The Underappreciated County In Iowa That’s Home To More Than A Dozen Heavenly Lakes

In all of Iowa's 99 counties, one tiny county has earned a reputation for being a lake paradise! Visit the Iowa Great Lakes region in Dickinson County and explore all that this little slice of heaven has to show you.

Chances are, you've heard of Lake Okoboji, and probably even Spirit Lake. Did you know that there are more than a dozen other lakes in Dickinson County, all perfect for exploration?

West Okoboji Lake is the largest of the Iowa Great Lakes, and one of only three lakes in the world considered "blue water lakes". Along with Lake Geneva (Switzerland) and Lake Louise (Canada), West Okoboji is fed by cool, freshwater springs.

The little known East Okoboji Lake is a favorite fishing spot of those looking to avoid the crowds of its larger neighbor.

Spirit Lake is another one of Iowa's Great Lakes. It's popular for boating, fishing, paddling, and relaxing on the beach.

Silver Lake, the aptly named City of Lake Park, is a great fishing lake. Boaters often catch black bullhead, bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, and many others in the waters.

Oh, and if you're keeping score, there's a Little Spirit Lake, too.

Many of the smaller lakes, like Jemmerson Slough, Swan Lake, and Christopherson Slough make for perfect paddling destinations.

Pictured below is Center Lake. Whichever lake you choose to explore, catch a sunrise or a sunset, and you're sure to remember the experience.

If you need another reason to explore Dickinson County, read about the history of the coolest amusement park in Iowa - located right on West Okoboji - here.