Clear Lake is located in the Des Moines Lobe, covering approximately 3,684 acres and spanning two counties in north central Iowa, Cerro Gordo (7,110 acres or 85%) and Hancock (1,340 acres or 16%). It is one of Iowa’s thirty-four natural glacial lakes and the third largest in the state, and is a natural spring fed body of water. With an average depth of 10 feet and a maximum depth of 30 feet, Clear Lake has 13.6 miles of shoreline. It is north central Iowa’s most valuable natural resource, that sustains a healthy ecosystem, maintains excellent water quality and provides exceptional recreational opportunities. Furthermore, it is an economic driver for the local communities.

The lake has seen its share of restoration efforts, aimed at improving its natural clarity, from the use of filtration systems to dredging, and educating local farmers regarding the effects of toxic pesticides and reducing its exposure in the lake. That continued effort has contributed to the beauty that is Clear Lake, and it’s partly the reason why it is such a popular lake in the state of Iowa. It’s a magnet for families, anglers, and sailors alike. Every year, each weekend between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Clear Lake Yacht Club, a sailing club in the city of Clear Lake puts on a boat race on the lake’s main basin. With the wind being common on the waters, the summer months make Clear Lake a sailor’s paradise.

Fishing is a major attraction of Clear Lake and it offers excellent fishing for walleyes, muskie, northern pike, bullheads, perch, channel catfish, yellow bass, crappies and panfish. Whether using cut bait or crawlers, or a jig and minnow, the general health of the lake, improved water depth and the selection of fish makes the lake a favorite of fishermen.

Dotting the lake are several different landmarks including, Woodford Island, donated to "the people of the state of Iowa" by Esther Woodford Ashland; L.E. Ashland, Lone Tree Point nature area on the lake’s southwest shore features shoreline paths and walking trails; and Mcintosh Woods State Park, boasting grassy and shaded picnic areas, a nature trail and boating access points. Popular lakeside communities include the city of Clear Lake on the eastern side of the lake, Ventura Heights and the city of Ventura.

Clear Lake is quaint and charming, full of natural beauty and is one of north central Iowa’s greatest treasure.