🌤 Weather at Black Hawk State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24–70 °F | 58–83 °F | 24–75 °F | 8–32 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Sac City, 9 mi away, elevation 1,210 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Located in the heart of Sac County, Black Hawk State Park is the premier outdoor destination surrounding the scenic Black Hawk Lake, the southernmost glacial lake in the United States. Steeped in CCC history and local tradition, the park offers a classic Iowan recreation experience, from fishing and boating to hiking trails lined with historic stone structures.
Glacial Lake
Explore Black Hawk Lake, a geologic rarity in Iowa offering superb boating, paddling, and swimming opportunities.
CCC Legacy
Admire the rustic beauty of Depression-era architecture, including the iconic WPA-built piers and shelter houses.
Angler’s Paradise
Cast a line for walleye, crappie, and channel catfish in waters famous for their productive fishery.
A Historic Playground
Black Hawk State Park has been a recreational hub since before the 1930s. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) left an indelible mark here, constructing many of the park’s defining features using native fieldstone. The result is a park that feels timeless. The annual Lake View Water Carnival, held every July, draws thousands of visitors for parades, mud volleyball, and fireworks, continuing a tradition of community celebration.
Trail Network
Discover the Stub Severson Nature Trail for a wooded hike, or hop on the paved Sauk Rail Trail which connects the park to nearby Carroll, offering miles of biking and walking.
Camping and Recreation
The large campground is a favorite for families, offering both electric and non-electric sites, modern showers, and a playground. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the fire, launching a boat for a sunset cruise, or exploring the interpretive trails, Black Hawk State Park delivers a quintessential state park experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are boat rentals available?
Yes, there are concessionaires and local businesses near the lake that offer boat and paddleboard rentals during the summer season.
Is swimming allowed in Black Hawk Lake?
Yes, there is a designated swimming beach area. However, it is unguarded, so swimming is at your own risk.
Can I reserve a campsite?
Yes, 75% of the campsites can be reserved online through the Iowa State Parks reservation system. The remaining 25% are first-come, first-served.
Explore More Iowa State Parks
Black Hawk 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.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Springbrook State Park (elsewhere in the state) or Brushy Creek State Recreation Area (elsewhere in the state).
⛺ Camping at Black Hawk State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | 128 sites — Two campgrounds: Thirty Acres Campground (south side of the lake) and Camp Crescent (near Lake View). Combined: 77 standard electric sites, 39 standard non-electric sites, 10 standard-electric-with-water sites, and 1 full hook-up site. Modern restrooms and showers at both campgrounds, plus a dump station. |
|---|---|
| Cabins & Lodging | One Modern Deluxe family cabin, $150/night or $900/week. |
| Pets | Pets allowed at standard campsites. |
| Reservations | 100% reservable; book online at iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com. Cabin last-minute availability by phone at 712-657-8712 (2-night minimum stay). Standard sites bookable up to 3 months ahead of arrival, cabins up to 12 months ahead; reservations require 4 days' advance notice. |
| Special sites | RV/equipment length 42-90 feet; pull-through sites accommodate up to 90 feet. One youth-group-only site. Playground, volleyball court, and disc golf course adjoin the campground. No equestrian or boat-in sites. |
| Season notes | Campground open April 1 - October 31, closed November 1 - March 31. |
Camping questions about Black Hawk State Park
Can you camp at Black Hawk State Park?
Yes. Black Hawk State Park has 128 campsites. Two campgrounds: Thirty Acres Campground (south side of the lake) and Camp Crescent (near Lake View). Combined: 77 standard electric sites, 39 standard non-electric sites, 10 standard-electric-with-water sites, and 1 full hook-up site. Modern restrooms and showers at both campgrounds, plus a dump station.
How do you reserve a campsite at Black Hawk State Park?
100% reservable; book online at iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com. Cabin last-minute availability by phone at 712-657-8712 (2-night minimum stay). Standard sites bookable up to 3 months ahead of arrival, cabins up to 12 months ahead; reservations require 4 days' advance notice.
Are there cabins at Black Hawk State Park?
One Modern Deluxe family cabin, $150/night or $900/week.
Are pets allowed at the Black Hawk State Park campground?
Pets allowed at standard campsites.
Source: iowadnr.gov (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Black Hawk 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 Black Hawk 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
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