Lake Red Rock (Des Moines River) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Red Rock |
|
|---|---|
|
|
 Lake Red Rock
Location in Iowa
Lake Red Rock
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Marion County, Iowa, United States |
| Coordinates | 41°24′19″N 93°02′49″W / 41.40528°N 93.04694°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Des Moines River |
| Primary outflows | Des Moines River |
| Catchment area | 12,000 sq mi (31,080 km2) |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 11 mi (18 km) |
| Surface area | 15,520 acres (62.81 km2) max: 70,000 acres (283.28 km2) |
| Surface elevation | 742 ft (226 m) |
Lake Red Rock, also known as Red Rock Reservoir, is the largest lake in Iowa, U.S.. It is a special type of lake called a reservoir, which means it was created by people. The lake was formed by the Red Rock Dam on the Des Moines River. This dam is about 41 miles southeast of Des Moines, Iowa.
The dam was finished in 1969 by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. Its main job is to help control floods. Lake Red Rock is mostly located in Marion County. The dam itself is a few miles from the towns of Pella and Knoxville.
Contents
Fun Activities at Lake Red Rock
Lake Red Rock is a great place for outdoor adventures! There are many fun things to do along the lake's shores. You can go camping, hiking, boating, and fishing.
Parks and Campgrounds
Several parks and campgrounds are found around the lake:
- Elk Rock State Park is a state park that covers areas on both sides of the lake.
- Roberts Creek Park and Cordova Park are managed by the Marion County Conservation Board. Cordova Park is home to the Cordova Tower, which offers great views.
The Army Corps of Engineers also takes care of several campgrounds. These include White Breast Recreation Area, Ivans Recreation Area, Wallashuck Recreation Area, Howell Station Recreation Area, and the North Overlook Recreation Area.
Boating and Water Trails
If you love being on the water, Lake Red Rock is perfect for boating. There is even a "water trail" where you can float down the Des Moines River. This trail starts in southeast Polk County and goes all the way to the lake and past the Red Rock Dam. The Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 4 helps keep boaters safe by offering safety classes and free boat checks.
Mile Long Bridge
A famous landmark at the lake is often called the "Mile Long Bridge." This bridge carries Iowa Highway 14 across the lake at its upper end.
