Dale Maffitt Reservoir

Maffitt Lake is a reservoir in the four corners of Dallas County, Polk County, Warren County, and Madison County, Iowa.

Dale Maffitt Reservoir
Dale Maffitt Reservoir looking north toward the dam
Location of Dale Maffitt Reservoir in Iowa, USA.
Location of Dale Maffitt Reservoir in Iowa, USA.
Dale Maffitt Reservoir
Location of Dale Maffitt Reservoir in Iowa, USA.
Location of Dale Maffitt Reservoir in Iowa, USA.
Dale Maffitt Reservoir
LocationIowa
Coordinates41°31′01″N 93°47′31″W / 41.517°N 93.792°W / 41.517; -93.792
Typereservoir
Basin countriesUnited States
Surface elevation920 ft (280 m)[1]
WebsiteDes Moines Water Works

It is owned by the Des Moines Water Works that serves as an emergency water supply for the city of Des Moines, Iowa. In a drought emergency, the level of the Raccoon River could be brought up by draining water from the lake into the river.

The main park area is named the Dale Maffit Reservoir and Arboretum. The park has a paved loop to a picnic area with lake access for kayaks and canoes. There are also hiking trails throughout the park. The picnic area has flush toilets that are open in the April through October.

The Gilfillan Family Cemetery is located near the entrance of the picnic area. This 19th century cemetery contains the remains of 10 early Polk County, Iowa settlers.

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