Big Creek State Park
3.8312 reviews8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, Iowa, 50226, United States
Summer Destination
Quick Facts
968 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Reservable
Sites
Varies
Season
Shelters are typical...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
No Pets
Quick Facts
968 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Reservable
Sites
Varies
Season
Shelters are typical...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
No Pets
Big Creek State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No camping fees are applicable as camping is not permitted at Big Creek State Park.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
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What Campers Say
3.83
Mixed Reviews
Based on 12 reviews
885 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanwaterlake
"Overall, users describe Big Creek State Park as clean, safe, and family-friendly. Activities like biking, boating, and beach visits are frequently praised. However, some concerns about cleanliness and the lack of camping facilities were noted."
Campground Map
8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, Iowa, 50226, United States
Big Creek State Park
8794 NW 125th Ave, Polk City, Iowa, 50226, United States
Driving directionsFrom Polk City square go west approximately 2 miles on NW Madrid Dr. West Broadway St. in town and turn right on Big Creek Dr. to enter the southeast side of the park. From Polk City square go west 2.5 miles on NW Madrid Dr. West Broadway St. in town and turn right on Williams Dr. to access the west side picnic areas/boat ramps.
The park can be accessed via paved roads from Polk City. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain is indicated in the provided information.Nearby places
Polk City (2 miles south), Madrid (7 miles north), Ankeny (8 miles southeast), Des Moines (11 miles south), Ames (20 miles north)
Nearby supplies
Supplies like bait, snacks, and drinks are available on-site. Fuel is available within 1 mile, and there is a grocery store within the facility.
Best Time to Camp at Big Creek State Park
From the vibrant blooms of late spring through the golden days of early fall, Big Creek State Park basks in ideal outdoor conditions. Warm sunshine, gentle breezes, and typically dry weather create the perfect backdrop for lake adventures and trail exploration. These months transform the park into a haven for water enthusiasts, hikers, and wildlife watchers, with comfortable temperatures inviting visitors to linger from sunrise to sunset.
Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5
Peak season: beach, boating, rentals, events; busiest and most activity-rich time.
Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5
Fall good for biking and hiking with scenic foliage; fewer beach activities.
Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5
Late spring blooms and good trail conditions make it pleasant for biking and hiking.
Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5
Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling possible, but overall quieter and colder season.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Peak season includes late May through September based on operational hours for concessions.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Shelters are typically open seasonally, mid-April to mid-October, depending on weather.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts are provided.
About Big Creek State Park
Nestled in the heart of Iowa's scenic landscape, Big Creek State Park serves as a pristine wildlife sanctuary where nature thrives undisturbed. While overnight camping isn't permitted to preserve the refuge's delicate ecosystem, this 5,500-acre natural playground beckons day-trippers with its sparkling 800-acre lake and abundant recreational opportunities. Visitors can choose from numerous well-appointed shelters perfect for family gatherings, lakeside picnics, or peaceful afternoons spent reconnecting with nature.
Big Creek State Park does not offer traditional camping. Instead, it features shelters and cabanas suitable for day-use gatherings, such as family picnics and events.
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Best Campsites
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Check-in
Not applicable as camping is prohibited.
Check-out
Not applicable as camping is prohibited.
Stay Limit
Camping is not permitted, therefore, no stay limits apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Big Creek State Park is highly praised for its diverse recreational activities. Visitors have access to biking, hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, and cross-country skiing. The park also hosts several community events, including fishing tournaments and cultural festivals.
HikingThe 26-mile paved multi-use trail runs through the park and connects to the Saylorville Lake area. It is suitable for both biking and hiking, with curves and elevation changes enhancing the experience.
FishingBig Creek Lake is stocked with crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, and muskie. Fishing opportunities are available year-round, but some users noted the need to travel far to find good fishing spots.
SwimmingThe 1,300-foot beach area includes swimming facilities, volleyball courts, picnic areas, and a playground. The beach is described as clean and safe by users.
BikingIn addition to the paved trail, the Central State Park Bike Route, spanning 91 miles, connects Big Creek State Park with other state parks. The trail features varying terrain with both flat areas and challenging hills.
BoatingThe park offers a variety of boating options, including pontoon boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. The lake is a wake 5 mph speed zone, and boat ramps are available on both sides of the lake.
Wildlife viewingAs a wildlife refuge, the park provides opportunities to observe local fauna. However, hunting is limited to designated areas.
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Policies & Safety
Hazards & AlertsSome reviews mention trash left behind by visitors, and there is a lack of garbage bins in certain areas.
Active AlertsNo active alerts are provided.
Weather at Big Creek State Park
Reviews
3.8
12 reviews
Big Creek State Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users describe Big Creek State Park as clean, safe, and family-friendly. Activities like biking, boating, and beach visits are frequently praised. However, some concerns about cleanliness and the lack of camping facilities were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Love biking here. The connection to the trails along Lake Saylorville is great.' - 'This place has it all! We visited from Florida and fell in love with it. Stunning!' - 'Highly recommend! If you...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- No camping is allowed, which disappointed some users expecting overnight options. - 'The lake is too shallow for fast boating or making wakes.' - Trash left by visitors and poorly maintained picnic...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Reserve shelters or cabanas for group events in advance. - Bring your own trash bags, as garbage disposal facilities may be limited. - Utilize the multi-use trail for both biking and hiking. -...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season for beach activities, boating, and festivals. Winter visitors enjoy activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Spring and fall are favored for biking and hiking...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Big Creek is just a little bit bigger! The trail system here is awesome.' - 'If you leave here disappointed, then it's your fault.' - 'Dogs are supposed to be leashed, but overall this is a safe,...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Cabana sites (#1-9) are popular for small gatherings but lack privacy. - Larger shelters like FireFly and Beach Shelter #1 accommodate up to 165 people and are ideal for bigger events.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
Handicapped parking and an accessible fishing pier are available. However, details on trail or restroom accessibility are limited.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some visitors observed dogs despite the 'no pets' policy at certain shelters.
Based on 12 reviews0
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Last updated January 5, 2026
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