Open Memorial through Labor Day, visitors can learn about the Spirit Lake Massacre and the events leading up to and following its tragedy. Hours are 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday. The Dickinson County Conservation Board staffs the Abbie Gardner Cabin in an agreement with the Iowa State Historical Society.
Only two years after the Dickinson County Conservation Board was established, it took on the care of a beautiful recreation area on the south side of Big Spirit Lake. The conservation board worked on an agreement with the State Conservation Commission for 25 years of management of Orleans Beach. The area east of the spillway Read More »
Make memories on more than 30 rides and attractions, including the famous wooden “Legend” Roller Coaster. There are rides for every size child, young and old, and games to challenge your skills! Free parking, free admission to Arnolds Park Amusement Park, just pay to ride the rides. The Park and Raceway are open daily at Read More »
What is more All- American than a hot dog and a vanilla malt from Bob’s fast food place along with a day at the beach than on Arnolds Park Amusement Park beach?! Bob’s overlooks a popular area for visiting tourists and locals. The beach is a close walk to the amusement park as well as Read More »
In September 2017, the Park received a surprise call with the announcement that the Funhouse Toys would be coming back to the Park through a generous donation from Dan Wells, Jared and Jacqui Penne, Mackenzie Wells, Carly Wells, and Tim and Joren Kinnetz. The slide, barrel and sugar bowl were all installed inside the newly Read More »
Back in the day, big bands and old-time rock n’ roll ruled the stage at the fabled Roof Garden. While the sound has changed, the spirit remains the same. Each summer, Historic Arnolds Park hosts a FREE concert series at Preservation Plaza.
The Raceway at Arnolds Park is perfect for a family or company outing, team building, or client entertainment. The Family Track, for ages 9 and up, offers the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing in a safe controlled environment. The Slick Track has drivers sliding around corners with wide eyes. Single rides, daily or Read More »
The iconic Roof Garden – which became famous throughout the Midwest for hosting marquee swing and then rock n’ roll bands – is in the process of a major rebuild. The New Roof Garden will closely resemble the historic two-story ballroom that was demolished in 1987.
The Bedell Family YMCA has grown to impact one out of two people in the Iowa Great Lakes. The YMCA boasts activities such as sports, aquatics, fitness, school-aged programs, special events and more. Caring staff will make you experience at the Bedell Family YMCA a home away from home.
You want it on the water – We rent it! The Iowa Great Lakes boat and water toy rental giant, Boat Okoboji Rentals features Okoboji’s newest and most comprehensive selection of rental boats and ski gear. Our fleet includes boats by Sea Ray, Avalon and Misty Harbor Pontoons, Sea Doo Personal Watercraft as well as Read More »
Bring the family and make a splash any time of the year at Boji Splah waterpark – the only one in the area! The outdoor waterpark (all new pools and slides in 2020) will WOW you! Jet down the tube slide or float along the lazy river. When hunger strikes grab a snack, lunch, frozen Read More »
Bouncelandia is the most unique and exciting inflatable attraction in the Midwest. The flagship attraction is the worlds largest bounce house covering over 13,000 square feet and towers over 32 feet above the ground. New for Summer 2022 is Virtual Reality and Gelly Blaster! Ages 0-3 may enter the facility for free but must be Read More »
Enjoy three unique golf layouts and play through parkland, prairie and wetlands at Brooks Golf. Serving the golfing public since 1932 with an updated expansion to 27 holes completed in 1999, Brooks is a beautifully maintained course accommodating seasoned veterans and beginners seeking a challenging game. Multiple tee selections, bent grass fairways and greens make Read More »
Captain John has fished Okoboji and the Iowa Great Lakes for decades. He knows where the fish are hiding, and how to catch them. John competed at the highest levels in wally tournaments for over 25 years, finishing as one of the top anglers of all time. The Captain enjoys teaching people how to become Read More »
Established in 1985, The Clark Museum, features a vast collection of pictorial and written histories, old memorabilia, signs and a large display of Arnold’s Park Amusement Park artifacts. Many people intend to stop for a few minutes and end up spending hours viewing the displays. PLEASE CHECK WEBSITE for hours of operation or call 712-338-2147.
