2017 Spencer Comprehensive Land Use Plan

Spencer, Iowa  2017  Comprehensive Plan

NATURE AND WILDLIFE AREAS IN & NEAR SPENCER In addition to the city parks previously identified in this section, there are many natural areas and open spaces found in and near Spencer primarily along the Little Sioux and Ocheyedan River corridors. The Oxbow Wildlife Area and portions of the Reiter Wildlife Area are located within the City of Spencer and are natural open space and wildlife areas where residents and visitors can enjoy passive outdoor recreational activities. Furthermore, the Oneota-Little Sioux Access, Bob Howe Thunder Bridge Wildlife Refuge, Stub

Johnson Equestrian Area, Seltz Wildlife Area, and the Little Sioux Wildlife Area are all Clay County wildlife areas, but located adjacent to the Spencer

city limits. Although these local natural and wildlife areas are located outside of but adjacent to Spencer, these areas offer additional passive recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, equestrian riding, and general outdoor enjoyment.

Oneota Park (Clay County Conservation) This park is a large recreational area with expanses of open prairie areas and stands of timber following the Little Sioux River Corridor. Oneota Park is owned and maintained by Clay County Conservation, but portions of the park are located within both the city limits of Spencer and Clay County. Although Oneota Park is largely passive in its use, the park does boasts one of the nicest lodge facilities in the area. The Oneota Park Lodge is a 30’ x 60’ enclosed building with an attached 30’ x 20’ deck. The facility has a full service kitchen, fireplace, picnic tables, TV, wireless internet, and is capable of handling parties of 75 to 100 people. The lodge is also equipped with heating and air conditioning and available for rent year around. Outside of the lodge are mowed paths that take guests along scenic vistas of the Little Sioux river corridor.

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NW Iowa Planning & Development