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Dakins Lake

 
Boating Boating at Dakins Lake

Dakins Lake is a twenty-acre lake stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and perch.  

Only electric trolling motors are allowed on Story County Conservation Lakes; gasoline-powered motors are prohibited.  Canoes and kayaks are welcome.

Camping Camping at Dakins Lake

The main campground features:

  • 12 full hook-up sites 
  • 17 sites with electricity and water - one of these sites is ADA accessible
  • Modern shower house
  • Natural playscape
  • Dump station

The primitive campground features:

  • 10 electric only sites 
  • Portable toilets only

Reservations are only available online for all primitive campsites and the odd numbered campsites in the main campground.  The rest of the sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.  Camping Reservations

Canoeing & Kayaking Canoeing & Kayaking at Dakins Lake
Dakins Lake features a 20 acre lake.  Canoeing & kayaking are allowed; swimming is prohibited.
Facility Rentals Facility Rentals at Dakins Lake

The open shelter overlooks Dakins Lake and features a large charcoal grill, water fountains, modern restrooms, electrical outlets, and a kitchenette serving area with a sink and counters (no appliances).

The shelter is available to reserve from 7:00 a.m.- 10:00 p.m.

Reservations for the next calendar year are accepted starting November 1.

 Dakins Lake Shelter Reservations

Fishing Fishing at Dakins Lake

This newly expanded park features a new 15-acre lake built below (and in series with) the previously existing 5-acre lake.  There are two boat ramps (electric motors only), two fishing jetties, a dock with a fish cleaning station, and plenty of underwater fish habitat making the new lake very “angler” friendly.


There is a variety of fish species including largemouth bass, crappie, bullhead, and channel catfish.

 

Iowa fishing regulations apply, for a listing of state rules/regulations please click here:  Iowa DNR - Fishing

Trails & Hiking Trails & Hiking at Dakins Lake
1.33 miles of trails through native grasses and around the lake. 
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