Best Beaches in Iowa

Saylorville Lake is a popular recreational destination located in Johnston, Iowa. It offers a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The area also features several campsites and picnic areas, making it ideal for family outings. Additionally, Saylorville Lake is known for its diverse wildlife and scenic views, creating a tranquil atmosphere for visitors.

The lake spans over 6,000 acres of water and includes amenities like boat ramps, marinas, and playgrounds. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking along the more than 50 miles of trails surrounding the lake. The nearby Saylorville Dam provides additional scenic views and recreational opportunities.

Saylorville Lake is listed as a significant bird area, particularly for waterfowl during their migrations, further enhancing its natural beauty and appeal for nature enthusiasts.

Rathbun Lake, affectionately dubbed Iowa’s Ocean for its expansive 11,000-acre water surface, is a premier Midwest destination offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this lake near Iconium features three designated swimming beaches at Buck Creek Park, Island View Park, and Honey Creek Resort, each buoyed for safety and equipped with amenities. The surrounding rolling hills and abundant wildlife create a serene backdrop for camping, boating, and fishing, while user reviews highlight its family-friendly vibe and well-maintained facilities[1][2][4].

The lake’s 34,000-acre project includes over 475 campsites across ten recreation areas, catering to RVers and tent campers alike. Visitors frequently praise Rathbun’s clean shores, clear waters, and the availability of diverse activities, from hiking trails to motorized water sports. Its dual role in flood control and recreation ensures balanced accessibility, appealing to both adventure seekers and those seeking quiet lakeside relaxation[1][5].

Clear Lake State Park Beach is located on the southeast corner of the beautiful 3,643-acre Clear Lake, offering a diverse range of recreational activities. The park is only 55 acres but provides a tremendous variety of outdoor opportunities due to its location on the lake and natural beauty. It features a 900-foot sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing, along with picnic grounds and a popular campground. The surrounding area is known for its wildlife habitat, including Scenic Woodford Island, which is excellent for fishing. The park offers activities like boating, jet skiing, and windsurfing, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The beach itself is unsupervised, but lifeguards are available during peak seasons, ensuring safety for all visitors. With its proximity to the town of Clear Lake, visitors can enjoy boutique shopping and dining options.
The park's natural beauty, coupled with its varied recreational opportunities, makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. The nearby town provides additional amenities like restaurants and stores, enhancing the overall experience.

Big Creek State Park is located in Polk City, Iowa, approximately 15 miles north of Des Moines. The park is centered around Big Creek Lake, which offers one of the largest beaches in the Iowa state park system. Visitors can enjoy a serene lakeside experience, away from the ocean's waves, instead opting for swimming, picnicking, fishing, and boating. The park is well-suited for family outings and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering a range of activities including hiking and biking on the 27-mile Neil Smith Trail. In winter, cross-country skiing is an option on a designated 3.5-mile trail.
The park's landscape, while primarily natural, has historical significance as it was originally developed to manage floods related to the Saylorville Lake project. Today, it serves as a pivotal habitat for local wildlife and a green oasis for city dwellers seeking refuge in nature. The area supports a variety of flora and fauna, making it ideal for wildlife viewing and photography.
Big Creek State Park features modern restrooms, a large playground, and numerous picnic shelters, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all patrons.

Whitebreast Beach, located near Knoxville, Iowa, offers a picturesque getaway with its extensive stretch of golden sand. This beach is perfect for activities like swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and camping. It combines natural beauty with rich local history and lore, making it a cherished spot for both locals and visitors. The surrounding landscape includes numerous hiking trails and museums, providing a comprehensive experience of Iowa's natural and cultural heritage.

Whitebreast Beach is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy water sports, nature exploration, and relaxation. The nearby Whitebreast Recreation Area offers camping facilities, adding to the beach's appeal for those seeking an extended stay. Despite its beauty, the beach does not have lifeguards on duty, and pets are not allowed, ensuring a safe and clean environment for all guests.

This scenic destination is nestled by beautiful Lake Red Rock, offering stunning views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Visitors can enjoy a serene atmosphere, explore local festivals, and immerse themselves in the area's unique history.

Five Island Lake is a serene destination nestled in the heart of Emmetsburg, Iowa. It offers picturesque landscapes and tranquil waters, making it ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities. Despite not having visible islands, its name reflects local history and folklore, adding a unique charm to the area. While the beach lacks extensive amenities, it provides unguarded swimming areas and picnic spots, ensuring a peaceful day by the lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking, with nearby attractions like Soper Park offering additional recreational options.
Five Island Lake is a glacial lake spanning five miles long and a half mile wide, with a surface area of 964 acres. It is popular for activities like boating, skiing, and fishing during warmer months and ice fishing in winter. The lake's tranquil beauty and surrounding parks make it a preferred spot for both locals and tourists. Annual festivals and historical sites in Emmetsburg enhance the cultural appeal of the area.
Located near the town, Five Island Lake provides a peaceful getaway with opportunities for nature walks and bird watching, complementing its role as a lakeside recreational hub.

Five Island Lake is a serene destination nestled in the heart of Emmetsburg, Iowa. It offers picturesque landscapes and tranquil waters, making it ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities. Despite not having visible islands, its name reflects local history and folklore, adding a unique charm to the area. While the beach lacks extensive amenities, it provides unguarded swimming areas and picnic spots, ensuring a peaceful day by the lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking, with nearby attractions like Soper Park offering additional recreational options.
Five Island Lake is a glacial lake spanning five miles long and a half mile wide, with a surface area of 964 acres. It is popular for activities like boating, skiing, and fishing during warmer months and ice fishing in winter. The lake's tranquil beauty and surrounding parks make it a preferred spot for both locals and tourists. Annual festivals and historical sites in Emmetsburg enhance the cultural appeal of the area.
Located near the town, Five Island Lake provides a peaceful getaway with opportunities for nature walks and bird watching, complementing its role as a lakeside recreational hub.

F.W. Kent Park, located in Oxford, Iowa, is a sprawling 1,062-acre public park offering an array of recreational activities and scenic landscapes. The park features a 27-acre lake ideal for swimming, fishing, and paddling, alongside extensive trails for hiking and biking. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and exploring the rich wildlife and diverse ecosystems, including prairies, savannas, and forests. With a rich history and diverse natural beauty, the park provides a tranquil atmosphere for both relaxation and adventure.
Established in 1966, Kent Park is named after Frederick Wallace Kent, a local photographer who contributed to the preservation of wildlife areas. The park offers educational programs through its Conservation Education Center and includes accessible amenities for visitors.
The park's year-round operations make it an excellent choice for seasonal activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, maintaining its appeal throughout the year.