Dedicated in 1929 along the Iowa River, Pine Lake State Park, one of the oldest of Iowa’s state parks, is located in Hardin County near the small town of Eldora. The park was established in part to preserve a tract of old growth white pine trees growing unusually far south along the Iowa River. Much of it, including the second lake, cabins, shelters, was built by 250 Civilian Conservation Corps workers from 1933 to 1943. In fact, Eldora is home to the CCC Museum, which I highly recommend visiting.

Here are a few more recommendations when planning a visit to Pine Lake. Special thanks to Park Ranger Andy Place for his input to this list! Download this free PDF for great ways to spend A Quick 48 Hours near Pine Lake State Park. (And just like every AQ48 list I’ve compiled - this doesn’t pretend to be comprehensive. So please, email me at jennifer@whatsgoodproject.com and let us know what else needs to be here.)