Bigelow Park - Brown's Lake

Park Entrance Sign
Park Entrance Sign
Fishing and Boat Dock at Brown
New Brown

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Brown's Lake is managed by the DNR. It is a natural oxbow of the Missouri River formed when the river was free to meander across the river valley. Brown's Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass and northern pike. A fishing dock and boat ramp provides access to the lake, which is a popular area for recreational boaters and water skiers as well.




Location

Bigelow Park is located one mile west of Salix on a 600-acre lake known as Brown's Lake. Originally a state park, Bigelow Park has been managed by the Woodbury County Conservation Board since 1970 and includes numerous amenities.

Bigelow Park Office:

722 Bigelow Park Road
Salix, IA 51052
712-946-7114

 

GOOGLE MAP LOCATION




Features

On site facilities:

  • 29 electric, water & sewer campsites (fee charged)
  • shower house with family shower facilities, flush toilets and hot water, also serves as a tornado safe room
  • dump station
  • enclosed shelter house (fee charged)
  • open picnic shelter
  • sand volleyball court 
  • picnic sites
  • playground equipment
  • fishing pier (handicap accessible)
  • two fishing jetties (one handicap accessible)
  • boat ramp and boat dock with kayak launch
  • beach area (Memorial Day to Labor Day, 11 am - 8 pm - No lifeguards)
  • new beach restrooms and concession building selling a variety of beverages, snacks and camping supplies
  • kayak, pedalboat, and paddleboard rentals (fee charged)
  • open sports area
  • trails
  • winter activities: ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling (confined to ice only)
  • birdwatching

A public hunting and wildlife management area is located on the west side of Brown's Lake.



Operating Hours & Seasons

Park facilities are open and pressurized water systems are available May 1 through October 31. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and feature self-registration. Firewood is available from the park officer for a nominal fee. 

Camping Fees  
~ $30/day for Electrical, Water & Sewer Sites 
~ $5/bundle for Firewood