Lake Macbride State Park: Iowa's Lakeside Gem
Explore Iowa's great outdoors at Lake Macbride State Park: fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and more!
Lake Macbride State Park, Iowa's largest, offers 2,180 acres of outdoor activities centered around the 900-acre Lake Macbride. Named after conservationist Thomas Huston Macbride, the park features fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and camping in a scenic, natural setting.
A brief summary to Lake Macbride State Park
- 3525 Hwy 382 NE, Solon, Iowa, 52333, US
- +1319-624-2200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit in the spring or fall for birdwatching; shorebirds, waterfowl, and ospreys are frequent visitors.
- Rent a boat at the beach to explore Lake Macbride; options include pontoons, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
- Hike or bike the five-mile crushed limestone trail connecting the park to Solon for scenic views.
- Make reservations for campsites and shelters online, especially during peak season.
- Check the Iowa DNR website for beach advisories and park alerts before your visit.
Getting There
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Driving
From Solon, head west on County Road F16 for approximately 4 miles to reach the northern unit of Lake Macbride State Park, where you'll find the park office, beach, and modern campground. Parking is available at various locations within the park. Parking fees are not listed. Alternatively, take 5th St. west out of Solon for 3 miles to reach the southern unit, home to the non-modern campground.
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Biking/Walking
From Solon, access the five-mile crushed limestone multi-use trail on the north side of the lake. This trail connects the park to Solon, offering a scenic route for bicyclists and pedestrians. The trail runs along the shoreline and through wooded areas.
Discover more about Lake Macbride State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lake Macbride State Park
0.0 km
Explore Lake Macbride State Park: A top outdoor destination in Iowa, perfect for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and immersing yourself in nature's beauty.
Lake MacBride
0.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Lake MacBride, Iowa's scenic lake ideal for outdoor activities, relaxation, and stunning views.
Wilson's Orchard & Farm (Iowa City)
11.8 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Wilson's Orchard & Farm, where fresh fruits, artisanal treats, and scenic landscapes await visitors.
Hancher Auditorium
14.4 km
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The Brown Street Inn
14.4 km
Experience the charm of Iowa City at The Brown Street Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast offering unique hospitality and a perfect retreat.
Historic Phillips House
14.5 km
Experience Iowa City charm at this historic bed and breakfast near the University of Iowa, offering cozy accommodations and a touch of elegance.
Oakland Cemetery
14.6 km
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St. Mary of the Visitation Catholic Church
15.2 km
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Historic Amana Colonies State Historical Marker
15.3 km
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State Historical Society Research Center
15.4 km
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Kinnick Stadium
15.5 km
Immerse yourself in the exhilarating atmosphere of Kinnick Stadium, home to the Iowa Hawkeyes, a must-visit for sports fans and tourists alike.
Hoover Historic Site State Historical Marker
15.6 km
Explore the Hoover Historic Site in Tiffin, Iowa, to uncover the roots of President Herbert Hoover and enjoy a serene escape into American history.
Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature
15.6 km
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Abbe Creek School Museum
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Tallgrass Historians Lc
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Unmissable attractions to see
Woodpecker Trail
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Devonian Fossil Gorge
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Cedar Ridge Distillery
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Peace Sign
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World's Largest Wooden Nickel
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Waterworks Prairie Park
12.0 km
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The Iowa Children's Museum
12.5 km
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Iowa Blue Urbane Chicken
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Antique Car Museum of Iowa
13.0 km
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Johnson County Historical Society
13.0 km
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Palisades-Kepler State Park
13.4 km
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City Park
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Thornberry Dog Park
14.0 km
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Pappy Dickens Preserve
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Harvest Preserve (members only)
14.4 km
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Essential places to dine
30Hop Coralville
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The Class Act
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Hamburg Inn No. 2
15.1 km
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the Webster
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Bluebird Diner
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St. Burch Tavern
15.4 km
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Basta Pizzeria Ristorante
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Nodo Downtown
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Scout's Honor
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Micky's Irish Pub
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Short's Burger & Shine
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Coa Cantina
15.4 km
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Cracken's Grill
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Pullman Bar & Diner
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The Airliner
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CIELO
12.8 km
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Mustard Seed, Inc. Catholic Books
14.8 km
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Field & Finch
15.1 km
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Artifacts
15.2 km
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RSVP
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Home Ec Workshop
15.3 km
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Dulcinéa
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The Shop Iowa City
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Catherines Boutique
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Heim
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RAYGUN
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New Stars Boutique
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Hawks News and Gift Shop
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Iowa Artisans Gallery
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Ragstock
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hilltop Tavern Ltd.
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The Fox Head Tavern
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Joe's Place
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Dublin Underground
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Deadwood Tavern
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Sports Column
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Field House Bar
15.6 km
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The Green House
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Donnelly's Pub
15.6 km
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Bardot Iowa
15.9 km
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Club Car
16.2 km
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Jobsite
16.6 km
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Whiskey Jo's
17.4 km
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Chrome Horse Saloon
20.8 km
Chrome Horse Saloon in Cedar Rapids offers a lively grill and bar experience with delicious food, live music, and vibrant nightlife perfect for every occasion.
Parlor City Pub & Eatery
20.8 km
Discover Cedar Rapids' local flavors at Parlor City Pub & Eatery, where great food and craft beers meet in a vibrant setting.
