Union Grove State Park, near Gladbrook in Tama County, has served central Iowa since 1938 as a compact outdoor recreation area built around Union Grove Lake. The 282-acre park is defined by its 110-acre lake, dam, and waterfall, with boating, swimming, and round-the-clock fishing among its main attractions. Anglers find bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, and walleye there, while the surrounding grounds offer hiking trails, a campground, and two cabins. Deer, turkeys, and songbirds are also common, giving the park added value as a small wildlife area for the region.