Hike, cross-country ski or ride horses on the 1.25 mile of mowed trail at this West Des Moines River bottom forest. Eagles, Yellow-billed cuckcoos, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Wood Thrush, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Veery, Indigo Bunting, Barred Owl, migrating warblers, Wood Ducks, Wild Turkey, Deer, Mink and River Otter can be seen. Bring your picnic and enjoy a shelter on the south or north side of this recreation area. This area is open to hunting, whether Deer, Squirrel or Turkey.

River Corridor

Put in your boat or canoe at the paved ramp on the south side along Hwy 18 by the river bridge. Two rock riffles provide improved habitat and better fishing at both the north and south end of Basswood. Walleye and Channel Catfish are common.

Location Description

Basswood is located on the west edge of Emmetsburg, just off of Hwy 18 on the north side. The north entrance can be reached off of 450th Avenue north and west of Iowa Lakes Community College.

Driving Directions and other Information

• Birding drive located off of Hwy 18, west of Emmetsburg along the West Des Moines River.
• GPS location N 43 07.835 W 094 41.922
• 69 acres, Palo Alto County Conservation Board
• Hiking, Birding, Wild Flowers, Hunting, Picnicing,Trails

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Take a short visit to Basswood Recreation Area via the video below!