Dickinson County, Iowa

Dickinson County is located in the northwest corner of Iowa and is well known for the Iowa Great Lakes region, a popular destination for vacations and outdoor recreation.

Spirit Lake, the county seat, is surrounded by a chain of scenic lakes, including West Okoboji Lake, the largest of the area’s major lakes and known for its clear blue waters.

The Dickinson County Nature Center in Okoboji features hands-on exhibits that highlight local ecosystems and natural resources. During winter, visitors can enjoy ice fishing and snowmobiling, while the area offers year-round opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and lakeside activities.

CategoryDetails
County NameDickinson County
County SeatSpirit Lake
Population20,500
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesSpirit Lake, Estherville, Arnolds Park, Milford, Lake Park, Orleans, West Okoboji
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Highway 71, Iowa Highway 9, Iowa Highway 86
FIPS Code19-059
Total Area (Land and Water)468 square miles (land: 410 sq mi, water: 58 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Jackson County, Minnesota (North), Emmet County (East), Clay County (South), Osceola County (West)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST)
StateIowa
Coordinates43.43°N, 95.13°W
EtymologyNamed after the American statesman Daniel Dickinson
Major LandmarksIowa Great Lakes, Arnolds Park Amusement Park, Spirit Lake, West Okoboji Lake
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