Manson IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Manson, Iowa.
1. Twin Lakes State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Twin Lakes State Park offers visitors beautiful lakeside views and outdoor recreation opportunities in Manson. The park features two connected lakes perfect for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and hiking while exploring this natural Iowa gem.
2. Twin Lakes Trail
PEACEFUL LAKESIDE PATH
Twin Lakes Trail provides a scenic pathway around the beautiful twin lakes of Manson. The trail offers hikers and cyclists stunning views of the water and surrounding natural landscape. Nature enthusiasts can observe local wildlife and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this charming Iowa trail.
3. Manson Golf and Country Club
RELAXING GOLF EXPERIENCE
Manson Golf and Country Club provides golfers with a pleasant course in the heart of Iowa's Lakes and Land region. The well-maintained greens and fairways offer a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. After a round, visitors can relax at the clubhouse and enjoy the friendly small-town atmosphere.
4. Featherstone Memorial Park
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
Featherstone Memorial Park serves as a central community space for Manson residents and visitors. The park offers recreational facilities, playground equipment, and picnic areas for families to enjoy. Its well-kept grounds provide a perfect setting for community events and casual outdoor relaxation.
5. Wiegert Prairie Farmstead
HISTORIC AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE
Wiegert Prairie Farmstead preserves the agricultural heritage of the Manson area with its historic farm buildings and native prairie. Visitors can explore this living history site to learn about Iowa's farming traditions and natural ecology. The farmstead offers a glimpse into the past with its authentic structures and restored prairie landscape.
6. Shore Side Pub & Grub
LAKESIDE DINING SPOT
Shore Side Pub & Grub offers visitors delicious food and drinks with a view of the lake in Manson. The casual restaurant serves up classic American fare in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy their meals while taking in scenic water views and the friendly local ambiance.
7. Calhoun County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Calhoun County Historical Museum preserves and displays artifacts from the region's rich past in nearby Rockwell City. The museum houses collections that tell the story of pioneer settlement, agricultural development, and small-town life in Iowa. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring historical photographs, tools, clothing, and other items that highlight the county's heritage.
8. North Twin Lake
POPULAR FISHING DESTINATION
North Twin Lake is one of the twin glacial lakes that gives the area its distinctive character and recreational opportunities. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, making it a favorite spot for anglers throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, and shoreline activities in this natural Iowa setting.
9. South Twin Lake
TRANQUIL WATER RECREATION
South Twin Lake offers another beautiful body of water for recreation in the Manson area. The lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in a peaceful setting. Visitors appreciate the less crowded atmosphere and natural beauty of this twin to its northern counterpart.
10. Lizard Creek Recreation Area
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE SPOT
Lizard Creek Recreation Area offers outdoor enthusiasts a variety of activities near Fort Dodge, a short drive from Manson. The area features hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping facilities surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, photography, and peaceful nature walks throughout the seasons.
11. Fort Museum and Frontier Village
PIONEER HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Fort Museum and Frontier Village recreates Iowa's frontier past with its collection of historic buildings and artifacts near Manson. The open-air museum features reconstructed structures including a schoolhouse, church, and general store that visitors can explore. Living history demonstrations and special events throughout the year bring the pioneer experience to life for modern visitors.
12. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
EXPANSIVE OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND
Brushy Creek State Recreation Area encompasses over 6,000 acres of diverse natural habitat a short drive from Manson. The park offers more than 45 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and boating on the 690-acre lake or explore the park's forests, prairies, and wetlands.
13. Badger Lake Dragon Boat Bash
COLORFUL ANNUAL FESTIVAL
Badger Lake Dragon Boat Bash brings competitive dragon boat racing and festive celebrations to the region near Manson. The annual event features teams competing in colorful dragon-headed boats while spectators enjoy food, music, and entertainment on shore. This unique cultural festival draws visitors from throughout Iowa and beyond for a weekend of fun on the water.
14. Dolliver Memorial State Park
SANDSTONE CLIFF WONDERLAND
Dolliver Memorial State Park features dramatic sandstone cliffs and unique geological formations along the Des Moines River not far from Manson. The park's trails wind through wooded ravines, past natural bridges, and alongside ancient Native American mounds. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, camping, fishing, and exploring the area's fascinating natural and cultural history.
15. Black Hawk Lake State Park
HISTORIC LAKE RECREATION
Black Hawk Lake State Park surrounds Iowa's southernmost glacial lake and offers year-round recreation within driving distance of Manson. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing during summer months or ice fishing and snowmobiling in winter. The park's campground, picnic areas, and trail system provide multiple ways to experience this beautiful natural setting.