Stephens State Forest

Today’s Forecast:

Today’s Report:

About Stephens State Forest

Stephens State Forest spreads across several south-central Iowa units with wooded trails, primitive camping, wildlife habitat, equestrian country, and quiet gravel-road approaches.

Make the Most of a Stephens State Forest Day

Confirm which forest unit matches your route and allow extra drive time. Wet clay, muddy roads, ticks, hunting seasons, and limited nearby shelter all reward conservative planning.

Weather Tips for Stephens State Forest

• For Stephens State Forest, check temperature, wind, rain timing, and thunderstorm potential before choosing the day’s route.
• If thunder is possible, complete exposed overlooks, prairie routes, golf, and event grounds early and keep shelter close.
• Check overnight lows, wet ground, drainage, and the nearest substantial shelter before settling into camp.
• Open-country wind and summer humidity can make biking and hiking feel harder than the mileage suggests.

Nearby Towns and Areas

This page can also be useful when planning outdoor time near:

• Lucas
• Chariton
• Whitebreast Unit
• Woodburn Unit
• Red Haw State Park
• Clarke County
• Williamson Pond
• Lake Red Rock region

Plan Around the Conditions

Use the forecast to choose the best version of a Stephens State Forest day. Match wind, storm timing, water levels, trail surfaces, road conditions, and temperature to the activity that gives your group the safest and most comfortable plan.

7-Day Forecast for Stephens State Forest

Stephens State Forest Weather by Season

Winter

Winter at Stephens State Forest brings cold, wind chill, snow, and freeze-thaw ice. Shaded paths, stairs, bridges, and rural roads may stay slick after sunny areas clear. Check road and facility status before a long drive.

Spring

Spring around Stephens State Forest is changeable, with rain, muddy surfaces, rising waterways, and severe thunderstorms. Give natural-surface trails time to drain after heavy rain. Lightning, hail, and strong wind can arrive well ahead of a rain core.

Summer

Summer days at Stephens State Forest are often warm and humid, with strong sun, mosquitoes, and afternoon thunderstorm potential. Earlier starts make exposed routes and event grounds more comfortable. Ventilate tents and keep a dry shelter plan for overnight storms.

Fall

Fall is often one of the most comfortable seasons at Stephens State Forest, with lower humidity, cooler nights, and changing color. Dry spells can produce excellent trail and cycling conditions. Watch for harvest traffic on rural roads and hunting activity near public lands.

Key Climate Data Points

• Annual average temperature: around 52–54°F based on the surrounding Iowa region.
• Annual snowfall: generally 20–30 inches, with meaningful year-to-year variation.
• Warmest months: June through August are typically warmest, with July often bringing the highest heat and humidity.
• Coolest months: December through February are coldest, and January commonly has the strongest winter chill.
• Wettest season: late spring and early summer usually brings the greatest rainfall and thunderstorm frequency.
• Driest season: winter is normally driest, although snow, ice, and frozen ground still affect plans.
• Best outdoor window: April through October, with fall favored for hiking and camping.