Iowa is full of lakes, and any nature lover out here can tell you their favorite quiet spot for a day hiking, paddling, fishing, or just relaxing on the shoreline. One underrated lake in Iowa is tucked away at the edge of Polk County. If you’ve never been to the Dale Maffitt Reservoir, you’re missing out!

The beautiful Dale Maffitt Reservoir is a man-made lake that stretches into four different Iowa counties. Though the majority of the lake is in Polk County, it's also part of Warren, Dallas, and Madison Counties.
Des Moines Water Works
This scenic 200-acre lake is surrounded by more than 1,500 acres of land. Tall oaks sit on the shoreline, making this a shady spot for a walk or an outdoor adventure.
Des Moines Water Works
The Reservoir was first built in the 1940s as a backup water source, and since then, it has been maintained as a place where the public can enjoy what most people call Maffitt Lake.
AllTrails / April Hicks

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Trumpeter Swans call this lake home, along with otters, geese, ducks, and plenty of fish species. Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Yellow Perch, and Largemouth Bass make this a great community fishing spot.
AllTrails / Heather Meendering
There are several docks where you can drop in a boat or kayak and enjoy a day on the water. If you prefer to stay dry, the nature trail surrounding the lake runs for nearly 5 miles.
Des Moines Waterworks
The Dale Maffitt Reservoir may be the most underrated lake in Iowa, and when you spend a day out here, you'll enjoy a peaceful and serene hidden gem that's sure to capture your heart.
Flickr / Phil Roeder

This gorgeous lake is a peaceful and serene oasis for nature lovers in the Des Moines area. You can find more information by checking out the Iowa DMR website, right here.

Do you have a favorite lake here in the Hawkeye State? Tell us about it on our nomination page. 

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Dale Maffitt Reservoir, Iowa 50061, USA