Fort Defiance State Park

3661 174th St, Estherville IA 51334
Estherville, IA 51334

Campground Closed

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The campground is closed each year from November 16 - March 31.

Fort Defiance State Park is named for the fort that once stood in the nearby community of Estherville. In the mid-19th century there was considerable concern among the settlers about the possibility of attacks by hostiles. In March of 1857, forty men, women and children were massacred near Spirit Lake and Okoboji. In 1862, a wounded 15-year old boy stumbled into town with the story of an Indian massacre in Jackson, Minnesota. This brought terror into the community and Captain W.H. Ingham and Company A of the Northern Border Brigade were dispatched to Estherville to construct Fort Defiance. The townspeople eventually moved into the enclosure but the feared Indian attack never came. Over time, the fort was taken apart and the timbers used to build cabins.

Trails
Several trails take you around the park and through the hills, prairies, and woodlands that make up Fort Defiance. The trail system includes 6.24 miles of multi-use trails. Equestrian use is allowed on 5.05 miles of the trails. During winter months the park is a popular place for cross country skiing with 2.13 miles of groomed trails and 0.59 miles of non-groomed trail on the newly constructed Whitetail Ridge Interpretive Trail. Fort Defiance is located just half a mile west of the West Fork of the Des Moines River with boat ramp access to the Emmet County Water Trail. Picnicking/Shelter/Lodge
A day-use lodge, constructed in the style of an old army outpost, is an excellent place for group gatherings such as reunions and wedding receptions. The lodge may be reserved online. An open shelter is available on a first-come, first-served basis at no cost.

Camping
Fort Defiance State Park has a non-modern campground. No showers or flush toilets are present. However, electrical hookups are available at some sites. Camping is 100% same day reservable, all registrations must be made online or through the call center.

Camp site features

Across 16 camp sites:

Electric hookups: 8 of 16 sites
Longest RV: 66 ft
Largest party: 6 people
Power up to 50 amps

Fees

Non-Peak Primitive Site $10.00 Non-Peak Standard Full Hookup $22.00 Non-Peak Standard with Electric Hookup $19.00 Non-Peak Standard with Water and Electric Hookups $21.00 Peak Primitive Site $10-$12 Peak Standard Full Hookup $22.00-$24.00 Peak Standard with Electric Hookup $19.00-$21.00 Peak Standard with Water and Electric Hookups $21.00-$23.00

Rules

Attention Equestrian Riders: State regulations require horses, mules and donkeys being transported interstate (from one state to another) must have a current Certification of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) and a negative Coggin's test (EIA). This paperwork must accompany the animal into the State of Iowa. Please refer to www.iowaagriculture.gov/animalindustry/horseadmissionregs.asp for more information. This law applies to equestrian camping, day-use and trail riding in any State owned Park or Forest.