The Water Around Us

Top Beaches, Waterfalls & Swimming Spots in Iowa

Iowa has 2,715 listed water destinations, including lakes and rivers. Browse them by type below, with ratings, photos and directions for each.

🏞️Top Lakes in Iowa

2 locations

Lake Red Rock

Lake Red Rock

Expansive recreational area surrounded by parks, with hiking & biking trails, plus campsites.

Clear Lake

Clear Lake

Popular lake with water sports, boating, fishing, picnic areas & a seasonal swimming beach.

🌊Top Rivers in Iowa

1 locations

Ocheyedan River

Ocheyedan River

The Ocheyedan River is a tributary of the Little Sioux River, 58 mi long, in southwestern Minnesota and northwestern Iowa in the United States. Via the Little Sioux and Missouri Rivers, it is part of the watershed of the Mississippi River. The river has been channelized for much of its length.

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Start with practical categories that fit many water trips. These are Amazon search links, not fixed product endorsements.

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