Lake with Pine Trees

Pleasant Creek Lake Vacation Rentals

Pleasant Creek Lake

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Pleasant Creek Lake
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Why Rent On Pleasant Creek Lake

Pleasant Creek Lake, a serene and vibrant oasis in eastern Iowa, beckons adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. This 410-acre lake, set within a 1,927-acre state recreation area, offers a diverse array of activities that promise an unforgettable experience. For water enthusiasts, the lake is a paradise for swimming, boating, and fishing, with four convenient launch sites and seven ramps catering to various boating needs. The lake’s pristine waters are stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and muskellunge, making it a fishing haven.

Surrounding the lake are 10 miles of trails perfect for hiking, snowmobiling, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and equestrian riding, providing scenic views and access to various facilities. Families can enjoy picnics in the well-equipped shelters, while campers can choose from electric and non-electric sites or cozy rustic cabins.

Nearby, the vibrant city of Cedar Rapids awaits, offering attractions such as the Hawkeye Downs Raceway and the Cedar Rapids Kernels minor league baseball team. The Wickiup Hill Outdoor Learning Center, just six miles away, provides an educational and fun exploration of Iowa’s natural history. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Pleasant Creek Lake is an ideal destination.

Best time to go
Visit Pleasant Creek Lake from late spring to early summer, when wildflowers cascade along the shores and the air is fragrant with pine. Enjoy tranquil fishing days under sun-drenched skies, framed by fewer tourists and gentle breezes, perfect for serene kayaking adventures.
Water Quality
Pleasant Creek Lake's water is typically clear, with excellent visibility, making it a popular spot for activities like scuba diving. The lake's water color is often described as pristine, with a clear and transparent appearance.
Surface area (mi)
1.03
Max depth (ft)
55.28
Elevation (ft)
820.21
Shoreline length (mi)
7.5

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Ice Skating
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Marinas on Pleasant Creek Lake

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Pleasant Creek 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 Pleasant Creek Lake but only in designated beach areas or under specific conditions outside the beach area, such as swimming near a vessel with a bright orange flag and registering with park staff. Swimming outside the beach area has strict rules to ensure safety.

  • Pleasant Creek Lake is a popular destination because of its clear water and diverse recreational activities. The lake features four boat ramps, a kayak launch, and is suitable for scuba diving, fishing, and boating. It also has a swimming beach, fishing jetties, and is stocked with various fish species like largemouth bass and muskellunge.

  • The daily catch limits for different fish species in Pleasant Creek Lake, Iowa, vary by species. For trout, the combined daily limit is 5 and possession limit is 10. For Bluegill and crappie, the daily limit is 25 each on public waters with no possession limit. Specific regulations may apply to certain areas within the lake.

  • Yes, there is a beach with a boat launch on Pleasant Creek Lake. The swimming area is located on the north shore, and four boat launching sites with seven ramps are available around the lake. These sites provide access for fishing, leisure boating, and sailboating.

  • Pleasant Creek Lake is near the towns of Palo, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Waterloo. It is located in Linn County, making it easily accessible from these nearby cities. The recreation area offers various outdoor activities close to these urban areas.