The old Klondike Dam, built on the Big Sioux River, has been completely converted into a recreation site! Now, kayakers and adventurers alike can experience a blend of history and nature at this gorgeous spot along the Big Sioux River.
The Klondike Dam and Bridge site is a beautiful spot for explorers to experience history and scenery all in one spot.
This historic impoundment on the Big Sioux River has been removed, but the legacy and the architecture of the area has been forever impacted.
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The Dam itself was dismantled in 2013, but remnants of this historic structure still litter the landscape.
Whitewater Kaykers in the region take to the river here to test their skills in the rapids left behind.
Stunning wildflowers grow here all summer long, rising up from the banks of the river and adding a splash of color to an otherwise industrial scene.
While there aren't miles of trail here, the bridge crossing and surrounding land make for a great spot to settle in for a picnic!
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If you're a kayaker, the Iowa Whitewater Coalition has a lot of information to help you stay safe on the water.
The original dam was built in 1883, and the bridge has been standing over the river for almost as long!
Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery laid out before you at the Klondike Dam site, one of Iowa's historic hidden gems.
When you plan a visit to the old Klondike Dam site, you'll discover a beautiful slice of paradise along the Big Sioux River. Plan a trip to check it out!
It seems like sometimes in the summer, even the most peaceful lakes and swimming holes are packed with visitors looking to cool off. Do you want to get away - and we mean REALLY get away? You might want to head to Lake Sugema in southeast Iowa, only a short distance from the Missouri border. With a peaceful lakefront and a nearby state park perfect for hiking, it may just be the isolated summer retreat you've been looking for. Come along as we show you why visiting the most remote lake in Iowa should be on your travel bucket list.
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You won't find big crowds at Lake Sugema - but this man-made lake is known among its fans as a quiet, isolated retreat perfect for fishing.
The crystal-clear waters look even more beautiful when backed by the fall foliage, but the landscape is beautiful and peaceful any time of year.
On one side of the lake, you'll find the Lake Sugema Campgrounds, where you'll find a fully-equipped place to park your RV or pitch a tent.
But if you drive to the other side, you'll be hiking distance to Lacey Keosauqua State Park, another underrated nature destination in the area.
The park has several trails that take you into the woods and around a smaller lake, and can be fully explored in a day.
The terrain is fairly easy, if largely unpaved, and the woods have a simple beauty to them.
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Along the way, you'll encounter some fascinating sites in the park from decades past.
The park is also home to some historical sites and sculptures to explore, if you want to take a break from hiking.
After a long day of exploring, return to the shores of Lake Sugema for a cookout and bask in maybe the most serene and remote lakeside getaway in the Hawkeye State.
Have you escaped from the crowds at Lake Sugema and Lacey Keosauqua State Park? What are your favorite natural wonders in Iowa? What about your favorite lakes in Iowa? Do you agree that it is among the best lakes in Iowa? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!
If you’d like to explore some really great hikes in and around the area, you can find information and photos about trails to embark upon by going to the AllTrails website.
Thinking about taking a vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.
Our state offers some sweltering summer days, and there's no better way to cope than just give in to the heat and go tubing in Iowa with a big group of friends. Our first four suggestions are all on the Upper Iowa River, so if you've been searching for the best lazy river near me, and you're anywhere near the Upper Iowa, you have your answer. But don't worry - there are plenty of others throughout the state. Pack some cold drinks, slather on the sunscreen, and head to any of these awesome lazy river locations to enjoy the steamiest summer weather Iowa has to offer!
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1. Chimney Rock Campground - Cresco
First on our list of the best river floats in Iowa is Chimney Rock Campground. This rental business is on the Upper Iowa River in extreme Northeast Iowa. National Geographic's Adventure Magazine recently recognized this area of Iowa. This private farm is located along the "Chimney Rocks" and is open all summer with tubes available for your float.
For outdoor enthusiasts who would like a little longer to explore the Upper Iowa River, White's Riverside Bluffton Campground will help you plan your Iowa tubing adventures. The business also maintains the Bluffton Campground, which has electrical hookups, fresh water, and solar showers.
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3. Hutchinson Family Farm Campground and B&B - Decorah
This working beef and quarter horse farm is also a campground for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Tube the most beautiful part of the Upper Iowa River at the Hutchinson Family Farm Campground and B&B. There's even a "swimming hole" and playground for the kids.
4. Upper Iowa Resort & Rental - Dorchester
You can rent tubes, canoes, and kayaks from Upper Iowa Resort and Rental. Shuttle service and help planning a river trip are available, as well. Enjoy beautiful scenery along the Upper Iowa River as you float.
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5. Raccoon River Excursions - Des Moines
Raccoon River Excursions facilitates weekend river floats in Iowa down the scenic Raccoon River near Des Moines. Book in advance for a Saturday or Sunday float that lasts between four and five hours. Launch times are between 9 a.m. and noon.
6. Rock-n-Row Adventures - Eldora
Rock-n-Row Adventures rents tubing equipment for 3-5 hour floats down the Iowa River. They also provide a shuttle service to the starting point. They are fully insured, and also serve as a campground and music venue.
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7. Seven Oaks Recreation - Boone
Enjoy a 3 to 5-hour float down the Des Moines River with Seven Oaks Recreation, passing under the 185-foot-tall Kate Shelley High Bridge. There are many easily accessible sand bars and great scenery, which make for awesome lazy river tubing in Iowa.
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8. River Dock Canoe Rental - Independence
Rent tubes and float as far as you'd like. If you love river tubing in Iowa, River Dock Canoe Rental is a fantastic choice. These folks will deliver and pick up your rented tubes at your location along the Wapsipinicon River within 20 miles of the town of Independence at no additional charge on Saturdays and Sundays.
9. Rubber Duck Outfitters - Hancock
Float the Nishnabotna River through western Iowa on a "Rubber Duck" tube complete with beverage holder. Shuttle service is available. You can even bring your dog on this river excursion. Tubing in Iowa has never been easier than it is with Rubber Duck Outfitters!
Enjoy spectacular scenery, the camaraderie of friends, and the beautiful Iowa waterways from an up-close and personal vantage point. It doesn't get much better than tubing in Iowa on a hot summer day. What are your favorite things to do in Iowa during the summer? Let us know!