Jester Park is a bit of a hidden gem in Iowa’s unbelievable park system. The park has a wide range of activities all year long, ranging from hiking to horse drawn sleigh rides and so much more! Jester Park is located at 11121 NW Jester Park Dr, in Granger, Iowa. For more information, click here. PICTURES USED IN THIS ARTICLE WERE PROVIDED BY HALEY SYTSMA.
Jester Park is located on the west shore of beautiful Saylorville Lake and is a popular migration stop for large flocks of pelicans and waterfowl that use Saylorville Lake during the fall and spring. The park is relatively small in size covering just over 1,670 acres of land, however it more than makes up for its size with its large and diverse recreational activities available!
Camping and picnicking are two favorite pastimes for many park users. Picnic tables and shelters are scattered throughout the park, accommodating small and large groups. The park also provides boat ramps, a natural playscape, fishing ponds, golf, horseback riding, snowmobile and hiking trails, four modern reservable cabins, a Lodge rental facility, and the Jester Park Nature Center. Birding is especially popular at Jester Park. Don’t forget the binoculars on your next visit to the park.
The bison and elk herds that live in this wildlife animal enclosure have been popular attractions at Jester Park for almost four decades. Features is the enclosure include an ADA accessible observation deck, an inviting viewing and picnic area, educational displays and high quality art components! An electric fence surrounds the animal exhibit. SO REMEMBER TO USE CAUTION AND STAY AWAY FROM EXHIBIT FENCING.
Jester Park offers more than 148 campsites along the lakeshore and across the wooded hills overlooking Saylorville Lake. There are 80 electric sites, 62 non-electric sites, 4 walk-in primitive sites, and 2 youth areas. Two campground shower houses are open mid-April through the end of October. There are also two boat ramps providing easy access to the lake.
A favorite at Jester Park is its well marked hiking trails. The park offers more than 8 miles of natural trails to explore, including the 5 mile Lake-shore Trail from the Mile-Long Bridge to the parking area at Trailhead #21. Hiking is a great way to explore and enjoy the beauty of the area.
During the winter months the park is well known for its horse drawn sleigh or wagon rides. This is a magical experience as the winter snow transforms the park into a winter wonderland. Rides will be available every half hour from 10am-11:30am and 1pm-3:30pm from early December through Mid-February. The sleigh can accommodate up to 7 adults.
Looking for nearby lodging or campgrounds, click here. Looking for more family fun activities in the area, click here. For more of the best parks and amazing locations in Iowa, click here.
