Badger Creek State Recreation Area in Van Meter, Iowa
Badger Creek State Recreation Area is a popular fishing destination, with a large lake. There are no designated trails but there is wooded space to explore and bird watch as well. Every year in mid-July, there is a large sunflower field that is popular for taking pictures. Take a look at all the fun to have at Badger Creek State Recreation Area in Van Meter, Iowa.
If you are making a visit to explore Badger Creek State Recreation Area, make a stop at Winterset, Iowa which offers a ton of fun things to do. This area has many fun and unique spots. Plan a day in Madison County, Iowa!
Address
Badger Creek State Recreation Area is located at 120th Lane in Van Meter, Iowa.
Basic Park Details
Type: Places to visit
Bathrooms: Yes, non-flush
Shade: No
Playground: No
Trails: No
Water: Yes, lake
Other notes: Boating and fishing. Stunning sunflower field in mid-summer, pelican flock in late spring.
Official Website: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/Badger-Creek-State-Recreation-Area
The Lake
Badger Creek State Recreation Area is known for its hunting and fishing opportunities. It has a 276-acre lake with two boat ramps. You can catch different varieties of fish including crappie, bluegill, and catfish.
Sunflower Fields
Every summer in mid to late July people flock to see the beautiful sunflowers in bloom at Badger Creek State Recreation Area. The best way to keep track of when the sunflowers are in bloom and how to find them is by following the Iowa DNR on social media for updates.
Some important things to know before you go:
- The locations of the fields change each year because they are dove plots. You can take a look at each plot site here.
- The plots are on the West side of the lake. Not the East. The East side has been planted to prairie.
- Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and water. It gets hot in Iowa! There is no shade. So plan accordingly.
- Be respectful as you walk through sunflowers. Do not leave trash behind!
