A Guide to Lake Keomah State Park: Nature, History, and Hometown Beauty

Lake Keomah State Park is located just a few miles east of Oskaloosa, Iowa, in Mahaska County. The name “Keomah” comes from combining Keokuk and Mahaska, the names of two nearby counties — a nod to regional pride when the park was established.

It’s one of Iowa’s oldest state parks, dedicated in 1934, and was developed in part by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression. Many of the park’s beautiful stone structures — like the lodge, shelters, and entryways — were built by CCC crews and are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Things to Do

Lake Keomah is a favorite spot for outdoor recreation year-round. Visitors enjoy:

• Boating & Fishing: The 84-acre lake is great for small boats, kayaks, and fishing. Anglers often catch largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie.
• Camping: The park offers modern campgrounds with both electric and non-electric sites, showers, and picnic areas.
• Hiking & Biking: There are several trails, including a 7-mile trail system around the lake that’s perfect for hiking or mountain biking.
• Picnicking & Day Use: Multiple shelters and open spaces make it ideal for family picnics, reunions, or a relaxing afternoon.
• Wildlife Watching: The park is home to deer, songbirds, and waterfowl — making it a peaceful spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Facilities & Features

• Two stone lodges and picnic shelters built by the CCC
• Boat ramp and fishing jetties
• Playgrounds and open grassy areas for families
• Modern restrooms and showers in the campground area
• Swimming beach (seasonal)

Why Locals Love It

Lake Keomah is more than just a park — it’s part of Oskaloosa’s community identity. Locals visit for weekend walks, evening picnics, kayaking, or summer camping trips. It’s also a popular site for weddings, senior pictures, and nature photography because of its stone architecture, forested trails, and lakeside sunsets.

Many Oskaloosa residents describe it as a “little getaway close to home” — a quiet escape where you can enjoy nature without traveling far.