Bank Swallow Bend

Bank Swallow Bend Wildlife Area, located in Indianola, Iowa, is a sprawling 2,700-acre park and zoo that offers a variety of year-round outdoor recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. The area features 543 acres of upland and wetland habitats, including more than a mile of South River, which is home to a bank swallow colony. This property is part of the Federal Wetlands Reserve Program and provides critical winter cover for local wildlife, including migrating waterfowl and an active eagle nest.

Visitors can explore the vast area through miles of mowed fire breaks that act as trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. The park is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., except for legal hunting activities. Destruction, removal, or damage to any buildings, equipment, plant life, or natural material within the park boundaries is strictly prohibited.

All vehicles must stay on designated roadways and parking areas, and privately owned domesticated animals must be leashed or under strict control of their owners. Recreational vehicles and horse riding are not allowed within the conservation area. Hunting is permitted during established seasons by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with no permanent blinds or deer stands allowed.

Visitors are reminded to respect the peace and enjoyment of others in the park, and to adhere to all State of Iowa laws. Fireworks and explosives are prohibited in the conservation area. For more information on what Iowa's other County Conservation Boards have to offer, visit MyCountyParks.com.