Camping at Lake of Three Fires Campground
Lake of Three Fires Campground Overview
Lake of Three Fires Campground is located within the Lake of Three Fires State Park, situated in southwest Iowa approximately two miles east of Bedford. This family-friendly campground offers various outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, swimming, and fishing. The park itself covers 691 acres and provides a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to enjoy nature.
Camping Facilities and Reservations
Facilities
- Modern restrooms and shower houses
- A majority of campsites are equipped with electrical hookups
- Dump station for disposal of waste from campers and RVs
- Campsites are divided between non-electric and electric options
- Multiple playgrounds for children
- Picnic areas with grills scattered throughout the park
- A seasonal concession stand
- Boat ramps for lake access
- Fire rings and picnic tables at each campsite
Reservations
- Reservations for campsites can typically be made through the Iowa State Parks reservation system.
- A portion of the campgrounds may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- To reserve a site, visit the Iowa DNR website or use their reservation system to check availability and book your spot.
Camping Rates
Rates The cost for camping at Lake of Three Fires Campground can vary depending on:
- Type of site (electric or non-electric)
- Duration of stay
- Time of year (peak or off-peak season)
- Any applicable discounts (such as for seniors or Iowa residents)
Fee Information
- Up-to-date fee schedules are typically found on the state park's website or through the reservation system.
- It's advisable to check for the latest fee information prior to booking.
Park Activities
Recreational Opportunities
- Hiking: Several miles of trails meander through the park, offering scenic walks through diverse habitats.
- Swimming: A dedicated swimming beach on the lake provides a place to cool off during warm weather.
- Boating and Fishing: The lake allows for non-motorized boating and fishing; anglers can find bass, crappies, and catfish.
- Picnicking: Several shaded picnic areas are available for day use.
- Hunting: Certain areas of the park are open to hunting during designated seasons.
Rules and Regulations
General Park Rules
- Observe quiet hours typically from 10:30 PM to 6:00 AM.
- Pets must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
- Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in certain areas of the park.
- Fires are allowed only in provided fire rings.
- Follow all boating and fishing regulations as established by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Campground Specific Rules
- Check-in and check-out times must be observed.
- One camping unit per site is generally the rule.
- Save your camping receipts to show proof of payment if needed.
- Be aware of the maximum number of nights you can stay; this may vary by season or park policy.
Local Attractions and Amenities
Nearby Points of Interest
- The small town of Bedford offers basic amenities such as grocery stores and restaurants.
- Taylor County Historical Museum provides local history insights and is within a short driving distance.
- For extended outings, visitors can explore the surrounding countryside, which offers additional recreational activities.
Access and Contact Information
Location and Directions
- To access the park, look for signs from Bedford and follow the local roads leading to the state park.
Contact Information
- Prior to visiting or for more information, you can contact the Lake of Three Fires State Park directly either through phone or email. Contact details are available on the Iowa DNR's website.
Remember to check the most recent information from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources as details and policies may change over time. Enjoy your camping trip at Lake of Three Fires Campground!