Lake Manawa State Park

Lake Manawa State Park is an Iowa DNR park of more than 1,500 acres around a lake that formed in 1881 after a Missouri River flood. It sits in southern Council Bluffs, roughly a 15-minute drive from downtown Omaha. Because it is so close to the city, it is a popular spot for quick outdoor outings.

The water is the main draw. A swimming beach with concessions operates from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, and the lake allows motorboats of any size, with ramps on the north, south and west sides. Paddleboards, canoes and kayaks can be rented, and sailing runs through the local association in summer. Anglers can catch crappie, bluegill, catfish, walleye and bass year-round.

On land, a paved path including the Wabash Trace Trail and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge route suits walkers and bikers, and about eight miles of unpaved trails on the south side serve mountain bikers. The Dream Playground, rebuilt in 2018, covers 18,000 square feet and is described by the DNR as the largest ADA-accessible playground in Iowa.

A lakeside campground, open April 15 to October 15, takes reservations online, and picnic shelters can be reserved for family gatherings. The park suits families, anglers and paddlers looking for a casual day outdoors. It is a good warm-weather choice, though the trails and fishing can be enjoyed in cooler months too.

Highlights

• Swimming beach (summer)
• Dream Playground, 18,000 sq ft and ADA accessible
• Boating, paddleboards and kayak rentals
• Year-round fishing
• Paved path and mountain bike trails
• Lakeside campground

Tips for your visit

• Beach is open Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, 11 am to 7 pm daily.
• Campground season runs April 15 to October 15; sites are reservable online.
• Picnic shelters can be reserved online.
• The Iowa DNR page does not list fees, so check for current beach or camping charges.