Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park is a public state park in Iowa near Indianola in Warren County County. Spanning 222 acres and established in 2004, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Iowa |
| Nearest City | Indianola |
| County | Warren County |
| Park Size | 222 acres |
| Established | 2004 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.4/5 (350 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park is located near Indianola, Iowa. The park’s coordinates are 41.5333, -93.8833.
Things to Do
Iowa state parks offer a surprising diversity of landscapes beyond the classic rolling farm fields, featuring deep river valleys, natural lakes, loess hills, and ancient limestone bluffs. Activities revolve around the water, with excellent fishing for crappie, bluegill, and bass, boating on natural and man-made lakes, and pleasant beach swimming. Land activities include camping in shaded hardwood forests, hiking expanding trail networks, exploring unique geological formations like the Maquoketa Caves, and cycling on extensive paved rail-trails that frequently connect park units across the state.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is peak season, ideal for lake activities and family camping, though July and August can bring high heat and humidity. Fall (September–October) is arguably the best time to visit, offering cooler, comfortable temperatures, beautiful hardwood foliage, and excellent conditions for hiking and fishing without the summer crowds. Spring (April–May) provides great mushroom hunting (morels) and spring wildflower blooms. Winter is quiet, but several parks offer cross-country skiing and ice fishing when conditions allow.
Visitor Tips
Iowa stands out by offering free admission to all state parks for day use — no vehicle permits or entrance fees are required. Camping fees apply, and reservations can be made through the Iowa State Parks reservation system. Half of all campsites are reservable, while the other half remain first-come, first-served. When visiting cave parks like Maquoketa Caves, check for any temporary closures related to bat protection (White-Nose Syndrome) and wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Iowa state parks free?
Yes, Iowa state parks are completely free to enter. There are no entrance fees or vehicle permits required. Camping fees apply and reservations can be made through the Iowa DNR.
Can I explore caves at Iowa state parks?
Yes, Maquoketa Caves State Park features over a dozen caves that visitors can explore, including Dancehall Cave with electric lighting. It is one of the most unique state parks in the Midwest.
What are the best state parks in Iowa?
Top parks include Maquoketa Caves (cave exploration), Pikes Peak (bluffs overlooking the Mississippi), Backbone (Iowa’s oldest state park), Ledges (sandstone formations), and Lacey-Keosauqua (scenic river bluffs).
What is the best time to visit Iowa state parks?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions. Fall foliage peaks in mid-October along the Mississippi River bluffs. Summer is hot but great for camping and water activities. Winter is cold but peaceful.
Explore More Iowa State Parks
Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Iowa. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Iowa guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Banner Lakes at Summerset SP — 846 acres with two lakes near the Des Moines metro area. The park’s lakes, prairie restoration, and timber support bald eagles, great blue herons, and white-tailed deer. Channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill provide excellent fishing.
Nearby Attractions
Indianola — 10 miles east — home of the National Balloon Classic (one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in America). Des Moines — 20 miles north.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Walnut Woods State Park (a short drive away) and Margo Frankel Woods State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in Iowa state parks and recreation areas, including trails and campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash of six feet or less or confined.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash or chain not to exceed 6 feet, led or carried by the owner, or confined
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Animals are prohibited within designated beach areas statewide
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Only dogs or assistive animals are allowed in designated dog-friendly cabins/yurts (limit two dogs); all other cabins are pet-free; dogs must be kenneled if left unattended inside
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Hunting dogs in designated hunting areas during season are exempt from the leash rule; pets may not be left unattended in campgrounds
Are dogs allowed at Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park?
Pets are allowed in Iowa state parks and recreation areas, including trails and campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash of six feet or less or confined. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via iowadnr.gov. More: Iowa state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