The Dickinson County Museum preserves and shares the heritage of Dickinson County through a variety of exhibits. The Museum is one of the original depots found along the Chicago-Milwaukee-St. Paul Railroad, and it now houses an extensive collection that depicts the area’s historic railroad, agricultural, resort and industrial eras.
It’s all free at the Dickinson County Nature Center! Check out the live animals, indoor beehive, kids space area and all-new interactive exhibits in Pollinator Paradise. Head outside for the Nature playscape, disc-golf, trails and the Westport Schoolhouse. Year-round programming is also free.
East Lake Park is all new in 2021! With the Minnie Queen, fish slide, benches, beautiful landscaping, plentiful parking, a public dock and plenty of benches this is a must visit park. Located right on East Lake Okoboji next to the state boat ramp across from the Kum & Go convenience store on Highway 71. Read More »
With lush green rolling hills and an abundance of stately trees, Emerald Hills will ensure golfers of all skill levels a fun challenge at affordable rates. This beautifully maintained 6,651-yard course offers its players an enjoyable golf experience with its unique doglegs, water hazards, and quick breaking greens, along with a first-class clubhouse, a large Read More »
Address: 3100 Emerson St Wahpeton Iowa 51351 United States
Picnicking/Shelters Emerson Bay is a great place for a family picnic. Emerson Bay Lighthouse Point has a shelter that is available and may be reserved online through the park reservation system.This shelter is also conveniently located near a sand beach, an open grass recreation area, and a playground. The lighthouse tower also provides the user with a spectacular Read More »
Want to plan a gathering in the park, but don’t want to take a chance of getting rained out? The Florence Park shelter house is just for you. Constructed in 2009, the Florence Park Shelter is a perfect place for your next outdoor picnic, reception, birthday party or social gathering. The enclosed 36’x48’ foot space Read More »
5 acres, Shelter house, walking trail, 2 floating docks, approximately 500 feet of shoreline along East Lake Okoboji, basketball court, playground equipment, park benches, picnic tables, grills, handicap-accessible restrooms.
Gull Point State Park Gull Point State Park is a focal point for camping and enjoying the outdoors in the popular Iowa Great Lakes Region. Gull Point overlooks West Okoboji Lake and offers a variety of lake activities such as swimming, paddling, water-skiing or sail boating. PLAN YOUR VISIT Beach :Gull Point’s beach provides a Read More »
Address: 1500 Harpen St Wahpeton Iowa 51351 United States
Hike the 1.5 mile self-guided interpretive trail where visitors can learn about the natural and cultural history of the area. A variety of songbirds and wildlife are often spotted near the trails. You can fish or kayak in the canals and cross-country skiing is available in the winter. Iowa DNR Trail Brochure Welcome to the Read More »
Address: 37 Lake St Arnolds Park Iowa 51331 United States
Open Months:
Memorial Day - Mid Septeber
Harmony Park is an amazing collection of interactive musical instruments. When played they are sure to bring a smile to the faces of all who can hear! These fabulous instruments are located in front of the Queen’s Court Shops. The instruments, require no skill to play, but are fun for all ages!
The Higgins Museum is devoted entirely to the history of national banking in the United Sttes from 1863 to 1935. Exhibits of national bank notes from Iowa and adjoining states illustrate the heyday of America’s use of hometown paper money. Open daily (except Mondays) Memorial to Labor Day. Group tours available by appointment.
