Last updated: June 23, 2021
Place
Lake Manawa State Park
"Lake Manawa, IA" by blmurch is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Quick Facts
Location:
Council Bluffs, IA
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
13 listed
Beach/Water Access, Benches/Seating, Canoe/Kayak/Small Boat Launch, Grill, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Table, Playground, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Wheelchair Accessible
Lewis and Clark NHT Visitor Centers and Museums
This map shows a range of features associated with the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, which commemorates the 1803-1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition. The trail spans a large portion of the North American continent, from the Ohio River in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon. The trail is comprised of the historic route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, an auto tour route, high potential historic sites (shown in black), visitor centers (shown in orange), and pivotal places (shown in green). These features can be selected on the map to reveal additional information. Also shown is a base map displaying state boundaries, cities, rivers, and highways. The map conveys how a significant area of the North American continent was traversed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition and indicates the many places where visitors can learn about their journey and experience the landscape through which they traveled.
Lake Manawa is one of western Iowa’s premier spots for boating, hiking or just relaxing outdoors. More than 1,500 acres surround the lake and originally constructed in 1881 after a Missouri River flood, Lake Manawa State Park continues to be a major outdoor recreation center for thousands of visitors. “Manawa” is a Native American term meaning peace and comfort, making it the perfect spot to read a book, have a picnic or enjoy the outdoors during your visit.
In total the park stretches 1,529-acres. The lake was formed by a Missouri River Oxbow that today provides fishing, premier power boating, paddle boats, and beaches. The park includes eight miles of mountain bike trails as well as hiking and nature trails.
Lake Manawa State Park offers fun for the whole family, including:
- Hiking and biking: A paved nature trail designed for both biking and walking. Mountain bikers can utilize eight miles of unpaved trails are perfect for mountain biking.
- Play: Built in 2018, Lake Manawa’s Dream Playground is the largest ADA accessible playground in Iowa and offers 18,000 square feet of fun for all ages and abilities.
- Boat: Go out on Lake Manawa or rent a paddle board, canoe or kayak to the Missouri River.