
7.3 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at Javi's Grill in Spirit Lake—where every bite is crafted with care and passion.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Katy Lynn Boutique
0.4 km
Explore unique fashion finds at Katy Lynn Boutique in Arnolds Park, Iowa, combining local charm with stylish apparel for a memorable shopping experience.
Tobacco Shop
0.4 km
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Dave's Second Hand Depot
0.4 km
Uncover unique finds and sustainable treasures at Dave's Second Hand Depot, Arnolds Park's favorite thrift store for budget-friendly shopping.
Okoboji Antique Mall
0.4 km
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Okoboji Outfitters
0.5 km
Discover your adventure gear at Okoboji Outfitters, the perfect clothing store for outdoor enthusiasts in Arnolds Park, Iowa.
Topside
0.5 km
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Homeology Decor & Boutique
0.5 km
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Boat House Apparel
0.6 km
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Okoboji Clothing Company
0.6 km
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Blond Genius boutique - Okoboji
0.6 km
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Bungalow 29
0.8 km
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Old School Mercantile
0.8 km
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Beach Street Boutique
0.9 km
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Okoboji Outlet
1.0 km
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Animal House
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber
0.3 km
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Chaplin's
0.3 km
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Los Pueblos
0.4 km
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The Hutt Bar & Grill
0.5 km
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Boardwalk Bar and Grill
0.6 km
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Pirate Jacks
0.6 km
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Maxwell's Beach Cafe
0.6 km
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Tavern At The Park Okoboji
0.7 km
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Bob's In Arnolds Park
0.7 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Bob's in Arnolds Park, where gourmet hot dogs and fast food favorites await in a vibrant setting.
Wine Bar & Art Gallery
1.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and captivating art at Arnolds Park's premier Wine Bar & Art Gallery, a must-visit destination for tourists.
The Throwing Post
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Arnolds Park at The Throwing Post, a perfect blend of relaxation, drinks, and friendly atmosphere.
Murphys of Okoboji
1.0 km
Discover the energetic nightlife at Murphys of Okoboji, where great drinks and dancing create unforgettable memories in Arnolds Park, Iowa.
Prime Boji
1.0 km
Experience the finest steaks and stunning lake views at Prime Boji, a culinary treasure on West Lake Okoboji.
The Gardens
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Gardens, where delicious grill flavors meet live music by the stunning Lake Okoboji in Arnolds Park, Iowa.
Captain's Getaway
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Captain's Getaway, the perfect lakeside retreat in Arnolds Park.
