Lower Gar Lake

 [CommunityTitle], [CommunityType] Community

Lower Gar Lake is the furthest south Lake in the Iowa Great Lakes chain of lakes.  Lower Gar Lake is a little off the beaten path for a more secluded feel but very close to everything. Lower Gar is connected to Lake Minnewashta and outlets into the Little Sioux River.  Lower Gar is one of the only lakes that does not have any condos on it, but it is ripe for development.  Lower Gar has been developed on the furthest south end on Hill Drive and Helen Avenue.  The average depthis only 4 feet with a max depth of 6 feet, however in the "canal" area, it is roughly 8 feet.  Lower Gar Lakeshore sells for between $2000 and $4000 per running foot of lakeshore.

The following is from the Iowa Great Lakes Water Safety Council:

The southernmost lake in the entire Great Lakes chain, Lower Gar is a large shallow natural lake with the outflow creek existing at the southwest corner of the lake.

Lower Gar Lake has a surface area of 242 acres, a mean depth of 4 feet, and a maximum depth of 6 feet.

Lower Gar does drain a sizable 11,374 acre watershed primarily from the Spring Run wildlife management area. During years with low water levels it can be difficult for boat traffic to navigate the shallow muddy waters.

The lake level has been raised several times, and the current dam, constructed after the flooding in 1993, has substantially stabilized the level of the lake. Most of the Western portion of the Lower Gar Lake is privately owned, and current development on the east and Northeast sides includes housing and a golf course. Its more sheltered location encourages boating and water skiing when wind conditions limit such activities on the larger lakes in the chain.

Area Insights

Goodies

Goodies in Spirit Lake

Goodies Handmade Candies is a small family-run business located in Spirit Lake, Iowa. Goodies has become a "must stop" place when visiting the area.
Goodies offers handmade candies, ice cream, coffee, and gifts. Each batch uses fresh quality ingredients and no added preservatives.
Customers from all over rave with remarks such as, "Goodies makes the best candies they have ever had."

Jimmy John's

Jimmy John's in Spirit Lake

Jimmy John's slices our all-natural meats and fresh veggies in-house every day. Our fresh-baked bread is made right here where you can see it, and our house-made tuna salad is fresh every day. The flavor of a ripe tomato, crisp shredded lettuce, combined with fresh-baked bread, fresh-sliced meat and real Hellmann's mayo - that's when the magic happens. Made with love every single day since 1983. That's Jimmy Fresh!

WEST Algona

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Lakes Agent Insight Description of West Lake Rush Lake in the Lake Section of the Area Category

Kenue Park

Kenue Park in Okoboji

Kenue Park
2251 170th St
Okoboji, IA 51355

Located next door to the Dickinson County Nature Center, Kenue Park offers 40 acres of entertainment including picnic areas, hiking trails and a 18 hole disc golf course.

The Higgins Museum

The Higgins Museum in Okoboji

The Higgins Museum
of National Bank Notes
1507 Sanborn Ave
Okoboji, IA 51355

Looking for a unique experience, here is one for you. A museum of "National Bank Notes,” not just any museum, but one that offers the largest collection of these Bank Notes in the country. If you are interested in coins and different paper money, come check this out.

Emagine

Emagine in Spencer

If you're looking for a creative take on web design, Emagine is the company for you. Their innovative approach to custom web design is second to none. Not only do they specialize in web design, but custom photography, print design, programming, mobile development, inbound marketing, e-commerce, video production, and more. This team offers a fully customized experience for each client. Their unique ideas, and forward thinking are sure to blow you away.

Wild Child

Wild Child in Spirit Lake

Wild Child, which features stylish clothing, accessories and awesome toys for children and newborns, is all about quality clothing and toys. Wild Child is the "go to" store for people with all budgets, and offers styles that cannot be found anywhere else, and strives to offer unique apparel and toys that are fun, functional and educational.

Nautical Bar & Grill

Nautical Bar & Grill in Arnolds Park

This Bar/Restaurant has an amazing selection of beers on tap and bottled to suit any beer drinkers needs. Nautical serves lunch & dinner and be sure to try the wings, which are made with homemade sauces and cooked to a crisp perfection. A great atmosphere in the heart of Arnolds Park.

