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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

SOUTH OVERLOOK (IA)

Pella, Iowa · Marion County · Campground

Overview South Overlook is located on Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake. It is just 10 miles from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 miles from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife.For more information regarding the Army Corps of …

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41.36639, -92.98966
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About SOUTH OVERLOOK (IA)

Overview South Overlook is located on Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake. It is just 10 miles from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 miles from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife.For more information regarding the Army Corps of Engineers and the Lake Red Rock Project, click here: Lake Red Rock Website 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,largemouth and striped bass, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill. Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area. Facilities South Overlook offers two reservable picnic shelters with 20 amp electrical outlets. Flush toilets are located nearby. A large parking lot will provide ample space for larger crowds. If your event is open to the public, greater than 100 people, involves live or amplified music, or if alcohol will be available to attendees, you may need a special event permit. Click the link below to apply for an event permit:Special Event Permit If shelters are not reserved, they are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Shelter occupancy is permitted until dusk. Natural Features Lake Red Rock is situated on the Des Moines River. Hardwood forests cover the lake shore at South Overlook, offering shade and scenic views. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrate through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March. White-tailed deer, turkeys and other small animals are commonly viewed around the lake. Nearby Attractions Des Moines, Iowa's capital, is an hour away, with numerous shopp

How to Get There

1105 North HWY T15Knoxville, Iowa 50138From Pella, Iowa, follow county road T-15 southwest for 4 miles, then follow signs to South Overlook.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to SOUTH OVERLOOK (IA)

Heading to SOUTH OVERLOOK (IA)? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for SOUTH OVERLOOK (IA)?

No central reservation system listed for SOUTH OVERLOOK (IA). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251265) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to SOUTH OVERLOOK (IA)?

1105 North HWY T15Knoxville, Iowa 50138From Pella, Iowa, follow county road T-15 southwest for 4 miles, then follow signs to South Overlook.

How do I contact SOUTH OVERLOOK (IA)?

You can reach the park at phone: 641-828-7522.