Elk Rock State Park
00 review888 Hwy 14, Knoxville, Iowa, 50138, United States
Elk Rock State Park
$15.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type and season. Equestrian and non-equestrian sites are available. Firewood sales operate Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend on select days.
About this campground
Nestled along Iowa's largest lake, Elk Rock State Park beckons adventurers with its unique blend of equestrian and traditional camping experiences. Horse enthusiasts will discover dedicated stalls and riding arenas, while all visitors can explore winding trails, cast lines into pristine waters, and spot magnificent wildlife. Whether you arrive on horseback or hiking boots, the park's modern facilities and diverse recreational offerings promise memorable outdoor escapes.
Elk Rock State Park provides equestrian camping facilities in addition to standard non-equestrian sites. Both types offer electric and non-electric options. The equestrian section includes horse stalls, hitching rails, and a riding arena. Group camping and RV accommodations are also available.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the park boundaries, the charming town of Pella preserves its rich Dutch heritage with pride. Each May, thousands of vibrant tulips burst into bloom during the celebrated Tulip Festival, transforming the town into a slice of Holland complete with traditional costumes, wooden shoe dancing, and authentic Dutch pastries.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Elk Rock in distinct colors and moods. Summer brings warm days perfect for lakeside adventures, while winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland dusted with occasional snow. Spring awakens the prairie with wildflowers and migrating birds, and autumn creates a tapestry of golden grasses and crimson leaves—both seasons offering that sweet spot of comfortable camping weather.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain follows the natural contours of Lake Red Rock's expansive shoreline. This massive reservoir dominates the landscape, creating varied topography that ranges from waterfront campsites to elevated overlooks offering panoramic views of Iowa's inland sea.
Natural Features and SceneryA living mosaic of ecosystems unfolds across the park, where ancient woodlands meet restored prairie grasslands at the water's edge. This diverse habitat serves as a crucial stopover for spectacular migratory birds—imagine witnessing hundreds of white pelicans gliding across the sunset or catching sight of a majestic bald eagle perched in a lakeside oak.
Geological RegionEncompassing more than 50,000 acres of public land surrounding Lake Red Rock, this vast recreational area represents one of Iowa's most significant conservation achievements. The landscape tells a story of transformation, where former farmland has been restored to native prairie, mature forests shelter hidden coves, and the massive reservoir creates endless opportunities for water-based adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap access is noted as being available in the facility description. However, specific details about the features are not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with non-electric sites in particular being 'very large.'
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews on privacy: some sites have tall grass for natural privacy, while others are close together with limited shade.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNon-electric sites in the 80s offer spacious layouts but may require creative tent staking. Pull-through sites are well-graveled and convenient for families.
Best CampsitesSite 82 has privacy-enhancing tall grass and proximity to water spouts, but is far from bathrooms.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Information not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not detailed
Groups
No specific details on group camping limits or features.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutEquestrian and non-equestrian campgrounds are separated. Non-electric site numbers are in the 80s.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, but firewood sales and some amenities operate seasonally.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available. No specifics on fill patterns.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Elk Rock State Park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, horseback riding, biking, and boating. The park boasts 13 miles of multi-use trails that traverse diverse habitats, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing. Lake Red Rock supports activities like fishing for bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. Winter recreation, such as snowmobiling, is also available.
Hiking
The park features 13 miles of multi-use trails, including the Red, Orange, and Yellow Trails, marked with color-coded stakes. The trails traverse woodlands and remnants of native prairie, offering various difficulty levels. Some reviews mention trail maps with inconsistencies.Fishing
Lake Red Rock provides opportunities to catch bluegill, crappie, large-mouth bass, and channel catfish. Some reviews highlight fruitful fishing experiences.Biking
The multi-use trails are open to mountain biking, with varying terrain and scenic routes.Boating
Two boat ramps provide access to Lake Red Rock: a six-lane ramp at the park entrance and another near the park office. Canoeing and jet skiing are also possible.Wildlife viewing
The lake is a significant stopover for migratory species, including white pelicans and bald eagles, during spring and fall. Campsite visitors also report birdwatching opportunities.Winter Activities
The trail system is open for snowmobiling during the winter. Additional details on other winter recreation activities are not provided.Water Sports
Canoeing and jet skiing are supported on Lake Red Rock, with two boat ramps for easy access.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are allowed with purchased firewood from on-site dispensers. Firewood sales operate Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Hazards
General hazardsCampsite surfaces (e.g., old gravel pads beneath dirt) made tent staking difficult for some campers. Low-hanging branches in equestrian areas may pose issues for RV roofs.
Active alertsNo current alerts provided.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Knoxville, located 6 miles away, provides emergency services, including a hospital.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site, but no information on recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLake Red Rock offers fishing and boating opportunities via two ramps.
Common complaintsMultiple user reviews cite unclean restrooms and showers during the early season. Tent staking issues were noted due to hidden gravel pads.
HostHosts are generally helpful but were reported arriving unprepared during early season.
Campground Map
888 Hwy 14, Knoxville, Iowa, 50138, United States
Driving directionsThe address to the campground entrance is 888 HWY 14, Knoxville, IA 50138. From Hwy 92 in Knoxville, Elk Rock is six miles north on Hwy 14. From Interstate 80 at Newton, Elk Rock is about twenty miles south on Hwy 14.
Elk Rock State Park is easily accessible via major paved highways, including Hwy 14. The roads leading into the campground are in good condition, and no seasonal closures or challenging terrain are noted.Nearby places
Knoxville (6 miles south), Pella (10 miles northeast), Newton (23 miles north), Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge (22 miles west).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, bait & tackle shops, camping supplies, and firewood are available within 10 miles. Fuel and boat rentals are located greater than 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Elk Rock State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Elk Rock State Park highlight its equestrian facilities, spacious campsites, and variety of activities. Cleanliness of facilities and site maintenance are areas of mixed feedback.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users praised the 'spacious campsites,' 'beautiful scenery,' and the equestrian trails. Fire pits with swivel grills and picnic tables were appreciated. The park's proximity to Knoxville and...
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Common Concerns
Cleanliness issues were reported in the early camping season, including dead bugs and moldy shower walls. Some campers found the distance to restrooms inconvenient and noted low-hanging tree branches...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a small boat for better fishing access on Lake Red Rock. Be prepared for hard ground when pitching tents. Check trail conditions if planning to hike or ride horses.
Seasonal Insights
Early in the camping season, facilities may be less maintained, as noted in April reviews. Summertime visits are popular for fishing and equestrian activities, while fall offers quiet and scenic...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The showers need attention. My husband swept the worms and bugs out of one of the showers himself.' - Julie Freeze
2. 'Clean campsites and easy to find.' - Marty Hogan
3. 'The staff member at the...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 82 offers tall grass for privacy but is far from restrooms. Site 85 is described as sizeable and good for star gazing.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or experiences mentioned about pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025