Fun-Filled Activities for Families

Okoboji is often recognized as a popular vacation town in Iowa, but it is more than that. It is a great place for children to play outdoors, explore new places, and learn. Each year, many parents with young children move to the Okoboji area, and they will find that this community has much to offer them.

If you have children, here are five kid-friendly places near Okoboji you should consider visiting.

Kid-Friendly Activities Around Okoboji, IA

Arnolds Park Amusement Park

For over a hundred years, Arnolds Park Amusement Park has been entertaining children of all ages. This popular amusement park can be found on Lake Street just across the bridge from Okoboji. The park is home to 26 rides, one of which is 7th oldest roller coaster in America. “The Legend” as it is known today has been thrilling children and adults alike for 88 years. Arnolds Park Amusement Park has a great Midway that is well-equipped with all of the classic carnival games and treats. The park also hosts a diverse range of concerts and movie nights. This popular amusement park is considered to be one of the best in the Midwest.

West Okoboji Lake

For many who make the move to Okoboji, afternoons spent on the lake are an important part of life. With over 3,000 acres of sparkling blue water unfolding on the edge of town, who wouldn’t be tempted to make regular trips to the beach? This lake is one of the bluest in the world and the deepest in the state.

West Okoboji Lake is the perfect spot to enjoy an early morning swim or go for a paddle in your kayak or stand up paddle board. Fishers will be pleased to find that the lake has healthy populations of bass, perch, walleye, and northern pike. This lake is also a popular rendezvous for boaters and sailors who love to spend their days fishing off the back of their boats or exploring the waters.

Whether your kids are into fishing, swimming, or sandcastles, they will be sure to find something to do at the lake.

Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark

Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark is part of Bridges Bay Resort. The popular vacation destination isn’t just a place for tourists though; it’s a great place for locals too. Adults can grab a bite to eat while kids play in the splash park. This 20,000-square-foot waterpark has everything from a pirate ship with functioning water cannons to an indoor river perfect for a casual float. The park also includes a 500-gallon water bucket, some water slides, and a three-hoop basketball zone. This waterpark is a great place for young children who know how to swim.

There is also a zipline because older kids might want to try. This ride will take you to impressive elevations of 110 feet, so it is not for the faint of heart. The view of Lake Okoboji from the top is nothing short of spectacular.

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

Located in Arnolds Park, Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf park is a pirate-themed mini golf place is a boat load of fun. The detailed decorations take visitors back to the 18th century when pirates ruled the seas. A fun, family affair, the grounds include 18 holes where families can practice their putt. As you journey from one hole to the next, you will pass over natural rivers, under waterfalls, and past an impressive display including ships, sharks, and more. Adults can enter for $8.45, and children between the ages of four to twelve are $7.45. Children under the age of four are free. 

Gull Point State Park

Okoboji is surrounded by a lush natural landscape that is sure to impress. Within the lake area, you can find seven protected wildlife areas. One of the most popular natural areas is Gull Point State Park. The park is located on a peninsula on the western shore of West Okoboji Lake.

Within the park, visitors can enjoy 1.5 miles of hiking or cycling trails throughout the summer. In the winter months, these trails can be used by cross-country skiers. There is also a campground that includes over one hundred sites. Campers can choose from a site with or without electricity.

Gull Point State Park also has a dock, which makes it a perfect place to visit for those who like to kayak, canoe, Jet Ski, or sail. Swimmers will find that there is a small sand beach in the area where they can swim or children can make sandcastles.

The park is also home to a lodge that was built in the 1930s. Today, the space can be rented for weddings, family reunions, and other community events.

Are you thinking of making the move to Okoboji? Connect with one of the experts of the Hoien Realty Team. We will be happy to answer any questions you might have about the local area.


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Posted by Eric Hoien on

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