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Update (Jan. 11, 2024, 11:30 a.m.):  Highway T15 over the Red Rock Dam is open to traffic. Closures scheduled for Jan. 12 and Jan. 17-19 have been canceled.

For site-specific details on the status of Lake Red Rock's recreation areas, Click HERE

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Welcome to Lake Red Rock


Lake Red Rock is Iowa's largest lake with more than 15,000 acres of water and 35,000 acres of land for visitors to enjoy. Located on the Des Moines River just 45 miles southeast, and downriver, of the city of Des Moines, Iowa, the reservoir collects runoff and and drainage from a 12,320 square-mile area in Iowa and southern Minnesota. This protects communities and agriculture lands downstream from the Red Rock Dam. The maximum flood control pool is 780 feet above sea level, over 33 miles long, and covers 65,500 acres. Other lake area benefits include numerous recreational opportunities and natural resources on the water and surrounding public lands.


 

Scenic View of Lake Red Rock's Shoreline
Large flocks of white pelicans migrate through the Red Rock area in spring and fall, and they can often be seen in protected coves on the lake and along the river below the dam.
The North Overlook Campground features a new six-plex family style restroom/shower house, playground, access to the 17-mile Volksweg paved bike trail, and much more! For campsite availability and to make reservations, please visit www.recreation.gov or call toll free 1-877-444-6777.
Lake Red Rock is a wildlife watchers' paradise with opportunities to see deer, waterfowl, songbirds, and more.
Lake Red Rock offers visitors amazing sunset views
Duck Hunter wearing a life jacket
Bikers on Volksweg Trail
The Red Rock Visitor Center is located on the south side of the Red Rock Dam. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
The Red Rock Visitor Center is open Mon.-Fri. from 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and Sat./Sun. from 12:00-4:00 p.m.
The South Tailwater Recreation Area is a popular spot for shoreline fishing.
Family sitting on bench watching river in South Tailwater
The popular day use area is now open for fishing, picnicking and other day use activities. The section of the Volksweg Trail through this park has also reopened for hiking and biking.

Latest News

Swimming Not Recommended at Lake Red Rock’s Whitebreast and North Overlook Beaches
7/21/2023
KNOXVILLE, Iowa – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District is recommending no swimming at Lake Red Rock’s Whitebreast and North Overlook Beaches due to elevated bacterial counts.The...
Roadway closure across Red Rock Dam July 26-28
7/17/2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces the full closure of Highway T15 across Red Rock Dam beginning July 26 and continuing through July 28, during which time a detour will...
North Overlook Beach to close July 10
7/10/2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces the North Overlook Beach at Lake Red Rock will be closed beginning July 10 and until further notice for parking lot paving...