Cafe Esteam

Cafe Esteam in Spirit Lake

This new coffee shop is located in the Allure & Co. downtown Spirit Lake. They offer amazing coffee, smoothies and homemade baked goods. This is a great addition to the community!

Okoboji Elementary School

Okoboji Elementary School in Milford

Welcome to Okoboji Elementary School, where we are blessed to serve over 470 students in preschool through 4th grade. We are continuously Pioneering Pathways for Every Student as we strive to make learning engaging and relevant for each and every student. We take pride in the academic instruction that our students receive and in the fact that our students consistently demonstrate high competencies in reading, math, and science, but also that they develop the critical thinking, communication, and problem- solving skills they will need to be successful beyond their years at OES. We are committed to making sure our students’ needs are met, whether it be basic needs, social/emotional needs, or academic needs.

We would love for you to arrange a visit to Okoboji Elementary School to experience the positive culture of the building and to see first-hand the compassion and commitment of our staff. We are confident that you will see it as a place where your child will thrive.

Yours in Education,

Justin Bouse
Okoboji Elementary School Principal

Thee Garage Sale:

Thee Garage Sale: in Milford

An exceptional thrift store located in Milford that supports the programs and services of the Cherish Center. Great selection of furniture, decor, kitchen items, children's clothes, toys and more! Located on 22nd Street in Milford. Just 2 blocks South of Perkins.

The Bear

The Bear in Spencer

The Bear is an eclectic little coffeehouse and wine bar nestled in Spencer. The bear serves amazing breakfast, lunch and dinner year round, as well as beer, wine, and of course, the finest coffee. It has a casual, comfortable setting, sure to keep you coming back for more. Its also great for meetings, work events, or just a nice spot to meet friends. They host events, local live entertainment, and more; they're very involved in their community.

Katy Lynn Boutique

Katy Lynn Boutique in Arnolds Park

Katy Lynn Boutique is a fabulous women's clothing store offering a wide variety of clothing, shoes, jewelry and more. Excellent customer service with all hands-on-deck in helping you find that special outfit. You can also place clothing orders online. A fun clothing store that is sure to impress!

Okoboji Expedition Co.

Okoboji Expedition Co. in Okoboji

Okoboji Expedition Co is a bicycle and outdoor sports store in Okoboji, Iowa. We are located on the eastern shore of West Okoboji Lake in the Iowa Great Lakes region. The Okoboji Expedition Company carries bicycles, kayaks, cycling apparel, cross country skis, and snowshoes along with all the needed accessories for all of the above. We also specialize in custom bike fittings and offer winter spinning classes.
We offer bicycle products from Specialized, Cervelo, Co-motion and Alchemy. We also stock Oru kayaks and paddle boards from SOL, Tubbs snowshoes, Atomic cross country skis and outdoor clothing from Mavic, Pearl Izumi and Louis Garneau. Stop in and see us… you’ll be glad you did.

Beer Can Alley

Beer Can Alley in Arnolds Park

The ever popular country bar in Des Moines is now a staple bar in the Okoboji area. The only bar of its kind in the area is always a good time in the summer. Their rustic country feel, and country music always blasting on the TV's is sure to create a good time for anyone visiting the area. With a huge bar, and great indoor/outdoor atmosphere, this is one bar you don't want to miss!

Comfortec Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Comfortec Heating, Cooling & Plumbing in Spirit Lake

Comfortec has trained and licensed technicians who can handle the job whether you have no heat or a loud noise coming from your equipment. We are a Carrier, Ruud and Lennox dealer giving us an advantage when it comes to working with different types of furnaces. We carry a wide variety of parts and can service any brand of furnace or AC. When it comes to needing someone to come handle your heating or cooling issue, we get there fast and get the job done right anywhere in our service region. Additionally, we provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week because problems with your heating and cooling systems or plumbing rarely only occur during a normal workday.

