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Highway T15 over the Red Rock Dam will be closed to traffic June 9-11. | Recreation Area Status

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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.


 

Bicycling the 17-mile Volksweg paved trail offers scenic views of parks, prairies, woodlands, and beautiful views of Lake Red Rock.
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.
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.

Summer Calendar of Events

    

Latest News

Army Corps of Engineers waives day use fees at recreation areas in observance of Army Corps of Engineers’ Birthday and Juneteenth Celebration
6/5/2025
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced today that it will waive day use fees at its more than 2,600 USACE-operated recreation areas nationwide in observance of the USACE birthday, June 16,...
Road Closure over Red Rock Dam June 9-11
6/4/2025
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces a full road closure to Highway T15 across the Red Rock Dam June 9-11...
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Nationwide Recreation Operational Status Website Launched
5/22/2025
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has launched its Recreation Operational Status website to keep the public informed about the operational status of USACE recreation areas nationwide...