Iowa is full of beautiful lakes, but one underrated reservoir stands out when it comes to having clear and clean water. If you’ve never visited Five Island Lake, you’ll want to plan a day to explore this gorgeous lake tucked away in rural Iowa.

Five Island Lake is a large lake near Emmetsburg, Iowa that's often one of the most overlooked spots in the state.
Flickr / David Morris
The lake covers nearly 1,000 acres, and it stretches for as far as the eye can see. It's not very deep - only 25 feet at the deepest - but it makes for great boating.
Flickr / David Morris
There are several parks you can find along the shore, and miles of walking paths that make it easy to take in the view.
Flickr / J. Stephen Conn
Many people head to Five Island Lake for sunrise or sunset, because the clear and quiet water makes for an excellent reflecting pool.
Flickr / David Morris

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One of the best parts of spending a day at Five Island Lake is getting to cast your line from the shore! You don't need to drop in your boat for a productive catch.
Flickr / J. Stephen Conn
Of course, if you want to head out on the boat, you can. There are several boat ramps and places to drop in kayaks if you'd rather spend the day on the water.
Flickr / David Morris
You'll find plenty of species of fish stocked here, including black and yellow bullhead, black and white crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch.
Flickr / David Morris
Make time to relax along the shores or on the water of Five Island Lake, one of Iowa's most pristine and welcoming bodies of water. It's the perfect summertime destination.
Flickr / David Morris

Check out everything available at Five Island Lake on the Iowa DNR website, here. If you’re looking for camping, you can find tent sites and cabins at Kearny State Park, right on the water.

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Five Island Lake, Freedom, IA 50536, USA