Looking for the best outdoor adventures in Iowa this summer? Our team has compiled their top picks for family-friendly hikes, scenic lakes, vibrant city escapes, and hidden natural gems. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, these destinations offer something for everyone.

Maquoketa Caves State Park – Maquoketa, IA

Medical Claims Specialist, Ella Helgeson’s favorite childhood spot is perfect for families. With more caves than any other state park in Iowa, Maquoketa Caves offers dramatic geological formations, cool microclimates, and six miles of trails. Learn more

Lost Island Waterpark – Waterloo, IA

Practice Manager & Assistant Financial Officer, Renae Oppenhuizen’s family go-to for water fun! Enjoy slides, a lazy river, and wave pool at Iowa’s largest waterpark. Plan your visit

Decorah, IA

Many team members love Decorah for its natural beauty and vibrant charm. OT, Paige Nelson, has fond memories of taking her engagement photos in Decorah. Athletic Trainer, Dustin Briggs, says that Decorah has it all: great food, breweries & wineries, waterfalls & Pike’s Peak State Park. Pella Care Coordinator, Laura Van Zee, loves the beautiful landscape, hiking, waterfalls, the ice cream shops, and fresh water trout fishing with her family.

Angela Glass, Physical Therapist in Newton, adds, “Northeast Iowa is one of our favorite places in Iowa to visit. There’s great hiking at Pikes Peak and Effigy Mounds. In Decorah, you can visit 3 different waterfalls (Dunning’s Springs is one of our favorites). There’s a fish hatchery and the downtown Decorah area has many different shops to visit as well as the Vesterheim Museum. If you stop in Decorah, Mabe’s Pizza is a must-try. On one of my favorite trips to the Decorah area, we kayaked the Upper Iowa River. You can stop on the sandbars and look for fossils. Phelps Park is really pretty and has a few scenic trails. There is also a pretty extensive bike trail. Another one of our favorite places for hiking is the Loess Hills in western Iowa. Hitchcock Nature Center and surrounding trails are awesome.” Discover Decorah

Lake Rathbun – Appanoose County, IA

Oskaloosa Care Coordinator, Lisa’s family favorite for camping and boating, this scenic lake offers swimming, fishing, and gorgeous views across southern Iowa. Find camping options

Des Moines Attractions – Des Moines, IA

Office & Billing Manager, Ro Westra’s favorites make Des Moines a must-visit spot. Highlights include the Downtown Farmers’ Market, concerts, Hotel Fort Des Moines, Bubba’s Southern Comforts, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Gray’s Lake trails, kayaking, and pedal boating. Explore DSM | Des Moines Botanical Garden | Gray’s Lake

Robert’s Creek – Knoxville, IA

Paige’s favorite paddleboarding spot, Robert’s Creek offers calm waters, beautiful surroundings, and a peaceful getaway just outside the Des Moines area. Learn more

Ledges State Park – Boone, IA

HR Representative, Morgan DeRaad’s family loves hiking and picnicking at this park known for sandstone cliffs and a creek that kids can splash through. Visit Ledges

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge – Prairie City, IA

Ella also recommends this refuge for its restored prairie landscape, bison and elk sightings, and educational exhibits. Plan your trip

Iowa State Fair – Des Moines, IA

Pella PT, Sara Schroeder’s favorite event of the year! Celebrate Iowa’s agriculture, food, and entertainment at this iconic fair. Iowa State Fair Info

Okoboji, IA

COO, Todd Schemper’s family tradition involves long weekends by the lake, playing at Arnold’s Park, and enjoying classic Iowa summer fun. Okoboji Attractions

Iowa Waterfall Tour – Various Locations

Des Moines PT, Abbey Woodbeck’s summer adventure was a day tour of six stunning waterfalls across Iowa, complete with hiking and discovering hidden gems. Plan Your Tour

Davenport – Quad Cities, IA

Marketing Specialist, Tassi Fuson’s top pick for riverside fun! Tassi recommends strolling along the Mississippi River, visiting the Figge Art Museum, or catching a Quad Cities River Bandits baseball game. The nearby Freight House Farmers Market and downtown district offer a variety of dining and shopping options. Explore Davenport

Burlington, IA

Financial & Marketing Assistant, Karlene Vander Wilt’s favorite day trip destination!

 

Walk around Starr’s Cave Nature Center, enjoy the stunning views of the Mississippi River at Crapo Park & Mosquito Park, and check out the historic Snake Alley, built in 1894 – it’s pretty amazing! Visit Burlington

 

🗺️ Interactive Map of Iowa’s Top Summer Destinations

To help you plan your trip, here’s an Interactive Map of all the destinations!

Whether you’re seeking family fun, thrilling water adventures, or peaceful nature escapes, Iowa has something for everyone. Where will your next Iowa adventure take you?

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