McIntosh Woods State Park Updates: Storm Recovery & 2026 Campground Renovation

McIntosh Woods State Park in Clear Lake, Iowa, is moving forward after significant storm damage in 2025 and preparing for a major campground renovation in 2026. Here’s what visitors should know before planning a trip.

2025 Storm Damage & Recovery Efforts

On July 28, 2025, a powerful storm struck Northern Iowa, heavily impacting McIntosh Woods State Park. Approximately 120 trees were uprooted or destroyed.

Despite the scale of the damage:

• No visitors were injured

• No park buildings were harmed

Thanks to coordinated efforts from Iowa DNR staff and partner organizations, the park reopened to the public on August 22, 2025.

Ongoing recovery work has included:

• Filling large holes left by uprooted trees

• Reseeding damaged areas

• Replanting trees throughout the park

Eight trees have already been replanted thanks to generous donations from Iowans. Restoration work continues as the park landscape recovers.

2026 Campground Renovation: What to Expect

McIntosh Woods State Park is scheduled for a major campground renovation beginning in 2026.

The campground will be closed for the entire 2026 summer season.

The goal is to reopen the redesigned campground in time for the 2027 camping season.

Planned improvements include:

• A redesigned campground layout

• A new shower house and restroom facility

• Full hook-up campsites

• Upgraded 50-amp electrical service

• Additional infrastructure enhancements

These upgrades will modernize camping at McIntosh Woods and improve the visitor experience long term.

What Will Remain Open in 2026

Even while the campground is closed, the rest of McIntosh Woods State Park in Clear Lake will remain open to visitors.

Facilities staying operational include:

• The boat ramp

• Fish cleaning station

• Picnic areas

• The park’s yurts

• Trails and shoreline access

Visitors can continue to enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, birdwatching, and sunset views over Clear Lake.

A Historic Outdoor Destination in Clear Lake

The land that became McIntosh Woods was once owned by Rose McIntosh, a Chicago widow. After two decades of negotiations, the State of Iowa purchased the property in 1943. The park was officially established in 1944.

Today, this 60-acre natural refuge remains one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Northern Iowa.

Highlights include:

• The only two yurts in the Iowa state park system

• A 1.5-mile boardwalk trail through Mallard Marsh leading to a wildlife viewing blind

• A boat cleaning station as part of the CLEAR Project initiative

• A beach and sandbar area

• Forested hiking trails

• Winter activities including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing

Whether you’re camping, launching a boat, or watching fall migration from the marsh, McIntosh Woods continues to be a year-round anchor for Clear Lake recreation.

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McIntosh Woods State Park FAQ

Is McIntosh Woods State Park open?
Yes. The park is open to visitors, including the boat ramp, yurts, picnic areas, and trails.

Is the McIntosh Woods campground closed in 2026?
Yes. The campground will be closed during the 2026 summer season for renovation, with plans to reopen in 2027.

Can I still boat or fish at McIntosh Woods in 2026?
Yes. The boat ramp and fish cleaning station will remain open.

Can I still camp in Clear Lake, Iowa in 2026?
While the McIntosh Woods campground will be closed, visitors can explore other lodging and camping options in Clear Lake, Iowa for the 2026 season.

Are the yurts at McIntosh Woods open in 2026?
Yes. The yurts will remain available during the campground renovation.

For questions about renovations or park operations, contact the McIntosh Woods State Park office at 641-829-3847.