Rock Island District / Missions / Recreation / Lake Red Rock
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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.

 

Rocky Shoreline
Scenic View of Lake Red Rock's Shoreline
Pelicans and Gulls in the Tailwaters
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.
North Overlook Campground
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.
Whitetail Deer
Lake Red Rock is a wildlife watchers' paradise with opportunities to see deer, waterfowl, songbirds, and more.
Sunset at South Overlook
Lake Red Rock offers visitors amazing sunset views
Be a Wise Man - Wear a Life Jacket
Duck Hunter wearing a life jacket
Bikers on Volksweg Trail
Red Rock Visitor Center
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.
Observation Deck at Red Rock Visitor Center
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.
Fishermen in South Tailwater Rec. Area
The South Tailwater Recreation Area is a popular spot for shoreline fishing.
Hepatica along Volksweg Trail
Hepatica are often one of the first wildflowers to be seen in the spring. They can usually be observed in late March along the Volksweg Trail hillside near Ivans Campground.
Family sitting on bench watching river in South Tailwater
North Tailwater Recreation Area
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.
Life Jackets Worn, Nobody Mourns!
When you head out on the water, please wear your life jacket! Even the best swimmers can get in trouble, and you may not have time to put them on in an emergency!

Latest News

Closure to Highway T15 across Red Rock Dam extended
9/29/2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces the full closure of Highway T15 across Red Rock Dam has been extended approximately two weeks. A detour will continue to be in place...
Roadway across Red Rock Dam to close Sept. 11 for three weeks
8/30/2023
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces the full closure of Highway T15 across Red Rock Dam beginning Sept. 11 and continuing approximately three weeks. A detour will be in...
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...
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