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Three Mile Rec Area (Union County Park)
Overview
Three Mile Rec Area, located just north of Afton, Iowa, serves as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the southern part of the state. Managed by the Union County Conservation Board, this park centers around the expansive 880-acre Three Mile Lake. It offers a peaceful, natural setting where travelers can disconnect from the hustle of city life. The park is well-regarded for its clean facilities and scenic views, making it a reliable choice for those exploring the rolling hills of southwest Iowa.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the heart of Union County, the park is surrounded by fertile Iowa farmland and sprawling prairies. The terrain is characterized by gentle slopes and oak-timbered ridges that frame the water. Its proximity to Highway 34 makes it easily accessible for RVers traveling across the state, yet it remains far enough from major traffic to ensure a quiet night under the stars. The nearby town of Afton provides a charming small-town atmosphere for basic supplies and local flavor.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features several loops designed to accommodate various RV sizes. Many sites offer 30 and 50-amp electrical hookups, while a centrally located dump station and fresh water fill satisfy essential utility needs. Guests have access to the following features:
- Clean and modern shower houses with flush toilets.
- Multiple concrete boat ramps for easy lake access.
- A dedicated fish cleaning station for successful anglers.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The lake itself is the main draw, famous for high-quality panfish and trophy bass fishing. Boaters will find plenty of space for water skiing or leisurely cruising near the beach area. On land, the park offers miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking or spotting local wildlife like white-tailed deer and wild turkeys. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the High Lakes Outdoor Alliance trails or visit Twelve Mile Lake for additional recreation.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for dedicated anglers and nature lovers who prefer a quiet, recreation-heavy environment over a resort-style RV park. It is a fantastic choice for families seeking an affordable getaway with swimming and hiking opportunities. Because of its spacious layout and natural beauty, it also appeals to long-distance travelers looking for a scenic and restful stopover while crossing the rural Midwest landscape.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
User Reviews
Mary Sutton
Nice cozy cabin.
Jamie Ray
Nice quiet family campground.
Cheryl “Midwest Squirrel Girl” Clark
Loved the campground. Very clean and quiet. All the sites that I saw have electric, fire pits and picnic tables. Trees for shade. The women's bathroom was very clean. Two showers stalls, also clean and kept up. Big playground for kids. A big covered patio with picnic tables for a large gathering. 5 rental cabins that sleep up to six people. The only bummer was we didn't know that 3 Mile Lake that is attached to the campground was drained in 2016. DNR has ongoing construction throughout the lake. We were not able to get on the lake from the boat docks. To low. If you plan on fishing this lake, call before you go to find out if it's accessible for fishing. We decided to head towards 12 Mile Lake to fish. That was about 6 miles away.
Carlos Philmon
Had the greatest time, and felt as if no one else was there.
Josh Habben
Peaceful and beautiful. Enjoyed it. Small park for kids to play at also.