There is no question eastern Iowa has the lion’s share of waterfront destinations in the Hawkeye State, what with the Mississippi River looming large. Then there’s northern Iowa, with the Iowa great lakes. But it turns out, there’s a great waterfront destination hiding in the southwest region of Iowa as well – and you don’t even have to leave the Council Bluffs metro area! Wavecrest Park is a beautiful suburban destination hiding in Carter Lake, a small town with just over 3,000 people. It’s home to a beautiful lakeside beach in Iowa – and the best part is, most people haven’t discovered it yet! That means whether you’re from the city or coming from elsewhere in Iowa, this is one hidden gem of a water destination you’ll want to put in your summer plans.

Wavecrest Park is one of those classic hidden gems, a neighborhood park - but this one has a great secret.
Luis Ortiz Rosales/Google Local
It's home to a beautiful lakeside beach, on the banks of a shallow oxbow lake that's perfect for summer recreation.
Jeffrey Bodensteiner/Google Local
It's a small, laid-back park with a picnic area, but you'll probably want to spend most of your time on the water!
Luis Ortiz Rosales/Google Local

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There aren't too many fancy features here, but there is a fishing pier and a boat dock. The shallower areas of the lake are popular for swimming.
Dan Shooey/Google Local
The park also has a small, charming playground that the youngest visitors will love when they're done with swimming.
Luis Ortiz Rosales/Google Local
Of course, maybe the best part of a visit to Wavecrest Park is simply sitting back and watching the sun go down over that stunning lake.
Luis Ortiz Rosales/Google Local

Have you visited Wavecrest Park in Carter Lake? Let us know about your time at this beautiful park in the comments section. The Carter Lake website has more information on all the amenities you can expect to find at this lakeside beach in Iowa. While you’re in the area, did you know Council Bluffs is a barbecue destination? It’s also home to a beautiful Marriott hotel.

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Wavecrest Park, 112 Shoreline Dr, Carter Lake, IA 51510, USA