Ambrose A. Call State Park

Ambrose A. Call State Park is a 138 acre "oasis" of rugged hills heavily wooded with virgin timber in an area of gently rolling farmland. This park is managed by Pilot Knob State Park and is located near the east fork of the Des Moines River. Ambrose Call and his brother, Asa, were early settlers in the area who carved their name, the first in Kossuth County, on a walnut tree at the present site of the park. The brothers spent their first night in Kossuth County on July 9, 1854. The next day, while Asa went for his wife and supplies, Ambrose and a traveling companion, William Smith, began work on a cabin in what is now the state park.

Recreation: Trails The rugged and heavily wooded park offers two miles of trails that wind through the forest, down a ravine, and along a picturesque winding creek. Many species of shrubs, flowers and trees can be found at A.A. Call. A cross-country ski trail is available in the winter which is also popular for snowshoeing and hiking. The 18-hole Frisbee golf course is challenging and heavily used by avid players. Winter Activities Ambrose A. Call closes to vehicles each season a few days before forecasted snow and reopens in the following spring. During the winter months it is recommended to call the Park Manager at Pilot Knob State Park at (641) 581-4853 to check on the status of the park.