Lacey- Keosauqua State Park Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Iowa locals seeking a comprehensive and enriching outdoor experience, Lacey-Keosauqua State Park Campground in Van Buren County stands as a true gem. As Iowa's second oldest state park, dedicated in 1921, this expansive 1,653-acre natural retreat offers a remarkable blend of scenic beauty, historical significance, and diverse recreational opportunities. It's more than just a place to set up camp; it’s a destination where families and individuals can immerse themselves in nature, explore unique historical sites, and enjoy a wide array of activities, all within the picturesque landscapes of southeastern Iowa.

Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is characterized by its stunning oak-hickory bluffs and valleys, set alongside a large bend in the Des Moines River. This picturesque setting provides a tranquil backdrop for camping, hiking, fishing, and simply relaxing. The campground itself is well-facilitated, offering a variety of sites to suit different preferences, from full hook-up options for RVs to non-electric spots for a more traditional tent camping experience. Modern amenities like clean restrooms and showers ensure a comfortable stay, making it accessible and enjoyable for even those new to camping.

Beyond the typical campground offerings, Lacey-Keosauqua boasts a 30-acre lake perfect for swimming and electric-motor boating, over 13 miles of hiking trails that wind through historical and natural wonders, and various facilities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression. This rich tapestry of natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical depth makes Lacey-Keosauqua State Park Campground a highly recommended destination for Iowa residents looking to explore their state's heritage and outdoor splendor.

Location and Accessibility

Lacey-Keosauqua State Park Campground is nestled within Van Buren County, IA, with its general address listed as Van Buren County, IA 52565, USA. More specific contact information points to 22895 Lacey Trail, Keosauqua, IA 52565. This location places it along the scenic Des Moines River, just southwest of the charming town of Keosauqua. For Iowa locals, this translates to a convenient and manageable drive from many parts of the state, particularly those in the southeastern and central regions, allowing for easy weekend getaways or longer family vacations.

The park's location in Van Buren County is a significant draw, as the area is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and historic "Villages of Van Buren." Visitors can enjoy not only the natural beauty within the park but also explore the unique histories and quaint offerings of nearby settlements like Bentonsport and Bonaparte. This regional appeal adds an extra layer of interest to a camping trip, encouraging exploration beyond the campground boundaries.

Access to Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is generally straightforward via well-maintained state and county roads. While some reviews for the campground specifically mention that GPS directions might lead to gravel roads, advising visitors to look for paved roads outside of town for a smoother approach, the overall accessibility is high. The park is designed to be welcoming to both RVs and tent campers, with its developed facilities indicating ease of navigation within the campground loops. This combination of a beautiful natural setting and relatively easy access makes Lacey-Keosauqua State Park Campground a prime choice for Iowa residents seeking a comprehensive outdoor escape without venturing too far from home.

Services Offered

• Campsites: The campground offers a total of 98 campsites, providing a wide range of options to suit various camping styles. These include both electric and non-electric sites, accommodating both tents and RVs.
• Full Hook-up Sites: For maximum convenience, some sites within the campground offer full hook-ups, which typically include water, electric, and sewer connections, ideal for larger RVs and longer stays.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Campers can enjoy the comfort of modern restroom facilities and clean shower houses, a significant amenity for a pleasant camping experience.
• Trailer Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available for RV and trailer campers, facilitating easy waste disposal after their stay.
• Advance Reservations: Campsites can be reserved in advance through the Iowa State Parks reservation system (iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com or by phone), providing the convenience of securing a spot, especially during peak seasons. Some sites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Family Cabins: For those seeking more comfortable lodging, Lacey-Keosauqua State Park offers six fully furnished family cabins with modern amenities like cook-top stoves, microwaves, refrigerators, and cookware. One cabin is ADA accessible.
• Day-Use Lodges & Shelters: The park features a large, heated, and air-conditioned day-use lodge (Lacey-Keosauqua Lodge) and a Beach House Lodge, both available for rent. Additionally, two open picnic shelters with tables and grills can be reserved for gatherings.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase, typically through the park's Friends Group and camp hosts from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, ensuring campers have convenient access to fuel for their campfires (outside firewood is generally discouraged to prevent invasive species spread).
• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp provides easy access to the 30-acre Lacey Lake, allowing for electric-motor boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
• Swimming Beach: The park boasts a popular swimming area with a sandy beach at Lacey Lake, providing a refreshing way to cool off during the summer months.

