The 30 Best Iowa state parks in Iowa

Arnolds Park Public Beach is a picturesque natural feature located in Arnolds Park, Iowa, United States. This sandy beach offers a serene and relaxing escape for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. With stunning views of the crystal-clear waters of West Lake Okoboji, this beach is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying water sports. Visitors can also take advantage of nearby amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day by the water, Arnolds Park Public Beach is the ideal destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Pikes Point State Park is a charming park and popular tourist attraction located at 15973 213th Avenue in Spirit Lake, Iowa, United States. This picturesque park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the crystal-clear waters of West Okoboji Lake. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, fishing, and boating. The park also features a sandy beach area, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun. With its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Pikes Point State Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Templar State Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 13185 South Templar Drive in Spirit Lake, Iowa, United States. This picturesque destination offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking. The park also features scenic views, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family or a peaceful retreat in nature, Templar State Recreation Area is the perfect place to visit.

Marble Beach State Recreation Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 12320 240th Avenue in Spirit Lake, Iowa, United States. This beautiful area offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its sandy beaches, clear waters, and picturesque views, Marble Beach is the perfect spot for swimming, picnicking, and soaking up the sun. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, Marble Beach State Recreation Area has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and charm of this hidden gem in the heart of Iowa.

Estherville Parks & Recreation is a vibrant institution located at 2 North 7th Street in Estherville, Iowa, United States. This park offers a wide range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From scenic walking trails and playgrounds to sports fields and picnic areas, there is something for everyone to appreciate at Estherville Parks & Recreation. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or engage in some outdoor fun, this tourist attraction is the perfect destination for a day of leisure and excitement.

Spurgin Park is a beautiful outdoor space located in Estherville, Iowa, United States. This park offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to enjoy nature, relax, and unwind. With lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational facilities, Spurgin Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with family and friends, or simply to bask in the tranquility of the surroundings. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply want to connect with nature, Spurgin Park is the ideal destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

The Pappajohn Sculpture Park, located at 1330 Grand Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa, is a museum and tourist attraction featuring artwork by over two dozen of the world's most celebrated artists. The 4.4 acre park, donated by John and Mary Pappajohn, serves as a pedestrian-friendly entryway to downtown Des Moines and is the most significant donation of artwork ever made to the Des Moines Art Center. Since its opening in 2009, the park has become a gathering space for the community and a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. Visitors can enjoy the sculptures, take an audio tour, participate in interactive activities with the Sculpture Park Exploration Guide, and even have a picnic in the park. Please be mindful of the rules regarding photography, touching the sculptures, and disposing of waste properly. Plan your visit today and explore this unique outdoor art collection in the heart of Des Moines.

Stone State Park is a beautiful urban wildlife sanctuary located on the outskirts of Sioux City, Iowa, nestled in the heart of the scenic Loess Hills. This park offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Stone State Park boasts historic structures such as entrance portals, the Calumet shelter, and a charming rustic stone lodge. Visitors can immerse themselves in the park's natural history by exploring its miles of scenic trails, observing the diverse wildlife and bird species, or visiting the nearby Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center.

Stone State Park Campground and Lodge is a picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of nature at 5001 Talbot Road, Sioux City, Iowa. This institution offers a variety of accommodation options including campsites and cozy lodges, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by lush forests and scenic hiking trails, guests can immerse themselves in the great outdoors and enjoy activities such as birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking. Whether you're seeking a quiet weekend getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Stone State Park Campground and Lodge provides the perfect setting for a memorable stay.

Open Space Park & Athletic Fields is a sprawling 80-acre public recreational facility located at 880 7th Street Northeast in Sioux Center, Iowa. Situated next to Dordt College and the Sioux Center High School and Middle School, this park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park features an athletic track that is open to the public for walking and jogging. There are also two lighted tennis courts located south of the football complex for tennis enthusiasts to practice their skills. Please note that roller blades are not allowed on the tennis courts.

Foster Park is a beautiful and serene park located on 6th Street Southeast in Le Mars, Iowa, United States. This park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, Foster Park provides the perfect setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or let your kids play on the playground, Foster Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Foster Park in Le Mars, Iowa.

Circle Park is a charming green oasis located at 100 Grand Avenue in Storm Lake, Iowa. This beautiful park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With lush greenery, shady trees, and peaceful walking paths, Circle Park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or simply soak up the sunshine, Circle Park is the ideal spot for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Visit this lovely park and experience the tranquility and beauty of nature in the heart of Storm Lake.

Arnold's Park Green Space is a picturesque park located in Arnolds Park, Iowa, United States. This beautiful green space offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and plenty of open space, Arnold's Park Green Space is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply soak in the tranquility of the surroundings, this park is the ideal destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Visit Arnold's Park Green Space today and experience the beauty and serenity of this charming park.

The Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum, located at 243 West Broadway Street in Arnolds Park, Iowa, is a unique gem in the Midwest. This museum celebrates the maritime history of the Iowa Great Lakes region, with exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the area’s commercial fishing industry. Visitors can explore a collection of maritime-themed items including ship models, navigational instruments, and artwork. The museum is a must-see for anyone visiting the Iowa Great Lakes region, offering a fascinating look at the history and significance of the region's maritime past. Ticket prices are $7 for adults and $3 for children, making this museum a great addition to any visit to the area. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum and learn more about the rich maritime history of this beautiful region.

The Iowa Rock 'n Roll Music Association Hall of Fame & Museum is a must-visit destination for music lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Located at 243 West Broadway Street in Arnolds Park, Iowa, this museum celebrates the rich musical heritage of the state and honors the talented artists who have made significant contributions to the rock 'n roll genre. With interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and engaging displays, visitors can immerse themselves in the history of Iowa's rock 'n roll scene. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply curious about the local music scene, this museum is a fascinating and entertaining tourist attraction that should not be missed.

