Lower Gar Lake

 Lower Gar Lake, area 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

The Boonedocks

The Boonedocks in Arnolds Park

The Boonedocks is your one-stop-shop! They have it all. Full selection of beer, wine, grocery items, and of course gasoline. Located right in Arnolds Park!

Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Music Association

Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Music Association in Arnolds Park

The Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Music Association is a state-wide nonprofit dedicated to preserving the legacy of rock 'n' roll and the history of music in the state of Iowa. The museum opened in 2003. The museum allows visitors to discover the history of music within the state of Iowa. They also have the Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. All the inductees for the year are announced in January. Over labor day weekend in Arnolds Park there is a celebration with a ceremony introducing the inductees and also a concert.

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.

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 Harbor"

The harbor is a man made inlet located on the north end of West Lake. A board walk surrounds the harbor and this is one of the most tranquil parts of the lake. Homeowners in the harbor have a more affordable way to have access to West Lake, and still get to enjoy the clean waters West Lake has to offer. Homes in the Harbor typically range from about $350k to as much as $700k.

First Lutheran Church- Three Cross Roads

First Lutheran Church- Three Cross Roads in Milford

First Lutheran Church
Three Cross Road- West Okoboji
1525 Three Cross Road
Milford, IA 51351

Services
Winter
Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Summer
Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
Sunday at 8:30 a.m.- OUTDOOR WORSHIP
and at 9:30 a.m.

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!

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

Union Memorial Church- United Methodist

Union Memorial Church- United Methodist in Milford

Union Memorial Church- United Methodist
805 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351

Services
Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

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.

BIKE TRAILS DEMO

Demo Text Description here of this specific agent insight.

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.

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.

The Hutt Bar & Grill

The Hutt Bar & Grill in Arnolds Park

The Hutt may be a newer restaurant in the Lakes area, but they bring a big presence with them. A former owner of the Dry Dock, is the new owner of The Hutt. She has made this restaurant a great attraction to locals and tourists, being open year round. Having traditional american food means The Hutt is appealing to all! Don't miss out on their tasty breakfast during the summer, and their bloody mary's!

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.

Great Lakes Cinema 7

Great Lakes Cinema 7 in Spirit Lake

If you're in the mood for a movie, this is the place to go! They've recently updated all of their seating, so its comfier than ever to enjoy a movie here! They offer daily snack and drink specials, as well as free showings from time to time. Their screens are all digital projection, to ensure the clearest movies possible.

The Pools at Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion

The Pools at Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion in Milford

The Pools at Boji Bay Funhouse Pavilion
2501 Boji Bend Dr
Milford, IA 51351

Affordable individual and family memberships are available for the outdoor pool areas.

The pool area includes 2 outdoor pools(very kid friendly depths), a hot tub and splash pad with life guards on duty. Also, the Clubhouse caters to your family if you are looking for drinks or poolside snacks.

Stop in during the summer for a good time with the kids.

Boat House Apparel

Boat House Apparel in Spirit Lake

Boat House Apparel brings chic clothing to the Okoboji area, with her designs centered around life at the lake. The stylish tops, dresses, and more have witty sayings, anchors, and all things that remind us of the lake we all know and love. With a large online presence, Boat House is not only popular in Spirit Lake, but all over the country! Bringing comfort and chic to her amazing designs, the owner of Boat House, Laura, has sure made an amazing clothing line right here in the heart of Spirit Lake.

Silver Lake

Silver Lake in Lake Park

Silver Lake in Lake Park is a 1,000 acre lake with an average depth of about 6.5ft and a maximum depth of about 10ft. Silver Lake offers some of the best walleye fishing in the IGL's, especially in the spring and fall. The shoreline been developed with some beautiful homes, especially in South Shore Estates and West Bay Estates. Silver Lake is a wonderful spot so escape the hustle and bustle of other area lakes. It is a great lake to learn various water sports, as you won't encounter near the boat traffic. Do yourself a favor, and check out all that Silver Lake has to offer.

Lake Park Housing Authority

Lake Park Housing Authority in Lake Park

In 2013 the Lake Park Housing Authority was established to provide assistance to low and moderate income housing. The Dickinson County Board of Supervisors voted to release over $400,000 of TIF monies from two housing development projects to the Lake Park Housing Authority. The housing authorities goal is to preserve the Lake Park housing Stock, ensure safe housing and give assistance to rehab dwellings in Lake Park, increase owner occupied housing, down payment assistance. Funds of up to $25,000 are available for eligible applicants.

Great Lakes Guide Service

Great Lakes Guide Service in Outdoors

If you like to fish but don’t know the area or if you think you’d like to try fishing but don’t know where to start, give Great Lakes Guide Service a call. Shane is an avid fisherman. With over 20 years of experience as a professional Iowa fishing guide, he really knows the Iowa Great Lakes and how to find the fish. He has half day and full day options.

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

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.

