Tosanak Recreation Area - Marble Rock, IA
Tosanak Recreation Area: A Dog-Friendly Park in Marble Rock, Iowa
Tosanak Recreation Area, located at 2543 Glass Rd in Marble Rock, Iowa, is a scenic and family-oriented park that’s perfect for visitors of all ages—including your four-legged friends. This dog-friendly park offers a welcoming environment with pet-friendly trails along the picturesque Shell Rock River, making it an ideal destination for dog owners who enjoy hiking and exploring nature with their pets. The area is also known for its abundant wildlife sightings and peaceful riverside walks.
Beyond its beautiful, accessible trails, Tosanak boasts a variety of amenities: picnic tables for family outings, ample shade, wheelchair access, playgrounds, and public restrooms. The recreation center features activities such as volleyball, basketball, foosball, and more, making it a great spot for group gatherings. While there are many amenities for people, dogs are welcome throughout the park, though it’s important to note the park does not have a dedicated fenced dog run. Enjoy a relaxing getaway in this gem of north-central Iowa, whether you’re camping, hiking, or just out for a day with your dog in Marble Rock.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed throughout Tosanak Recreation Area.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, there is a wheelchair accessible entrance and accessible parking available.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are public restrooms onsite that are regularly maintained and kept clean.
- Are there picnic areas? Yes, picnic tables and shaded areas are available, making it a great spot for outdoor meals with your pet.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a playground as well as a recreation center with activities like volleyball, foosball, and more.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are pet-friendly hiking trails throughout the recreation area.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, visitors mention plenty of shade throughout the park, especially at the campsites.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, picnic tables and large fire rings with grill grates are available for use.
- Is the park busy on weekends? Reviews note that the park can be busy during weekends and special activities, especially in the camping season.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Some reviewers mention that bugs can be bothersome, especially during peak seasons, so bring repellents as needed.
Reviews
Great campground! We had our annual friends camping tripping this past weekend (Sept) and it was perfect to keep the kiddos entertained with a park and a recreation center. At the rec center they had volleyball, bags, basketball, Foosball, and ping pong. They have a closet full of supplies you can use to play activities. We stayed at site #1 and had plenty of shade. The bugs were pretty bad and got super annoying, so bring plenty of bug candles and thermosell with you. The fire ring were large with a grill grate. Deep gravel sites. Our site was closet to the restroom on the back side of the director’s lodge which was super clean. We will definitely be back, this is a gem of a park👌 oh and there is a dump station now.
So much fun! Not overcrowded, beautiful trails, boat access to the river, lots of places to fish. Perfect weekend getaway for us!
I visited Tosanak Recreation on January 7, 2024. It was a great day to view the bald eagles on the trails next to the Shell Rock River. Also saw deer, geese flying overhead, nuthatches, woodpeckers and cardinals. I was also hiking at Tosanak Recreation Area about 10 days ago and viewed trumpeter swans on the river and then in flight.
A wonderful improvement this season are trail signs!
Busy place today. Incredible battle with swords, ramming rods, and costumes on everyone. People were happy and enjoying the full campsites.
Quite interesting Medieval vibe! Who would of expected that?
My family and I spent a late Fall weekend here. This was our first trip to Floyd County and we were sure what to expect. Just before leaving for a late Friday night arrival we realized we’d forgotten the instructions on how to get in. I sent an after-hours email with crossed-fingers to Floyd County Conservation Director Adam Sears. Within moments he had me on the phone with instructions on how to salvage what could have been a somewhat stressful evening. If you see this Adam, THANK YOU!!!
It only got better from there. The Otter cabin is so nice! Plenty of room to unwind and relax high above a slow flowing river. There was more wildlife walking around than we could count, with some of the does darn near posing for the perfect photo! It was all so peaceful…. Well except for the 4 kids my wife and I brought along for the ride! They really enjoyed the large recreation that’s close enough to the cabin to allow most parents to be comfortable sending their kids over while you watch the river from the expansive back porch.
We will be back!