"The Bridge"

"The Bridge" has been referred to by the Wharf Bridge, the Kentucky Fried Chicken Bridge, the bridge connecting East and West, among other names. In the good old days, this was actually a draw bridge converted to the current permanent structure. In the 90's when the 3 lane was installed, there was talk about removing the bridge and making some drastic changes. All in all, the base of the bridge remained, and the upper structure was improved. I remember as a kid jumping off the bridge, and fishing on and under the bridge. In fact, an unforgettable memory I have is when I was fishing with my cousin and I casted out trying to reach the opposite corner of the bridge with my lure. In mid air, a pigeon flew and the timing was so great that my line wrapped around the pigeon, and the pigeon went into the water. I reeled it up and had caught a pigeon. My cousin then decided to hold this pigeon inside the front of his coat. We went to show people at Okoboji Boats what we had caught. When we got there, he opened his jacket, and the pigeon had pooped all over his white shirt.

Jimmy Johns

Jimmy Johns in Spirit Lake

Jimmy John’s Spirit Lake
1007 18th St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Jimmy Johns offers a fresh and quick sandwich at affordable prices. If you are low on time, hit up one of the two locations in the Iowa Great Lakes Area.

Arnolds Park- in BooneDocks gas station
Spirit Lake(Opened in 2016)- on the corner of Hwy 9/71 and Keokuk Ave. Next door to Fareway Grocery Store.
Online Ordering and Delivery are options with Jimmy Johns. Visit the website or call for details.

Okoboji Store

Okoboji Store in Okoboji

Bringing back the old Okoboji general store from 1884, the Okoboji Store has made a huge name for itself since it opened in 2015. The Okoboji Store is nearly always busy, thanks to their amazing food and drinks. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, during the summer and fall. The restaurant also hosts some of the areas best live musicians, which is always a great time. But, the best part of the Okoboji Store is of course, the view of the lake. Its beautiful location is sure to keep anyone coming back for more.

Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry

Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Spirit Lake

We understand the importance of good dental hygiene and oral care and are committed to providing you the best care in a fun, pleasant environment. Using the latest technology, our experienced staff works together as a team to give you exceptional quality treatment from the time you walk in for your initial visit.

Table 316

Table 316 in Arnolds Park

16 cent beers, need I say more? Make sure you're here at exactly 3:16 pm, and you'll get your fill of 16 cent beers for a whole hour! Then, they go up $1 every hour after that. Table 316 also has great steak, and appetizer deals at 3:16 pm as well. We bring all of our friends here to have a good time, and grab beers before going out on the lake for the rest of the afternoon.

Quality Ice Fishing

Quality Ice Fishing in Lake Minnewashta

The ice is in and its time to mark some fish! Drag the sled right down the ramp off of Dam Road in Arnolds Park and you are catching fish in minutes. On Minnewashta, no spot is a bad spot. Surrounded by a number of beautiful lake homes, the scene is perfect for drilling some holes and jigging your way to a fresh meal. Gills, perch, crappie and walleye will keep you busy in your fish shack. If have not fished on Lake Minnewashta, now is the time.

Okoboji Community School District

Okoboji Community School District in Milford

Welcome! Okoboji Community School District is a place where we are Pioneering Pathways for Every Student. Okoboji has so much to offer all students: high academic standards, strong athletic and fine arts programs, and much more. This community should feel Proud to Be piONEers who are Outstanding and Optimistic and encourage Opportunity for ALL.

If you are new to the district, we look forward to providing your children with a challenging education from teachers who build academic competence, encourage innovation and collaboration, and teach with passion in an atmosphere where students are valued, celebrated, and challenged.

We are so thankful for the many parents involved in Pioneer Parents and other organizations that are engaged with our children’s education. It is our hope you will be an “all in” parent/guardian/community member/community leader for your child and every child in our district. It is “Team Okoboji.”

To learn more about the Okoboji Community District, please call 712-338-4757. We are committed to keeping our kids safe and giving them our very best.

Thank you for your support!

