Paullina, Iowa (NorthwestIowaNow.com) — Tucked away in O’Brien County lies a quiet sanctuary waiting to be discovered by those outside the Paullina area. Known affectionately by locals as “Paullina Lake,” Mill Creek State Park sits right on the edge of town, neighboring the Paullina Golf Course. Managed by the O’Brien County Conservation Board, this scenic escape traces its history back to the early 1900s, when a dam was first constructed on Mill Creek to form the lake for recreation.

O’Brien County Conservation Director Mark Wilson notes that the park—including its historic dam—has recently undergone a massive facelift.

Crews have successfully cleared out choking, invasive brush from the landscape, and now focusing on restoring the area’s natural ecology.

“Paullina Lake” offers a premier, family-friendly destination including swimming and a beach, kayaking, a concession stand, excellent fishing, and scenic walking trails.

It’s easier than ever to reserve one of the cabins or a camping spot with the state’s new MyCountyParks.com but camping drop-ins are still welcome.

You can call it a “stay-cation” if you want, but with only a 30-to-45-minute drive, Paullina Lake, Dog Creek or the Bison Herd at Prairie Heritage Center, they all make a great destination for the family.