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Home >  United States  >  Iowa  >  Onawa  >  

Lewis And Clark State Park

Lewis And Clark State Park

United States, Iowa, Onawa 

Sandee

Lewis And Clark State Park

United States, Iowa, Onawa 

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Lewis and Clark State Park, located in Onawa, Iowa, is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park encircles the 250-acre Blue Lake, a semi-circular lake formed by the Missouri River's oxbow over the years. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, swimming, fishing, and camping amidst scenic sand dunes and groves of cottonwood trees. The park also offers a glimpse into history with a visitor center featuring replicas of the Lewis and Clark expedition's boats. The annual Lewis and Clark Festival in June is a highlight, showcasing frontier attire, music, and historical presentations. Located just five miles from Onawa and about 40 miles south of Sioux City, it's a must-visit for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

The park's campground offers electric and full hook-up sites, making it suitable for campers. Picnic areas are also available, equipped with tables, fire grills, and drinking water. A 1930s-era lodge provides additional amenities for gatherings and events.

The park's historical significance is deeply rooted in its connection to the Lewis and Clark expedition, who camped in the area on August 9, 1804. The park serves as a reminder of the region's rich past while offering a tranquil escape into nature.

For dining options near the beach, Onawa offers several choices. Ten34 Brickhouse is a popular bar and grill known for its casual atmosphere and excellent beer selection. It features live performances, karaoke, and bar games, making it a lively spot for both lunch and dinner.

Dan's Pizza is a local favorite for pizza lovers, offering both dine-in and delivery options. Another popular spot is Pizza Hut, famous for its pizza and quick delivery services. Casey's provides a convenient stop for pizza and snacks while also serving as a gas station.

For family dining, Frannie's Cafe is renowned for its casual, cozy atmosphere and great comfort food. Fiesta Brava offers delicious Mexican cuisine with fast service and a casual environment.

For accommodations, Americas Best Value Inn Onawa is a straightforward choice, offering clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and proximity to local restaurants. While there are limited hotel options in the immediate area, nearby campgrounds like On-Ur-Wa RV Park and Onawa / Blue Lake KOA Holiday provide alternative accommodations with RV hookups and playgrounds for families.

Lewis and Clark State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. It includes a modern campground with electric and full hook-up sites, as well as a modern restroom and shower facilities. Picnic grounds are well-equipped with tables, fire grills, and drinking water, perfect for outdoor gatherings. The park also features a historic lodge for events, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).

For water activities, a sandy beach area is available for sunbathing and swimming, along with a boat ramp for easy lake access. The park's visitor center provides historical insights into the Lewis and Clark expedition with engaging exhibits and replicas.

The park offers a variety of activities catering to different interests. Boating and fishing are popular pastimes on Blue Lake, with species like bass, catfish, and northern pike available for fishing. Visitors can also enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the beach. Hiking is another favorite activity, with trails offering scenic views and opportunities to connect with nature.

During the summer months, a replica keelboat offers short tours of the lake, providing a unique historical experience. The annual Lewis and Clark Festival in June is a highlight, featuring historical reenactments, music, and educational presentations.

Lewis and Clark State Park offers several options for visitors with disabilities. The park has wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking lots. Additionally, the modern restrooms and shower facilities are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility impairments. The park's trails and picnic areas are also accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural and historical aspects of the park.

Parking at Lewis and Clark State Park is generally convenient, with designated parking areas near popular spots like the beach and picnic grounds. There are no specific fees mentioned for parking, as it is included in the general park access. The proximity of parking to the beach and other amenities ensures that visitors can easily access all the park has to offer.

A fascinating fact about Lewis and Clark State Park is its origin from the Missouri River's oxbow, which was formed when the river's main channel shifted westward. This historical change in the river's course helped create the semi-circular Blue Lake, which is now a central feature of the park.

Another fun fact is that Lewis and Clark camped in the area on August 9, 1804, during their westward expedition. The annual Lewis and Clark Festival celebrates this history with reenactments, music, and educational programs.

The park's visitor center is another highlight, offering a comprehensive look into the expedition's journey with full-size boat replicas.

One of the main attractions is the visitor center, which houses replicas of the Lewis and Clark expedition's boats, including a keelboat. The park itself is a significant historical location, marking a stopover point for the famous expedition in 1804. Additionally, the park's natural surroundings, including the oxbow lake and sand dunes, offer picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor exploration.

The nearby town of Onawa provides additional attractions and services such as restaurants, shops, and fuel stations. For those interested in history, the site serves as a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Basic Details

INRestroom Available

IN21914 Park Loop, Onawa, IA 51040, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesPlayground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesShowers

  • WiFi

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesPicnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Fishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Bikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Car Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Parking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Lewis And Clark State Park - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Lewis And Clark State Park have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.

    Does Lewis And Clark State Park have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Lewis And Clark State Park a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Lewis And Clark State Park good for swimming?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered a good swimming beach.

    Does Lewis And Clark State Park have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Lewis And Clark State Park a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Lewis And Clark State Park?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at Lewis And Clark State Park?

    Yes, this Beach is a good place to Camping

    Does Lewis And Clark State Park have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is Lewis And Clark State Park a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Lewis And Clark State Park good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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