If You Didn’t Know About These 10 Swimming Holes In Iowa, They’re A Must Visit
Iowa summers can get very humid and sweltering hot. Of course, a great way to cool off and have summer fun is to go swimming, and Iowa has plenty of great spots to visit. Here are 10 great swimming holes in Iowa. And of course, with the river spots, make sure to check the current before going for a swim, and swim with caution.

There are several Department of Natural Resources access points along the river where you can go and swim. There is water access at the Upper Dam, Lower Dam, and Iverson Bottoms Access is 7 miles N of Waukon on Hwy 76, 6 miles NW on Iverson Bottoms Rd.

The Racoon River offers water access from hidden river sandbars off the beaten path. To get there, take I-80 to Exit 100 to Redfield. Parking is just off the highway by the old train depot on south side of town. If you head west on the trail a couple of miles, there are trails down to the sandbars. If you want more privacy, go to the bend in the river.

Either south of Shenandoah or North of Coin, you can find trails in that lead to stream access. The bank is steep, but if you climb down and head east, you’ll find private sandbars.

You can find the Sandy Beach Public Use Area at 3369 Sandy Beach Rd NE.

Rathbun Lake at Honey Creek Resort is the second largest lake in Iowa. You can find it at 12194 Honey Creek Pl, Moravia, IA.

You can find this beach in the recreational area at 2192 Mehaffey Bridge Rd NE.

City Beach Park is a lovely beach in a scenic setting. You can find it at 1420 2nd Ave S, Clear Lake, IA.

Kent Park is a manmade lake with a nice little beach and a walking trail around the water. The address is 2048 Hwy 6 NW, Oxford, IA.

Spirit Lake is part of the Iowa Great Lakes and is the largest of the lakes. It offers beautiful beaches for swimming and other recreational activities.

Lake Okoboji is also part of the Iowa Great Lakes. There are many beaches and other fun summertime activities to choose from.
If you’re looking for more summer fun ideas, take a look at these 12 Activities To Add To Your Iowa Bucket List This Summer.