Upper Gar Lake

One of Iowa’s Great Lakes

Upper Gar Lake is located in the northwest region of Iowa in Dickinson County. The nearby town of Spirit Lake provides small-town establishments like grocery stores, restaurants, repair shops, and more.

Sioux Falls Regional Airport, Sanford USD Hospital, hotels, and attractions are approximately 100 miles away. A commute to the city is easy with US Highway 71, Highway 9, and I-90 nearby.

Calm Waters and Lake Fun

The 37-acre Upper Gar Lake is a connecting body of water for Lake Minnewashta on the south and East Okoboji Lake on the north. With a five miles per hour speed limit, Upper Gar Lake waters are a place to slow down and relax.

Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular activities on Upper Gar Lake. Boaters can travel to the larger lakes of the chain for water sports like skiing, tubing, wakeboarding, speedboating, and more.

Upper Gar Lake is a year-round fishing hotspot and is primarily known for its walleye population. Other fish that can be caught in the lake include largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, brown bullhead, and yellow perch.

Around the shores, people enjoy picnicking, hammocking, and hiking. Forest covers most of the eastern shore, allowing for hiking, birdwatching, and other natural excursions.

An Outing for Everyone

The one-of-a-kind Arnold’s Amusement Park is just a few blocks away. It features thrill rides, kiddie rides, a pirate-themed golf course, beach access, dining options, and more.

The Iowa Great Lakes Spine Trail is well-used by walkers, joggers, bikers, and cross-country skiers in the winter. Lake views and wildlife sightings are the path’s main attraction.

Brooks Golf and Emerald Hills Golf Club are nearby, and both are highly-regarded courses featuring picturesque landscapes.

The Perfect Lake Home

Upper Gar lake features beautiful homes in one of Iowa’s sought-after locations. Consider a weekend getaway or full-time residence on the lake to enjoy recreation on and off the water.