Lake Darling

Lake Darling, named after a well-known editorial cartoonist and cartoonist for the Des Moines Register, is located in eastern Iowa, 13 miles northeast of Fairfield. This 300-acre lake is surrounded by Lake Darling State Park. With campsites, cottages, hiking paths, and several water activities, Lake Darling makes for a popular weekend escape.

Activity in Lake Darling State Park is centered around a large sandy beach on the southern end. Additional attractions include boat ramps, fishing piers, and picnic sites in this area. This side of the lake is also home to the Lake Darling Lodge, a venue that can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Boat rentals are available from Memorial Day through Labor Day through the Friends of Lake Darling. They offer paddle boats, SUPs, kayaks, and canoes, among other watercraft. Lake Darling is open to both motorized and non-powered boats, however, because it is a no-wake lake, speeds must be kept to a minimum.

There are various places to stay the night around Lake Darling. There are 80 campsites in the park's campground, several of which have basic hookups. Six cabins are also available for nightly rentals at the site. All of these cozy cabins include wraparound porches and contemporary amenities.

Location: Lake Darling State Park, Iowa