Mcintosh Woods State Park
00 review1200 East Lake Street, Ventura, Iowa, 50482, United States
Mcintosh Woods State Park
$20.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 to $35 depending on the type of campsite and amenities. The two yurts available for rent are unique accommodations on the lakefront.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shoreline of Clear Lake, McIntosh Woods State Park beckons adventurers with its canopy of mature trees casting cool shadows over camping spots and winding trails. Here, traditional tent camping meets exotic accommodation as authentic yurts dot the landscape, while the gentle lapping of lake waters provides a natural soundtrack. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat for a day on the water, or spotting migrating birds through the marshlands, this lakeside haven offers endless ways to connect with nature.
McIntosh Woods State Park offers a mix of camping options, from tent and RV sites to unique yurt accommodations.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of Central Asian heritage without leaving Iowa at McIntosh Woods, home to the state's only traditional yurt camping experience. These circular dwellings, inspired by the portable homes of Mongolian and Kazakh nomads who have used them for thousands of years, offer a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern comfort. Their presence here creates a cultural bridge, allowing visitors to experience a taste of nomadic life while exploring Iowa's natural treasures.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint McIntosh Woods in ever-changing colors throughout the year. Winter transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland where frost sparkles on bare branches and the lake often freezes solid. As spring awakens the forest floor with wildflowers, temperatures climb and the park bursts into verdant life. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for beach lounging and cool evening campfires, while autumn sets the woods ablaze with golden maples and russet oaks reflecting brilliantly off the water's surface.
ElevationThe park's gentle terrain rolls softly toward Clear Lake's shoreline, creating natural amphitheaters for camping and easy access to water activities. While specific elevation data isn't available, the landscape provides comfortable walking conditions for all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryA 60-acre tapestry of natural beauty unfolds at McIntosh Woods, where towering shade trees create cathedral-like groves perfect for afternoon picnics. Sandy beaches invite barefoot strolls and sandcastle building, while the surrounding marshlands teem with wildlife and serve as vital habitat for countless species. Forest trails weave through the woods, revealing hidden clearings and stunning lake vistas at every turn, making each visit a new discovery.
Geological RegionPerched on the northwest shore of Clear Lake—Iowa's second-largest natural lake—McIntosh Woods State Park serves as a verdant gateway to this glacially-carved aquatic gem. This 60-acre sanctuary preserves a precious remnant of the native woodlands that once lined the entire lakeshore, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's pre-settlement landscape while providing modern recreational opportunities at the intersection of forest and water.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park includes handicap-accessible facilities, such as fishing docks and restrooms, according to official amenities descriptions.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as both electric and non-electric. Some reviewers note that 'lots look small for camper and truck,' indicating tighter campsite dimensions.
Sites PrivacySomewhat private, depending on occupancy. User reviews note that 'sites are arranged for privacy, as much as possible,' but others mention that sites are close together, particularly when the campground is full.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPrimitive site 048 has level ground for a gazebo but lacks a level gravel driveway. Other sites offer shaded areas and proximity to amenities.
Best CampsitesYurts are highly rated for their unique design and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are arranged for privacy as much as possible, with shaded areas and back-in sites dominating the campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through official state park reservation systems.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyNo specific rules for cancellation were mentioned.
Accomodation available
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
McIntosh Woods State Park is a hub for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Seasonal activities such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing are also available in winter.
Hiking
The park features a one-mile interpretive hiking trail, which includes a boardwalk through Mallard Marsh leading to a wildlife viewing blind. Several user reviews highlight the trail as 'great for families' with 'lots of interesting things to see.'Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at McIntosh Woods State Park, with Clear Lake offering species such as walleye, panfish, and channel catfish. The park provides a modern fish cleaning station near the boat ramp. Reviews describe fishing as 'amazing' and a highlight of the park.Swimming
The park features an unsupervised beach that is described as clean and relatively private. A user commented, 'Walking out into the lake wasn’t covered with rocks, which my feet really appreciated.'Boating
The largest modern boat ramp on Clear Lake is located in the park, and there is ample vehicle trailer parking. Activities include kayaking, jet skiing, and sail boating.Wildlife viewing
The park offers bird watching and wildlife photography opportunities, particularly around the Mallard Marsh and the viewing blind. Reviewers note 'great bird viewing spots' and 'beautiful flora and fauna.'Beach activities
The beach area supports swimming and other beach-related activities. A user noted that it was 'a clean, quiet beach with fewer rocks compared to other areas.'Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted. Firewood can be purchased at a nearby farmers market for $5.
- Quiet hours are Suggested but not officially enforced.
Hazards
General hazardsLate-night noise complaints and cramped campsites have been mentioned in reviews.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9 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
Hospital and medical clinic within 10 miles in Mason City.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Clear Lake with lakefront yurts, a beach, and a boat ramp.
Common complaintsLimited space between campsites, late-night noise disturbances, and the lack of conservation-focused hiking trails typically found in other state parks.
HostCampground hosts received mixed reviews, with some praising their helpfulness and others encountering rudeness.
Campground Map
1200 East Lake Street, Ventura, Iowa, 50482, United States
Driving directionsTake Exit 194 off of Interstate 35 and go west on Hwy 18 approximately five miles to McIntosh Rd. Turn south to the park entrance.
Accessible via paved roads from Interstate 35 and Hwy 18. No seasonal closures or road conditions noted.Nearby places
Clear Lake (approx. 1 mile), Mason City (approx. 10 miles east), Garner (approx. 7 miles west), Ventura (near park).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, fuel for vehicles and boats, firewood, bait, and tackle within 10 miles. Farmers market in Ventura offers bundles of oak firewood for $5 on Saturdays.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Mcintosh Woods State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The majority of user reviews for McIntosh Woods State Park are positive, highlighting clean facilities, a family-friendly atmosphere, and the park's unique yurts. Negative comments often focus on the proximity of campsites to each other and occasional noise disturbances.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers, the scenic views, and the variety of activities offered. Comments such as 'absolutely loved this park' and 'the campground was...
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Common Concerns
Concerns include closely spaced campsites ('camp sites are packed like sardines'), occasional noise disturbances at night, and the need for updated electrical hookups for RVs.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
One reviewer recommends buying firewood at the Ventura farmers market, as advised by a park ranger. Others suggest staying in the yurts for a unique experience and planning visits during migration...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted for vibrant foliage, while summer is popular for water activities. Winter offers unique opportunities like ice fishing and snowshoeing, though extreme cold may limit some...
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Camper Quotes
'McIntosh Woods was great and I will be going back.' 'The beach was clean, and the campgrounds were quiet and relatively peaceful.' 'The park has plenty of shaded areas and is unique with its yurts.'...
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Site-Specific Reviews
One reviewer noted that site 048 (non-electric) was uneven, but had level ground for a gazebo.
Accessibility Features
The park's handicap-accessible fishing docks and restrooms are appreciated. No detailed reviews from disabled users are provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
No pet-specific reviews were available.
Last updated August 10, 2025