Description

Lake Manawa State Park is one of the most popular outdoor recreation facilities in the Omaha/Council Bluffs metropolitan area. The park's 1,529 acres encompass a beautiful 753 acre natural lake. Lake Manawa was formed during a flood in 1881 when a portion of the river channel was cut off by the meandering of the great Missouri River. Over the years, the resulting "oxbow" lake became a major outdoor recreation center for millions of visitors. "Manawa" is a Native American term meaning "peace and comfort".

Recreation:

Trails
Lake Manawa provides ample opportunity for a hike, leisurely walk or bike ride on a total of seven miles of paved trails. These trails connect to the trail system that runs throughout Council Bluffs including the Wabash Trace Trail and the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge. A nature trail with a paved surface offers opportunity to walkers and the mobility-impaired. There are also eight miles of unpaved trails perfectly suited for mountain biking located on either side of the Missouri River access on the south side of the park.

Lake Activities
Lake Manawa is the premier boating spot in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area. Boat motors of any size may be operated on the lake. Modern boat ramps are located on the north, south and west sides of the lake. Paddleboats and canoes are available for rent at the beach area from the concession operator. A Missouri River boat ramp also provides boaters access to the river.

Lake Manawa is also a favorite spot for anglers of all ages. Good catches of crappies, bluegills and catfish may be had throughout the year. Excellent populations of good size bass and walleye can be expected.

Lake Manawa is a great place for swimmers and sunbathers, young and old. A modern beach facility provides opportunities for swimming, as well as refreshments.

Facilities:

Picnicking/Shelters
Lake Manawa provides many locations for family picnics. Six open picnic shelters (one of which includes a kitchenette) are located around the lake and may be reserved online. Another open shelter, Shelter 3, is located near the beach and concessions. Shelter 3 can be rented from the concessionaire by calling (712) 366-4802 during the summer recreation season.

Camping
The campground at Lake Manawa provides both electric and non-electric campsites. Modern shower and restroom facilities are available during the peak season which runs from May 1 through October 1.

Nearby Attractions:

Lake Manawa hosts Winter-Fest Ice Fishing Derby (January), Fourth of July Fireworks over the lake and Black Squirrel Triathlon (August).

The park is also a short driving distance of any major attraction or event in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area, including the NCAA College World Series (June), Western Trails Historic Center, Durham Museum, Union Pacific Railroad Museum, Strategic Air and Space Command Museum and the Henry-Doorly Zoo.

Nearby Towns
Council Bluffs and Omaha. Lake Manawa State Park is located two and one-half miles south of Interstate 80 (Exit 3) at Council Bluffs, Iowa. It is located two and one-half miles west of Interstate 29 (Exit 47).