True Value

True Value in Milford

True Value-downtown Milford
916 Okoboji Ave
Milford, IA 51351

Very convenient location, especially if you live South of the bridge and need something to fix something at your house? Whether it is electrical, hardware or plumbing, chances are good you can find it here. Also offer key cutting.

Dixon Family Chiropractic

Dixon Family Chiropractic in Spirit Lake

Dixon Family Chiropractic is a clinic located on Hwy 9, east of Walmart, next to Pizza Ranch and has convenient hours.....open 6 days a week at 7:30 am, evenings and Saturdays. Formerly in the convenient health care building south of the 4 way stop in Spirit Lake, Wade and Adalee offer a friendly staff and professional services.

SUNNYVILLE

Info on SunnyVille and then insights in the City of Sunnyville category. Here provide insights on all things Sunnyville. Allow agents to Score points for their online profile by encouraging them to add content here which in turns adds content to the website.

The Look Fashions

The Look Fashions in Spirit Lake

Located in the Great Lakes Mall, The Look is one of the most popular places to shop for clothes in the area. With the most stylish clothing for juniors to women, they have new styles arrive daily! This store is always up to date with the latest fashion trends, and you can always find something you're dying to have. This is my wife's favorite place to shop in the Okoboji area.

Beware the (I'll get your home sold in a week) agent

Beware the (I'll get your home sold in a week) agent in The

I hear this one all the time from prospects looking to list their house. "Well, agent xyz told us that if we listed with her, she'd have it sold in a week." This would fall into the category of "If it sounds too good to be true, the probably is." The majority of agents are not going to make this claim, but rather will give you an honest market analysis, inform you as to how weak or strong the market is, especially the market in which your home resides, and present the objective facts. A good agent will then lay out an effective marketing plan, where the majority of the focus should be on "online marketing". Be careful to not get caught up in empty promises, reduced commissions, and being talked in to lowering your price below market value (unless you must have a quick sale). The key to choosing a good listing agent is to objectively determine who is going to provide you the best opportunity to sell your home. Will your listing agent also aggressively work to find buyers, or will they just list your home and wait for another agent to do the work.

Light of the Lakes Friends Church

Light of the Lakes Friends Church in Arnolds Park

Light of the Lakes Friends Church
10 Hwy 71 N
Arnolds Park, IA 51331

Services
Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

Treasure Village

Treasure Village in Milford

Since 1973 Treasure Village has provided great family friendly entertainment, including a mini golf course, live children's theatre and gospel concerts for all ages to enjoy. They also offer Flea Markets throughout the year and already have 3 of them scheduled for 2017, make sure to check them out memorial weekend, 4th of July, and Labor Day weekend. If you would like to check it, follow the link to their website for coupons.

Cheap vs high end quality. A buyer's perspective.

Cheap vs high end quality.  A buyer's perspective. in The

Here's the scenario. You are building a house or remodeling your house. Material costs are up. Labor costs are up. You ask yourself, where can I save a buck? Before answering this question, you must be careful, especially if your home is located in an area where other quality homes are built, whether on the lake, off the lake, or in higher valued developments such as golf course developments, etc. Growing up in construction and with a plethora of new construction and remodels under my belt, let me share with you some of the easy things that your future buyers will recognize when they are looking for quality.
1. One of the first things buyers of higher end homes will look for is to determine if the owner used hollow core doors. It's an immediate sign that the seller was looking for ways to save money (where else then did they cut back that I can't see???)
2. The second most obvious is the counter tops. Did the sellers spend for a quality granite, quartz, or other hard surface, or was formica used?
3. The third item that might stick out is the cabinetry. Do the drawers have dovetail construction with hardwoods? Did they use "soft close" drawers? Are there pull outs for the pots and pans?
4. Flooring is an easy one also. Was laminate used, or is it engineered or hardwoods? Does the carpet convey a quality feel and plushness? Is there a nice thick pad underneath the carpet?
5. Though there are many other items to look at, cheap vs quality lighting and plumbing fixtures are probably the next major focus.

There is nothing wrong with with using lower cost materials, especially when trying to keep a project within budget, especially when trying to build more house for less money. Just be aware that most buyers looking to spend in excess of $300k for off lake homes and $500+ for East Lake chain homes, and $1M+ for West and Big Spirit will expect the very best materials and finishes.

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf in Arnolds Park

X marks the spot for this family fun pirate themed mini golf! Pirate's Cove is located in Arnolds Park right next to the amusement park. The kids will love this summer activity. They will be able to putt their way through caves, over bridges, and under waterfalls. Being right in the middle of all the summer action you are also walking distance everything that downtown Arnolds Park offers.

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!

Rabab's at the Lake

Rabab's at the Lake in Arnolds Park

Best food in town? We sure think so. Rabab has outdone herself here in the Central Emporium! This upscale, fine dining restaurant will not disappoint. She offers Mediterranean and American dishes. The food is the best part, but Rabab's also has arguably one of the best views, overlooking beautiful West Okoboji lake. Not only is her food extraordinary, she offers an extensive selection of fine wines and cocktails.

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.

