City of West Okoboji Parks & Recreation Areas

The interconnected Iowa Great Lakes extend from the Minnesota border several miles southwest. The centerpiece of the five beautiful lakes is the corridor between East and West Lake Okoboji.  Some say, "this is where all the action is!"

Emerson Bay

The Emerson Bay Recreation Area is located on the south-west shore of West Okoboji Lake.  It is the perfect place for all kinds of land and water activities. The recreation area is a 120-acre playground of native plants and wildlife, with plenty of fun activities.

Boat ramps are conveniently placed, and there are plenty of nature trails as well as a lake-side observation platform -- a perfect location for bird-watching in the early morning and evening. Pets are allowed in this area, so the family dog is welcomed. 

There are some prime fishing spots in the area, with opportunities for shallow fishing in the bay and fishing in the deeper waters of the lake.  Fishing in and around Emerson Bay will yield yellow perch, bucktails, bulldogs, bluegills, and crank fish. In the winter months, the mouth of the bay is a great spot for walleyes.

Vern & Coila Memorial Park

Located in the heart of a lovely residential area, the park is dedicated to Vern & Coila Titterington of Terrace Park.

Green's Beach

One of Okoboji's most popular public swimming areas is Green's Beach.

Families enjoy Green's Beach because of the clear water and sandy shore.  It is an ideal place for a family picnic as the shoreline is sandy and children can swim safely or have fun exploring the shoreline.

Picnics and swimming at Green's Beach has lingered in the memories of many of West Okoboji residents and returning visitors!