Fellowship Forest

Fellowship Forest County Park is a scenic woodland retreat located about four miles southwest of Winterset, offering visitors a peaceful escape into mature upland timber and limestone creek valleys. Originally established as a Methodist church youth camp, the park now provides a quiet destination for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and nature exploration. A clear, meandering creek flows the length of the park, cascading over limestone outcroppings to form small waterfalls that add unique character and natural beauty. A one-mile loop trail winds through the forest, providing a fairly level hike ideal for birdwatching, photography, and discovering spring woodland wildflowers. The park features a modern picnic shelter with seating, electricity, and a group grill, along with a pit-vault restroom and shaded picnic areas. A small pond with an accessible fishing dock is designated as a youth-only fishing pond, creating a welcoming space where young anglers can enjoy fishing and keep their catch. Located just minutes from Winterset and Madison County’s covered bridge attractions, Fellowship Forest offers a quiet setting to slow down, explore nature, and experience the scenic landscapes of south-central Iowa.