Des Moines, Iowa – Iowans hoping to beat the July heat at their favorite state parks will need to check twice before heading out, as swimming is now off-limits at 14 public beaches across the state due to unsafe E. coli levels.
According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, weekly testing revealed bacteria counts above state safety thresholds at popular destinations including Backbone Beach in Delaware County, Beed’s Lake Beach in Franklin County, Lake Manawa Beach in Pottawattamie County, and 11 others. The “swimming not advised” warning will remain in effect until E. coli readings drop below the state’s allowable limit.
Families and visitors should avoid water contact at the affected beaches to prevent illness. Local officials urge Iowans to choose alternate recreation sites and remind swimmers to check DNR updates before traveling. The agency recommends showering after lake visits, keeping pets out of the water, and avoiding swallowing any lake water—especially after recent rain or heavy use, which can spike bacteria.
This week’s closures stretch from western Monona County’s Blue Lake Beach to Pleasant Creek Beach in Linn County, affecting travel and weekend plans statewide. Last week, 12 beaches faced similar warnings, underscoring persistent summer water quality challenges.
Statewide advisories remain until at least next week’s testing. More beaches could be added if E. coli levels stay high—check the Iowa DNR site for the latest alerts.