Riverside Park is a picturesque and popular tourist attraction located at 1301 Riverside Boulevard in Sioux City, Iowa. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Missouri River and features a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including walking and biking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and scenic overlooks. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, take a leisurely stroll, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings, Riverside Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, tranquil atmosphere, and abundant wildlife, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Park and Ride is a convenient parking facility located in Buck Grove, Iowa, United States. This institution offers a unique service where individuals can park their vehicles and then transfer to a public transportation system, such as a bus or train, to reach their final destination. This helps reduce traffic congestion and emissions, while also providing a cost-effective and efficient transportation option for commuters. With ample parking spaces and easy access to public transportation, Park and Ride is the perfect solution for those looking to save time and money on their daily commute.

Cushing City Park is a charming outdoor oasis located in Cushing, Iowa, United States. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush green spaces, towering trees, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can enjoy picnics, play on the playground, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its serene atmosphere and family-friendly amenities, Cushing City Park is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.

Odebolt City Park is a charming recreational area located in Odebolt, Iowa, United States. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, have a family outing, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Odebolt City Park provides the perfect setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Iowa!

Manteno Park is a charming tourist attraction located at 2426 Fir Road in Dunlap, Iowa, United States. This beautiful park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, have a family outing, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Manteno Park is the perfect destination. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Iowa.

Westwood Park is a beautiful green space located at 1200 South 35th Street in Council Bluffs, Iowa. This serene park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. With lush grassy areas, walking paths, and picnic spots, Westwood Park is the perfect place for outdoor activities and family outings. The park also features playgrounds for children to play and plenty of open space for sports and recreational activities. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply unwind in a tranquil setting, Westwood Park is the ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Bayliss Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 100 Pearl Street in Council Bluffs, Iowa, United States. This historic park is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful landscaping, tranquil atmosphere, and stunning fountain centerpiece. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and events in the park, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. With its lush greenery and peaceful surroundings, Bayliss Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Wilson Island State Recreation Area, located at 32801 Camp Ground Lane in Missouri Valley, Iowa, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction named after former Gov. George Wilson. Covering 544 acres of cottonwood stands along the Missouri River, this secluded park offers a quiet retreat with campsites, hiking trails, and picnicking areas. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Iowa while supporting conservation efforts by purchasing a natural resource plate for their vehicle. Camp at one of Wilson Island's spacious and shaded campsites, equipped with modern amenities such as showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups. Explore the approximately five miles of trails for hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. Hunters can take advantage of the hundreds of acres of public hunting areas, while fishing enthusiasts can cast a line in the Missouri River for walleye, paddlefish, and catfish.

Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park is a picturesque riverside park located in Council Bluffs, Iowa. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Missouri River and is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or a peaceful afternoon by the water. The park features walking and biking trails, playgrounds, green spaces, and a beautiful fountain. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and events held at the park throughout the year. With its serene atmosphere and natural beauty, Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Northeast Park is a beautiful outdoor space located on Capistrano Avenue in Carroll, Iowa. This park offers a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy nature and engage in recreational activities. With its lush greenery, walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas, Northeast Park is the perfect place for families and individuals to unwind and connect with the outdoors. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply relax in the fresh air, Northeast Park provides a welcoming and scenic setting for all. Visit Northeast Park today and experience the tranquility and beauty of this beloved community space.

The Iowa Aviation Museum, located at 2251 Airport Road in Greenfield, Iowa, is a must-visit tourist attraction for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Established in 1990, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing antique aircraft from the "golden era of aviation" as well as related memorabilia. Visitors can explore three main areas within the museum. The showroom features a collection of donated memorabilia that tells the story of Iowa's aviation history, from early balloons to the space program. The hangar houses rare and unique aircraft, along with fascinating tales of aviation pioneers. The Hall of Fame/library pays tribute to Iowans who have made significant contributions to the field of aviation.

Lake Manawa State Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Council Bluffs, Iowa. With over 1,500 acres surrounding the lake, visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, picnicking, and more. The park's name, "Manawa," means peace and comfort in Native American language, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages, including a newly constructed campground, a large ADA accessible playground, and opportunities for boating and fishing on the lake. The modern beach facility is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, while the trail system provides options for biking and walking.

Lake Manawa Dream Land Park is a charming park located at 93 Dreamland Road in Council Bluffs, Iowa. This park is a dream come true for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a serene and picturesque setting with beautiful lake views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, picnicking, fishing, and bird watching. The park also features playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails, making it the perfect destination for families and friends to spend quality time together. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out in nature, Lake Manawa Dream Land Park has something for everyone.

Rental Car Parking is a convenient parking facility located on Cowles Drive in Des Moines, Iowa. Our secure parking lot provides a safe and reliable space for rental cars to be parked while not in use. Whether you're a tourist exploring the city or a local in need of temporary parking for your rental vehicle, Rental Car Parking offers a hassle-free solution. Our location is easily accessible and well-maintained, giving you peace of mind knowing your rental car is in good hands. Experience convenience and peace of mind with Rental Car Parking in Des Moines.

Smash Park Des Moines is a lively entertainment venue located in West Des Moines, Iowa. This unique establishment offers a combination of a bar, restaurant, and recreational activities for guests to enjoy. With a variety of food and drink options available, patrons can indulge in delicious meals while sipping on craft cocktails or local brews. The venue also features a range of games such as pickleball, ping pong, and arcade games, providing hours of fun for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking to socialize with friends, grab a bite to eat, or engage in some friendly competition, Smash Park Des Moines is the perfect destination for a memorable night out.