Lake Ahquabi

Get ready for 770 acres of never-ending adventure! Hike, bike, fish, swim or boat your way to a fun-filled day. Camp out and do it all over again!
The perfect landing for a weekend of outdoor adventure and leisure

“Ahquabi.” It means “resting place.” And from the minute you enter its canopy of trees, you’ll get it.  There are plenty of ways to relax in the 770-acre park. Quiet, shadowy trails. Peaceful places to cast your line. A soft, sandy beach to soak in the sun. Maybe they should call it Ahhhhquabi!

On foot, explore more than seven miles of trails. The main trails — the East Loop (3.4 miles) and State Park Loop (4 miles) — offer the best glimpse at Ahquabi’s natural sights and sounds. You can travel these trails by bike too. And just imagine cross-country skiing or snowshoeing through this winter wonderland!

sunset in kayak on lake
bench overlooking Ahquabi lake
snowy hiking trail in the woods
man with fish standing by the water

Squish your toes in the warm sand at Ahquabi’s beach. Lay out your towel and catch a few rays or wade in and cool off. There’s a snack bar during the peak of summer and restrooms to shed wet clothes before the drive home. It’s a picture-perfect way to spend the day.

Paddle, pedal or motor your way around Ahquabi’s 117-acre man-made lake. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, or larger boats at the beach concessionaire. Follow the shoreline for the best glimpse at the park’s curious wildlife and melodic birds.

Ahquabi is a top fishing spot, with several locations to park your fishing pole. Fish the shoreline for largemouth bass, channel catfish or panfish. Or take your gear to the accessible fishing pier. The lake has 13 fishing jetties too. There’s a cleaning station for your catch. And you can buy bait at the beach concessionaire.

kayaks on the beach lined up
walking bridge over water

Pack a picnic! You’ll find a few picturesque (and historic) spots to lunch and grill. Two roomy picnic shelters on each end of the park and an impressive stone lodge were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. They’re great for larger gatherings, and you can reserve them here. There are plenty of picnic tables scattered through the park too.

Sleep under the stars at Ahquabi’s lakeshore campground March through November. Every site has a fire ring and picnic table for cooking and enjoying dinner, maybe some s’mores. You’ll also find restrooms and modern showers. Electric and full hook-up sites are available, as well as a dump station. Advanced reservations can be made through the online reservation system for Lake Ahquabi State Park and 100% of the campsites are reservable.

Information: (515) 961-7101

Visit Lake Ahquabi State Park:
16510 118th Ave, Indianola