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Des Moines Outdoors

Des Moines Outdoors

Fishing

Top Lakes in Iowa: 12 Best Lakes for Recreation and Relaxation

DSMOutdoors

Lake Red Rock

Iowa is a diverse, beautiful state with lots of recreational opportunities and adventures (it's not just one giant cornfield). We have everything from rocky ledges and native prairie to rivers and lakes. In fact, the top lakes in Iowa are among the state's most popular vacation getaways. So, whether you crave a weekend of boating, swimming, fishing, or just relaxing lakeside, we have what you're … [Read more...] about Top Lakes in Iowa: 12 Best Lakes for Recreation and Relaxation

Trout Fishing in Iowa: Best trout streams and lakes, fishing tips, and more

DSMOutdoors

Little Paint Creek Campground

This article contains affiliate links. In other words, if you click on an affiliate link and buy a product, this blog may receive compensation at no cost to you. See our full disclosure here. When you think of trout fishing, you might think of Colorado, Utah, and Idaho—places with cold mountain streams. But trout fishing in Iowa? Yes, it's true. You can go trout fishing in Iowa! Many people … [Read more...] about Trout Fishing in Iowa: Best trout streams and lakes, fishing tips, and more

Ice Fishing in Iowa: Safety, Gear, and the Top Ice Fishing Lakes

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ice fishing

Ice fishing in Iowa is a popular winter sport that’s fun for anyone! And it’s an exciting winter activity, too—what’s more exhilarating than standing on a frozen lake right above fish?!  The good news is, it doesn’t take expensive gear or expert know-how to try it out. But, of course, safety is the most critical aspect of ice fishing!  So, gather your safety equipment and check the … [Read more...] about Ice Fishing in Iowa: Safety, Gear, and the Top Ice Fishing Lakes

A Guide to Brushy Creek State Recreation Area in North Central Iowa

DSMOutdoors

Brushy Creek State Park Beach Cabana

Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is a 6500-acre area, making it one of the largest recreation areas in Iowa! It's an ideal place to go hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping (and more!) in North-Central Iowa. So, make a plan to visit Brushy Creek for your next outdoor adventure.  The good news is, it’s a little over an hour’s drive north of Des Moines, near Fort Dodge! A Brief … [Read more...] about A Guide to Brushy Creek State Recreation Area in North Central Iowa

A Guide to MacRae Park: Des Moines Park With a Stunning View

DSMOutdoors

View of Des Moines from EMC Overlook

MacRae Park is a one-of-a-kind 50-acre city park on a bluff just south of downtown Des Moines. See the stunning views of the river and downtown from the overlook! Also, explore the native savanna remnant, play tennis, and have fun at the playground. The 100+ year-old park is undergoing significant improvements, like new playgrounds, a boardwalk, pond, and pedestrian loop. While the project is … [Read more...] about A Guide to MacRae Park: Des Moines Park With a Stunning View

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About Des Moines Outdoors

Des Moines Outdoors is a site dedicated to helping you find the best of everything outdoors in the state of Iowa. We’re native Iowans that, for over 25 years, camped, hiked, biked, and explored our home state. We encourage you to do the same.

There’s so much more to see and do in Iowa than many people imagine! Our goal is to help visitors and residents alike experience the best of our beautiful state.

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