Top 6 Lakes in Johnson County
Lakes in Johnson County, Iowa, offer diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. This region features several lakes, reservoirs, and associated parks, providing natural landscapes for various activities. The area is characterized by its waterways and green spaces, which support local wildlife and offer public access for exploration. These natural features contribute to the county's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best lakes in Johnson County
- The most popular lakes is Coralville Dam, a man_made_monument that created Coralville Lake, a popular outdoor recreation area.…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Sugar Bottom Park
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Coralville Dam
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Terry Trueblood Recreation Area
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F.W. Kent Park
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Lake Macbride State Park
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Liberty Centre Pond
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Lake Macbride State Park is Iowa's largest state park at 2,180 acres. It is a popular location for boating, swimming and bird watching. The park also has campsites, picnic areas and restrooms. It is a great place for a relaxing break in nature after a long ride.
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F.W. Kent Park is a 1,062-acre park that is one of Iowa's most popular park. There is a 27-acre lake in the center of the park, which contains many different types of fish, including catfish, large mouth bass and bluegill. The park is popular for swimming, picnicking and enjoying the wonderful views.
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Liberty Centre Pond is a beautiful pond and lawn in North Liberty. There are no benches in the park, but you will normally find people relaxing on the grass around the pond. It is a popular location for bird watching.
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The Coralville Dam was constructed from 1949 to 1958 on the Iowa River. It was built as a flood control mechanism. Coralville Lake, a popular outdoor recreation area, was created as a result of the dam being built.
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Sugar Bottom Park is located on the banks of Coralville Lake. The park is a popular area for birdwatching, cycling and hiking. There are picnic areas, restrooms and 2 small beaches on the lake.
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Terry Trueblood Recreation Area is a beautiful green space surrounding a lake. There is a paved path that runs along the perimeter of the lake. There is no swimming allowed in the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can I enjoy at the lakes in Johnson County?
Johnson County lakes offer a variety of activities. You can go birdwatching, cycling, and hiking at Sugar Bottom Park, which also has picnic areas and beaches. Lake Macbride State Park is popular for boating, swimming, and birdwatching. Fishing is a common activity, especially at F.W. Kent Park, which is stocked with catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Johnson County?
Yes, many lakes in Johnson County are family-friendly. Sugar Bottom Park and Lake Macbride State Park both feature beaches and picnic areas suitable for families. Terry Trueblood Recreation Area offers a paved path for walking or cycling, which is great for all ages.
Where can I find hiking trails near the lakes in Johnson County?
Several lakes offer access to hiking trails. Sugar Bottom Park is known for its hiking opportunities. Additionally, you can find various hiking routes throughout the county, including easy trails like Squire Point Trail and Macbride Waterfall Loop. For more options, explore the Hiking in Johnson County guide.
Can I go mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, Johnson County offers mountain biking trails. You can find several easy mountain biking routes, such as the Skills course – Woodpecker Trail loop. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the MTB Trails in Johnson County guide.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect around Johnson County lakes?
The lakes in Johnson County are surrounded by diverse natural features. You'll find forests, beaches, and green spaces. Areas like Sugar Bottom Park and Lake Macbride State Park are excellent for birdwatching, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitats.
Are there any historical sites related to the lakes?
Yes, the Coralville Dam is a significant historical site. It was constructed between 1949 and 1958 on the Iowa River primarily for flood control, leading to the creation of Coralville Lake, a popular outdoor recreation area.
Which lakes are best for swimming?
Swimming is permitted at certain locations. Sugar Bottom Park has two small beaches on Coralville Lake, and Lake Macbride State Park is also a popular spot for swimming. However, swimming is not allowed in the lake at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area.
Are there paved paths for walking or cycling around the lakes?
Yes, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area features a paved path that runs along the perimeter of its lake, providing an accessible route for walking or cycling.
What facilities are available at the lake parks?
Many lake parks offer convenient facilities. For instance, Sugar Bottom Park provides picnic areas and restrooms. Lake Macbride State Park also has campsites, picnic areas, and restrooms, making it suitable for longer visits.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Johnson County?
Visitors appreciate the diverse outdoor experiences, from the recreational opportunities at Coralville Lake, created by the Coralville Dam, to the peaceful green spaces like Terry Trueblood Recreation Area. The availability of activities like birdwatching, cycling, hiking, and fishing, along with family-friendly amenities, makes these lakes popular destinations.
Can I fish at F.W. Kent Park?
Yes, F.W. Kent Park is a popular fishing spot. Its 27-acre lake contains various fish species, including catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill.
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