From exciting river adventures to lazy days on the lake, the region’s waterways are a favorite for hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, as well as those lucky enough to call the area home.
The Des Moines River and other waterways are great options for canoeing and kayaking. The 11,000-acre Rathbun Lake with 150 miles of shoreline is a popular place for boating, fishing, camping and bird-watching. Honey Creek Resort at Rathbun Lake features a full complement of activities including an 18-hole championship golf course, marina and watercraft rentals, indoor water park and pristine natural areas with miles of walking and bike trails.
The 10 counties of Iowa South boast seven state parks, most with access to waterways for additional fishing, swimming and boating opportunities. In addition to Honey Creek State Park, there are Lacey-Keosauqua, Lake Keomah, Lake Wapello, Red Haw, Shimek State Forest and Stephens State Forest.
World-class hunting is a hallmark of Iowa South. The region is home to tens of thousands of acres of public hunting ground and known for white-tailed deer, pheasant, quail and wild turkeys.
Whether it’s golf, tennis or another favorite sport, there are plenty of options to stay active at every age. Recreation centers across the region sport basketball and racquetball courts, along with fitness equipment and indoor tracks.
The 200-acre Lacey Recreation Complex in Mahaska County is home to 22 youth soccer fields, two collegiate soccer fields, six youth football fields, a softball and baseball complex, lacrosse fields and an eight-lane track with a 3,000-seat stadium on-site.
Spectator sports are another way to get in the game as the region cheers on the home teams at William Penn University and Indian Hills Community College.
Courtesy of Livability
