Lake Manawa

• • Lake Manawa is a 753-acre reservoir located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, bordering the Missouri River. It was formed in 1881 after a flood on the Missouri River carved out a new channel, leaving behind an oxbow lake.
     

    Lake Manawa, Iowa
     
     

    Books about Lake Manawa

Lake Manawa Safety Book: The Essential Lake Safety Guide For Children

Lake Manawa Fun Book: A Fun and Educational Book About Lake Manawa

• The lake’s name, Manawa, is a Native American term meaning “peace and comfort.” It offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors year-round.
• Boating: Lake Manawa is a popular spot for boating of all kinds. Motorboats, water skiing, and wakeboarding are all allowed on the lake. There are also boat ramps located on all sides of the lake with the exception of the east side. You can even rent paddle boats and canoes at the beach area if you don’t have your own watercraft.
• Fishing: The lake is a popular fishing destination with a healthy population of fish including crappie, bluegill, catfish, walleye, sauger, and saugeye.
• Swimming: There is a designated swimming beach at Lake Manawa State Park, with concessions available nearby.
• Hiking and Biking: The park offers seven miles of paved trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. These trails connect to the trail system that runs throughout Council Bluffs, including the Wabash Trace Trail and the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge. There’s also a nature trail with a paved surface that caters to walkers and those with mobility impairments.
• Camping: Lake Manawa State Park has a campground with 72 campsites, 37 of which have electrical hookups. There are also modern showers and restrooms available at the campground.