Sometimes, we all crave a little adventure. If you love paddling Iowa's rivers and backwaters, you should make it a point to visit the best Whitewater and Kayak Park in Iowa, located right in Charles City.

Charles City Whitewater, located on the Cedar River, is perhaps the most fun adventure park in the entire state.

Within the park, there are three man-made water features that will let any level of paddler enjoy a little whitewater excitement.

"Dam Drop" is the first water feature, and it's appropriate for beginner and intermediate paddlers. Further down the river, you'll find Doc's Drop. This is an aggressive feature where national level competitions are held, and advanced paddlers will absolutely love it. The third feature is called "Exit Exam", and any paddler will enjoy the surfing opportunities here.

The Whitewater Park is 3/4 of a mile long, and each feature offers a safe chute, so you can bypass the rapids.

Every feature offers large, easily accessible eddies for rest and recovery

It's easy to paddle off to the left of the river to rest at any point! When you're done, you can walk back to your drop-in point along a scenic, paved trail.

You'll find more than just kayakers in the Charles City Whitewater park! Stand up paddleboarders and tubers also love to enjoy the wild river.

Riverfront Park boasts a beautiful setting with stone amphitheater, naturalized play area, disc golf course, picnic shelters, labyrinth, public art and trail.

Every year, the park swells with visitors for their Charles City Challenge Whitewater Day!

The day includes giveaways, contests, games, challenges, live music, local vendors, and of course, plenty of paddling!

It's a great way to introduce yourself to the sport of whitewater paddling, or to upgrade your current setup.

You'll learn from some of the best in the state and even have the chance to win some top-of-the-line kayaks!

The Kayak Games during the Charles City Challenge are a big draw for avid paddlers.

There are boatercross races, kayak rodeos, cookie races, SUP challenges and even an inner tube race.

The inner tube race is one of the most entertaining events you'll ever watch.

The race is held in the middle of the day, is free to enter, and is a fun way to see how competitive Iowans can really be!

Kayakers, paddlers, and tubers of all levels will love exploring this incredible Iowa Whitewater Park!

You can find this amazing park at 700 Riverside Drive, Charles City, IA. It's accessible year round, and free to use! If you don't have your own boat, you can rent a tube or kayak through many local businesses. Call the Charles City Chamber of Commerce at 641.228-4234 for help arranging a boat rental. Don't forget to swing by their website before planning your trip!

If you've never thought to visit a kayak park in Iowa, a trip to Charles City Whitewater is worth keeping in mind for a future visit. This charming park is friendly and welcoming, and it offers an incredible way to cool off on warm days.

Not every waterbug likes the thrill of whitewater, but there's plenty of other ways to enjoy Iowa's wild rivers! For a more relaxing adventure along Iowa's rivers, read up on 10 Lazy Rivers In Iowa That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day.