Springbrook State Park truly offers something for everyone! The park encompasses 930 acres of rolling hills, mature timber, a small lake and abundant wildlife. The state acquired the park in 1926 and most of the buildings were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
The park is nestled among numerous small communities which provide a variety of dining, shopping and other recreational opportunities. Whether you are here to hike, fish, camp or hunt we welcome you and hope you enjoy your stay!
Trails
Springbrook has approximately 12 miles of trails that can either challenge your athletic ability or provide a casual stroll through the timber and prairie areas. The trails connect the park and the Conservation Education Center facilities so visitors can explore both. In winter, snowmobiling is allowed on four miles of designated trails.
In addition to hikers and snowmobilers, bicyclists have ample opportunities to enjoy themselves while visiting Springbrook. The Central State Park Bike Route connects Springbrook State Park, Ledges State Park and Big Creek State Park. The 91 mile route is 6 miles east of Springbrook, relatively flat, and has a few challenging hills as you make your way across the valleys of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers.
Lake Activities
The 17-acre lake has a beach and unsupervised swimming for those who would like to relax by the water on a sunny afternoon. If you would like a break from the sun, you can have a picnic in the beach shelter, or go for a stroll around the lake on one of the trails.
Anglers will find ample opportunities to catch crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish and catfish. The lake has three fishing jetties, two docks and a boat ramp. Although gas-powered motors are not allowed, the lake allows electric trolling motors. There is also a boat ramp in the southern portion of the park for access to the Raccoon River, and a trail farther west that takes anglers to a fishing riffle on the river.
Hunting
Hunting is allowed, in season, on certain portions of the northeast and southwest area of Springbrook as posted. A controlled deer hunt is held periodically in certain areas of the recreation area to assist in maintaining the deer herd.
Picnicking/Shelters
Two beautiful stone picnic shelters may be reserved in advance for special events or family gatherings. The Beach Shelter has electricity, water and restrooms and is located on the beach. The CCC Shelter has a fireplace, electricity, water and a nearby pit latrine and is located near the lake and trails.
Camping
The large modern campground has many amenities to make your stay even more enjoyable. The campground offers non-electric and electric campsites, modern restrooms and showers and a sanitary dump station. There is an organized youth group camping area adjacent to the campground. Campers will also find a camp store open weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day which provides various camping supplies, food, firewood and ice. Within the campground there are sand volleyball and basketball courts, horseshoe pits and a playground.
Cabin
The Sherburne House, a 10-acre addition to Springbrook, is now available for reservations year round. It has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living rooms and a full kitchen and sleeps 12. This getaway is nestled in a wooded area on the park's west side, with a scenic overlook and great opportunities to view wildlife. It is the perfect place for a reunion or family weekend retreat.
Camp Observer