This incredible Iowa beach is well-known to locals, but if you haven't lived in eastern Iowa, you probably don't know it exists. There's a huge lake (by Iowa's standards) and ample opportunity for lounging, socializing, playing in the sand, and swimming.
George Wyth State Park is located at 3659 Wyth Rd., Waterloo
It's a popular picnic spot, has four open shelters, and is an urban wildlife sanctuary. The park itself is beautiful, but the best part is the beach that locals love.
Camping is popular here, as well.
The park has 47 standard electric sites, 13 standard non-electric sites, 6 tent only sites, and 3 walk-up sites. There's also a youth group camp site available. To camp at George Wyth State Park, make reservations through the Iowa State Parks reservation system.
The park was closed from 2008 until October of 2011. The Cedar River flood destroyed the beach at George Wyth Lake.
It's the only public swimming beach in Black Hawk County, so residents were glad when it re-opened five years ago. Repairs cost nearly $100,000 and included 1,000 tons of sand for the beach, a concrete access path, new restrooms, and more.
You can visit this beautiful beach between 10am and 8pm any day, but be aware that there isn't a lifeguard on duty.
This is a fun place to wind-surf, and visitors take advantage of the opportunity.
Other popular activities include stand-up paddle boarding.
If you don't own the equipment you need for a fun day on the lake, you'll be glad to learn that you can rent pretty much anything you need from Maxx Rentals right on the beach.
Kayaking is another fun activity that will keep the whole family happy and engaged for the day.
Maxx Rentals has many different types of kayaks for rent. They even have one that's perfect for bringing kids along out on the water. You can rent equipment by the hour or by the day.
George Wyth Lake covers 75 acres, and is a no-wake area.
This makes it an ideal location for swimming, playing in the sand, and soaking up the Iowa summer sun.
Even on days when swimming isn't ideal, this is a wonderful place to relax and watch for wildlife.
The park is a National Urban Wildlife Sanctuary with over 200 different species of birds and many white-tail deer.
If you haven't been able to get away to enjoy Iowa's beautiful beaches and parks, now is the time. Summer is fleeting here, so get over to George Wyth State Park before this steamy weather turns into something a bit cooler.
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