These 8 Iowa Quarry Lakes Are Perfect For A Day Of Fun In The Sun

Quarry Springs Park is an unexpected gem found by Colfax, Iowa. The three interconnected quarry lakes cover a total of 240 acres, and are rich with recreational opportunities. You can fish, rent kayaks, camp, birdwatch, climb on the sand dune, mountain bike and walk the trails. The edges of the lake vary between open sandy areas and dense woods overhanging the water, creating a gorgeous, varied shoreline. 

Quarry Lake in the Lime Creek Conservation Area near Mason City offers lovely views of limestone bluffs. This 25-acre lake is perfect for paddling if you’re up for the 0.5-mile portage to access it, but the wildlife enthusiast and birdwatcher will also find this lake a wonderful destination in Cerro Gordo County. After parking at the north end of the Nature Center Road, follow the trail northward to the lake. 

Schildbergs Recreation Area by Atlantic City, Iowa consists of three beautiful, large lakes wrapped by 1.5 miles of paved recreation trails. Fish, bike, camp, relax in the butterfly gardens, or let kids enjoy the playgrounds. There’s fun to be had for all ages at Schildbergs!

Winterfeld Pond by Rock Valley in Sioux County is an 18-acre quarry lake prized for its good fishing. It is equipped with a boat ramp for paddled craft as well as small-motored boats. It’s hard to beat a picnic by the water!

Grays Lake in Des Moines is one of the city’s most loved and well-used recreational areas. The extensive Kruidenier Trail Pedestrian Bridge is colorfully lit at night, making the 1.9-mile loop around the lake a beautiful place to walk even at dusk. Whether you want to fish or paddle, bike or run, take a sailing class or a yoga class, Grays Lake is for you. Complete with a sandy swimming beach (with life jackets you can use for free) and a playground, Grays Lake is an excellent place to spend the day with kids as well! 

Russell Wildlife Area in Mahaska county boasts a series of five small quarry lakes. One is accessible by vehicle, and the water is clear or even blue in the sunshine, making this lake a veritable oasis for fishermen and paddlers. Relax on a bench, or take the trails to the other quarry lakes. All are good for fossil hunting, but the most remote (and largest) one, tucked in the southeast corner of the wildlife area, also boasts beautiful blue water. 

Chickasaw Quarry along the Little Cedar River near Iona, Iowa. Swimming and diving are not allowed at this quarry lake, but the cliffs and rocks make a beautiful backdrop for fishing. The county park is also the site of the former town of Chickasaw and an old feed mill. Primitive camping is permitted here, and the park hosts the giant Iona Fire Department’s annual fish fry, an event you don’t want to miss. 

Deep Lakes Park in Muscatine County is composed of a series of lakes and ponds that offer a combined total of 120 acres of beautiful, clear water to enjoy. This former sand and gravel quarry now has a boat ramp, fishing dock and swimming beach on its largest lake, Lake Chester. You’ll also find sand dunes and a 1.2-mile hard-surface path to walk or bike. Stay longer and rent a water-front cabin!