Overview

Howell Station Campground sits just below the Red Rock Dam and Lake on the north side of the Des Moines River. Lake Red Rock is Iowa's largest lake, located just 10 minutes from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 minutes from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world.

Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife.

Natural Features:

Hardwood forests cover the riverbanks at Howell Station, offering shade and scenic views.

Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrates through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March, and white-tailed deer and river otters are commonly viewed along the shoreline.

Recreation:

Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline.

Anglers will find crappie, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill.

Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 14-mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and northwest to Fifield Recreation Area, just north of the campground.

Facilities:

Howell Station offers 143 reservable, shady campsites, all with 50-amp electric hookups. Amenities include flush and pit toilets, showers, drinking water and a dump station.

Younger campers love the park's playground, while anglers enjoy the great shoreline fishing access. Educational programs are held at the amphitheater on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Nearby Attractions:

Des Moines, Iowa's capital, is an hour away, with numerous shopping and dining opportunities, museums and the Blank Park Zoo.