Bedford Iowa BEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES


Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Bedford, Iowa.



1. Lake of Three Fires State Park

Scenic Lake Paradise. Unwind on a sandy lakeside beach with tranquil water views. Dive into swimming, cast a line for fishing, or paddle out on a kayak. Explore miles of nature trails and enjoy prime picnic spots surrounded by rolling woodland hills.

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2. Lake Icaria State Park

Family Lake Adventure. Embrace clear waters and a long, sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and splashing. Launch a boat or paddleboard, then stay for a lakeside campfire. Spot wildlife as you hike or bike the peaceful, wooded trails along the shore.

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3. Viking Lake State Park

Lush Lake Escape. Bask on the spacious grassy swim beach while savoring blue lake views. Swim, fish, or rent a boat and glide across calm waters. Grill out under towering trees or follow winding trails teeming with wildflowers and birdsong.

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4. Green Valley State Park

Peaceful Waterfront Haven. Lay out a blanket at the relaxed lakeside beach and enjoy gentle breezes. Kayak, canoe, or fish for bass on the sparkling reservoir. Walk scenic shoreline trails and photograph dazzling sunsets over the water.

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5. Three Mile Lake Recreation Area

Big Lake Retreat. Swim at the sandy beach or thrill to watersports on this vast reservoir. Cast for trophy fish or picnic under shady pavilions by the rippling shoreline. Experience breath-catching stargazing at night after a day of lakeside fun.

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6. Cold Springs State Park

Secluded Lakeside Oasis. Discover a shady beach at a small, tree-lined lake perfect for swimming and paddling. Let kids roam the sandy playground or watch for deer and songbirds. Enjoy rustic tranquility just steps from the water's edge.

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7. Lake Binder

Relaxed Regional Gem. Stroll along the lakeshore trail or claim a picnic table for a breezy lunch. Spend the afternoon swimming, boating, or fishing under wide open skies. Look for flocks of geese and colorful dragonflies skimming the surface.

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8. Little River Recreation Area

Expansive Water Playground. Play on a long crescent beach with shallow waters for all ages. Launch a kayak, try paddleboarding, or hike the diverse trails bordering the reservoir. Watch boats drift by as the sun glimmers across the waves.

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9. Big Lake Park

Urban Nature Escape. Wander gravel paths along a scenic riverfront lake ringed by trees. Fish from the accessible pier or let kids cool off at the sandy beach. Spot turtles and ducks as you picnic with skyline views close by.

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10. Nodaway Lake

Serene Small Lake. Enjoy quiet moments by the water at this hidden local gem. Try your luck fishing, set up a picnic, or take a gentle rowboat ride. The calm, welcoming setting is ideal for relaxing by the shoreline.

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