When the glaciers melted thousands of years ago, gravel, clay and rock dust deposits were left in the natural depressions that were formed as a result of the movement of glaciers. Hence, the glacial blue lakes of Iowa were born. There is only other such lake in the world and that is located in Switzerland. It is believed that at one time the two lakes, North and South, were actually one lake and roughly five times the size of the present day lakes. But the continuous freezing and thawing pushed more and more soil and rocks to the edges, eventually building a shore wall. The North Twin covers over five hundred acres, with a shoreline of seven miles, and is owned by Iowa State and formally known as Twin Lakes State Park.
Twin Lakes State Park is made up of three state parks and two county parks, three state owned boat ramps, and a dock that is handicapped accessible. There are a number of public picnic areas, three playgrounds and shelters, and there is even more than six acres of restored Prairie that the public can stroll through. All of these are located in a beautiful natural setting for the whole family to enjoy.
South Twin is mainly an undeveloped natural refuge which is home to the wandering waterfowl for the most part of the year. The lake consists of a double looped continuous trail that is lined with solar planters to light the thirteen mile long path. There are numerous scenic spots that can be enjoyed by resting on one of the ten benches scattered along the trail. Nature is seen here in its true form and it is breathtaking to behold.
The North Twin of the Twin Lakes State Park alsohas a newly completed seven mile trail which encircles it and may be accessed from the east area of the State Park. The lake side trail is host to many benefit events throughout the year. It passes through Knapp Round Barn, a historic round barn that has been restored. Everyone walking, strolling, or jogging in this area can enjoy the scenery. There is a 56 acre area known as the Featherstone Park on the Northwest corner of Twin Lake State Park. It has numerous tent sites, sixty one RV hookups, public restrooms, and showers.
There are also two boat ramps on the south shore that are state owned, and there is no restriction of the size of the boat one can place there. The Twin Lake Sailing Association hosts boat sailing races every Sunday morning. The lake is home to many types of fish which are regularly seeded by the State Conservation Commission. The fish species include bluegill, crappie, walleye, and channel catfish. The main area of North Twin is open 24 hours a day for fishing and even has a modern restroom nearby. The east and west ends are lined with beaches and swimming areas but are open only during daylight hours. There is a playground situated here for the younger visitors.
The Twin Lakes State Park offers its visitors picnicking and sheltering facilities. Two open shelters are available at no cost but on a first come / first serve basis. These too are located in the main area on the east side of Twin Lakes. There are rental cabins available and they are open seasonally with booking starting from April 1 of each year. Each cabin sleeps six people and is equipped with chairs, a microwave, a refrigerator, and heating and cooling units. Reservations can be made by calling 712-297-7131.
It is even possible to hold public meetings or reunions at the Twin Lakes Christian Center with 13,000 square feet of space. The Center offers a 75 foot water slide, water skiing, swimming, canoeing, and paddle boats, along with many other fun activities.
There are more than 250 beds in various lodging styles available all year round for adult or family camps. It is the perfect place to do camp-outs or water front parties. The variety of entertainment is mind boggling. From miniature golf to wall climbing or cable rides, everything is available. For more information or bookings simply visit www.twinlakescc.com.