The heat of summer will be here before you know it, and there’s a collection of some of the best lakes in Iowa that you truly need to check out! From quiet fishing retreats to lively waterfront towns, these waterways draw visitors from all across the state. The best lakes in Iowa offer boating, paddleboarding, great swimming, beaches, scenic hiking trails, and sunset cruises. If you want all of this and more, East and West Lake Okoboji is the perfect vacation destination.

The history of lakes in Iowa runs deep, especially in the northwest corner, where the Iowa Great Lakes have attracted visitors for more than a century. In the late 1800s, rail lines brought families from across the Midwest to spend summers along the water. Wooden hotels and cottages lined the shore, and steamboats carried guests across Lake Okoboji for sunny day outings. Over time, the Okoboji area grew into one of Iowa’s most established attractions, known for its deep-blue water, ideal boating conditions, and a\\\\\\ place to rent a boat and lively nightlife.

\\Before you start filling your itinerary with all of the best things to do in Okoboji, you’ll want\\ to choose a place to stay, and one of the best hotels in Okoboji is set back from the lakeshore. The innkeepers know the area well and can guide you toward the best spots on East and West Lake Okoboji, whether you want a scenic bike ride, a sunset cruise, or dinner reservations by the water. After a full day exploring lakes in Iowa, you return to a quiet retreat where comfort and service come first. Book your lodging today!

Lakes in Iowa: Explore the Okoboji Area

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Hotels in Okoboji: A Hosted Stay at The Oakwood Inn

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