The Iowa Great Lakes are a cluster of natural glacial lakes in the far northwest corner of the state – Iowa’s premier summer destination and a region unlike anywhere else in the Midwest farm country. Centered on the Okoboji lakes and Big Spirit Lake, they offer clear “blue water,” sailing, beaches, an iconic amusement park and superb fishing. This guide introduces the chain. It’s part of our Iowa Lakes Database.
West Okoboji – the blue-water jewel
West Okoboji Lake is the star: the deepest, clearest natural lake in Iowa, a glacially formed “blue water” lake famous for sailing, beaches, the historic Arnolds Park amusement park, and excellent walleye, perch and bass fishing. It’s the social and recreational heart of the region.
Big Spirit Lake – the largest natural lake
Big Spirit Lake, straddling the Minnesota border, is the largest natural lake in Iowa – a broad, open lake renowned for walleye and yellow perch, and a favorite of serious anglers and sailors. It connects to the Okoboji chain through East Okoboji.
East Okoboji and the smaller lakes
East Okoboji Lake is longer and shallower than its western twin, linking the chain, while smaller lakes – Upper and Lower Gar, Minnewashta and Center Lake – round out the Iowa Great Lakes, each with its own character and fishing.
What to do
The region is built for summer: sailing (the Okoboji Yacht Club is legendary), powerboating, fishing, swimming at numerous beaches, the Queen II excursion boat, and the rides and roller coaster at Arnolds Park. The Iowa Great Lakes Spine Trail links the towns of Okoboji, Arnolds Park, Spirit Lake and Milford for cyclists. Winter brings ice fishing for the famous perch and walleye.
Fishing the Great Lakes
These clear, fertile lakes are among Iowa’s best fisheries – walleye, yellow perch, bluegill, smallmouth and largemouth bass, muskie and northern pike. An Iowa fishing license is required; help protect the lakes’ famous water clarity by cleaning, draining and drying boats.
Planning a visit
The Iowa Great Lakes are in Dickinson County, about 1.5 hours north of Sioux City via US-71, near the Minnesota line. It’s Iowa’s busiest summer resort area, so book lodging early – and consider the quieter shoulder seasons for fishing.
Start with West Okoboji, see all the best lakes in Iowa, or head back to the Iowa Lakes Database.
