Site Details

Frank A. Gotch S.P. - Humboldt County

GPS Coordinates: 42.6765090162415, -94.2068372672657

Management: State

Description: Camping (with electric hook-up, drinking water, flush toilets, showers, and playground). Native prairie patch on the south sand-pit forested area to the north. River access (park is at the confluence of the West and East Des Moines river). No vehicle access in winter months. There is also a biking/walking trail on the north side of the Park that takes you over the East Des Moines River. Spring Migration place with many species of warbler. As well as Wood Ducks and other species of puddle ducks. Bald Eagles nest nearby and are regularly seen. Sand pit area on the north side has many cedars and potentially good owling can be had there. There is a loop of road that allows you to circumnavigate the prairie postage stamp. Good spot to look for Rusty Blackbirds as well.

Habitat: Sand Pit deciduous forest North, small grassland to the south

Directions: From Interstate 169 turn E on 270th street/C49. Drive on 270th St/C49 for half a mile and turn north onto Gotch Park Road. Continue north for ~3/4ths of a mile, park entrance is immediately north of the river crossing on the East side of the road.