Physical Location
Location Address
21914 Park Loop
Onawa, IA 51040
Areas Served
Monona
Phone(s)
Website
About the Park
Lewis and Clark State Park in western Iowa is both a picturesque park and a historic location along the Lewis and Clark expedition trail from 1804. The park is a popular destination for boating, fishing and other outdoor recreation, with an opportunity to engage in history at the Visitors Center, on a working keelboat and during the annual Lewis and Clark Festival each June.
Plan Your Visit
- Hike a variety of trails featuring the sights and sounds of the park’s wildlife and plant life, including an accessible, paved lakeshore path.
- Boat in the waters of Blue Lake or swim at the sandy beach area. No restrictions are placed on motor size and a double boat ramp is available for easy lake access.
- Fish for panfish, bass, channel catfish and northern pike at Blue Lake. High numbers of bullhead and carp are often found in the water. Fish trap structures are in place as part of a lake restoration project.
- Camp at the lakeshore campground featuring a new playground, electrical hookups and full hook ups. Modern restrooms, showers and a trailer dump station are also available. Advanced reservations can be made through the the online reservation system for Lewis and Clark State Park. 100% of the campsites are reservable and a reservation is required. The campground accepts reservations April - October and is closed November - March.
- Reserve one of two open shelters for an outdoor gathering during your visit. The shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may be rented through the park office. A day-use lodge at Lewis and Clark is also available for large events such as wedding receptions or family reunions. The lodge was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and can be reserved through the the online reservation system for Lewis and Clark State Park.
Amenities at a Glance
- Visitors Center
- Keelboat Display
- Hiking trails
- Playground
- Swimming beach
- Boat ramp
- Day-use lodge ; ADA accessible
- Shelters
- Modern restrooms
- Showers
- Electric campsites
- Full hook-up campsites
- Youth group only campsites
- Dump station
Explore the Park
Volunteer
Volunteer at Iowa State Parks!
Iowa state parks and forests rely on individual and group volunteers to help keep them thriving and welcoming places to visit. Learn more about how you can help today!