This 180 acres of preserved land offers an extensive trail system winding through the river valley of the Little Sioux River, as well as upland forest, meadows, marshes and oxbow ponds. These diverse habitats are host to a number of creatures including deer, beaver, woodpeckers, songbirds and raptors. Facilities include a warming shelter with a Read More »
The Indian Motorcycle Experience Center showcases current and historic Indian motorcycles, displays vintage artifacts and memorabilia, and offers visitors the opportunity to purchase exclusive factory merchandise. Guests are also able to view a short video tour of the manufacturing facility during times when guided tours are unavailable. Guests are welcome to visit the Indian Motorcycle Read More »
Ingham and Okoboji Lutheran Bible Camps have a history rich in the love of Christ and the passion to share that love with others. Our ministries occur in partnership with churches of the region and at our two beautiful sites. We offer family and youth camps, RECHARGES and retreats, and spaces for families and groups Read More »
Relive the days of steamboats, motor launches and wooden cruisers with a visit to the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum. The museum has amassed a vast collection of local photographs, articles and artifacts from the Iowa Great Lakes early ‘golden days’ of boating. Special features of the museum include a fully restored boathouse, 25 classic Read More »
The Iowa Great Lakes Trail winds its way around the lakes and through the Iowa Great Lakes region, including Spirit Lake, Okoboji, West Okoboji, Arnolds Park, Milford and Lake Park. The “spine” of the system is a 14-mile, hard-surface trail that accommodates two-way recreational traffic. Connecting to the spine trail are several other trails to Read More »
Iowa Lakeside Laboratory is a field station of Iowa’s state universities. Although eduction, research, and water monitoring are Lakeside’s primary functions, it also serves as a nature preserve and historic district. As a Regents Resources center, it also offers public and school year programs for leans of all ages.
Take a rocking’ trip down memory lane at the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Museum. Tour the recording studio and radio booth, play the jukebox and view vintage posters and record albums. Join them for Rock the Roof concerts in the Roof Garden for 11 consecutive Thursday nights during the summer!
5 acres, approximately 1,000 feet of shoreline of Upper East Lake Okoboji, boardwalk, 2 floating docks, canoe ramp, walking trail, RV dump, picnic tables, grills, handicap-accessible restrooms, and fishing piers.
John Grosvenor has been a professional fishing guide on the Okoboji chain of lakes for more than a decade. Every day in his boat and on the ice, John helps families create memories to last a lifetime. Its not unusual to catch at least 7 species from panfish to trophies in one half-day adventure. When Read More »
Address: 125th St Spirit Lake Iowa 51360 United States
The 2,040-acre Kettleson Hogsback Wildlife Management Area reaches from the west shores of Big Spirit Lake northwest to the Minnesota state line. A native prairie, this never-been-plowed treasure is home to white lady slippers, prairie fringed orchid, prairie bush clover, wooly milkweed and porcupine grass. It is one of the most bird-rich of any areas Read More »
1 acre that includes shelter house, trail system, playground equipment, grills, park benches, picnic tables, bicycle rack, and handicap-accessible restrooms.
Kurio Kastle is an awesome place for a family fun outing. We provide the pottery, glaze, tools, and ideas all you have to do is be ready to have creative fun. Just walk in and get started. No appointment necessary, call ahead for groups of 6 or more. Come, paint, let your inner artist out.
The Lakes Area Dog Park in a partnership with Lake Okoboji United Methodist Camp is building this dog park on the south campus of the Methodist Camp property. The design of the six-acre dog park allows two dog areas. One for large dogs and one for small / timid dogs. The dog park has been Read More »
The Lakes Area Hockey Association manages all programs at Lakes Ice Arena. Open skate is held most Friday and Saturday evenings during the late fall and winter months from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Watch Facebook at Lakes Ice Arena for opportunities to enjoy the ice. Admission: $6/person; $3 for skate rentals. Dress warm!
Looking for a late summer or fall activity right here at the Lakes? Visit Little Sioux Orchard just outside Milford-the area’s only pick-your-own orchard. With varieties ripening throughout the season, hay rides, a corn maze and pumpkins, you’ll be sure to find something fun for every age. Opens mid-August.
Address: 129 Broadway St Arnolds Park Iowa 51331 United States
Open Months:
Open Weekends Memorial Day - Labor Day
Murphy’s is the BEST place to dance your tail off on Okoboji summer weekends. You can enjoy your favorite beer, cocktails or shots as the D.J. spins the tunes and you dance the night away with your friends all summer long.
