Green Valley State Park

About this park

Green Valley is the base camp for anglers trying their luck at four area lakes (Three Mile, Twelve Mile, Summit Lake and Green Valley Lake), all located within 10 miles of each other. Whether you are here to fish, camp, swim or just relax, we hope you enjoy your stay. The lake fishery was renovated in 2008 to eliminate some problem species. Largemouth bass, crappies, bluegill, walleyes and channel catfish have all been restocked and are growing rapidly. A 6.5 mile paved multi-use trail is located on the East and South sides of the lake. The trail begins in the campground and provides a scenic view of the Eastern side of the lake. Across the dam, the trail passes through DNR managed Mitchell Marsh, and it's worth a stop to watch waterfowl and other wetland species of birds, particularly during spring and fall migrations. The trail connects to Creston and Southwestern Community College and continues south through town to McKinley City Park. Picnicking/Shelters Green Valley is a popular family picnic spot. It offers two shelters that may be reserved online. Cabins The rustic pine log camper cabins offer visitors a sense of pioneer lifestyle. The cabins have a covered porch, electricity, a microwave and dorm-size refrigerator. Cabins are located near the campground so cabin users will have use of the shower and restroom facilities. Camping The campground boasts non-electric, electric, and full hook-up sites (water and sewer) as well as modern restrooms, showers, and a trailer dump station. There are two playgrounds within the park. There is a playground located right outside of the campground and there is a playground located in the campground. Trails A 10 mile trail will take you completely around the lake. If you plan to walk the entire trail, be sure to take water and sunscreen. The west side of the park does not have restroom facilities. The trail takes you through a variety of habitats, from wetland areas around the fringes of the lake to woodlands and remnants of native prairie. Depending on the time of year and time of day, the keen observer may see some of the wide variety of wildlife species residing in these various habitats. The trail is a combination of grass and existing roadways and is open to hikers and mountain bicyclists. The park also has a self-guided nature trail. Lake Activities Green Valley's 390 acre lake draws hundreds of visitors on hot summer days. The swimming beach is a great place to cool off for both kids and adults. Green Valley has long been a popular "fishing hole" for both bank and boat anglers. A number of fishing jetties are available, as well as fishing piers for persons with varying abilities. A section of shoreline is designated as 24-hour fishing access. Four boat ramps provide convenient lake access. Nearby Towns Creston is two and one-half miles southeast on State Route 186. Afton, Orient and Greenfield are close by also,