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Best Iowa State Parks to Visit in the Winter

by Darren Smith
for About.com

The Top Choices All Offer Outdoor Recreational Opportunities.

George Wyth Memorial State Park

This park, located at Waterloo, has has four lakes that can be accessed for ice fishing, snowmobiling, etc. Additionally, there is a trail that connects the park to the Cedar Falls trail system. The trail is groomed for cross-country skiing. The park has an urban setting so it is close to motels, restaurants, etc. Contact 319-232-5505 for more information.

Gull Point Complex

The 28 parks that comprise the Gull Point Complex are located near East and West Lake Okoboji and Big Spirit Lake in northwest Iowa. The focal point for state parks and recreation areas in this region is Gull Point State Park, established in 1933. Winter activities include ice fishing, snowmobiling on trails as well as the lakes, ice skating, cross-country skiing and ice boating. For more information, contact Gull Point State Park at 712-337-3211.

Waubonsie State Park

Waubonsie State Park, located in the unique “Loess Hills,” a landform found only in China and along the Missouri River in Iowa and Missouri, offers recreation in a scenic setting during the winter months. Snowmobiling is permitted on trails located in the north portion of the park and cross-country skiing can be enjoyed in other parts of the park. Many visitors come to Waubonsie to enjoy the winter scenery each year. For further information, contact the park office at 712-382-9860.

Other state parks recommended for winter visitation include Big Creek, Black Hawk and Rock Creek state parks, and Volga River State Recreation Area.

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