Since 1992, Oak Hill Marina has been helping boaters find enjoyment on beautiful Lake Okoboji and waters all over the upper Midwest. Located in Arnolds Park, Iowa, nearly a stone’s throw across the highway from the historical Arnolds Park Amusement Park on Highway 71, Oak Hill provides a vast range of marine products, services, rentals, Read More »
Since 2018, Oak Hill Outdoor, a subsidiary of Oak Hill Companies is northwest Iowa’s premier sporting goods outfitter located on the Waypoint 2188 property in north Milford at the junction of Highways 71 & 86. Oak Hill Outdoor is the premier boat dealer in the Iowa Great Lakes region for America’s #1 selling and largest Read More »
The Okoboji Bible Conference is a unique place to grow in your faith. The 88th annual Conference takes place July 30 to Aug 5. It is open to anyone and at no cost, the entire week is operated solely on free will donations. There is programming for all ages! The teaching is engaging and the Read More »
Okoboji Boat Works is located in the Marina District in Smith’s Bay, West Lake Okoboji. It is the only marina on West Lake Okoboji and features daily or seasonal boat slip rentals, boat and water-sports rentals, 24-hour on-water gas dock, and fishing licenses & supplies. Families love the beach, playground and antique nautical display. Step Read More »
Address: 1401 Lake Shore Dr Okoboji Iowa 51355 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
Okoboji Boat Works is the located in the Marina District in Smith’s Bay, West Lake Okoboji. Families love the beach, playground and antique nautical display. The Okoboji Boat Works Beach is also dog friendly!
The course opened in 2013 and features both amateur- and professional-level concrete tee pads and takes disc golfers through a variety of habitats including a restored oak savanna. Challenges include tallgrass prairie areas and a 30-foot tall glacial kame. Par for the course is 61. “Long holes to short stints, obstacles to open terrain — Read More »
Every summer for more than 60 years audiences look forward to students and faculty from Stephens College, joined by professional guest artists, returning to manage, produce and star in the Okoboji Summer Theatre’s nine productions. This talented ensemble also produces several shows for children at the adjacent Boji Bantam Children’s Theatre. Click here to see Read More »
Okoboji View combines a great golf experience with the unmatched beauty of the NW Iowa landscape. After a major renovation of the golf course in 2014 and 2015, they have 12 acres of wetlands and reformatted holes. Driving range, practice area and lessons available with Iowa Hall of Fame PGA Professional Curt Schnell. Fully Stocked Read More »
Address: 24457 Stake Out Road Okoboji Iowa 51355 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
Parks Marina is not your typical marina – it is an Iowa Great Lakes lifestyle destination. They feature the industry’s most elite boat brands such as Cobalt, Crownline, Grady White, Scout, Carver Yachts, Mooma and Supra Ski Boats, Ski Natique, Harris Flotebote Pontoons, and South Bay pontoons. Parks Marina has received multiple awards from the Read More »
Enjoy all the arts have to offer at the Pearson Lakes Art Center with 5 galleries, a 288-seat theater, classrooms, clay room, an outdoor sculpture trail, and the new culinary arts kitchen! Sign up for a class, enjoy world-class entertainment year-round, or just take an afternoon to view the ever-changing art on display or play Read More »
Address: 21301 155th St Spirit Lake Iowa 51360 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
Pikes Point State Park is situated on West Okoboji Lake and is home to one of the most popular swim beaches in the area. Pikes Point’s beach also has a very popular swim platform located within the swimming area for users to sunbathe or play on.
Pirate’s Cove, ‘the Original Adventure Golf,’ offers an unequaled miniature golf experience! The adventures and legends of infamous pirates come to life in our award-winning theme park settings. Putt your way through caves, over foot-bridges and under cascading waterfalls, all amidst a fun-filled atmosphere of natural wonders, extraordinary landscaping, and enchanting pirate lore.
