Natural swimming hole
Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area beach
Creek · Iowa
About this swimming hole
Pleasant Creek's designated beach is a fenced swim area on the park's large lake northwest of Cedar Rapids, with swimming allowed from sunrise to sunset. Alcohol, glass, and pets are kept out of the fenced beach, giving it a tidy, family-run feel. Eight miles of trails, campgrounds, and cabins make it eastern Iowa's closest big-lake beach day.
Good to know
| Water type | Creek |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | state park lots |
| Amenities | swimming beach, hiking trails, campground, cabins, boat ramps |
| County | Linn County |
| Nearest town | Palo |
| Safety notes | swimming allowed sunrise to sunset only; no alcohol, glass, or pets in fenced beach 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 Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area beach?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area beach?
The best season is typically June-August.
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