Council Bluffs Lakes

Lakes Around Council Bluffs

When the weather is right you just need to pack up and find a spot near the water. Lucky for you, when you visit Council Bluffs there are some options for getting on, or in the water.

Whether you’re looking to go kayaking, partake in some water skiing, go for a swim, or just lounge at the beach, the lakes near Council Bluffs offer you plentiful beautiful locations for outdoor fun. Browse through the data below to see your options including small lakes with beaches to all sports lakes for you and the family to visit.

Nearby Lakes for Council Bluffs

A Day at the Lake: An Itinerary

On a day trip to a lake near Council Bluffs you’ll find all kinds of things to do for people of all persuasions. Whether you’re just looking for a day trip or decide to stay overnight to a hotel or AirBnB to enjoy yourself more fully.

Here are some of our top picks for activities when you arrive at a lake near Council Bluffs:

Swimming. The swimming lakes near Council Bluffs offer tons of fun and excitement for the youngsters, or all the physical activity that an exercise junky could want in between getting that perfect golden 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 prior to packing the car and the family! Admit it, even the nicest swimming pool just isn’t as much fun as a beautiful public beach!

Catch some fish. For those that love to fish, finding a good fishing hole shouldn’t be too hard to help you reel in a day of fun whether you’re out on a boat or standing on a dock with a beer in one hand and a rod in the other.

Start paddling. If you want a little physical activity, load up your preferred vessel and find yourself a lake with a boat launch and start paddling around to enjoy the scenery on the waterfront.

Checklist for a Day at the Lake

Everyone’s beach getaway will be unique based on the lake you’re heading to, what time of year it is, or if there are any activities planned. While every trip is its own animal, we took the time to make a list with some of our favorite ideas for your next summer trip so there’s nothing to stress over!

The basics

For a day spent on the water you’ll probably want to bring along several of the items below to make sure you’re feeling good, healthy, and having fun.

  • Bug spray
  • A blanket or sheet
  • Travel dinnerware and cups
  • USB charger
  • Plastic grocery bags (for trash and/or wet clothes)
  • Sunglasses
  • Bottle opener
  • A cooler with water
  • UV protection
  • Sweatpants and sweatshirt

Specialty lake gear

Depending on your planned activities for the day and who will be joining you, the following items might also prove useful and adding to your checklist prior to leaving.

  • Tackle box and lures
  • Wine key
  • Rafts and floaties
  • Diapers and baby gear
  • Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)
  • Life jackets
  • Something to read
  • Hand sanitizers or moist towelettes
  • Swimming goggles
  • Fishing poles

Lake Safety Checklist

While your getaway at a lake in Council Bluffs should be lots of fun, everyone’s safety needs to remain top of mind. If you’re going to be out on the water here are some general safety tips to keep in mind.

  • Use sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy outside
  • Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning
  • Be aware of your surroundings and know where you are in relation to land
  • Don’t swim alone
  • Avoid plants that can sting or cause allergic reactions
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
  • Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves

Some More Tips

Not everyone has had a chance to make their way to the amazing lakes around Council Bluffs and likely have a few questions on ways to maximize their fun. Obviously, any body of water will have unique qualities and surroundings, but here are a handful of items to review when assembling your itinerary that might help start your trip on the right foot.

  1. Pay attention to the beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, sometimes beaches can get very crowded. To find more space to yourself, research multiple nearby beaches and lakes 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!
  2. No boat, no problem. It’s common that lakes will have nearby marinas that offer boat rentals. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing or tubing with the kids. Asking a local will usually allow you to locate options for renting the perfect boat.
  3. Maximize the best local resources. When you have time for a longer getaway, look for local recreational areas, state parks, and campgrounds which give you the ability to camp directly on the water for a reasonable price.