Union Grove State Park Is A Magical Waterfall Campground In Iowa

There’s a park in Iowa that has it all – great hiking trails, a tranquil fishing lake, a beach and a gorgeous little waterfall. It’s called Union Grove State Park and it’s the perfect escape – it’s located in Gladbrook and is only about 70 miles from Des Moines or Cedar Rapids.

While a lot of visitors enjoy day trips here, the park has a welcoming campground that makes this a pleasant weekend destination. It accommodates tents and RVs – when you arrive you can set up your campsite and hike down to enjoy a waterfall view for as long as you like.

Here’s what you need to know about camping at Union Grove State Park.

The park has been a popular destination for generations of nature lovers. The park was established in 1938 to protect and preserve the area for outdoor recreation.

Google Local T.J. Gregson

The campsites are on the south side of the lake. There are 14 tent-only sites, seven full hook-up sites and two buddy sites that are great if you have two camping rigs that are traveling together. There are also two modern family cabins that can be rented.

Google Local / Jeff Theis

There are three miles of hiking trails in the park that are pleasant to explore. The trails on the south side of the park lead to the waterfall.

AllTrails / Jason Sydejko

You’ll pass by the park’s 110-acre lake. The lake has a beach and it’s a great place for swimming in the summer. It’s also popular with anglers - it’s home to crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass and walleyes.

AllTrails / Dakota Cox

The waterfall is the real star of the park. While the flow varies depending on the season and the rainfall, it can be a stunning subject for photos.

Google Local / Karl W

People sometimes wade into the shallow waters below the falls - the water is cool but refreshing.

AllTrails / Sarah Mattingly

If you’re interested in camping at Union Grove State Park you can reserve a site here. The park is open year-round. Interested in chasing some more Iowa waterfalls? These hidden waterfalls will take your breath away.