Hickory Ridge

Hickory Ridge Wilderness Camp

Help create a natural spot with paddling access to Lake Red Rock

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This information was last updated July 29, 2010.

Photos by Diane Lowry

1. Give. More than 80% of the funds for the $405,000 project are committed. Please help us raise the $72,000 remaining.

2. Sign up for e-mails on Hickory Ridge news and events.

3. Volunteer. Future volunteer events are being planned to help revive the oak-hickory woodland and wildlife area.

Volunteer John Craun paddled 400+ miles on the Des Moines River and helped raise nearly $10,000 for Hickory Ridge, as well as awareness about the state's water trails! Read about John's adventure.

Creating a destination

We've set out to purchase and restore 47 acres of oak-hickory woodland near Whitebreast Recreation Area that will provide a new destination for primitive camping and nature enjoyment.

Join the partners to make Hickory Ridge Wilderness Camp a new Iowa destination.

People will compare Hickory Ridge with the rustic, secluded overnights that they’ve loved at national parks — away from motorboats, RVs and concrete. Activities such as picnicking, cross-country skiing, hiking and bird watching will be popular here.

Canoeists and kayakers will especially enjoy this overnight spot for weekend outings on the lake. Scouts and other youth groups will come to practice orienteering or learn to kayak.

Hickory Ridge is NOT open at this time for public use or for hunting. When fundraising and cleanup are complete, Hickory Ridge will be opened for public use. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will handle long-term management.

With your support, the camp can be opened by spring 2011.

Partners

This project is a joint effort of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, the Red Rock Lake Association and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.