Access Site
IA
Elk Rock A Access
Des Moines River - Lake Red Rock • Des Moines River
Source: iowa_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago
City: Knoxville, IA
County: Marion County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 41.40251618, -93.10226644
Air Temp: --
Location
Live Webcam
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Des Moines River near Pella, IA
4.4 mi away
English Creek near Knoxville, IA
4.8 mi away
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Des Moines River
1 run
There are no whitewater runs within 50 miles of this access site.
These whitewater runs are on the same river but located more than 50 miles from this access site.
Difficulty Classes
I Easy
II Novice
III Intermediate
IV Advanced
V Expert/Extreme
VI Unrunnable
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater
About This Access Site
Elk Rock Campground and Boat Ramp offers convenient access to Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake, located near Knoxville in Marion County. The facility features two boat ramps positioned at opposite ends of the park—one near the main entrance with six lanes and ample parking, and another near the park office. This setup makes it easy for kayakers, canoeists, and boaters to launch and retrieve vessels.
The ramps provide access to the expansive waters of Lake Red Rock, a popular destination for both paddling and fishing. The area is ideal for recreational boating, with the lake's calm, open waters suitable for various watercraft. The park itself is non-reservable and sits on the south shore of the lake, making it an accessible launch point for exploring the water. Nearby, you'll find additional camping options at North Overlook Camp and Roberts Creek East Campground, plus the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge for exploring Iowa's natural areas when you're not on the water.
The ramps provide access to the expansive waters of Lake Red Rock, a popular destination for both paddling and fishing. The area is ideal for recreational boating, with the lake's calm, open waters suitable for various watercraft. The park itself is non-reservable and sits on the south shore of the lake, making it an accessible launch point for exploring the water. Nearby, you'll find additional camping options at North Overlook Camp and Roberts Creek East Campground, plus the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge for exploring Iowa's natural areas when you're not on the water.
Federal Facility Information
Free Access
This recreation area is part of Lake Red Rock
Nearby Recreation Areas
Lake Red Rock
Located within
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
Located within
Nearby Boat Facilities
Elk Rock Campground and Boat Ramp
On-site