Lake of Three Fires State Park

The Lake of Three Fires State Park is located at 2303 Lake Road, Bedford, Iowa 50833. Park staff can be reached at 712-523-2700. The Lake of Three Fires State Park is open year round. Some of the activities available include picnicking, hiking, camping, hiking, boating, fishing, hunting, horseback riding and snowmobiling. The Lake of Three Fires has a very interesting history.

The legend of the park begins with the Pottawattomi indian tribe, a large group of Native Americans known as the “Fire Nation.” As the legends goes, two other tribes joined the Pottawattomi to form a group known as “Three Fires.” It is believed the three tribes held a council meeting form protection against invading tribes. Runners were sent to wandering Indian nations to tell of the meeting. Smoke from three fires signaled the location. The fires were placed on top of high hills so the smoke could easily be seen. Lake of Three Fires State Park was dedicated in 1935.

The Lakes of Three Fires has a lodge that is available for visitors, but should be reserved to ensure availability. There are two modern campgrounds within the park as well, offering visitors the opportunity to camp within the park. The park also offers an equestrian campground for horseback riders, complete with holding pens for the horses. There are also cabins that can be rented for vacationing families. The cabins include all the comforts of home include microwaves, refrigerators and cooking stove.

The park contains a trail system of eight marked trails. The trails are used by hikers, horseback riders and snowmobile riders. Being one of Iowa’s most scenic state parks, Lake of Three Fires State Park is a park to enjoy by walking the trails.

The lake offers a swimming beach and sand volleyball court as well as a playground area nearby. The boat launch is concrete for easy accessibility to boats. Fishing is allowed on the lakes within the park. Boats of all kinds are allowed on the lake, but motorized boats must observe a ‘no-wake’ speed in the beach area.

Hunting is allowed on both the north and south borders of the park during season. It’s best to check with the park staff to find out what seasons are currently open. The Lake of Three Fires is an 85 acre lake offering many opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing as well as just pure enjoyment of the out of doors. Photographers flock to the area all year round to take beautiful photos of nature and the ever changing scenery that is displayed. There are many opportunities near the park for shopping and local sight seeing as well.

In the nearby town of Bedford, one can visit the Taylor County Historical Museum or take in a round of golf at the golf course located on Highway 148. Shopping in Bedford is well known for its antique shops as well.