Overview
Oskaloosa is a small city in Mahaska County, Iowa. Oskaloosa is home to William Penn University, a private university, and Lake Keomah State Park which is four miles east of the city.
1 sights · 1 things to do · 2 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Best things about Oskaloosa
Lake Keomah State Park
A 366-acre (148 ha) state park that surrounds and includes Lake Keomah. Picnic shelters and a lodge may be reserved for use. There are also two boat ramps, numerous campsites, trails, modern showers, restrooms, and an un…
Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum
Plan your trip
Getting there
From Des Moines, take Iowa Highway 163 east for 60 minutes.
Full “Get in” guide ↓Budget & where to stay
No prices are listed for this place yet. See the Sleep guide ↓ for options.
Sample 1-day itinerary
Day 1
- Morning Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum
- Afternoon Lake Keomah State Park
Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.
Food for you
What to ask about, for your diet
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Map
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Get in
By car
From Des Moines, take Iowa Highway 163 east for 60 minutes.
From St. Louis, take US Route 61 N, US Route 34 W and US Route 63 N for 4.5 hours.
By bus
Daily bus by Jefferson Lines departing from Des Moines at 10AM, takes approximately 60 mins and costs $27.
See
Do
Events
- The Southern Iowa Fair is one of the largest traditional county fairs in Iowa and is held each July.
- Art on the Square is held each June on the city square. This event features local and regional artists.
- Sweet Corn Serenade is held each July on the city square. A concert by the municipal band is the highlight of the corn-on-the-cob and pork burger feast.
- Each December, the Lighted Christmas Parade travels through the downtown area on two consecutive nights. The floats in the parade are adorned with lights for the after-dark event.
Sleep
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