a small boat in the middle of a body of water
Photo by Drew Dau on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Lake Icaria - Northwest

Carbon, IA · Boat Ramp · Public

Lake Icaria - Northwest is a public boat ramp on Kemp Creek - Lake Icaria near Carbon, Iowa. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lake Icaria - Northwest offers lake paddling on Kemp Creek - Lake Icaria in Iowa. Located near Carbon.

Lake paddlers in Iowa will appreciate Lake Icaria - Northwest, which offers direct access to Kemp Creek - Lake Icaria and its surrounding waters.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Carbon, Lake Icaria - Northwest is a convenient option for Carbon-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Lake Icaria - Northwest ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lake Icaria - Northwest?
Lake Icaria - Northwest is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lake Icaria - Northwest?
Lake Icaria - Northwest supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Lake Icaria - Northwest?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lake Icaria - Northwest?
The best time to paddle at Lake Icaria - Northwest is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Lake Icaria - Northwest?
Water conditions at Lake Icaria - Northwest include calm, sheltered.
Is Lake Icaria - Northwest good for beginners?
Yes, Lake Icaria - Northwest is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 41.0559, -94.7469

Quick Facts

State
Iowa
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~5 min from Carbon
Get Directions

41.0559, -94.7469

Best Paddling in Iowa

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