Geode State Park
💎 Named for Iowa’s State Rock — A 187-Acre No-Wake Lake in the Heart of Geode Country — Fishing, camping, swimming beach, and hiking trails in the rolling hills of southeast Iowa — where the famous Keokuk geodes are found nearby — Henry County, Iowa
Geode State Park takes its name from Iowa’s state rock — the geode, a spherical rock with a crystal-lined hollow interior. While the park itself sits in the heart of the famous Keokuk geode region (the world’s richest concentration of these mineral treasures), the real draw is the 187-acre no-wake Lake Geode — a peaceful lake surrounded by wooded hills, perfect for fishing, paddling, and swimming.
⚠️ Important: It is illegal to collect geodes or any other natural materials from the state park. Geode hunting is available on private land with owner permission in the surrounding 35–70 mile radius around Keokuk. Contact the Keokuk Area Convention & Tourism Bureau for collector-friendly locations.
Lake Geode
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Size | 187 acres | No-wake lake — electric motors and paddling only |
| Swimming Beach | Sandy beach area | No lifeguards, seasonal (Memorial Day–Labor Day) |
| Boat Ramp | Public launch | Non-motorized and electric motors only |
| 24-Hour Fishing | Dam area | Fishing permitted day and night at the dam |
Fishing
| Species | Best Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Spring–Fall | Good populations, structure fishing |
| Crappie | Spring (Apr–May) | Popular target, brush piles |
| Bluegill | Summer | Shore fishing, family-friendly |
| Channel Catfish | Summer evenings | Dam area, shoreline |
| Red-Eared Sunfish | Summer | Less common, worth seeking |
Camping
| Site Type | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Sites | $16–$21/night | Reservations required online |
| Non-Electric Sites | $11–$16/night | More secluded options |
| Season | Apr 1 – Dec 14 | Closed Dec 15 – Mar 31 |
| Day Use | FREE | No entrance fee |
Trails
Several trails wind through the wooded hills surrounding the lake, offering easy to moderate hiking through hardwood forest and along the shoreline. The main trail connects the north end of the lake to the dam, with a circular route available around the lake. Total trail mileage is approximately 5 miles.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | 50–72°F | Fishing (crappie run), wildflowers, quiet camping |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 75–90°F | Swimming beach, paddling, full campground season |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | 50–70°F | Fall foliage on wooded hills, bass fishing, solitude |
| Winter | Campground closed | Dec 15 – Mar 31 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find geodes in the park?
No — collecting geodes is illegal in the park. However, the surrounding region (35–70 mile radius around Keokuk) is world-famous for Keokuk geodes. Collect on private land with permission only.
Is it a no-wake lake?
Yes. Lake Geode is no-wake — electric motors and paddling only. This makes it ideal for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful recreation.
Is there a beach?
Yes. A sandy swimming beach is available seasonally (Memorial Day through Labor Day). No lifeguards — swim at your own risk.
Can I fish at night?
Yes. The dam area permits 24-hour fishing. Night catfishing is popular in summer.
Do I need reservations to camp?
Yes. All campsites are reservable online through Iowa DNR. Reservations are required year-round during the open season (April 1 – December 14).
Is it free to visit?
Yes — no entrance fee. Camping fees apply for overnight stays.
Where are the best geode hunting spots?
Contact the Keokuk Area Convention & Tourism Bureau for current collector-friendly private land locations. The geode beds are found in creek banks and limestone outcrops throughout the region.
How far from Des Moines?
About 160 miles (2.5 hours) southeast via IA-163 and US-34. The park is approximately 30 miles west of Burlington.
💎 Iowa’s Geode Country
A peaceful no-wake lake, solid bass and crappie fishing, wooded campground, and the world’s richest geode region just outside the park gates. Bring your fishing rod and a rock hammer (for use off-park).
Wildlife & Nature
Geode SP — 1,641 acres — named for the geodes (crystal-lined rock spheres) found throughout the area — the geode is Iowa’s official state rock. The park’s lake, forest, and creek beds yield spectacular geodes with quartz and calcite crystals. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles inhabit the park.
Nearby Attractions
Burlington — 20 miles east — a historic Mississippi River city. Flint River — through the park (geode hunting area).
