Ankeny Lakes

Lakes Around Ankeny

Sometimes you just need to pack up and find a spot near the water. A lake vacation can be perfect for those that enjoy the outdoors too, as they are a great way to take in the local scenery and all that nature has to offer.

Whether you’re seeking to float in a tube with a book, get active with wakeboarding, go swimming, or nap in the sand, the lakes near Ankeny provide you with numerous options for outdoor fun. Browse through the local listings below and see the options from swimming lakes to all sports lakes for you and the family to visit.

Nearby Lakes for Ankeny

Lake Activities

A day trip, or a more lengthy trip gives you an almost endless amount of stuff for couples or families.

Here are some of our top picks for activities when you visit a Ankeny lake:

Get in the water. Finding a swimming lake near Ankeny will offer all kinds of fun for the kids, or plenty of exercise for those looking to be active in between working on their tan. If you want to spend time swimming and on the beach you’ll want to be sure your lake has a sandy beach and a designated swimming area before you make the trip! You know as well as we do that a swimming pool doesn’t hold a candle to a beautiful public beach on a lake near Ankeny!

Grab a board. If you want a little physical activity, load up your preferred vessel and chart your course to a lake that has a boat launch and start paddling around to soak up the scenery on the waterfront.

Partake in some delicious delights outside. Ankeny’s lakes offer a wealth of top-notch picnic areas partake in the enjoyment of your favorite culinary delights, or something as simple as crackers and cheese and a cold beverage as you enjoy the view. Should you be with someone you want to impress, good food and a view should put a smile on their face.

How to Prepare for a Day at the Lake

Every day at the lake will have its own requirements depending on the lake you’re heading to, what time of year it is, or if there are any activities planned. For your benefit, we put together a list with some of our favorite ideas for your next summer trip so there’s nothing to stress over!

Lake basics

For a day spent on the water it makes a lot of sense to take along some of the things in our list below to make sure you’re feeling good, healthy, and relaxed.

  • Eye protection, a hat, or both
  • Snacks
  • Sneakers
  • Bluetooth speaker
  • A cooler and drinks
  • Insect repellant
  • Towels and dry clothes
  • A receptacle for trash
  • Sunblock
  • Bathing suits

Additional lake stuff

The gear in the list below could be helpful for excursions to the lake depending on what your plans are. It’s also worth checking before heading out.

  • Wine key
  • Your tackle box
  • Fishing poles
  • Toys for the beach
  • Bait
  • Hand sanitizers or moist towelettes
  • Books
  • Masks and snorkels
  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Diapers and baby gear

Staying Safe on a Lake

While the water can provide fun during a day on the lake, failing to follow some simple safety rules can make things turn tragic in a hurry. Following a few standard safety tips that should make sure that everyone are always safe on the water.

  • Always wear sunblock
  • Always swim with a buddy
  • Have an emergency plan if you run into trouble on your watercraft
  • Don’t mix alcohol with swimming
  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
  • Make sure children have swimmies or other approved flotation devices

More Ankeny Lake Tips

Some people may not get the opportunity to visit the amazing lakes around Ankeny and might have a few questions about how to make the most of their time there. Certainly, every lake will possess their own character and trappings, but it’s worth noting a handful of items to review while planning which could help put together a trip your whole family will remember.

  1. Rent a boat. It’s common that lakes will have nearby marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. Just because you don’t own a boat to enjoy a day fishing on the lake or taking the kids out for some wakeboarding or tubing. Doing a quick Google search can usually allow you to locate options for renting the perfect boat.
  2. Pay attention to the beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, sometimes beaches may be packed with tourists. If you want some more peace and quiet, do some digging on a variety of lakes and beaches to see if you can find one that’s less crowded to find one with a slower pace. To get in on the party, search out the busiest, most happening beach!
  3. Maximize unique assets in the area. When you have time for a lengthier trip, look for local state campgrounds and parks that offer the ability to stay right on the water for a reasonable price.