Clear Lake State Park

Clear Lake State Park borders one of Iowa’s most beloved natural treasures – a 3,684-acre glacial lake formed 14,000 years ago during the last ice age. Known for its remarkably clear spring-fed water (hence the name), this park offers year-round fishing, summer swimming, and winter ice fishing that draws anglers from across the Midwest.

Located just 2 miles from the charming resort town of Clear Lake (home to the famous Surf Ballroom where Buddy Holly played his last concert), this park combines natural beauty with historic small-town America appeal.

What Makes Clear Lake Special

About the Lake

Clear Lake is a natural wonder – one of Iowa’s few true glacial lakes still in excellent condition:

• 📏 Size: 3,684 acres
• 📐 Depth: Average 10 feet; maximum 30 feet (dredged western area)
• 💧 Water: Spring-fed, naturally clear; visibility up to 8-10 feet
• 🧊 Origin: Formed by glacial action approximately 14,000 years ago
• 🔧 Restoration: Major water quality improvements since 2008

Fishing Guide

Clear Lake is legendary among Iowa anglers – one of the state’s best fisheries for walleye, yellow bass, and muskie. Ice fishing season (December–February) brings hundreds of ice houses to the lake.

Fishing Tips

• 🏝️ Woodford Island: Excellent bank fishing spot within the state park
• 🌙 Night Fishing: Bank fishing permitted 10:30 PM–4:00 AM in designated areas
• 🧊 Ice Fishing: Clear Lake is one of Iowa’s premier ice fishing destinations. Permanent fish houses appear each winter.

Camping Information

Clear Lake State Park has one of the most popular campgrounds in Iowa’s state park system. Book early for summer weekends!

Campground Amenities

• ✅ Modern restrooms with showers
• ✅ Dump station
• ✅ Playground
• ✅ Short trail to beach
• ✅ Paved roads suitable for biking
• ✅ Sturdy picnic tables

Season: April through October. All sites 100% reservable. Closed November through March.

Swimming Beach

The park’s beach offers supervised swimming during summer:

• 🏊 Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day
• 👙 Facilities: Modern bathhouse
• 🚶 Access: Short trail from campground

Clear Lake Town

The town of Clear Lake (population ~8,000) offers classic Iowa resort-town charm:

• 🎸 Surf Ballroom: National Historic Landmark where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper played their final concert on February 2, 1959 – “The Day the Music Died”
• 🍽️ Dining: Main Street restaurants offering local fare
• ⛴️ Lake Activities: Marinas rent pontoons, fishing boats, jet skis
• 🎉 Events: Summer concerts, festivals throughout the season

Best Time to Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Clear Lake so clear?

It’s a natural glacial lake fed by springs, with a sandy/gravel bottom and reduced agricultural runoff thanks to conservation efforts since 2008.

Can I rent a boat?

The state park doesn’t have rentals, but several marinas in town rent pontoons, fishing boats, and jet skis.

Is ice fishing popular?

Extremely! Clear Lake is one of Iowa’s premier ice fishing destinations. Permanent fish houses dot the lake each winter, and the local community supports visiting anglers with guides and rental houses.

What’s the Surf Ballroom?

A National Historic Landmark in Clear Lake where rock ‘n’ roll legends Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper played their final concert on February 2, 1959, before dying in a plane crash hours later – “The Day the Music Died.” Tours available.

Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The America's State Parks Editorial Team has collectively explored 800+ state parks across all 50 states. Our park profiles are carefully researched using official state park data, verified visitor information, and first-hand observations from our writers and contributors. Each article is fact-checked against official sources and updated regularly to ensure accuracy. Our mission is to help every American discover the natural wonders in their own backyard.

About the Author All Articles