NOTICE: Parking is currently limited at Anderson Access due to construction of 150th Street bridge over the South Skunk River. Access remains open, but users must access from the east. No trailer parking is available. More details. Updated June 13, 2025.
Story County is fortunate to boast a state water trail, complete with beautiful scenery and a rich history. The Skunk was formed as a major drainage for melting glaciers. Rounded cobble, large granite boulders, and gravel were left behind as the glaciers receded, and are found in and along the river. Rock riffles have been constructed at Story City, Soper's Mill, and River Valley Park. These areas of faster water provide excellent habitat for fish and aquatic insects and fun challenges for experienced paddlers.
Story County Conservation serves as the water trail manager, but heavily relies on the support of volunteers to keep the river clean and safe. A volunteer group called the The Skunk River Paddlers leads regular workdays and maintains a website with paddling information.
The Skunk is a "non-meandered" stream, which means the state owns the water but not the land adjacent to it or under it.
Access Points SCC manages 8 of the 11 river access points in the county
- Story City Park #246 Broad St., Story City
- Lekwa Access #242 56156 130th St., Story City
- Anderson Access #239 56743 150th St., Story City
- Soper's Mill Access #235 56364 170th St., Ames
- Peterson Park West Access #233 55310 180th St., Ames
- Sleepy Hollow #230 646 W. Riverside Rd., Ames
- River Valley Park #227 725 East 13th St., Ames
- South 16th Street #224
- 265th Street Access #220 56091 265th St., Ames
- Askew Bridge/Cambridge Pond #217
- C. J. Shreck Access #212 59627 Hwy 210, Cambridge
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