Okoboji Travel Guide

Okoboji has a long tradition as a year-round resort offering fun activities nearby its five, glacier-carved, interconnected lakes. In warm weather, visitors can take part in water sports like fishing or go horseback riding and camping. In winter, the University of Okoboji Winter Games are a must-see.

Things to Do in Okoboji

In the summer months, people take to the beautiful lakes in boats, jet skis, and kayaks in Okoboji. Fishing is also popular and there are guides who can take budding fishermen to the best spots. Explore the lake areas by bike or foot with trails and waterside pathways plus many public beaches. If you're an animal-lover, Dickinson County Nature Center is the place to be to spot wildllife -- remember to look out for the bat cave!

For something different, visit Arnolds Amusement Park which dates back to 1889 and has more than 30 rides and attractions, including an adrenaline-pumping wooden roller coaster and a tall Ferris wheel.

Elsewhere, culture junkies are sure to enjoy Pearson Lakes Art Center, complete with six different galleries. If cars are more your thing, check out Okoboji Classic Cars, with guided tours of its huge collection of mint classic cars.

Winter is best for snow activities, and the annual Okobjis Winter Games are a must-see for any visitor to Okoboji, hosting fun sporting events, as well as firework displays, and cookouts.

Best Time to Visit Okoboji

The town has a distinct summer beach vibe, plus the lakes are best enjoyed in the warmer months. That said, winter is the time to visit for snow.

Cabins in Okoboji

Located in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes, Okoboji is a popular vacation destination. The main attraction to the town are the impressive glacial lakes, covering an area of 15,000 acres. Spirit Lake is the largest of the lakes, but all offer a number of recreational activities, making the town a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

For some family fun, the Arnolds Park Amusement Park Beach has a beautiful beach with volleyball courts, live music, concession stands, amusement park, and lots more. The town also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a range of museums such as the Abbie Gardener Cabin and Museum, Dickinson County Museum, and Clark Museum.

Visitors are sure to find the perfect vacation renal in Okoboji, with options to suit all budgets and preferences. From quaint Okoboji cabin rentals to lakefront campgrounds or luxury hotels, the town has it all.