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Iowa
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Iowa State Parks

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USA Parks
Iowa
Southwest Region
Lake Manawa State Park
Eastern Goldfinch © stateparks.com
Eastern Goldfinch
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LAKE MANAWA STATE PARK
LAKE MANAWA STATE PARK
1100 South Shore Drive
Council Bluffs, Iowa   51501

Phone: 712-366-0220
Reservations: 712-366-0220
Email: park email button icon
Lake Manawa State Park is one of the most popular outdoor recreation facilities in the Omaha/Council Bluffs metropolitan area. The park's 1,529 acres encompass a beautiful 660-acre natural lake. Lake Manawa was formed during a flood in 1881 when a portion of the river channel was cut off by the meandering of the great Missouri River. Over the years, the resulting "oxbow" lake, became a major outdoor recreation center for thousands of visitors. "Manawa" is a Native American term meaning "peace and comfort."
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Camping
The campground at Lake Manawa State Park provides space for 72 camping units. Of these, 37 campsites are equipped with electric hookups. Modern shower and rest room facilities are available at the campground, as is a trailer dump station. Starting February 13, 2006 advance campsite reservations can be booked through the park reservation system. Half of the campsites are still available for self-registration on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Swimming
1. Lake Manawa State Park offers a designated swimming area for visitors.
2. Lifeguards are not provided, so swimmers must swim at their own risk.
3. Swimming is only allowed during daylight hours and when the beach is open to public use.
4. The park's sandy beach provides an ideal spot for sunbathing before or after swimming in the lake.
5. There are no fees required specifically for using the swimming facilities within this state park.

Boating
Lake Manawa is the premier boating spot in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area. Boat motors of any size may be operated on the lake. Modern boat ramps are located on the north, south and west sides of the lake. Boats are available for rent at the beach area in the state park. A Missouri River boat ramp also provides boaters acess to the river.
Fishing
Fishing:

Lake Manawa is also a favorite spot for anglers of all ages. Good catches of crappies, bluegills and catfish may be had throughout the year. Excellent populations of good size bass and walleye can be expected.


Location
Lake Manawa State Park is located near Bellevue, Council Bluffs and La Vista

Picnicking
Lake Manawa State Park provides many locations for fun family picnics. A number of open picnic shelters are located around the lake. These may be reserved for a fee by contacting the park manager. A shelter with a fireplace and kitchen facilities is a recent addition.
Trails
Lake Manawa State Park provides ample opportunity for a hike or a leisurely walk or a bike ride along the shoreline. A nature trail with a paved surface offers opportunity to walkers and for the mobility-impaired. A paved bike trail within the park has been constructed and connects to the Western Trails Center, Council Bluffs trail system, and the Wabash Trace Trail.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore a 7-mile trail, suitable for all skill levels. Be cautious of occasional rough terrain.

The park's biking path is multi-use; cyclists should be mindful and respectful towards pedestrians and runners.

Mountain bikers will find challenging trails in the southwest area. These require careful navigation due to steep sections.

A BMX track offers an exciting option for more adventurous riders but ensure you have appropriate safety gear on hand.

For leisurely rides, there are paved paths with minimal inclines that offer scenic views - perfect for family outings!

Remember: always wear helmets while cycling within the park boundaries as per local regulations ensuring your own safety first!

Please note weather conditions may affect trail quality so it's advisable to check before embarking on any ride here.

Rental bikes aren't available onsite so remember to bring your own or rent one nearby beforehand if needed.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species like waterfowl, songbirds and raptors. The park's diverse habitats attract a wide range of birds throughout the year. Birding enthusiasts may also participate in annual bird counts or guided tours offered by local organizations.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
April 5 by bill
park review stars; one to five we need better camping areas or people will go else where we dont want that mainly because of the camping retailers
November 2 park is great, Lake is terrible by A30584
park review stars; one to five The park has many options, and wonderful trails. The wild life is tame and plentiful. Manawa is dirty and mucky. I have been to most all the state parks in Iowa and Lake Manawa ranks in the lowest. It is a shame considering the number of people who use and would use this lake. The DNR has dropped the ball for with Lake Manawa.
July 7 forgotten by pelican
park review stars; one to five usually dirty not kept up, grass overgrown , 2 ft in some places. water clarity bad fishing only so so. i think the dnr forgot about this lake , funny since its one of the larger lakes in southwest iowa go figure.
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