Round Lake Vineyards & Winery is a family-owned and operated business located on scenic Round Lake in Southwest Minnesota. With 15 different wines available, there is sure to be something to please every palate! Check out our event page to see our upcoming event schedule. Free live music every Sunday Memorial Day – Labor Day. Read More »
Playground, dock/lake access, shelter house. Park Shelter Reservation Fee $50 deposit (separate check) $15 per side to reserve; $30 for both $10 for kitchen
Speier Park is located west of the Kum & Go convenience store on Sanborn Avenue and directly across from the airport. The Speier Park property was donated by the late Sam Speier in the late 1960’s, with the first shelter house being constructed in 1970. At that time tennis courts were added, with some new Read More »
This well-manicured par 72 course has four sets of tees to accommodate players of all skill levels, and play 6,900 yards from the championship tees. The County Club welcomes non-residents of Spencer to golf anytime that the course is available. It is well worth the short drive from the lakes area to enjoy the memorable Read More »
The Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery is a walleye, northern pike and muskellunge hatching and rearing station. Production facilities include seven egg incubators with a total capacity of 1100 quarts, 20 indoor raceways, six non-drainable ponds and two natural lakes. Water is obtained from Spirit Lake and is discharged into East Okoboji Lake. The annual hatching period begins in late March, Read More »
140 feet of shoreline along south shore of Big Spirit Lake, largest natural lake in Iowa, sandy beach, park benches, trail system. The Spirit Lake Protective Association has provided a public dock facility for boaters to access the area.
If you are looking for a great friends or family destination to cool off, splash and pay, the Splash Pad is the place to be. Memorial Park, overlooking East Lake, has 2 shelters, playground equipment, picnic tables and the centerpiece Splash Pad! Bring your lunch and enjoy a day at the park.
Address: N Templar Dr Orleans Iowa 51360 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
Shelter house, picnic area, restrooms, and trails. Located on the west side of Big Spirit Lake, Templar Park offers the user a boat ramp to launch their boat and several areas to fish along the shoreline. Templar Park’s boat ramp is one of the most popular on Big Spirit Lake because it is situated on Read More »
Address: 2414 Okoboji Blvd Milford Iowa 51351 United States
Open Months:
Open Year Round
One of Okoboji’s most popular public swimming areas is Terrace Park Beach. Picnics and swimming at the Beach has lingered in the memories of many of West Okoboji residents and returning visitors! New Restrooms in 2019!!!!
The Barefoot Bar located at Parks Marina on East Lake Okoboji is one of the region’s most popular family destinations. You can arrive by water or land with plenty of parking as well as docking for your boat. Featuring a full bar, great beach-fare food, pizza, and don’t miss Phil’s Famous Ribs and Seafood Boil Read More »
Hip speakeasy, that elevates cocktails with a fresh, unique shake. Trendy urban digs, with a large outdoor patio and live music. Chef driven inspired small plates. Perfect spot to book out for gatherings and events.
The Gardens on the lakeside level of The Central Emporium started out as boat storage in the 1920’s and has gone through many transformations. Relax and enjoy lunch or dinner in the comfortable, air conditioned bar or head outside to our expansive deck to soak in the sights and sounds of West Lake Okoboji at Read More »
Address: 2071 220th St. Milford Iowa 51351 United States
Open Months:
Open September - October
The Grove Okoboji is where everyone gathers each fall and ,makes memories of a lifetime with family and friends. We are Okoboji’s pumpkin patch and a whole lot more: corn maze, corn pit, trike track, slingshots, train rides, slides, haunted trail, and more!
New for 2020! The Hook Up, located at Oak Hill Outdoor is every fisherman’s convenient one-stop resource for quality fishing bait and tackle, apparel, and accessories. A unique destination experience where your company is always welcome and the fishing stories are guaranteed to be shared.
Enjoy a day on West Lake Okoboji. Climb aboard the Queen II excursion boat, with an open-air upper deck and enclosed lower deck. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the narrated cruise around West Lake Okoboji, with beverages and snacks available for purchase. The Queen II takes passengers out several times a day on scheduled Read More »
Make memories at Treasure Village in its 50th year! Play Mini Golf on the area’s only 27-hole course with unique obstacles and Mischief Spinners. Watch our Theatre online! Find treasures at our Flea Market on the holiday weekends. Open Memorial through Labor Day!