- Todd A. Abrahamson, Superintendent

Check out these You Tube videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4E8vyEcqsQ&index=1&list=PLgY3oyulYPWoBiQcIm5A-273dr2fDJRhp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXTeIuB-72c&index=2&list=PLgY3oyulYPWoBiQcIm5A-273dr2fDJRhp

Matuska Taxidermy

Matuska Taxidermy in Spirit Lake

Matuska Taxidermy
3735 Hwy 71
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Another neat experience you don’t get to see every day. Stop in and check out the amazing display of work done by Tom Matuska and Matuska Taxidermy. On display you will find all kinds of animals and fish.

Also offered is the Northwest Iowa School of Taxidermy which is a 9 week course offered two times a year designed to get you started on a successful career in taxidermy.

Urban Alley

Urban Alley in Arnolds Park

Urban Alley
321 Hwy 71 S
Arnolds Park, IA 51331

Urban Alley, with a great location just a short block away from the entrance to the Amusement Park area, offers repurposed home décor, vintage goods, handmade rag rugs, soy candles and more.

Follow Urban Alley on Facebook to see what they have for sale.

The Outrigger

The Outrigger in Okoboji

One of the area's best! The Outrigger serves fine food with an elegant, charming atmosphere. The menu has a variety of food options, but the Outrigger is well-known for their steak and seafood. Weekend specials are offered as well as prime rib on Friday and Saturday nights. A great neighborhood bar and restaurant!

Midwest Modern Furniture

Midwest Modern Furniture in Spirit Lake

Talk about a fun place to shop--this is one of the best! The owners and staff (including Britt, the furniture dog) are so personable and welcoming that you'll find yourself hanging out in their store because it's so much like home (or what you'd like your home to be)! They have great furniture, rugs, lighting to fit any budget. They also sell vintage pieces which don't last long in the store! And plants, yes, they even have plants! Plan to spend some time when you come here because there's so much to see! Located at 3520 Hwy 71 South, Spirit Lake or go to midwestmodernfurniture.com.

Consumers Lumber Company

Consumers Lumber Company in Spencer

Consumers Lumber Company is the only locally owned and operated building center in the area. They have been proudly serving the best builders and homeowners with the best materials and services since 1906.
They have locations in Spirit Lake and Spencer Iowa with a complete line of building materials and builder’s hardware. They also have full showrooms of millwork, stone, decking and cabinetry.
Dollars spent with Consumers Lumber stay in Dickinson and Clay counties. They support all the area schools and youth organizations along with several other community charities. Consumers Lumber Company is also very proud of the fact that their 15 employees have over 200 years of combined service to our company and that they all live, shop and play here.
They offer timely and accurate project bids and drawings to better serve the areas builders and homeowners. They also provide free and fast delivery to the four county area.

Dining

Dining in Okoboji

Minerva's is a fabulous dining experience, from the consistently great food to the diverse menu selections. It's a great place to dine in the lakes area year round. If you haven't been, you really should give it a try. The atmosphere is welcoming and the friendly staff is very attentive. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or meeting with friends, this is the place!

Arnolds Park Amusement Park

Arnolds Park Amusement Park in Arnolds Park

Having lived in Okoboji all my life, there are a wealth of memories of Arnolds Park. I, like many of the locals, miss the nostalgia of the old Roof Garden, the fun house, the water slide and much, much more. With time comes change, and the amusement park continues to reinvent itself. Currently with over 20 rides to choose from, the family is sure to have a good time. The main attraction, The Legend Roller Coaster, is the 7th oldest coaster in the United States and apparently the 13th oldest in the world. Reaching speeds of up to 50 mph, the roller coaster has undergone substantial renovations in the last year. In front of the amusement park on West Lake is the Queen II excursion boat, and Pirate Jacks Bar. The sunsets here are unparalleled. If you have a chance to visit, make sure to check out the tipsy house, the three sons, and all of the shops. Just to the east is the green space, which provides great entertainment and in 2013 OAR came to play, which is a pretty big name for Okoboji.

Chaplin's

Chaplin's in Arnolds Park

Chaplin's is a great neighborhood bar with food, value priced drinks, the best karaoke, friendly and happy staff, plenty of parking and a welcoming atmosphere.

Buyer and seller real estate app, right at your fingertips.

