Union Grove State Park campground — Attraction in Marshalltown

This was the second time we rented a cabin at Union Grove State Park and it was perfect. From the back of the cabin you can just sit down and relax and watch local Iowa wildlife. I saw many varieties of song birds, white tail deer, foxes, beaver, a badger, bald eagles and many more wonderful creatures. The fishing in July was just OK but very relaxing. If you want a place that has tons of activities this might not be for you. There are no swimming pools or mini golf or those types of activities but if you just want to relax close to nature this is a great place. There are very well maintained walking trails around the lake and lead down to a nice water fall spillway. The picture of the lake is the view from the covered patio of the cabin. The others are from the same spot or near the lake. The cabin is heated and has central air conditioning and a full kitchen and bathroom. One bedroom with a queen size very firm bed. There is a sitting area with two chairs and a futon. The kitchen eating area has a table for four. If you stay here you can get supplies at nearby Gladbrook and while there I would recommend stopping by the Matchstick museum. There are many sculptures made from matchsticks and it is worth the stop. Also bring some binoculars to get in some great bird watching. I forgot that my first time and glad I brought...

The lake is absolutely beautiful! There are many spots to stop and have a picnic. The waterfall is pretty but took us a bit to find - there is a small gravel parking area by the intersection of C ave & 220th street. (I'm 99% sure that's where it is.) Walk over to the bridge and you can't miss the waterfall.

I only give the 4/5 rating because the walking paths could have been better maintained or trimmed back but I also understand nature takes over rather quick. The guard rail at the top of the waterfall was very loose too so don't lean against that! Overall it was a great experience and I will be...

Small, nice lake. Saw some people kayaking; great for that. A couple boat launch ramps. Went on July 4 2019; water was pretty warm, and green. The swim area is very small, and there's a lot of floating clumps of algae all along the beach, which is kind of gross. A park ranger could probably clean that up in about 15 minutes with a rake. Don't know why swimming is restricted to the swim area; you can drown there just as easily as anywhere else. No lifeguards anywhere. Biggest downside today? 2 families hanging out, with kids that cuss just as much as their parents; didn't want to be around...