Coralville Lake, dam in Johnson County, Iowa
Coralville Lake is a large reservoir in Johnson County built in the 1950s to manage floods, provide water supply, and support recreation. The water is surrounded by trees and open spaces, with fishing spots, boat access, picnic areas, and walking trails along its shores.
The dam was completed in 1958 after nearly a decade of construction as an earthen structure with concrete sections for water management. It was designed to prevent rare flooding events that occur only every few decades and protect homes and farmland downstream.
The lake serves as a gathering place where locals and visitors spend time together fishing, boating, and picnicking throughout the year. It reflects how communities value outdoor spaces as places to relax and connect with nature away from daily routines.
The lake has picnic areas with tables, fishing docks, and boat rental facilities nearby for easy access to water activities. A visitor center on the grounds offers maps and information to help orient yourself and find the best spots for your interests.
Past flooding events, especially the 2008 flood, revealed fossils preserved in the Devonian Fossil Gorge that visitors can observe along the water. These ancient remains date back hundreds of millions of years when seas covered the land and offer a glimpse into the region's deep geological history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