Buyer and seller real estate app, right at your fingertips. in The

Browse real-time MLS listings in the Iowa Great Lakes Region
Filter for specific areas and amenities
Be notified when there is a new MLS listing match, status change, or price drop
Stay in touch with your agent
Save searches and favorites
Agents, Buyers, Lenders and Appraisers can view your transactions
View, download and sign documents

Every 30 seconds, a RE/MAX agent helps someone find their perfect place. Let us help you find yours.

1. Search "SellBoji" in your app store on your cell phone.
2. Download the app
3. Create a profile to access info or save searches (This is not necessary to browse the listings)
4. Enjoy all the benefits of the real estate app

Woody's Pizza

Woody's Pizza in Estherville

Woodys Pizza is the oldest existing pizza restaurant in Northwest Iowa. In 1961, Woody and Mae Condon started their first restaurant in Estherville, with four tables, an eight seat counter and carry-out service. There was no alcohol served. It became a gathering place for the young people of Estherville.
In 1980 they sold their restaurant to their son, Anthony, he and his family operated Woody's for over 30 years. On Jan. 1, 2018, Dave and Tasha Welch of Estherville are the new owners.
Now, Dave & Tasha are thrilled to be taking the reins to continue not only bringing you great tasting pizza with the original famous recipe, but to bring you excellent service as a family-run business Estherville can be proud of.
Dine in or Call 712-362-5610 for Carry Out and Delivery!

Big Spirit Lake, Small Town Feel

Big Spirit Lake, Small Town Feel in Big Spirit Lake

Separated from the rest of the Iowa Great Lakes, Big Spirit has a lot to offer. Big Spirit is actually located in Iowa and in Minnesota. This quiet setting offers a number of different lake views as well as access to fantastic fishing. While your are there, stop at the Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery. Every year they use gillnetting to catch and release walleye, muskie and pike using each fish to help breed a new batch of fish for the year. Often times the DNR catches very large fish and put them on display in one of their many fish tanks. The DNR professionals harvest fish eggs and release them after they hatch. Stop by and see the in the Spring, you will not be disappointed.

The Sports Page Bar & Grill

The Sports Page Bar & Grill in Spencer

Sports Page is a fan favorite restaurant in Spencer, Iowa. With their never ending menu, with classic American food, its sure to please everyone that visits! With TV's everywhere you look, you won't miss any of the action, whether it be football, baseball, basketball, or any of the other major sports, Sports Page has you covered! This family friendly restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere for all to enjoy.

El Parian Mexican Grill

El Parian Mexican Grill in Spirit Lake

Stop in El Parian for some of the best Mexican cuisine and margaritas. On Wednesdays lime margaritas are only $.99! El Parian offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican food for lunch and dinner. You will not leave hungry by any means!

Prairie Chick

Prairie Chick in Okoboji

2327 170th St
Okoboji, IA 51355
Prairie Chick is a great place to go for your morning coffee, for breakfast, lunch or just a spot to get away and read a newspaper. The atmosphere is great, There are numerous rooms and seating areas, including a fireplace where you are most likely going to find a local or two reading a newspaper waiting for someone to start up a good conversation with.

Very family friendly as well. In door and out door seating and a garden in the back where they grow alot of the ingredients used in their food.

They offer great coffee, scones, quiches, oatmeal, as well as other pastries. For lunch they also offer sandwiches/soup.

Their menu often changes from day to day, so stop in often and taste a little of everything.

Melanders

Melanders in Milford

Melanders-downtown Milford
922 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351

New and used kitchen appliances, great selection, wide variety of the top brands. Local, helpful service.

Remington's

Remington's in Spirit Lake

Remington's in Okoboji has great appetizers, salads, sandwiches, steak and much more. Remington's also has daily lunch and dinner specials. Happy Hour Mon - Fri 4pm - 6pm with free popcorn. Saturday is "Game Day" 11am - 4pm with drink and appetizer specials. Lunch and dinner reservations are taken, along with large group reservations with seating up to 150 people. Remington's offers a semi-private dining room that seats 50 people.

First Presbyterian Church

First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake

First Presbyterian Church
3501 Hill Ave
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Services
Sunday at 8:50 a.m. (Tune in on KUOO)
Sunday at 11:15 a.m.

