Big Creek State Park

Polk City, IA U.S.A.

A crystal-clear 866-acre lake is the recreational focus of Big Creek State Park.

Big Creek Lake is stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish for year-round fishing. During summer, the waters are filled with boats — canoes, sailboats and motor boats. Boaters may bring in any size motor but are restricted to no-wake speeds.

A paved, multi-use trail that extends 26 miles from the beach all the way to Des Moines is popular with cyclists. More than 13 miles of snowmobile trails are also enjoyed by cross-country skiers and snowshoers.

The Central Iowa State Park Bike Route is a 160-mile loop connecting Big Creek, Ledges and Springbrook state parks through paved county highways and the paved Raccoon Bicycle Trail.

While there is no camping within the state park, several federal campgrounds are located nearby on Saylorville Lake.

A paved trail at Big Creek gets lots of use.

The playground at Big Creek State Park draws scores of young visitors.

A colorful sunset at Big Creek State Park.