Ted Shanks Conservation Area provides public access to Horseshoe Lake and the Salt River via two concrete boat ramps, with over 500 acres of fishable water including the Mississippi River.

The 6,705-acre area offers primitive camping sites, over 35 miles of levees for hiking, and a disabled-accessible trail, though visitors should note the area is subject to flooding and portions close to waterfowl from October 15 through March 1.