CLARKE COUNTY

Established in 1846, Clarke County was named after James Clarke, a governor of the Iowa Territory. With 4 small cities, 6 unincorporated communities and 12 townships, Clarke County is quintessentially rural Iowa.

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I must admit that I struggled a bit with this one. At first glance Clarke County is a lot of beautiful countryside split, nearly down the middle, by Interstate 35. To the east you have the county seat of Osceola, and a big portion of Stephens State Forest, Iowa’s largest forest preserve.. To the west there is little more than rural farmland and a handful of communities.

It’s public natural spaces might be a bit more hidden but they and the drive to get there offer some of my favorite scenery so far.

Green Pine Wildlife Area

If I were to head out on a Clarke County day trip, I’d start at Green Pine and enjoy a quiet morning walk through the 40 acres of evergreen timber, and before heading out relax on a bench and watch as a blue heron stalks its breakfast along the shore of the peaceful 3 acre pond.

  • Hiking

  • Fishing

  • Picnic Area

  • Hunting

Murray Roadside Park

After leaving Green Pine I would enjoy a leisure drive through the countryside, maybe stop in Osceola to pick up a little picnic lunch and head over to the prettiest roadside park I’ve seen. Murray makes efficient use of it’s 12 acres, including an open shelter, a nostalgic playground, restored prairie and a luscious shaded area perfect for taking a nap or enjoying a good book.

  • Open Shelter

  • Playground

  • Restrooms

  • Plenty of Parking

East Lake Park

After lunch and a little siesta I’d grab a pick me up at Mayberry’s Coffee Shop on the square in Osceola, and before heading to Harvest Barn for some retail therapy I’d enjoy a quick stroll through East Lake park, maybe play a round of horseshoes and watch the geese. If it’s a Thursday in the summer I’d make plans to return for a free canoe rental to cap off my day.

  • Picnic Shelters

  • Modern Restrooms

  • Campground

  • Amphitheater

  • Hiking

  • Playgrounds

  • Basketball & Volleyball Courts

  • Horse Shoe Court

  • Fishing Dock

  • Gazebo

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