What are the hours and season for South Tailwater Picnic Shelter?

South Tailwater Picnic Shelter is open May through October. Check-in: 2:00 PM. Check-out: 12:00 PM.

How do I book a campsite at South Tailwater Picnic Shelter?

South Tailwater Picnic Shelter is a federal campground — book at Recreation.gov (search "South Tailwater Picnic Shelter"). Sites are released 6 months in advance and sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert at camperwatch.org/campground/south-tailwater-picnic-shelter to be notified the moment a site opens up.

South Tailwater Picnic Shelter

Lake Red Rock — lakeside, fishing, hiking

Knoxville, IA4.5 (2)

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South Tailwater Picnic Shelter is located on the Des Moines River on the south end of Red Rock Dam adjacent from the visitor center on Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake. It is just 10 minutes from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 minutes from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife.

Things to do nearby

Lake Red RockDes Moines RiverEngineers and the Lake

Best For

AnglersHikersWildlife watchers

Site Types

Tent

Amenities

Fire Rings

Picnic Tables

Flush Toilets

Electric Hookups

Fishing

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Season

May through October

Max/site

6 people

Known Issues

Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.

Cancellation Policy

Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.

Frequently asked questions

How much does South Tailwater Picnic Shelter cost per night?+

South Tailwater Picnic Shelter costs $50 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: No hookups.

What season is South Tailwater Picnic Shelter open?+

South Tailwater Picnic Shelter is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.

Does South Tailwater Picnic Shelter have hookups?+

No hookups.

What is the maximum RV length at South Tailwater Picnic Shelter?+

South Tailwater Picnic Shelter is primarily a tent camping facility. Contact the campground about RV access.

How do I make reservations at South Tailwater Picnic Shelter?+

South Tailwater Picnic Shelter is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.

How far is South Tailwater Picnic Shelter from the nearest town?+

South Tailwater Picnic Shelter is located in Knoxville, IA. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.

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