Elinor Bedell State Park is one of Iowa's newer (1998) state parks. It is located on the shores of East Lake Okoboji and represents one of the last remaining open spaces in a region that is among Iowa's most popular tourist destination - the Iowa Great Lakes. The eighty acre park was a generous gift of Berkley and Elinor Bedell. A life long resident of the Great Lakes area, Berkley Bedell represented Northwest Iowa for 12 years in the United States Congress. Berkley and Elinor's dream of permanently protecting this beautiful piece of open space for future generations led to donation of the land to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Elinor Bedell State Park will promote appreciation and enjoyment of prairies, wetlands, and oak savanna landscapes once commonly found along the shores of Iowa's Great lakes. An extensive trail system will link these restored landscapes providing the public with recreational opportunities. By re-creating these natural landscapes, wildlife habitat will be improved and will provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Facilities and Activities
Picnicking/Shelters
A shelter with kitchenette, bathrooms and a fireplace overlooks Lake Okoboji and is available for rent. The shelter can be reserved online through the park reservation system. Contact the park manager at Gull Point (712)337-3211 for more information.
Camping
The campground consists of RV campsites with full hookups, modern rest room. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. A small area has been set aside for youth groups to tent camp. A playground is located near the campground. Advance campsite reservations can be booked through the park reservation system. One fourth of the campsites are available for self-registration on a first-come/first-serve basis.
Trails
Several miles of trail will take you through wetlands, woodlands, and along the lakeshore.
Lake Activities (swimming, boating, fishing)
East Okoboji and the many other lakes in the area are some of the prime fishing spots in Iowa. Anglers will find challenging sport pursuing a variety of game fish, including walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, white bass, perch, bluegills, crappies, catfish, and bullheads.
Amenities
Within park
Bicycling, Bird Watching, Camping - Full Hook-up, Camping - Youth Group, Dock, Fishing, Fishing, Hiking, Interpretive Display, Jogging/Running, Lake, Non-modern Campground, Picnic Shelter, Pier, Fishing, Playground, Restrooms, Trail, Interpretive, Trails, Bicycle, Trails, Hiking, Walking, Water Hydrants , Wildflower Viewing, Wildlife Viewing
