For nearly a century a myth has circulated that West Okoboji is one of only three blue water lakes in the world, the others being Lake Geneva in Switzerland and Lake Louise in Canada.
Articles stating various versions of this information as fact have appeared in newspapers as recently as 2009, and in numerous publications and websites. One could argue until they are blue in the face, but this claim is all wet.
Legend has it National Geographic first gave that moniker to West Okoboji, but no record of such an article can be found. Others ponder whether a scientific study done in the early 20th century comparing West Okoboji and one of the most famous lakes in the world—Lake Geneva— sprouted the claim. Theories suggest local leaders played on that comparison to attract more visitors.
The clear truth is, “blue water lake” is not a scientific term, and in fact, carries no real definition. The term blue water has, however, been associated with areas that enjoy exceptional water quality, because when sunlight penetrates these pure waters, other wavelengths (colors) are absorbed more strongly than blue.Most natural waters contain dissolved organic matter that selectively absorbs blue wavelengths.
Although there is no scientific basis that West Okoboji is a blue lake, scientists and non-scientists alike agree the lake has exceptional water quality and color, and is one of only a handful of waterbodies included on the DNR’s Outstanding Iowa Waters list.
This article originally appeared in the July/August 2016 issue ofIowa Outdoorsmagazine. Subscribe now and find more on our Iowa Outdoors Magazine board on Pinterest.
FAQs
A long repeated myth is that there are only three blue water lakes in the world: West Okoboji Lake, Lake Geneva, and Lake Louise. The original source of the claim is unknown. It has been said that the claim for West Okoboji Lake originated from National Geographic, but no records can be found to support this.
What are the three blue water lakes in the world? ›
A long repeated myth is that there are only three blue water lakes in the world: West Okoboji Lake, Lake Geneva, and Lake Louise. The original source of the claim is unknown. It has been said that the claim for West Okoboji Lake originated from National Geographic, but no records can be found to support this.
What is unique about lake Okoboji? ›
Big Spirit Lake reigns as Iowa's largest natural lake, spanning 5,684 acres, while West Lake Okoboji is Iowa's deepest natural lake, fed by springs and plunging to depths of 136 feet.
What is a true blue water lake? ›
Blue water lakes contain low concentrations of algae and other substances, resulting in high clarity and a deep blue color.
What does the name Okoboji mean in English? ›
The lake was known after its Dakota-language name, Okoboozhy, meaning reeds and rushes. East Okoboji Lake. (1903)
What is the purest lake in the world? ›
Blue Lake, New Zealand
Located in Nelson Lakes National Parks, Blue Lake is the clearest lake in the world. The lake is also known as Rotomairewhenua.
Why is Okoboji so expensive? ›
However, it's important to remember that Okoboji is a resort town, which can artificially inflate the median home price. The housing options are in high demand, so prices are higher than in some parts of the state. One of the biggest draws to the area is the Okoboji condo.
Is east or West Okoboji better? ›
West Okoboji is the premiere lake for scuba diving because of its greater clarity and depth.
How deep is West Okoboji Lake? ›
Geography. The lake's maximum depth is 136 feet (41 m), making it the deepest lake in Iowa and second in size only to Spirit Lake. The mean depth is 39 feet (12 m). The drainage area of the lake is approximately 125 square miles (320 km2).
What is the longest natural lake in Iowa at 16 miles? ›
A: At 16 miles in length, EAST Okoboji Lake is the. longest natural lake in our state.
Operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, the lakes serve as water storage for downstream hydro-electric plants. Four main campgrounds, plus an expansion campground are open as soon as the road is plowed free of snow in early summer. The lakes offer boating, swimming, and fishing.
What is the biggest lake in Iowa? ›
Lake Red Rock is Iowa's Largest Lake with over 15,000 acres of water and 35,000 acres of land for your enjoyment. Located on the Des Moines River just 45 miles southeast and downriver from Des Moines, the reservoir collects runoff and and drainage from over 12,320 square miles of Iowa and southern Minnesota land.
What does the name Iowa mean? ›
IOWA: From an Indian tribe, "Ah-hee-oo-ba," meaning "sleepy ones" or "drowsy ones." They lived in the valley of the State's principal river, which they named for their tribe; and, in turn, the name was applied to the State.
What does the name lake mean for a boy? ›
Meaning:Body of water. Lake is a gender-neutral name of British origin, relating to a body of water. The name Lake dates back to the Anglo-Saxon period and is derived from the Old English word lacu. Initially used as a surname, Lake is making its stance as a stylish and unique first name.
What does Ricki mean in English? ›
Meaning:powerful; brave. Fun and fearless, Ricky is a gender-neutral name of German origin boasting a lethal combination.
What are the Great Three lakes? ›
Recent News
| surface area | volume |
|---|
| sq mi | cu mi |
|---|
| Superior | 31,700 | 2,900 |
| Michigan | 22,300 | 1,180 |
| Huron | 23,000 | 850 |
2 more rowsThese Are The Clearest Lakes In The World, And They're Photography-Worthy
- 1 Blue Lake, New Zealand.
- 2 Lake Tahoe, U.S.A.
- 3 Lake Mashū, Japan.
- 4 Torch Lake, U.S.A.
- 5 Five-Flower Lake, China.
- 6 Lake Baikal, Russia.
- 7 Melissani Lake, Greece.
- 8 Lake McKenzie, Australia.
Glacier-fed lakes have much higher suspended sediment concentrations and turbidity due to inflow of glacial flour, resulting in opaqueness and a bright blue or brown color.
For nearly a century a myth has circulated that West Okoboji is one of only three blue water lakes in the world, the others being Lake Geneva in Switzerland and Lake Louise in Canada.