Here Are 11 Of The Most Beautiful Lakes In Iowa, According To Our Readers
By Clarisa|Published December 02, 2022
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Clarisa
Author
Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.
Iowa’s beauty is often overlooked in favor of more touristy attractions, but locals know how stunning and serene the Hawkeye state can really be. Not much beats a day at the lake, but with so many options for waterside fun, it’s hard to pick a list of winners without asking Iowa. So, we decided to ask Iowa! Our readers on our Only In Iowa Facebook Page nominated their personal favorites so we could narrow down the truth. According to our readers, these 11 are the most beautiful lakes in Iowa. It’s hard to measure beauty when it comes to scenery, but all of these stunning lakes have fans of their own and are always here for fishing, boating, swimming, or just relaxing by the water.
Okoboji was the most popular vote by far, and it's easy to see why it's a fan favorite. West Lake Okoboji is a spring-fed shade of beautiful blue that dips down to around 134 feet at its deepest point. No matter the season, you can find people enjoying the scenery that never seems to run out.
Larger than West Okoboji is another popular place to be known as Clear Lake. Covering 3,684 acres of spring-fed scenery, there's no question why it's a popular choice for boating, swimming, fishing, and photography.
Though it might not take up much space, Lost Grove Lake is packed with picturesque views. It may be only 400 acres, but a hike or an afternoon spent shore fishing is a perfectly good way to enjoy this pretty little lake.
Another one of Iowa's natural gems, Spirit Lake is always busy with boats, fishing, camping, hiking, and other waterside activities. According to legend, this lake got its name from an evil spirit that once inhabited the waters. Thankfully, this glacier-formed feature seems to be perfectly peaceful despite the rumors.
5. Nine Eagles Lake
Nine Eagles State Park, 23678 Dale Miller Rd, Davis City, IA 50065, USA
The lake out at Nine Eagles State Park is always a stunner, especially during the fall. Known as one of Iowa's most picturesque parks, the lake is a common spot for family photos, summer vacation fun, and hiking adventures. Between the native prairie and rocky terrain is where memories are made.
With plenty of hiking trails and prized Kentucky spotted bass bringing people in all year, Lake Macbride never seems to lack in fans. Named after Iowa conservation icon Thomas Macbride, this lake and the surrounding state park are especially stunning in the fall.
As the fourth largest glacier lake in Iowa, Storm lake is the source of many adventures without being as crowded as Okoboji or Clear lake. Regardless of its size ranking, it still spans 3,200 acres of some of the best scenery Iowa has to offer.
8. Deep Lakes Park
Deep Lakes Park, Pettibone Ave, Muscatine, IA 52761, USA
Though it might not be a natural lake, the beauty at Deep Lakes Park simply can't be ignored. What was once a quarry has been filled, and is now 120 acres of clear water lakes you can see the fish in. It's unique and beautiful, and from a canoe's point of view, it doesn't get much better than this.
A less popular option for summer fun but no less pretty, Backbone Lake pulls in most of its fans during the fall. With colors like these on display, no one will blame you for trying to get the perfect angle on the foliage-framed water. As part of Iowa's first state park, this one holds a special place in many hearts.
Out in Polk County, you'll find a smaller 800-acre lake in Big Creek State Park to explore. It might not be everyone's first choice, but the sunsets out here can't be beat.
Iowa's largest lake comes in at a whopping 15,000 acres of water and 35,000 acres of surrounding land for visitors to hike, boat, swim, and otherwise explore. This lake might be busy all the time, but that doesn't diminish the amazing angles you can take in during its rare moments of stillness.
What do you think of this list of Iowa’s most beautiful lakes? If you want to post your own photos or see more of Iowa’s beauty in your feed, check out our Iowa Nature Lovers Facebook Page to join the fun and share your adventures.
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