It’s that time of year again: picnic season in Iowa! With all this sunshine and good weather, it would be a shame to not go on at least one picnic this summer. So grab a blanket, a basket packed with your favorite goodies and your best picnicking buddies, and head outdoors to check out these 10 absolutely gorgeous picnic spots in Iowa.
1. Eagle Point Park, Dubuque
This public park offers pavilions, picnic tables, grills, restrooms, play equipment, and more to make your family picnic one for the books - not to mention the amazing view as you look out over the bluff into three different states.
2. McFarland Park, Ames
McFarland Park is a 200-acre area that offers a fishing dock and deck, picnic sites and grills, and plenty of trails to keep you busy on your next outing.
3. Backbone State Park, Strawberry Point
Iowa's oldest state park, Backbone offers a gorgeous picnic area, both indoor and outdoor, complete with a playground, restroom, beach access, concessions, and much more.
4. Central College Pond, Pella
Pella is such a beautiful little town, and there are a ton of parks to picnic at, such as: Brinkhoff Park, Brook Circle Park, Central Park, and more. Personally, I think a little blanket on the grass next to the pond is a perfect spot for a picnic. And while you're there, check out the Molengracht Canal!
5. Stone State Park, Sioux City
Stone State Park is a scenic backdrop for a fun, family excursion. There are open shelters and picnic areas located throughout the park, which offer beautiful views of the Loess Hills and surrounding area. There are also bathrooms, trails, a nature center, and much more to keep everyone busy.
6. Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Des Moines
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a perfect place for an urban picnic. Grab a blanket and some food, and head downtown for a fun meal outdoors as you take in the amazing art.
7. Julien Dubuque Monument, Dubuque
The monument, which is situated at the top of a bluff overlooking the river, gives an absolutely amazing view as you sit in the grass, enjoying a nice picnic with your friends.
8. Leach Park, Bettendorf
Leach Park sits right next to the river, and offers two picnic shelters with grills, a boat launch, fishing, and trail. This is the perfect spot to go for a summer afternoon picnic with your family or friends!
9. Lake Manawa State Park, Council Bluffs
Lake Manawa has many different picnic shelters, including one with kitchen facilities. The area also offers swimming, boating, fishing, trails, and much more.
10. Pikes Peak State Park, McGregor
Pikes Peak is one of Iowa's most beautiful state parks. The area offers open picnic shelters as well as closed, gazebo areas, but personally I would prefer to just sit down at the top of this bluff and look out over the river as I enjoy a nice meal with my loved ones.
There’s no better way to celebrate summer than a good picnic – just don’t forget the bug spray! Which one of these spots will you be hitting up first?
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