This Underrated Lake Just Might Be The Most Beautiful Place In Iowa

The website Thrillist recently named West Okoboji Lake as Iowa’s most underrated place. Given its popularity with locals, we aren’t sure how underrated it actually is…but if you’ve never been there, you’re definitely missing out. This is one of Iowa’s gems that shouldn’t be passed up.

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Known to most simply as Lake Okoboji (because, let's face it, the algae-covered East Okoboji Lake is like a whole different world), it's Iowa's deepest lake and part of the Iowa Great Lakes. The lake is actually an ancient pothole formed during the most recent ice age. It's fed by subterranean springs which keep the water crisp, clear, and blue. With a maximum depth of 136 feet, it's the perfect place for all kinds of water sports and activities.

flickr/Mary Fairchild

In the summer, you'll see motor boats everywhere. Some of them are pulling water skiers or holding anglers waiting for their next big catch. Many, though, are just out there for the sake of being out on the beautiful clear water. Non-motorized water craft and swimmers also share the lovely lake.

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flickr/Mary Fairchild

Heading out to the lake on popular holidays like Memorial Day weekend or the Fourth of July is an experience for the brave. The lake and all of the surrounding areas get positively bogged down with visitors. It's a testament to the sheer awesomeness of the destination.

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flickr/Mary Fairchild

Of course, no trip to Lake Okoboji would be complete without a stop at Arnolds Park. This Coney Island-type attraction has been around since 1891, providing a unique amusement park environment right on the water. You won't find the likes of it anywhere else in Iowa.

If you’re a boater and haven’t yet made it out to Okoboji, maybe this video will convince you to make the trip. It’s a first-hand look at speeding around the lake on a bright summer day.

If you’re more of a thrill seeker, this video is an action-filled look at how a group of young people spends a summer weekend at the lake.

Whatever you do while at Okoboji, the natural (and, in some cases, human-made) beauty of this place is truly unforgettable. Have you ever visited? Do you agree that it’s Iowa’s most underrated place? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!