Description - The idea for a state recreation area at Pleasant Creek originated in the early 1960s when the Iowa Conservation Commission (now the Iowa Department of Natural Resources) began investigating the possibility of a large lake to serve the outdoor recreation needs of a multi-county region of northeast Iowa. Today, a 410-acre lake and more than 1,500 acres of land are available to visitors conveniently close to the cities of Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Palo and Waterloo/Cedar Falls. The lake offers a variety of fishing, boating and swimming opportunities. Trails offer visitors scenic views of wooded hills, marshy areas and meadows. The area is open year-round and provides a maximum of outdoor recreation activities.
Attractions
- Picnicking/Shelters/Lodge
Pleasant Creek is a great place for a family picnic. Picnic areas are located on the northeast and southeast shores. Several open shelters may be reserved for a fee through the park office.
Camping
The Pleasant Creek campground features 69 campsites, 43 electrical hook-ups and 2 modern shower and rest room facilities. From the campground, campers have a pleasing view of much of the recreation area. Camping permits are obtained by self-registration at the campground. Camping Fees can be paid at the site.
Cabins
Four new camper cabins were recently added to the area. The rustic pine log cabins offer visitors a sense of pioneer lifestyle. The cabins have electricity, a covered porch and basic furnishings. Visitors must provide their own bedding, towels, cooking utensils and other camping items. Cabins are located near the campgrounds so cabin users will have use of the shower and toilet facilities. Call 319/436-7716 for reservations.
Trails
There are 14 miles of trails for the hiker, snowmobiler, bicycling, cross-country skier and equestrian, with connecting access to many area facilities and scenic overlooks.
Lake Activities (swimming, fishing, boating)
The lake is one of the highest quality fishing lakes in the region and is stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish and tiger muskie. Shoreline fishing has been enhanced by the construction of jetties. Bait is available for sale at the boat house.
Pleasant Creek is a relaxing place to spend a day at the beach. The swimming area is located on the north shore. A privately operated concession offers supervised swimming and a modern bathhouse where refreshments are available. The Pleasant Creek beach has become one of the most popular in Iowa.
Location -
Pleasant Creek lies approximately 15 miles northwest of Cedar Rapids and 40 miles southeast of the Waterloo-Cedar Falls metropolitan area. Palo is located 5 miles south.
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