Nothing says summer like a trip to the beach! Even though Iowa is far from the ocean, there are many great beaches available in our landlocked state. Some of them are right here in our own backyard! Check out this guide to beaches and lakes in the Iowa City area.
Guide to Beaches and Lakes in the Iowa City Area
Please know that information in this guide is subject to change. Please verify before heading out to avoid any unpleasant surprises!
Terry Trueblood Recreation Area
579 McCollister Blvd., Iowa City
319-855-3455
Amenities
- Canoe, kayak, paddle boarding, fishing, and approximately 2 miles of paved trails.
- Rentals are available seasonally through Fin & Feather H2O, call 319-855-3455 for more information. Operations may be limited due to current COVID-19 conditions, please call to verify before you set out.
Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area
4530 McClintock Rd., Palo
319-436-7716
Hours
- The beach is open from 4 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Alcohol, glass containers, and pets are not allowed within the fenced swimming area.
Amenities
- Fenced swimming area (swimming is only allowed within the designated area). Restrooms and showers are located in the swimming area.
- Lake stocked with several types of fish.
- 8.5 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and running.
- A “no-wake lake” policy allows for canoeing, diving, SCUBA, and pontoon boats.
- Three camping areas are available within the park.
- Two small shelters and a day lodge can be reserved via the online reservation system.
Lake MacBride State Park
3525 Highway 382 NE, Solon
319-624-2200
Hours
- Swimming beach: 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Boat rentals: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday/Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Cost
- $5/car cash to enter the state park (some reports say this is inconsistently collected)
- Boat rentals: varies based on time and type of boat. Call 319-624-2315 for a price list.
Amenities
- Bathrooms near swimming area.
- Boat rentals are available (canoes, kayaks, pontoon boats, paddle boats).
- Concessions are available within the boat rental area.
Other Information
- No alcohol is allowed on the beach.
- Swimming is only allowed in a designated area, no swimming from boats.
Kent Park
2048 Hwy 6 NW, Oxford
This is a 27-acre, manufactured lake, that is perfect for fishing and swimming.
Hours
- 11 a.m . to 8 p.m. daily, from the first Saturday after Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Cost
- Free!
Amenities
- Showers, bathrooms, and changing rooms available.
- Playground available in state park, but not near the swimming beach.
Other Information
- No lifeguards on duty, swim at your own risk.
- Boat dock available, but no boat rentals.
- Swimming is only allowed from the beach, no swimming from boats.
- No alcohol or pets are allowed on the beach.
- No concessions are available.
Coralville Lake: Sugar Bottom, Sandy Beach, West Overlook
2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City
319-338-3543
Hours
- Day use areas of the park are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost
- $5 per car for day use of the park (cash).
- Annual passes are available.
Amenities
- Bathrooms and changing areas are available at Sugar Bottom.
- A Visitor Center is available within the park.
- Bike and hiking trails are available within the park and camping areas.
Other Information
- Check out the website for more helpful information.
- A public swimming beach is located near the mountain bike trail in Sugar Bottom Recreation Area.
- Sandy Beach and West Overlook beaches are located in the “Day Use” recreation areas.
- A separate beach is available only for campers registered at the Sugar Bottom Campground.
- Alcohol is not allowed on any of the three swimming beaches.
- Life jackets are available for loan for children weighing less than 90 lbs and are available at the visitors center. Must be checked out by an adult with ID shown.
If beaches and sand aren’t your thing, check out this guide to Iowa City Area Pools and Splash Pads for more great options for cooling off in the summer sun.
