Carter Lake, IA

Carter Lake, Iowa is a unique town with an interesting history. Located in Pottawattamie County, it is the only city in Iowa situated entirely west of the Missouri River.

The history of Carter Lake is closely tied to the shifting course of the Missouri River. In the late 1800s, the river used to flow east of its current path, separating Carter Lake from the rest of Iowa. However, a series of floods and channel changes in the early 1900s caused the river to shift its course, creating a new channel that encircled Carter Lake and left it on the Nebraska side of the Missouri River.

Initially, both Iowa and Nebraska claimed jurisdiction over the land. However, after legal disputes, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in 1892 that the land belongs to Iowa. Unfortunately, this decision was later reversed, and in 1893, a new Supreme Court ruling declared the land to be part of Nebraska. This back-and-forth legal battle continued for several years until 1904, when Iowa finally conceded the land to Nebraska.

For a while, Carter Lake functioned as a small farming community, primarily focused on agricultural activities. However, in the early 20th century, it became a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to Omaha, Nebraska. The town had casinos, resorts, and other recreational facilities that attracted visitors from nearby areas.

In the 1960s, the town faced a difficult period. The construction of the Eppley Airfield runway expansion project led to the condemnation of numerous homes in Carter Lake, displacing many residents. This created a period of uncertainty and economic decline for the town.

In recent years, Carter Lake has been focused on rebuilding and revitalizing its community. Efforts have been made to develop the area into a more modern and attractive place for residents and visitors. The town has implemented various projects such as improving infrastructure, enhancing recreational facilities, and attracting new businesses.

Today, Carter Lake is a small but resilient town with a population of around 3,800 people. It continues to provide a unique living experience, being the only town in Iowa located entirely west of the Missouri River.

Harrah's Casino

Located on the shores of the Missouri River, Harrah's Casino offers various gaming options like slot machines, table games, and poker. It also features restaurants, bars, and live entertainment.

Lake Manawa State Park

Situated nearby in Council Bluffs, Lake Manawa State Park offers a beautiful lake with boating, fishing, swimming, and picnic areas. It has trails for hiking, biking, and walking, as well as a campground for overnight stays.

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

This pedestrian bridge connects Carter Lake with Omaha, Nebraska, offering stunning views of the Missouri River and downtown Omaha. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge, enjoying the scenery and taking memorable photos.

Freedom Park Navy Museum

Located in nearby Omaha, the Freedom Park Navy Museum showcases various military artifacts, including a collection of naval vessels like the USS Hazard, USS Marlin, and USS Omaha. It allows visitors to explore and learn about naval history.

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Also situated in Omaha, just a short drive from Carter Lake, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is one of the top-rated zoos in the United States. It boasts a wide variety of animals, including giraffes, elephants, lions, and penguins, as well as an impressive aquarium with an underwater tunnel.

Lauritzen Gardens

This beautiful botanical garden in Omaha offers a serene escape with various gardens and displays, including rose gardens, a Victorian garden, a model railroad garden, and a tropical conservatory. It is an excellent place to relax, explore nature, and enjoy seasonal events and exhibits.

Heartland of America Park

Situated in downtown Omaha, Heartland of America Park features a large lake surrounded by a park with walking paths, picnic areas, and scenic views. The park hosts events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and firework shows.

These are just a few of the attractions that can be found in and around Carter Lake, IA.

Carter Lake, Iowa has a humid continental climate. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.

Summers in Carter Lake are typically warm and humid. The average high temperatures in July, the hottest month, reach around 88°F (31°C). However, occasional heatwaves can see temperatures soar above 100°F (38°C). Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, bringing heavy rainfall at times.

Winters in Carter Lake are cold and can be quite harsh. Average high temperatures in January, the coldest month, hover around 33°F (1°C). However, temperatures frequently drop below freezing, with occasional cold snaps bringing subzero temperatures. Snowfall is common, with an average of about 30 inches (76 cm) of snow annually. Winter storms and blizzards can also occur.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, with varying weather conditions. Spring is characterized by mild temperatures and frequent rainfall. As the season progresses, temperatures gradually increase, and nature comes alive with blooming flowers and trees. Autumn, on the other hand, sees temperatures cooling down from summer, with colorful foliage as the leaves change. This season also brings a fair share of precipitation.

Overall, Carter Lake experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with hot and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild transitional seasons. It is always a good idea to check the local weather forecast for specific conditions before planning outdoor activities in Carter Lake.

Carter Lake is a small city located in Pottawattamie County, Iowa. Despite its small size, it is home to several neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Carter Lake:

Lake Shore

Situated along the eastern shore of Carter Lake, this neighborhood offers picturesque waterfront views and easy access to recreational activities. Many homes in this area have private docks, allowing residents to enjoy boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.

East Carter Lake

This neighborhood is located on the eastern side of Carter Lake and is characterized by its residential streets and family-friendly atmosphere. East Carter Lake is close to some local parks and schools, making it an ideal location for families with children.

Downtown

Carter Lake's downtown area consists of a small commercial district with shops, restaurants, and services. This area is the heart of the community and is known for its friendly atmosphere. It is also where you will find City Hall and other government buildings.

Carter Lake Heights

Located on the northern side of the city, Carter Lake Heights is a residential neighborhood that offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding areas. It boasts a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes, providing a variety of housing options.

West Carter Lake

Situated on the western side of the city, West Carter Lake is known for its diverse housing options and tranquil atmosphere. The neighborhood is well-established and consists of a mixture of older and newer homes. It offers easy access to the lake and is close to some local parks.

Overall, Carter Lake's neighborhoods are known for their friendly and tight-knit communities, along with their proximity to Carter Lake and the various recreational opportunities the lake provides. Whether you prefer waterfront living, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a quiet residential area, there is a neighborhood in Carter Lake to suit your needs.