Features / Highlights

• Historic Significance and CCC Structures: Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is Iowa's second oldest state park, dedicated in 1921. It features numerous structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, including a gatehouse and lodge, adding a rich historical dimension to the park. Ancient American Indian mounds overlooking the Des Moines River also contribute to the park's historical intrigue.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: With 13 miles of trails winding through oak-hickory bluffs and valleys along the Des Moines River, the park offers diverse hiking opportunities for various skill levels. A three-mile trail segment specifically highlights historical aspects, including the Mormon's western trek.
• Lacey Lake Activities: The 30-acre Lacey Lake is a central feature, offering a popular swimming beach, a boat ramp for electric-motor boats, and excellent fishing opportunities for species like smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill.
• Proximity to Des Moines River and Lake Sugema: Beyond Lacey Lake, campers have access to fishing along the Des Moines River. The significantly larger 574-acre Lake Sugema, known for some of Iowa's best fishing (stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, channel catfish, and walleye), is just a few minutes' drive away.
• Abundant Wildlife and Bird Watching: The park's diverse ecosystems attract numerous wildlife species, particularly birds. It's a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 250 species spotted, making it an excellent location for bird watching, especially during migration seasons. Bald eagles are often seen in winter.
• Scenic Drive Festival Participation: Lacey-Keosauqua State Park actively participates in the annual Van Buren County Scenic Drive Festival, held on the second weekend of October. The park hosts events like a buckskinners camp and a 5K/10K run/walk, coinciding with stunning fall foliage.
• Clean and Quiet Environment: Customer reviews frequently commend the campground for being "clean and quiet," ensuring a peaceful and well-maintained environment for visitors. Sites are often described as level and well-spaced.
• Accessible Amenities: The park offers ADA accessible facilities, including one family cabin and the Beach House Lodge, ensuring accessibility for visitors with diverse needs.

Contact Information

Address: 22895 Lacey Trail, Keosauqua, IA 52565, USA (Main Park Office Address)

Van Buren County, IA 52565, USA (General Area)

Park Office Phone: (319) 293-3502

Reservations: 1-877-427-2757 or online via iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Lacey-Keosauqua State Park Campground is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for Iowa locals, offering a comprehensive and enriching outdoor experience close to home. Its status as one of Iowa's largest and oldest state parks ensures a well-established infrastructure, diverse natural beauty, and a rich history, making it far more than just a place to camp. For Iowans, this means easy access to a vast natural playground without the need for extensive travel, allowing for more time to enjoy the park's many offerings, whether for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation.

The park’s array of activities directly caters to the interests of local families and outdoor enthusiasts. With a 30-acre lake for swimming and fishing, over 13 miles of hiking trails through scenic bluffs and valleys, and opportunities for bird watching and exploring historical sites (including ancient Native American mounds and CCC structures), there’s truly something for everyone. This variety ensures that every visit can be unique, providing endless opportunities for recreation and education, fostering a deeper appreciation for Iowa's natural and historical heritage. The availability of electric and full hook-up sites, along with modern restrooms and showers, means that campers can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors with the comfort and convenience they desire.

Moreover, the option of reserving campsites and even fully furnished cabins provides flexibility and peace of mind, especially during peak seasons. The park's involvement in local events like the Scenic Drive Festival further integrates it into the community fabric, offering unique cultural experiences alongside natural beauty. For Iowa residents seeking a reliable, well-maintained, and richly diverse outdoor destination that combines active recreation, educational opportunities, and a tranquil escape, Lacey-Keosauqua State Park Campground stands out as an ideal choice, promising memorable experiences for years to come.

Lacey- Keosauqua State Park Campground

Van Buren County, IA 52565, USA