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Beaches?

In Iowa?

Dotted with a network of rivers and lakes, Iowa is open for surprises as you discover Iowa's magnificent scenic beauty. That is, in lake beaches that provide Iowan's with ideal surroundings for maintaining your summer cool in the Hawkeye State.

The state park system is where to begin your Iowa beach adventure, with dozens of opportunities to relax the day away on sandy beaches. Places like West Okojobi Lake, Gull Point State Park beach, Arnolds Amusement Park beach and the beach at Pikes Point are some of the best rated.

In the larger cities, as well, you don't have to travel very far to beat the heat during the summer, what with Des Moines great mix of sun, sandy beaches and shade at Gray's Lake Park (rated a Top Ten Great Public Spaces in 2011) or Dubuque's warm weather playground at Grand Harbor Resort & Water Park.

Then there are acres of backyard in the Cedar Falls/Waterloo metro area at George Wyth State Park with scenic camping facilities, swimming, boating and more.

Have fun!

More about Iowa beaches around the Web:

Iowa State Parks Bureau - The mega-list maintained by the state's Department of Natural Resources with links to further descriptions major campgrounds, sandy lakefront beaches and swimming areas.

Iowa Great Lakes Water Safety Council - Good overview of swimming conditions, related archived news features, water quality reports, related resources.

Okoboji Online - Area Natural Attractions - With info on swimming spots in Gull Point State Park, Pikes Point and Orleans Beach.

Saylorville Lake - Moving just north from Des Moines, with lots of summer outdoor fun including swimming, hiking, camping, fishing and more with directions and maps, admission fees, event calendar.

Clear Lake, Iowa, Chamber of Commerce - Besides lazing around the beach, check out area attractions including a visit to the Buddy Holly memorial, along with info on the city's history, lodging and dining, event calendar, pictures, virtual tour and a live webcam.

Lake MacBride State Park - A brief history plus descriptions of recreational activities including a sandy lakefront beach, boating, camping, fishing and picknicking.

also see -> Iowa campgrounds