The best lakes in Iowa offer scenery, recreation, fishing, and plenty of opportunities to get in touch with the wild nature of the Hawkeye State. So even though Iowa is a landlocked state, it's rare for Hawkeyes to spend more than a few weeks without heading to a lake or river. Check out this amazing list of lakes in Iowa, and then add them to your bucket list.
1. Lake MacBride
Lake MacBride State Park is home to miles of trails, a waterfall, and some of the best fishing in the state. Learn more about this great Iowa lake, and then plan your next visit.
Check out this delightful drone video in vivid 4K of this stunning lake in Iowa:
2. Lake Red Rock
Lake Red Rock is the largest lake in Iowa, and it was formed by a damming project in the 1960s. Today, the lake is hugely popular for all sorts of recreation, and you can get a birds-eye view of the sprawling waterway by climbing to the top of the park's observation tower. Start planning your visit by reading more about Lake Red Rock.
3. Saylorville Lake
Saylorville Lake may be the most recognizable of any Iowa lake, and many Hawkeye State residents remember the devastating floods that began here in 1993. Today, Saylorville Lake is a popular fishing spot, with more than a dozen different species waiting to be reeled in. After a day on the water, be sure to check out the best lakeside patio restaurant in Iowa!
4. Lake Sugema
Lake Sugema is an underrated body of water that offers the best largemouth bass fishing in Iowa. Fishermen flock to the shores to drop in their boats and try their luck. Read more about one of the cleanest lakes in Iowa, and then put it on your bucket list.
5. West Okoboji Lake
West Okoboji is the star of the Iowa Great Lakes, and with so many recreation opportunities, it's easy to see why this is one of the most popular lakes in Iowa. You can kayak, boat, fish, canoe, and swim here, but many people choose to spend their vacation on one of the privately run party boats that cruise the lake and serve up cocktails and plenty of dancing. Start planning your trip by reading more about one of the best lakes in Iowa.
6. Lake Darling
Lake Darling State Park is home to a small and scenic lake that's surrounded by peaceful and quiet hiking trails. It's a popular spot for families to go for a taste of the outdoors. You can even rent a lakeside cabin in Iowa!
7. Black Hawk Lake
Black Hawk Lake is one of a handful of natural lakes in Iowa. It was formed by a glacier millions of years ago, and today it's a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and fishing. Read more about one of the most popular lakes in Iowa, and then pencil in your next visit.
Explore Lakeview, and Black Hawk Lake in this fun video:
8. Rathbun Lake
Rathbun Lake is the gem of Honey Creek State Park, and you'll find plenty of chances to enjoy the water by boat or by swimming! Honey Creek Resort makes full use of the water and they've created a playground that everyone is sure to enjoy. Read more about Honey Creek's aquapark and then check it out!
What do you think of the best lakes in Iowa? Are there any you think we've missed? Let us know in the comments!
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