The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will designate a water trail campsite on the Des Moines River Water Trail at Yellow Banks County Park on October 2.The Des Moines River in Polk County was designated as a state water trail earlier this spring, but the idea of a paddle-in/paddle-out campsite came as an addendum.
“It became apparent to us that there was a lack of suitable camping opportunities for paddlers along the Des Moines River between Saylorville and Red Rock,” said Loren Lown, Polk County Conservation natural resources specialist. “Yellow Banks seemed like an ideal place.”
The campsite is within 150 feet of the river and includes fire rings, picnic tables, and a shelter area. Reservations for this campsite will soon be available online through http://www.mycountyparks.com/.
The dedication will take place at 6 p.m. at the campsite. Robin Fortney, founder of Central Iowa Paddlers, will be leading a paddling excursion from Pleasant Hill Access (north side of river at Hwy. 65 and Vandalia Road) and arriving at the campsite in time for the dedication. If you are interested in floating this 4-mile stretch of the river, meet at the Pleasant Hill Access at 1 p.m. —you must have your own canoe or kayak.
“This is probably my favorite stretch of the water trail,” said Fortney. “It’s beyond the city limits and offers greater opportunities for wildlife viewing.”
“Primitive campsites accessible from the river are very popular amenities on our water trails,” said John Wenck, DNR river programs outreach coordinator. “It offers paddlers greater solitude and the opportunity for multi-day tripping without the need for daily shuttles.”
For more information on Iowa water trails, see www.iowadnr.gov/watertrails/.
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