Discover 6 Submerged Iowa Towns Hidden Beneath This Lake!
Uncover the hidden history beneath Iowa’s Lake Red Rock and explore the remnants of six submerged towns on your next outdoor adventure!
Pella, Iowa – Did you know that beneath the serene waters of Lake Red Rock in Iowa lie the remnants of six submerged towns? This lake, the largest in Iowa, is a popular destination for summer fun, with activities like swimming, camping, and fishing. But there’s more to this lake than meets the eye.
In the early 1960s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers purchased the area around Lake Red Rock to build a dam for flood control. This project resulted in the submersion of six Iowa towns: Dunreath, Red Rock, Cordova, Rousseau, Fifield, and Coalport!
The lake was named after the largest of these towns, Red Rock. The decision to submerge these towns was made in response to severe flooding in the area in 1947, leading to the construction of two structures to alleviate future flooding.
Can you believe there are 6 towns totally submerged under these peaceful waters? It’s crazy!
Today, Lake Red Rock is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities and stunning views from the Cordova Observation Tower. While the towns are no longer visible, their stories are an intriguing part of the lake’s history.
So, the next time you visit Lake Red Rock, take a moment to remember the towns and lives that once thrived beneath its waters.
Have you ever visited Lake Red Rock? Let us know in the comments!
My husband and I have live most of our lives in this area. We currently live on the west end of the lake and can see backwaters of the lake. Rumors about the lake say that supposedly all the cemeteries were not moved to higher ground as promised and were left under the lake buried by water and silt.
Hi Cynthia! Thanks for reading – and for the fascinating comment! Such a beautiful area. I had never heard those rumors – that’s pretty wild! Definitely will have me thinking during our next visit. Safe travels! 🙂 – Kitty