Big Hollow Recreation Area

Big Hollow Recreation Area is Des Moines County's premiere outdoor recreation destination. This 798 acre recreation area offers year-round recreational opportunities for families wanting to get out and enjoy the outdoors.

The 178 acre lake complete with a beach, boat ramp and multiple fishing jetties offers ample opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with the family on or near the water.

Outdoor recreation activities available at Big Hollow include:

-- camping (including a rental cabin)
-- hunting & fishing
-- canoeing/kayaking
-- boating
-- hiking
-- swimming
-- and much more

General Park Rules

-- Park hours are 6 am - 10:30 pm
-- Camping permitted in designated areas only
-- No motor vehicles allowed on trails
-- Pets must be on leash
-- Horseback riding is permitted on designated trails only when conditions are such that no damage will be done to the trail surface
-- Fires in grills and fire rings only
-- Do not pick, cut, or destroy vegetation
-- Public hunting is permitted following all state laws governing public lands
-- Permit required to use the Big Hollow Shooting Range
-- All boats must operate at no wake on the lake. There are no motor size restrictions
-- Report all accidents to a park ranger or County Conservation office (319) 753-8260

Beach Rules

-- No alcohol on beach or in parking lot
-- No littering
-- No pets on beach
-- No fires
-- No swimming beyond buoys
-- No glass containers
-- No lifeguard on duty
-- Beach Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.