Triggs has been in the boat rental business longer than any Okoboji establishment! Triggs is locally owned and operated. You will generally find lower prices for boat rentals and gas at our docks. Featuring power-boats, pontoons, PWC(s), paddle-boards, water bikes, kayaks and canoes. We rent to guests and the general public. Why pay more? Triggs Read More »
You already know West O Beer, home of the award-winning CocO Stout, is found in a boatload of locations in bottles and on tap. Now, experience West O up close and personal. Because her’s where you can saunter through the actual West O doors, go right up to the bar, and order up a cold Read More »
To relive days of the past in a one-room school, visit the Westport Rural Schoolhouse built in 1896 and used until 1952, Featuring historic primers, desks, piano and maps. Located in Kenue Park and open seasonally Tuesday through Sunday.
Yoga is for every ‘body.’ Yoga Okoboji is a modern, clean and inspiring studio offering heated and non-heated classes for all levels. The studio is 100% solar powered, earth friendly, natural and warm. Any age and any body type can benefit from a yoga practice. Yoga Okoboji is a Yoga Alliance Registered School (RYS) and Read More »
Experience Intivity Center in Jackson, Minnesota. We’ve expanded our facilities and created a world-class visitor’s center in Jackson. We invite you to see some of the most advanced agricultural equipment made by a company with a long-standing commitment to farmer-focused innovation. Intivity Center and the AGCO facilities in Jackson are where premium tractors like Massey Read More »
Entertainment venue located in the heart of the Okoboji Lakes Area. Stage with dance floor & overlooking mezzanine level. Rooftop bar THE NEXT LEVEL with view of West Okoboji Lake open seasonally. Bar available on all four levels of complex.
Off the beaten path but not out of the way, Chaplin’s offers hand crafted cocktails, six beers on tap and all your favorites. The food menu has something for every appetite. The best part of Chaplin’s is the clientele. They are an eclectic bunch with all ages sharing the music, speed pool tourneys and great Read More »
Corner Lanes is your one stop destination for a fun night out with family and friends. There is a full service bar and kitchen. Corner lanes also will host birthday parties and group outings. For a unique night of bowling call ahead to find out when they offer cosmic bowling.
Enjoy West Lake Okoboji from a different point of view – parasailing at Extreme Watersports! Family owned and operated, they are gearing up for their 22nd season. They are open seven days a week, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Whether it is parasailing, renting ski boats, pontoon boats, paddleboards, personal watercraft, kayaks, or pedal boats, Read More »
Fisherman’s Factory Outlet gives you deeply discounted fishing products. (FFO prices are routinely 40% or more below manufacturer suggested retail prices.) All prices are stated in U.S. dollars. We only offer the highest quality, name brand merchandise. FFO can deliver these low prices by specializing in overstocks and close-out items. Because FFO is a true Read More »
7 screen with all leather chair stadium seating and all digital projection in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes. All movies and all showtimes $5 on Tuesday’s!
Great Lakes Marine Sales & service has proudly been serving the boating community since 2003. We do it all, we do it well: sales, brokerage, parts, service, storage, and training. We are proud dealers of Alumacraft Boats, Cruiser Sports Series, Premier Pontoons, and Skeeter Boats. Allow us to take you for a ride!
HUNTER WHEATLEY Facebook: Iowa Great Lakes Fish Cleaning Phone: 712-209-6391 Email: iglfishcleaning@gmail.comcreate new email Professional Fish Cleaning 2549 US-71, Spirit Lake, IA 51360
The Iowa Guide Service, fishing Okoboji or Big Spirit Lake, caters to both families on vacation and the serious angler. Your guide trip will be filled with fun and a chance to catch big bass, walleye, pike, and panfish, or maybe even a giant muskie. The Iowa Great Lakes offers fantastic opportunities on a series Read More »
ROD BLAU Website: www.jigmup.com Facebook: Jigmup Guide Service of Okoboji LLC Phone: 712-346-8454 Email: jigmup@gmail.comcreate new email Open water and hard water Multispecies throughout all 4 seasons
Established in 1968 by Ed & Alice Kabele, located in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes, surrounded by crystal clear fishing waters, our area is one of the most sought after tourist attractions. Kabele’s ownership was taken over by Thane Johnson in April 2004 with Tanya Petersen joining the partnership in 2010. Kabele’s Trading Read More »
