McIntosh Woods State Park

1200 East Lake Street, Ventura IA 50482
Ventura, IA 50482

Yurt Closure:

Due to storm damage both Yurts are closed. (Posted 5/18/2026)

McIntosh Woods is home to the only two yurts in our state park system. It is also the "anchor" base for anglers trying their luck on beautiful Clear Lake anytime of the year. In winter, one may cross-country ski, snowshoe or ice fish. Whether you are here to fish, camp, swim, boat, sail, ski, snowshoe, paddle or just relax, we hope you enjoy your stay.

Trails
A one-mile interpretive hiking trail winds its way through the park with several key features highlighted along the route. The trail takes you through the Mallard Marsh on a walkway above the marsh that leads to a wildlife viewing blind where you can take photos of waterfowl, birds and a variety of wildlife species.

> Lake Activities
McIntosh Woods State Park is one of the major boating access points for Clear Lake. A modern boat ramp, the largest on the lake, is present with an extensive paved area for vehicle trailer parking.
Clear Lake is very popular with anglers of all ages. A variety of fish may be taken in Clear Lake including walleye, panfish and channel catfish. To enhance angler enjoyment, a modern fish cleaning station is located near the boat ramp area at McIntosh Woods.
The park has a point or peninsula of land jutting out into the lake. This area includes an unsupervised beach which is popular for swimmers of all ages. Picnicking/Shelters
McIntosh Woods State Park is a popular spot for picnickers. The grassy and shaded picnic areas are a fine place for a family cookout. An open picnic shelter has been built near the boat ramp and can be reserved online.

Camping
McIntosh Woods' shaded campground, complete with electric and non-electric campsites, is a favorite for many and is heavily used by boaters and fishermen. A modern restroom and shower building are present, as well as a playground.

Yurts
A yurt is a traditional dwelling of the nomadic people of central Asia. They were found from Anatolia to Mongolia and, in Iowa, exclusively at McIntosh Woods State Park. Visitors to McIntosh Woods may stay in one of two yurts available for rent. The two yurts are unique and extremely popular for overnight accommodations on the lakefront.

Camp site features

Across 51 camp sites:

Electric hookups: 45 of 51 sites
Fire pit: 2 of 51 sites
Picnic table: 2 of 51 sites
Pets allowed: all 51 sites
ADA accessible: 2 of 51 sites
Longest RV: 82 ft
Largest party: 6 people
Power up to 30 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

Yurts have no sanitary facilities but are located near a restroom/shower facility. Renters must provide their own bedding, pillows, towels and toiletry items. The park opens at 4:00 a.m. and closes at 10:30 p.m. daily.