Elk Rock State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Elk Rock State Park |
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Sign for the south/main area of Elk Rock State Park
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 Elk Rock State Park
Location in Iowa
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| Location | Marion, Iowa, United States |
| Elevation | 823 ft (251 m) |
| Established | 1978 |
| Governing body | Iowa Department of Natural Resources |
| Website | Elk Rock State Park |
Elk Rock State Park is a fun state park in Iowa, USA. It's located in Marion County right next to Red Rock Reservoir. The towns of Knoxville and Pella are nearby.
The park has two main parts: the large main area and a smaller "Mile Long Bridge" area. The bridge area is perfect for quick stops, with a few shelters and restrooms. The main area is much bigger and offers lots of campsites, places to launch boats, a park office, and many trails to explore.
Contents
History of Elk Rock State Park
Ancient Times and Early Settlers
People have lived in the area around Elk Rock State Park for a very long time, going back about 5,000 years! Native American tribes, like the Sac and Fox, lived here. In 1842, they allowed white settlers to use the land. There was even a town called Red Rock that used to be where the lake is now. Its outlines are at the bottom of the lake!
Building the Dam and Creating the Park
The United States Army Corps of Engineers started building a big dam in 1960. They finished it in 1969. This dam created the large Red Rock Reservoir.
After the dam was built, the Iowa Conservation Commission (which helps manage Iowa's natural places) leased some land from the Corps of Engineers. In 1969, they created North Elk Rock, which is now called Cordova Park. Later, in 1978, they leased more land to create South Elk Rock. This is what we know today as Elk Rock State Park!
Things to Do at Elk Rock State Park
Water Activities on Lake Red Rock
The Red Rock Reservoir is a great place for many water activities. You can go fishing for different kinds of fish. It's also a popular spot for general boating and swimming. Imagine spending a hot summer day splashing around in the lake!
Horseback Riding and Trails
Elk Rock State Park is special because it has an area just for people who love horseback riding. There's a special camping area for riders and their horses. It even has a large arena, which is like a big fenced-in space, measuring 100 feet by 200 feet, along with other facilities for horses. The park also has many trails that are perfect for hiking or riding.
Wildlife and Nature Exploration
Red Rock Lake is a very important spot for many different animals, especially migratory birds and other waterfowl. These birds stop here during their long journeys.
The park is home to a huge variety of living things!
- Over 200 different kinds of birds have been seen here.
- You can find 54 different types of trees.
- There are 62 kinds of beautiful wildflowers.
- The lake has 43 different species of fish.
- And 35 different kinds of mammals live in the park.
It's a fantastic place to explore nature and learn about different plants and animals!
