The Breathtaking Small-Town State Park in Iowa That We Can’t Stop Thinking About

The Iowa Great Lakes are an amazing vacation area, filled with some of the best spots in the Hawkeye State for recreation on the water and touristy fun. But for those who want to get away from those busy-season crowds, the area is also home to some amazing hidden-gem parks in Iowa. Many of these hidden gems are located right on the shores of Spirit Lake. One of our favorites is Elinor Bedell State Park, which at only 80 acres, is one of the smallest in the state (but definitely not the smallest—that title belongs to nearby Pillsbury Point State Park). This tiny park has a great trail to explore, and odds are, even during the summer, you'll be able to find some peace and quiet here.

Spirit Lake is a wonderful place in the northern part of Iowa. It's set slightly apart from the hustle and bustle of Arnolds Park but still offers all the features and natural beauty you'd want from an outdoor adventure in the Iowa Great Lakes area.

While you're in the area, make sure you take the time to explore Elinor Bedell State Park. This small but peaceful state park is located on the shores of Spirit Lake and is rarely very crowded, so it's a great place to go for a quick hike. There is only one trail in this park, but the 1.1-mile loop is an easy sunny-day adventure that should be suitable for any skill level. The trail is mostly paved and is welcoming to dogs, although your furry friend must be on a leash. I think this park is a particularly stellar place to visit during the spring, when wildflowers are in full bloom, and in the autumn, when all the trees in the forest are bedecked with their fall foliage and ablaze with colors.

The park was dedicated by former Congressman Berkley Bedell and his wife and, today, stands as a peaceful little refuge amid the bustling Spirit Lake area. A shelter ideal for events and a small campground are available. In fact, the campground was recently renovated during the 2025 season, so it ought to be better than ever.

Have you visited Elinor Bedell State Park on the shores of Spirit Lake? We'd love to hear about your experience as well as some of your other favorite spots in the Iowa Great Lakes Area. You can read more about the amenities at Elinor Bedell State Park on its Iowa Department of Natural Resources web page. For those planning on more hiking adventures, we highly recommend AllTrails Plus—it's a great app that offers point-by-point hiking directions through downloadable trail guides, so you'll always be connected even when the reception is spotty. And if you're looking for a great, family-friendly place to stay in the area, check out this luxurious cabin rental.

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