Natural swimming hole
Central Park Lake beach
Lake · Iowa
About this swimming hole
Central Park's free public beach sits on a 25-acre lake in the middle of Jones County, open Memorial Day through Labor Day with no lifeguard on duty — swim at your own risk. The 312-acre park backs the sand with trails, a nature center, rental cabins, and a sand volleyball court. It is the quintessential small-county-park swim: friendly, uncrowded, and genuinely free.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | Memorial Day–Labor Day |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | county park lots at 12515 Central Park Rd |
| Amenities | free swim beach, hiking trails, nature center, playground, sand volleyball |
| County | Jones County |
| Nearest town | Center Junction |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; swim at own risk; no pets in swimming area |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Does Central Park Lake beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Central Park Lake beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Central Park Lake beach?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Central Park Lake beach?
The best season is typically Memorial Day–Labor Day.
Keep exploring
Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026