Facilities and Activities

Picnicking/Shelters
Lake Anita State Park has a large number of picnic areas, many of which overlook the lake. The park is a wonderful place for a family get-together or just a quick outdoor meal. The seven open picnic shelters are available for use and may be reserved online through the park reservation system.

Camping
The campground at Lake Anita is one of the most popular in southwest Iowa. The multitude of camping sites are all within easy access of the lake. This includes electrical hookups, full hookups and three modern shower/restroom buildings. A playground is also provided. Advance campsite reservations can be made through the park reservation system. 25% of the campsites are still available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Trails
A one/third mile self-guided nature trail is available, where park visitors can learn about a number of the shrubs and trees which abound in southwest Iowa. Lake Anita also offers a 4-mile trail which winds around the entire lake and is available for a pleasant walk. It is a great avenue for hikers and bicyclists wanting to enjoy the great outdoors.

Lake Activities (swimming, boating, fishing)
The beach at Lake Anita offers young and old opportunities for a refreshing dip or sand volleyball on a hot summer day.

The Friends of Lake Anita group has concessions open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.  the concession is open on Saturdays, 8:00 - 11:00 PM at the popcorn shed. Souvenirs such as t-shirts, key chain flashlights, coolies, glow in the dark items and cup-holders available for sale during movie nights. Questions can be addressed at the Lake Anita State Park Facebook page. Yard games and firewood sales available through the campground host, typically 5:00 - 8:00 PM.

Lake Anita offers excellent fishing for largemouth bass, crappies and bluegills, channel catfish, and walleye. Two boat ramps are available for easy lake access. Any size boat motors may be operated at a maximum of 5mph. Dock space for pontoon boats may be reserved on a seasonal basis through the park office.

Beach Monitoring Results

Lake Anita State Park, dedicated in 1969, is one of the most popular outdoor recreation facilities in southwest Iowa. The 1,062-acre park features a beautiful 171-acre artificial lake which was formed by creating a dam on a branch of the Nishnabotna River. Lake Anita State Park truly has something for everyone; from hiking on a quiet trail to splashing on the beach, Lake Anita is a great place to enjoy yourself in the great outdoors.

Amenities

Within park
Beach, Bicycling, Bird Watching, Boat Launch Ramp, Boating, Camping - Electric, Camping - Full Hook-up, Camping - Nonelectric, Camping - Youth Group, Canoeing, Dock Slips, Dock, Boat, Dump Station, Firewood Sales, Fish Cleaning Station, Fishing, Hiking, Horseshoe Pits, Jogging/Running, Kayaking, Modern Campground, Paddle Boating, Park Lake, Picnic Area, Picnic Shelter, Pit Toilets, Playground, Restrooms, Restrooms, Showers, Swimming - Beach, Trail, Interpretive, Trails, Bicycle, Trails, Hiking, Water Hydrants , Wildflower Viewing, Wildlife Viewing