Lake with ducks and swam

Okamanpeedan Lake Vacation Rentals

Okamanpeedan Lake

Why Rent On Okamanpeedan Lake

Okamanpeedan Lake, straddling the Iowa-Minnesota border, is a vibrant destination that beckons adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. Known also as Tuttle Lake, this body of water is steeped in history, its name deriving from the Native American phrase for “nesting place of the herons,” a testament to the abundant wildlife that thrives along its shores.

Here, you can indulge in a plethora of water activities: swimming, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. Anglers will find the lake teeming with a diverse array of fish, including walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. The surrounding landscape offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing, ensuring year-round excitement.

Nearby, the Tuttle Lake Recreation Area on the southwest shore provides sixty campsites and a boat launch, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. For cultural immersion, visit the local museums and historical landmarks that dot the area, offering insights into the region’s rich history. Golf courses, antique shops, and casino venues are also within reach, catering to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or serene retreats, Okamanpeedan Lake is an idyllic setting to recharge and explore.

Best time to go
Visit Okamanpeedan Lake in late spring, specifically May and early June. The air buzzes with warmth, sunlight dapples the serene waters perfect for kayaking, while the vibrant wildflowers bloom. Enjoy the tranquility before summer tourists arrive, offering unrivaled fishing opportunities and idyllic picnics amidst nature’s canvas.
Water Quality
Okamanpeedan Lake's water exhibits a deep blue hue, often described as sapphire, with a clarity that is murky and opaque due to high levels of algae blooms and suspended sediments.
Surface area (mi)
5.78
Max depth (ft)
6.89
Elevation (ft)
1227.03
Shoreline length (mi)
12.61

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Marinas on Okamanpeedan Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Okamanpeedan Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Okamanpedan Lake, but facilities and access may vary. The lake offers swimming areas, particularly at the Tuttle Lake Recreation Area, though conditions can change due to water quality issues.

  • Okamanpeedan Lake is a popular destination because it offers excellent fishing and water activities. Anglers can catch various game fish like walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. The lake also supports swimming, boating, kayaking, and canoeing, making it a versatile spot for outdoor recreation.

  • The daily bag and possession limits for walleye, northern pike, and bass in Okamanpeedan Lake are as follows: Walleye and northern pike have a daily bag and possession limit of three each. For bass, the combined daily bag and possession limit for largemouth and smallmouth bass is three, with no length limit. These limits are part of the Iowa-Minnesota border lake regulations.

  • Yes, there is a public beach at Okamanpeedan Lake. Unsupervised swimming is allowed at the site, and visitors can enjoy the lake’s beauty from within the park. The stone bath house, although now largely open to the elements, was originally constructed for this purpose by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

  • The towns near Okamanpeedan Lake include Ceylon, Minnesota, and Armstrong, Iowa. The lake is partially located in Martin County, Minnesota, and Emmet County, Iowa. These towns are in close proximity to the lake, making them convenient for visitors.