The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site has two picnic shelters that may be used for free on a first-come, first-served basis or be reserved for $25.00.

To reserve a shelter, please review the regulations (PDF file, 43 KB) and fill out a reservation form (PDF file, 25 KB). Completed forms may be faxed to (319) 643-7873 or mailed to P.O. Box 607, West Branch, IA 52358.

For more information, contact the Chief Ranger at (319) 643-7860.

NPS PHOTO

The West, or Boy Scout, Picnic Shelter.

West Shelter

The West, or Boy Scout, Shelter and can accommodate 62 people. It has 8 electrical outlets and 2 fireplace grills. There are 8 wooden tables under the shelter; two of the tables are handicapped accessible. The West Shelter was built by Boy Scouts in 1954 as a tribute to the life of Herbert Hoover.

NPS photo by Melissa Bergman

The east picnic shelter.

East Shelter

The East Shelter can accommodate up to 64 people. The East Shelter has no electric outlets and no grills for cooking. There are 8 wooden tables under the shelter. The East Shelter was donated in part by the Negus Family and opened in 1953.

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Parking

Parking is limited so please allow extra time to find a parking space. Park at the Visitor Center, Presidential Library and Museum, Gravesite, and at the picnic shelters.

Bus and recreational vehicle (RV) parking for the Visitor Center and Presidential Library and Museum is on Parkside Drive across the street from the Visitor Center. Buses and RVs may park also at the gravesite and picnic areas. Additional parking may be found on the streets of West Branch. All on-site facilities are within walking distance of the parking lots.

The West (Boy Scout) and East picnic shelters are on the north side of the Hoover Creek. Parking for people with disabilities is on the south side of the creek. Visitors can get to the shelters from the parking area by crossing the foot bridge over the creek.

The West Picnic Shelter is accessible by a paved trail; the East Picnic Shelter is accessible by grass. A comfort station by the west shelter has one wheelchair-accessible stall. A one-inch threshold must be crossed to enter.