Lacey - Keosaqua State Park

A Legacy of Conservation

Established in 1921, the park is named after John Fletcher Lacey, an Iowa congressman who was a titan of the early conservation movement. He’s the reason we have the Antiquities Act and many of our bird protection laws today. Walking through the park, you’ll see the beautiful "Keosauqua limestone" buildings and bridges crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. Their handiwork, from the lodge to the picnic shelters, gives the entire park a timeless, rugged feel that fits perfectly against the backdrop of the massive oak and hickory trees.

The Lake and the Loop

The heart of the park is the 30-acre lake, which is a tranquil spot for swimming, fishing, or just lounging on the beach. But for our family, the real adventure was on the trails. The River Trail is the park’s signature hike. It follows the dramatic curves of the Des Moines River, offering high-bluff views and plenty of chances to spot bald eagles soaring over the water. Just like our visit to Effigy Mounds, we found that Lacey-Keosauqua is home to a sacred prehistoric Indian burial mound group. Seeing these mounds overlooking the river valley adds a layer of quiet respect to the hike.

Van Buren County Charm

The park is just a stone's throw from the historic town of Keosauqua. We learned that this area is part of the "Villages of Van Buren," a collection of small towns that look like they haven't changed much since the 1800s. Whether we were looking at the historic courthouse (the oldest in Iowa!) or just watching the river flow by, the pace of life here just seems to slow down.

A Hiker's Paradise

With over 13 miles of trails, Lacey-Keosauqua is a place where you can truly get lost in the woods, in the best way possible. It’s a bit more rugged and "wild" than some other parks, making it the perfect destination for a family that loves to explore. Between the deep ravines, the historic stone structures, and the quiet river views, it’s a corner of Iowa that feels like a well-kept secret.