Summary
The campground is situated near the Missouri River, and visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and bird watching in the forest. The Iowa Arboretum and Lake Wapello State Park are also nearby points of interest.
The campground amenities include a shower house, restrooms, and picnic tables. There are 15 campsites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. An interesting fact about the area is that a portion of the forest was once a Native American village.
The best time to visit Shimek State Forest Camping Area is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild, averaging in the 60s and 70s. However, visitors can also enjoy the campground during the summer months when temperatures can reach up to the mid-80s. The area transforms into a stunning autumn landscape in the fall, making it an ideal time to camp and explore the forest.
Nearby Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations |
|---|---|
Shimek State Forest
|
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Battle of Athens State Park
|
|
Indian Lake Park
|
|
Bentonsport
|
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At St. Francisville
|
1620cfs |
Fox River At Wayland
|
8cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Skunk River At Augusta
|
256cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
Camping Essential Practices
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.
Related Links
Nearby Snowpack Depths
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DONNELLSON
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0" |
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FORT MADISON
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0" |
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NEW LONDON 1.5 SW
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0" |
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DALLAS CITY 3.0 SSE
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0" |
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FAIRFIELD
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0" |
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LOCK AND DAM-MISSISSIPPI RIVER
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0" |
Battle of Athens State Historic Site
Croton Civil War Memorial Park
Indian Lake Park
Charlie Heath Memorial Conservation Area
Bentonsport River-Side County Park