Overview
Templar State Recreation Area occupies 10 acres on the western shore of Big Spirit Lake in Dickinson County, Iowa. This small but historically fascinating recreation area sits on the grounds of a former Knights Templar summer retreat that served Iowa’s Masonic fraternity for 75 years before becoming a public recreation site.
Today, the recreation area provides public lake access to Big Spirit Lake, Iowa’s largest natural lake, while preserving remnants of its intriguing past. A few historical artifacts from the Knights Templar era — including the original entry archway and a grand staircase — still stand among the modern recreation facilities.
History
For three-quarters of a century, this property was known as “Templar Park,” a private summer retreat where Iowa’s Knights Templar held their annual Grand Conclave meetings. The original hotel, constructed in 1890, was eventually replaced by a second wood-framed hotel that burned in 1917. A third, grander fireproof concrete building with over 150 rooms was completed in 1918, featuring a dining hall and assembly areas.
By the 1960s, the aging buildings required expensive maintenance. The park closed in 1972 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. The property was sold in 1978, and the main hotel was demolished shortly afterward. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources purchased the 10-acre site in 1982, converting it into a state recreation area.
Recreation and Activities
The recreation area features a popular boat ramp located in a protected lagoon, providing sheltered access to Big Spirit Lake. Fishing from shore or by boat is excellent, with the lake supporting walleye, yellow perch, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and muskie. Picnic facilities are available among mature shade trees along the shoreline.
Location and Access
Templar State Recreation Area is located near the city of Orleans on the western shore of Big Spirit Lake, accessible via local roads from Iowa Highway 9 and U.S. Highway 71. The recreation area is approximately 6 miles west of Spirit Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is camping available?
Check with Iowa DNR for current camping availability. Nearby Marble Beach and Gull Point State Park offer established campgrounds on the Iowa Great Lakes.
Can I see the Knights Templar ruins?
The original entry archway and a grand staircase remain on-site. The main hotel buildings were demolished in the late 1970s, but these remnants offer a tangible connection to the site’s unique fraternal history.
Wildlife & Nature
Templar SRA — on Templar Lake. The area’s lake, prairie, and timber support white-tailed deer, great blue herons, and songbirds. Largemouth bass and bluegill fill the lake.
Nearby Attractions
Fayette County — surrounding.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Elinor Bedell State Park (a short drive away) or Pikes Point State Park (a short drive away).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Iowa state parks online at iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
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