Rebe

Rebe in Okoboji

Re*be is one of Iowa's finest varicose vein centers dedicated to addressing the health and cosmetic concerns of men and women using the latest and most-advanced medical treatments for various body conditions.
Re*be surgeons are highly experienced with specialized training in vein diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Ronald Kolegraff M.D., A.C.P., A.S.G.S. is a Board Certified General Surgeon and Board Certified Phlebologist.
The clinic provides friendly service in a patient-centered environment to ensure an experience that exceeds your expectations of personal care.
Rebe provides complimentary cosmetic consultation or complimentary vein screening.

Bay View Gifts & Garden

Bay View Gifts & Garden in Spirit Lake

Bay View Gifts & Garden
3202 Hwy 71
Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Bay View Gifts & Garden is another opportunity for those of you who are looking for antiques. One can find other Gifts, Outdoor Décor and Plants here as well. Take a look at the selection of Adirondack chairs as you drive by on Hwy 71. Located across the street from us at RE/MAX Lakes Realty

Vintage Block Inn and Suites

Vintage Block Inn and Suites in Okoboji

Conveniently located near all the great Okoboji attractions, Vintage Block is a great hotel for your stay in Okoboji. The hotel offers 54 guest rooms, including 14 large family suites that can lodge up to 10 guests. Jump start your day with our complimentary breakfast including Belgium waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal and beverages and more! On-site have fun and relax with our outdoor swimming pool and gazebo, surrey bikes and green space with fire-pits, grills and games.The hotel has recently been renovated and includes a Lake Okoboji feel with the use of reclaimed dock wood. Rated as the #1 hotel in Okoboji on Trip Advisor, you can't go wrong when choosing to stay at Vintage Block Inn and Suites.

Taco House

One of a kind Authentic Mexican Cuisine right here in West Okoboji! A local favorite and rated five stars by visitors young and old. Be sure to put this as a favorite on your list of places to not miss when you are vacationing in the Lakes area. Close to Terrace Park so if you are feeling up for a small walk you may walk from Terrace Park to the Taco House.

The Studio Yoga & Barre

The Studio Yoga & Barre in Spencer

The Studio Yoga & Barre has two locations: Spencer or Spirit Lake @ Allure & Co. Come and experience a community of people seeking to live healthier lives through exercising the body and mind.
They offer a variety of yoga, barre, cycling and paddle-board classes for different levels of experience.
The Studio also offers yoga and exercise apparel, as well as oils and health supplements.

H-LP State Football Runner-Ups 2016

H-LP State Football Runner-Ups 2016 in Lake Park

A big Congrats to the Harris Lake Park football team on a fantastic historical season. The wolves dominated the competition all year long, punching their ticket to the UNI Dome for the 8 Man Football Playoffs. In the Semi-Final game the Wolves were able to continue the undefeated streak and beat Fremont Mills 35 to 21, giving them the opportunity to compete for the 8 Man Football State Championship. The Wolves battled hard against Don Bosco, Gilbertville, but unfortunately came up a little short and lost a hard fought game 21-48. Awesome Job on a GREAT season Wolves, it was very fun to see how much the community came together to support you guys. CONGRATS!

EAST SUNNYVILLE

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

Kurio Kastle

Kurio Kastle in Spirit Lake

This place is one of the most fun businesses in the lakes area for kids, or adults who are creative, and likes to paint! Kurio Kastle is a pottery painting "palace," for anyone and everyone! You pick from an extensive array of pottery to paint, from cute animals, to mugs, and dishware. You can then stencil or draw on them, then paint it! Your masterpiece is then glazed, and put in the kiln to fire. After that, you pick it up, and take it home to enjoy! Its even a perfect place for birthday parties.

"The Tressle"

"The Tressle" bridge used to carry the old railroad that traversed the area. Now the tressle is home to some of the areas best fishing. Served as a hot spot for fisherman, and a trail for walkers and bikers, the tressle is a classic structure of the Okobojis. We spent days jumping off of the tressle doing cannonballs, preachers, flips and the like. I know in my life my friends and I have caught literally tens of thousands of crappie and blue gill off the tressle bridge.

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.

Consumers Lumber Company

Consumers Lumber Company in Spirit Lake

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.

Lake Park Public Pool

Lake Park Public Pool in Lake Park

Lake Park is one of the few cities around the Iowa Great Lakes that has an outdoor public swimming pool. It offers some great rates for annual memberships. 2016 family membership was $100 and an individual membership was only $65. They also offer swimming lessons, starting as early as infants and toddlers. Specific evenings also offer classes for adults. The pool's normal hours of operation in the summer are 1PM to 8PM.

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.

Comfortec Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Comfortec Heating, Cooling & Plumbing in Estherville

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.

 

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Local Expert Updates

Brooke Johnson

Cell: 641.420.2172

Janie Gilmore

Cell: 712.339.0574

Aaron Jones

Cell: 234.234.2342

Matt Rogers

Cell: 712.330.0604

Charlie Lewis

Cell: 712.229.9809

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Cell: 712.330.1573

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