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May 22, 2024Des Moines, Iowa |  By: Jeremy Werner

Iowa DNR parks gearing up for start of summer

summer camp

DES MOINES, Iowa - Iowa state parks and forests are gearing up for a busy Memorial Day weekend, the traditional start of the outdoor summer recreation season.

The parks offer various activities, including hiking, picnicking, fishing, and swimming, ensuring something for everyone.

Campers are urged to plan ahead as most electrical and full hookup sites in busy parks are already reserved. Non-electric sites or "hidden gem" parks a bit further from home might be good alternatives.

Iowa state parks and forests also have about 950 non-reservable sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. . For site availability and reservations, visit iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com.

For the latest on park and trail closures, check the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website. Park visitors are reminded to clean up after themselves and use designated parking areas.

Most swimming areas do not have lifeguards on duty, and pets must be leashed and kept off beaches.