Otter Creek Lake and Park near Toledo, IA, features a landscape with open spaces and wooded areas. Temperatures range from lows in the 20s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s during summer. Campers can explore Otter Creek Lake for fishing and boating, and the nearby Tama County Nature Center offers educational exhibits and trails.

As of June 2023, Otter Creek Lake & Park has reopened to the public.This reopening includes all camping area, roadways, trails, etc. Though the refilling process has begun, the lake is still mostly empty. Fishing, swimming, boating, and other water activities are unavailable, as the lake has not yet filled with water. Restoration includes establishment of excellent fish habitat, improved angler access, removal of sedimentation, irrigation improvements, and more. 

 
    Seventy (70) acre lake hosting quality fishing, boating, and swimming.
    Two open air shelters with approx. capacity of 72 persons each.
    Electric camp section with 65 unit capacity.
    Tent section with 18 sites, 45 tent capacity
    Swimming beach offered at no charge
    Picnicking. Tables to entertain up to 400 persons
    Concrete boat ramp providing safe and convenient access to lake
    Fish cleaning station located next to boat ramp
    Sanitary dump station for trailer units using campground
    Modern showerhouse (for campers)
    Six vault latrines scattered throughout park
    Two acre native prairie (never tilled by man)
    Headquarters for maintenance operations
    Two play areas with assorted play equipment including swings, jungle gyms, spring toys, slides.
    3.0 mile loop scenic hiking trail around lake
    Handicap access provides safe and easy access to beach play area.
    Tama County Nature Center houses main office, 5,600 sq. ft. on main floor, 2,600 sq. ft. in basement, handicap accessible building. The Nature Center is popular for social events including weddings, receptions, family reunions, and workshops.
    Visitors kiosk with vending machine is located directly south of the concrete boat landing.

Otter Creek Lake and Park

Join the fun near Garwin. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Garwin. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Iowa camping adventure.

Garwin

The Best Camping Near Garwin, Iowa

This is a very nice quiet campground close to a nice small lake. We stayed in space 30 and this area has just had the electrical updated and the are adding some new spots right by the lake. There is a boat dock right there and benches to sit and fish or watch the geese or loons from

Nice quiet campground

Quiet, beautiful, relaxing 

CG has basic amenities- fire ring, table, gravel pad, electric, and water though shower houses are closed for season. Nature Center offers education displays and programs. Lake offers paddling, fishing, etc. 

Photos of Otter Creek Lake and Park

Real photos from real campers