Physical Location
Location Address
1730 360th Ave
Estherville, IA 51334
Areas Served
Emmet
Website
Check before you go
Park Alerts & Notices
For current closures or important information please visit, Park Alerts and Notices.
About the Park
Fort Defiance State Park, outside of Estherville in northwest Iowa, features 191 acres of rugged woodlands surrounded by gently rolling farmlands. The centerpiece of the park is an army-post style lodge. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking or picnicking in a quiet setting.
Plan Your Visit
- Camp in both electric and non-electric campgrounds. All camping permits are obtained through self-registration at the campground on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Reserve the lodge for your next group gathering or family reunion. The lodge may be reserved online through the online reservation system for Fort Defiance State Park. A picnic shelter is also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Hike on one of the several trails traversing along hills and woodlands. Equestrian use is allowed on three of the trails.
- Bird watch in the prairies covered in native grasses and flowers. The many scenic overlooks provide perfect places to appreciate native wildlife.
- Enjoy water recreation at one of the many lakes in the nearby Great Lakes region, one of Iowa’s most popular vacation destinations.
Amenities at a Glance
- Trails
- Camping – electric
- Camping – nonelectric
- Picnic Shelter
- Day-use Lodge
- Pit Toilets
- Restrooms
- River