Harbor of Joy Lutheran Church

Harbor of Joy Lutheran Church in Milford

Harbor of Joy Lutheran Church
1204 L Ave
Milford, IA 51351

Services
Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

Codit Tree Care

Codit Tree Care in Spirit Lake

CODIT is a licensed, insured and internationally certified arboriculture tree care business, which specializes in hard to access areas.

Terrace Park

Terrace Park is located in Brown's Bay on West Lake, Okoboji. It is one of the largest public beaches on West Lake and has entertained beach goers for many years. Next to Terrace Park is Boys Town out of Omaha, Nebraska. I remember as a kid spending entire days at terrace park, either riding bicycle or taking a moped (yes a moped) down to meet with friends and playing king on the dock. In 2010, the morning after "the storm", Terrace Park was carnage. Boat were stacked on top of each other. Trees were uprooted, and hoists were tossed around. Boats and other water craft were found in Terrace Park that belonged to owners on the North end of West Lake.

Ries Eyecare

Ries Eyecare in Milford

Ries Eyecare
2213 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351
Another eyecare option in the Iowa Great Lakes area is conveniently located in Milford on Hwy 71 next door to Ingwersen Chiropractic and Healthy Living Program Center.

Services provided:
Exams- Comprehensive, Contact Lens, Medical for Glaucoma, etc, Foreign Body Removal, Red Eye and Emergencies and Post- operative Care

Ingwersen Family Chiropractic, LLC

Ingwersen Family Chiropractic, LLC in Milford

Dr. Laura Ingwersen is located on Hwy 71 on the South end of Milford next to Subway.
Laura works with all ages to help relieve back pain, neck pain, headaches, as well as muscular tightens and other adjustments. She will determine the root of your pain and create a chiropractic and/or wellness plan to suit you.
Laura is a very friendly, professional chiropractic option. We have taken our children to Laura and are very impressed with her and the kids really like her.

Triggs Bay Resort

Triggs Bay Resort in Arnolds Park

I had the opportunity and privilege to work at Triggs for 4 years in my high school and college years. Jim Triggs and Mike May run one of the best family resorts in the Lakes Area. The resort has 48 condo style units that are continually updated and maintained immaculately. It truly is a family resort as most units are rented each week every year by the same families. People really begin to know each other and I had a great time getting to know all of the families better each year. We always looked forward to seeing them each year and catching up. Triggs offers boat/watercraft rentals, 4 gas docks, boat hoists for rent, an outdoor pool, a daily groomed beach, game room, and many more great amenities. If you are planning a vacation to Okoboji, I highly encourage you to call early and see if you can get a reservation at Triggs Bay Resort. You will not be disappointed.

Furniture Mart

Furniture Mart in Spirit Lake

Furniture Mart
2502 17th St
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Located just west of Walmart and next door to the Ramada Inn, The Furniture Mart offers a HUGE floor space filled with a great selection of furniture. Selections include Living Room, Dining, Bedroom and Office furniture. They also offer Mattresses, TV Stands and different Decor and Accent pieces. In home delivery available as well.

Elinor Bedell State Park

Elinor Bedell State Park in Spirit Lake

Elinor Bedell State Park

located on 80 acres of land this property was gifted by former U.S. Congressman Berkley Bedell and his wife Elinor. Berkley was also the original business man who began the Berkley Fishing company which started in Spirit Lake and was taken world-wide.

The park offers prairie and wetland areas to navigate, with miles of trails, a campground, playground equipment, a shelter overlooking the lake and more.

EAST Algona

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Lakes Agent Insight Description of East Lake Rush Lake in the Lake Section of the Area Category.

Spencer Hospital

Spencer Hospital in Spencer

Spencer Hospital delivers the highest quality healthcare in its area.They are compassionate about their patients, while providing high-tech, and professional care to each of their patients. They have a specialized cancer center, diagnostic imaging, surgery center, and a brand new OB unit. Spencer Hospital's amazing doctors provide personalized care, and treat each patient with compassion, and care.

 

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Janie Gilmore


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