Iowa Rivers And Lakes

Iowa is drained by several important river systems.

Mississippi River

The Mississippi River forms Iowa's eastern border with Illinois and Wisconsin. Facts about the Mississippi River in Iowa:

• It flows over 2,300 miles from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
• The river passes along cities like Davenport, Dubuque, and Burlington, Iowa.
• Locks and dams make the Mississippi navigable for commercial river traffic.
• It provides recreation, water supply, and scenic views.

Missouri River

The Missouri River flows through western Iowa and forms part of its border with Nebraska and South Dakota. Details about the Missouri River in Iowa:

• It runs over 2,300 miles from Montana through the Great Plains.
• The river passes along Council Bluffs, Iowa and Sioux City, Iowa.
• It was a vital route for Native Americans and early explorers and settlers.

Cedar River

The Cedar River flows southeast through central Iowa. Facts about the Cedar River:

• It is a tributary of the Iowa River, spanning nearly 300 miles.
• The river flows through Cedar Falls, Waterloo, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
• It is prone to major flooding, like the devastating Cedar River flood of 2008.

Notable Lakes in Iowa

Some of Iowa's biggest lakes include:

• West Okoboji Lake - Considered Iowa's top vacation lake in the north.
• East Okoboji Lake - Joined with West Okoboji to form Iowa's Great Lakes.
• Clear Lake - The state's third largest natural lake, popular for recreation.
• Rathbun Lake - A major reservoir in southern Iowa, created by damming the Chariton River.

Iowa's rivers and lakes have been vital for transportation, agriculture, and commerce throughout its history as a state.