Willow Lake Recreation Area







Willow Lake Recreation Area is the headquarters for Harrison County Conservation Board with administrative offices and maintenance shop located on the hill above the park. It has 220 acres for multiple outdoor recreation opportunities. There is a 27-acre fishing lake with boat ramp access, fishing jetties, handicap fishing pier, swimming beach, playground and playscape, picnic shelters, campground with electricity and water as well as shower houses with restrooms (open April 1st through October 31st-WEATHER DEPENDENT). Campsites are for both RV or tent with maximum 1 RV and 1 tent or 2 tents. There is no dump station, however, one is located at the city park in the towns of Woodbine and Pisgah. Firewood can be purchased from either the camphost or at the office. 

There are also six rental cabins available-click on the facilities link on the left for more information or to make a reservation. There are 6 miles of hiking trails with Smart Trail interpretive signs using QR (quick response) codes allow users to learn about the Loess Hills and Iowa's natural resources.

The new Willow Lake Nature Center has interactive exhibits all about water, watersheds, wildlife, and habitats. Hours are Monday-Friday, 8 am-4 pm, Wednesday until 6 pm and Sundays 12-4 pm through October. The Willow Lake Recreation Area is also an excellent location for bird watching, especially migrating songbirds and waterfowl as well as finding morel mushrooms. 

 

AS OF SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2023, HUNTING IS NO LONGER ALLOWED AT THE WILLOW LAKE RECREATION AREA.



Location

Located 6 miles northwest of Woodbine on F20L (Easton Trail).

Features

  • Campground with electricity and water hydrants (no dump station)
  • Shower houses with restrooms (open April 1st-October 31st-WEATHER DEPENDENT)
  • Firewood for sale
  • Latrines
  • Rental cabins
  • Hiking trails
  • Swimming beach
  • 27-acre fishing lake; electric motors only
  • Boat ramp
  • Fishing jetties and pier
  • Picnic shelters
  • Playground and playscape
  • Nature Center and Administrative Offices
  • Tornado siren


Closures

Park gate is closed to vehicles January 31st to April 1st, walk in only. Access to rental cabins available year round.