Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
In the rolling hills of central Iowa, Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is the state’s largest and most ambitious outdoor recreation destination—a 6,500-acre expanse of prairie, forest, and water anchored by the 690-acre Brushy Creek Lake. With over 45 miles of multi-use trails that rank among the best mountain biking in the Midwest, some of Iowa’s most modern equestrian camping facilities, and a no-wake lake perfect for fishing and paddling, Brushy Creek is the kind of park that keeps people coming back season after season.
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Trails and Mountain Biking
Brushy Creek’s trail system is its crown jewel: over 45 miles of multi-use trails wind through forested hills, open prairie, and along lake bluffs. Mountain bikers, hikers, and horseback riders share the system, with trails ranging from smooth gravel paths to challenging single-track. A popular route is the 12-mile gravel loop around Brushy Creek Lake, which offers scenic views of the water and surrounding terrain. The rolling topography provides far more vertical gain than most riders expect from Iowa, making Brushy Creek a genuine Midwest mountain biking destination.
Equestrian Facilities
Brushy Creek is widely regarded as offering the best equestrian camping facilities in Iowa. Two dedicated equestrian campgrounds—North and South—provide a combined 217 camping sites, many with electric hookups. The South equestrian campground also offers eight full-hookup sites with water and sewer. Modern amenities include shower and restroom facilities, horse wash areas, hitch rails, and riding arenas. Access to the full 45-mile trail network makes this a bucket-list destination for trail riders throughout the Midwest.
Brushy Creek Lake
The 690-acre no-wake lake is the recreational heart of the park. With 21 miles of shoreline, four boat ramps, and eight fishing jetties, it’s an angler’s paradise. The designated beach area provides swimming access during summer months. Kayakers and canoeists enjoy the calm no-wake waters, which make for ideal paddling conditions.
Camping
Beyond the extensive equestrian campgrounds, Brushy Creek offers a non-equestrian campground with electric and full-hookup (water, sewer) sites. The campground is located a short walk from the lake beach. All campsite reservations are required and can be made online through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources system.
Essential Visitor Information
- Location: Webster County, Iowa, approximately 8 miles north of Lehigh on County Road P73.
- Size: 6,500 acres with 690-acre lake.
- Trails: 45+ miles of multi-use trails. Bikers yield to hikers and horses.
- Season: Open year-round. Summer is peak season for water activities; fall is stunning for trail riding.
FAQ: Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
Is Brushy Creek good for mountain biking?
Can you bring horses to Brushy Creek?
Do you need a reservation for Brushy Creek?
