The Most Snake Infested Lakes in Iowa
Approximately 28 snake species occur within Iowa's borders, with five being venomous. These reptiles inhabit various habitats throughout the Hawkeye State, including prairies, woodlands, wetlands, and bodies of water. Lakes, in particular, provide foraging grounds and shelter for several snake varieties. On hot summer days, the cold-blooded creatures often seek refuge near lakesides, docks, and vegetation. While most encounters with humans are harmless, some can turn tragic when bitten by a poisonous.
As such, it is crucial to understand what to do and what not to do if and when you see a snake. This not only prevents an aggressive reaction from the serpents but also allows peaceful coexistence between them and humans. The following are some of the most snake-infested lakes in Iowa.
Lake Red Rock
Spanning over 15,000 acres, Lake Red Rock is Iowa's largest reservoir. It was formed after the damming of the Des Moines River in 1969. It is about 45 miles from Des Moines and serves as a regional recreational hub. The lake waters harbor a thriving fish population that draws anglers in droves, including white bass, northern pike, black crappie, and more. The lake is surrounded by 35,000 acres of a premium playground for guests to enjoy camping, hiking, and picnicking.
The lake and the surrounding area provide habitat to various wildlife species, including amphibians, birds, and small animals, which are more than enough prey for a thriving snake population. The most common sightings are black rat snakes and brown snakes, often visible on the grassy lake shores hunting for small prey. You may also run into poisonous species like the copperhead and prairie rattlesnake.
Saylorville Lake
Saylorville Lake is among the largest reservoirs in Iowa, spreading 16,700 acres at full flood level. It resulted from constructing the Saylorville Dam, authorized by the American Congress in 1958, to control floods in the Des Moines River. Besides controlling floods, it has become a bustling recreational oasis with numerous amenities along its shores. Thanks to marinas, boat ramps, campgrounds, picnic shelters, a fishing pier, and an extensive state park infrastructure, visitors from around the region can hike, camp, fish, hunt, and enjoy the scenery.
Saylorville Lake also houses a rich ecosystem, with wildlife ranging from birds and amphibians to fish and mammals calling it home. Among them is a healthy snake population of both venomous and non-venomous species to look out for. Sightings of timber rattlesnakes and copperheads are not unheard of on the lake shores, which can be a threat to fun-loving guests.
West Lake Okoboji
West Lake Okoboji, also called West Okoboji Lake, is the deepest natural lake in the state. It is the centerpiece of Iowa Great Lakes, a chain of five lakes. The cities of Okoboji, Arnolds Park, Wahpeton, and West Okoboji sit on the shores, providing the backdrop for the numerous reactionary activities on the lake. Adventurers from the communities converge here to take advantage of different opportunities, from sailing and swimming to water skiing and motorboating. The area surrounding West Lake Okoboji is also notorious for its snake population, which results in constant human-wildlife encounters and conflicts.
The more commonly occurring species are non-venomous and include northern water snakes and eastern garter snakes. But you should be wary of copperheads when exploring the lake's periphery, given the biting threat they pose to humans. The same applies to the timber rattlesnakes, although they are very scarce.
Coralville Lake
This beautiful reservoir in Johnson County was formed in 1949 when the Coralville Dam was built across the Iowa River. It might be among the state's largest lakes, but its clean water makes it one of the most popular. It is a recreational hotspot, and Iowans and other Midwestern visitors converge in their thousands to enjoy different water-fuelled adventures, including swimming, fishing, and boating. On the delightful shores, several nature trails through dense vegetation and parks allow guests to enjoy bird-watching, hiking, and camping opportunities.
Coralville Lake is known for its healthy wildlife population, which includes birds, reptiles, mammals, and fish. Visitors constantly report snake encounters when swimming or basking on the lake's shores. Smooth green snakes are some of the more common species, often camouflaging in the grassy shores. Meanwhile, the water moccasin is a poisonous snake to be wary of, although sightings are relatively occasional.
Lake Wapello
Lake Wapello is an artificial lake in Davis County, situated about 7 miles from Drakesville. The beautiful lake is entirely within Lake Wapello State Park, which is a renowned recreation haven among the surrounding communities. The curious name of the lake was inspired by Chief Wapello of the native Meskwaki people. With over 1,000 acres of lush woodlands and undulating landscapes encircling the lake, the soothing scenery is the perfect setting for kayaking, fishing, canoeing, and boating activities.
Some guests visit the lake and the park just to watch the bustling wildlife in the area. While birds and small mammals are always a welcome sight, running into a snake can be a hair-raising experience for many. Luckily, most species found here, including the common garter snake and milk snake, pose little to no harm to humans except when you encounter a venomous timber rattlesnake.
Big Creek Lake
Big Creek Lake forms part of the surrounding Big Creek State Park and is about 2 miles from Polk City. It was built to safeguard Polk City from flooding but has since become a popular spot for fishermen and families seeking water-based fun. Although it only spans 814 acres, its healthy serpent population makes it one of the most snake-infested lakes in Iowa. Additionally, its numerous recreational options, from swimming and boating to camping and fishing, increase the probability of visitors encountering snakes in the area.
The snakes have multiple habitats in which to thrive, including the water, grassy shores, and the thick woodlands of the park. Luckily, reports of venomous species in the area are rare, if not unheard of. Most interactions visitors report involve docile and harmless variations like the plain garter and brown snakes, which often slither away without a fuss.
Lake Manawa
Lake Manawa, located on the edge of Council Bluffs, is a premier haven for hiking, boating, and camping. Over 1,500 acres of wilderness with a relaxed atmosphere surround the lovely lake waters, presenting endless options for those seeking outdoor fun. "Manawa" comes from a Native American word meaning peace and comfort, which candidly embodies the lake's setting. It is common for families from around the community to come and enjoy its many fun offerings, especially with access to the state's largest ADA-accessible playground.
However, the lake and its vicinity are also a feeding and foraging ground for various snake species native to Iowa. These include the northern watersnake, commonly seen on the shores, and the prairie kingsnake. However, you may also encounter the cottonmouth, which is poisonous and should be given a wide berth in such a case.
Final Thoughts
While some of Iowa's lakes are notable for their diverse snake communities in the United States, most regular residents are non-venomous varieties that play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance. By understanding which species favor which habitats and practicing common sense precautions like watchful movement near rocky ledges or lush vegetation, lake enthusiasts can continue to responsibly appreciate what the most snake-infested lakes in Iowa offer. With minor adjustments and an awareness of the potential, albeit small, risk that venomous snakes may also inhibit peripheral areas, Iowans and visitors alike can make the most of water-based recreation at these scenic lakes throughout the season.
