Lake Ahquabi State Park

Lake Ahquabi State Park sits on 770 acres of land in Warren County, Iowa near Indianola City. The park is specifically located about six miles southwest of Indianola, off IA 349.

The word ‘Ahquabi’ means ‘resting place’ in the Sauk and Fox languages and is an appropriate name for the quiet picturesque view that the park offers. The name for the park was suggested by a well-known cartoonist and conservationist from Iowa called J.N. "Ding" Darling. The was initially called the Indianola State Park but later changed its name and was rededicated in 1936.

Part of the land where the park resides (560 acres) was purchased by the city of Indianola in 1934 and soon after the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Company 769 started building in the park and constructed several features most of which are still present. Some of the structures and features built by the CCC include the dam and reservoir, picnic shelters, and campsites.

Other amenities that the park has to offer include multi-use trails, youth group camping area, boat rentals, day-use lodge, concession, fishing pier, fishing jetties, boat ramps, swimming beach, and a playground. These facilities make the park a great place to enjoy activities like cross-country skiing, swimming, camping, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, boating, and snowmobiling.

Like all other state parks in Iowa, you can also bring your dog into the park for fun, relaxation, and exercise at no extra cost. If you bring your dog into the park, just remember that you have to follow state park rules. Some of the state park rules that relate to dogs and dog owners include the following. 

First, you must maintain immediate control of your dog at all times and ensure that your dog does not go wandering aimlessly into the park. In fact, you are expected to keep your pooch secured at all times either through a leash that is no longer than six feet long or through a secure enclosure. If you choose to camp at the park, you should be aware that you should only have a maximum of two dogs per cabin.