Shimek State Forest

The Lower and Upper Campgrounds in the Lick Creek Unit are designed for equestrian use, with open-air stalls for overnight stabling. Additional equestrian facilities include hitching posts, gravel parking pads, a water hydrant, day-use area and shade for horses.

The Bitternut Lake Campground in the Farmington Unit has eight campsites. The lake is an easy walking distance to enjoy fishing, also offering a hard surface boat ramp to launch a boat or kayak.

The White Oak Campground in the Donnellson Unit has 11 sites. Donnellson also has one hike-in campsite, located about .5 of a mile from the boat ramp parking lot of Shagbark Lake, and .6 mile from the access road south of the lake.

Hike, ride horses and mountain bike on nearly 60 miles of trails, which wind through the rugged hills and deep woodland areas of the forest. An old railroad track bed traverses the middle of the forest and provides ample, flat space for hiking use. Find trail maps for each of the units on this page. Horses are only allowed on designated trails, roads and in the campground. Mountain bikes can use designated equestrian trails.

Fish at four small lakes in the forest. The 6-acre Black Oak Lake in the Farmington Unit has bluegill, channel catfish, bass and redear sunfish. Amenities include, an accessible picnic area, fishing dock and restrooms. The 6-acre Bitternut Lake in the Farmington Unit features a hard surface boat ramp and primitive campground. For a more rugged experience, try walk-in fishing at the 7-acre White Oak Lake, also in the Farmington Unit. Shagbark Lake, in the Donnelson Unit, is 6 acres and features a hard-surface boat ramp and a picnic area. Please note, there are no designated swimming areas in the forest.

Hunt throughout the forest for numerous game species, including white-tailed deer, turkey and small game. The entire forest is open to hunting except for areas within 200 yards of residences, campgrounds, and the headquarters area.

State regulations require horses, mules and donkeys being transported interstate (from one state to another) must have a current Certification of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) and a negative Coggin's test (EIA). This paperwork must accompany the animal into the State of Iowa. Please refer to the Iowa Horse Admission Regulations for more information. This law applies to equestrian camping, day-use and trail riding in any State owned Park or Forest.