Rathbun Lake

The next position on the list of the best lakes to visit in Iowa is Rathbun Lake. This well-known reservoir is located in south-central Iowa, sixty miles southeast of Des Moines. This 11,000-acre lake is surrounded by recreational facilities, from camping to full-fledged resorts. Boating, fishing, swimming, and soaking up the Iowa summer heat are regular activities on the water.

On the lake's northeast Ham Branch, the Iowa DNR manages Honey Creek Resort, the state park's lone resort. The resort offers every lakefront activity imaginable, along with the nearby Honey Creek State Park. Popular daytime activities include hiking and bicycling, golfing and dining, and playing in the indoor water park.

The resort also has a fishing dock, boat launch, and marina. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are among the watersports that are available to guests staying in the lodge or at the RV campsite for no additional charge. Additionally, you can rent fishing equipment. The free shoreline rentals also include bicycles and volleyball nets.

Despite its flurry of activity, Honey Creek is located close to the enormous lake, in a single little cove. Along the seashore are many different places to have fun. There are almost 500 campsites spread among five distinct campgrounds run by the Army Corps of Engineers around the lake.

Location: Appanoose County, Iowa