Description

Located along the scenic Des Moines River Valley, Dolliver Memorial State Park spreads across 594 acres boasting unique bluffs, canyons, flatlands, ancient Native American mounds and an abundance of exploration opportunities.

Recreation:

Trails
While visiting, enjoy the park's rugged and well-maintained trail system. Nearly six miles of winding trails lead through the Copperas Beds, unique sandstone formations that tower 100 feet above Prairie Creek. Here you will see an ancient, more than 150 million years old, river bed and witness the erosive power of Prairie Creek that uncovered and left behind this breathtaking feature. The trail continues up into oak-covered hillsides and along two hilltop prairies as you travel through the woods.

Follow the trail north to Bone Yard Hollow, a unique historical area in Webster County. Bone Yard Hollow is said to have been given its name by early settlers who found large numbers of bison bones in the canyon. It is believed that the first inhabitants in the area drove herds of bison from the prairie over the cliff to their deaths so they might use the animals for their meat, hides, horns and bones.

Native American Mounds
Located in the upland timber, ancient Native American mounds overlook the Des Moines River Valley. There are one linear and two conical mounds at this site. All the mounds in this area probably date to the Woodland Culture, approximately 1100 A.D. The Indian mounds were either ceremonial or burial in nature. River Access
A boat ramp allows access to the Des Moines River for canoeists and anglers.

Facilities:

Day-use Lodges/Group Camp
There are two historic day-use lodges, South Lodge and Center Lodge, named for their locations in the park. These structures, built in the 1930s, stand as a legacy to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Their rustic-style architecture mirrors the rugged natural beauty of their surroundings. The lodges at Dolliver may be rented online as well and are for day use only. They are ideal for group events such as family reunions and wedding receptions.

Dolliver also has a group camp for family reunions, organized youth groups or church groups. The camp has a dining hall, modern restrooms and showers, and ten separate sleeping cabins.

Picnicking/Shelters
Two open picnic shelters may be reserved online. A playground is located in the picnic area for the younger visitors. Family Cabins
Dolliver has two basic family cabins that sleep four, and are equipped with a dorm-size refrigerator, cook-top stove, microwave and sink. They are located only a short distance from the modern restroom and shower building in the campground. Camping
Dolliver Campground is located in a pleasant setting overlooking the Des Moines River. Both electric and non-electric sites are available for reservations. The campground has modern restrooms and showers as well as a trailer dump station.

Nearby Attractions:

Lehigh is 3 miles southeast of the park, Otho is 6 miles northwest, Fort Dodge is 10 miles north and Webster City is 25 miles northeast.