Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park

State Park • IA

Overview

Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park is a modern outdoor recreation area in central Iowa, located just south of Des Moines near Indianola. Known for its network of lakes and accessible design, the park offers a relaxed setting for fishing, paddling, hiking, and family-friendly outdoor activities close to the metro area.

Landscape & Geology

Landscape

The park’s landscape is shaped by gently rolling hills, open grassland, and a series of man-made lakes created from a former coal mine site. These reclaimed waters are surrounded by prairie plantings and young woodland, giving the park an open, airy feel with broad views across the water and countryside.

Trails & Scenic Views

Trails

Paved and unpaved trails loop around the lakes and through the surrounding grasslands, providing easy, accessible routes for walking, biking, and jogging. The trails are largely level and well suited for all ages, making them popular for casual outings and scenic lake walks.

Recreation

Banner Lakes is especially popular for fishing, with multiple lakes stocked for a variety of species, as well as kayaking and canoeing on calm waters. Additional amenities include picnic shelters, playground areas, and a campground with electric sites, making the park a convenient destination for day trips or short overnight stays.

History

The park sits on land once used for coal mining, which was later reclaimed and transformed into a public recreation area. This conversion reflects a broader effort to restore and repurpose industrial land, creating new outdoor opportunities while preserving open space near growing communities.

Why Visit

Find Your Next Adventure

With its lakeside trails, easy access, and variety of recreational amenities, Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park is well suited for low-key outdoor recreation and family outings. Its combination of water, open space, and proximity to Des Moines makes it a popular and approachable park for visitors of all experience levels.