Lake Darling State Park

Lake Darling State Park sits on about 1,387 acres of land near Brighton City, Washington County, Iowa. To get to the park, drive three miles west of Brighton off IA 78 and 1. The park is also close to other cities like Fairfield (which is 17 miles southwest on Highway 34), Washington (14 miles from the park) and Richland (5 miles from the park). Lake Darling State Park was named after Jay Norwood "Ding" Darling and the state of Iowa dedicated the park in September of 1950.

The terrain within the park is mostly comprised of wooded valleys, hills and a lake that is the central attraction within the park. The lake offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor fun like fishing, boating, and swimming. 

Besides the water-based recreational activities offered by the lake in the park, some of the other things that you could do at the park include camping, bird watching, snowmobiling, kayaking, wildflower viewing, mountain biking, interpretive display, hiking, canoeing, paddle boating, cross-country skiing, jogging/running, and wildlife viewing. 

Amenities within the park that facilitate these activities include a boat launch ramp, trails, horseshoe pits, modern campground, picnic shelter, playground, bicycle, restrooms, snowmobile, showers, dump station, day-use lodge, picnic area, water hydrants, and camping cabins.

As is the case in other Iowa State parks, you are allowed to bring your dog into the park at no extra cost. If you bring your dog into the park, just remember that there are some park rules that you must follow. Some of the relevant rules relating to your dog include the following. 

First, you must ensure that your dog is always on a leash or in a secure confinement. The dog's leash should have a maximum length of six feet. If you choose to stay in the park, you will not be allowed to have more than two dogs per cabin or yurt.