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        <title>Islands - Expert Travel Info &amp; Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, &amp; Everything In Between</title>
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        <link>https://www.islands.com/</link>
        <description>Islands covers everything you want to do and anywhere you want to travel with expert info, in-depth guides, local tips, and more.</description>
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                                <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Cedar Rapids And Peoria Is A Vibrant Iowa City With River Adventures And Midwest Charm]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2228891/bettendorf-iowa-between-cedar-rapids-peoria-city-with-river-adventures-midwest-charm/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Caitlin McAllister)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2228891/bettendorf-iowa-between-cedar-rapids-peoria-city-with-river-adventures-midwest-charm/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[For a fun Midwest vacation with friendly locals, water excursions, delicious food, and tons of shopping and outdoor activities, check out this underrated town.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[For a fun Midwest vacation with friendly locals, water excursions, delicious food, and tons of shopping and outdoor activities, check out this underrated town.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/bettendorf-iowa-between-cedar-rapids-peoria-city-with-river-adventures-midwest-charm/intro-1785861238.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/bettendorf-iowa-between-cedar-rapids-peoria-city-with-river-adventures-midwest-charm/l-intro-1785861238.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[The Closest Suburb To Downtown Des Moines Is A Laidback Iowa Gem With Golf Greens And Parks]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2228319/pleasant-hill-iowa-closest-suburb-des-moines-scenic-parks-golf-greens/</link>
                    <pubDate>Mon, 03 Aug 2026 12:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Garrett Martin)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2228319/pleasant-hill-iowa-closest-suburb-des-moines-scenic-parks-golf-greens/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This suburb is an ideal spot for golfers of all skill levels, and with scenic parks and trails, even non-golfers can appreciate the natural beauty of this town.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This suburb is an ideal spot for golfers of all skill levels, and with scenic parks and trails, even non-golfers can appreciate the natural beauty of this town.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/pleasant-hill-iowa-closest-suburb-des-moines-scenic-parks-golf-greens/intro-1785785064.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/pleasant-hill-iowa-closest-suburb-des-moines-scenic-parks-golf-greens/l-intro-1785785064.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Rockford And Rochester Is Wisconsin's Village With Lake Views, Tasty Eats, And Outdoor Fun]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2226374/ferryville-wisconsin-between-rockford-rochester-village-lake-views-tasty-eats-outdoor-fun/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 01 Aug 2026 20:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Sam Scott)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Minnesota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Illinois]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wisconsin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2226374/ferryville-wisconsin-between-rockford-rochester-village-lake-views-tasty-eats-outdoor-fun/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[On a lake that&#39;s part of the Mississippi River, directly across from Iowa, lies a village where the bluffs rise high and the restaurants offer a warm welcome.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[On a lake that&#39;s part of the Mississippi River, directly across from Iowa, lies a village where the bluffs rise high and the restaurants offer a warm welcome.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/ferryville-wisconsin-between-rockford-rochester-village-lake-views-tasty-eats-outdoor-fun/intro-1785768560.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/ferryville-wisconsin-between-rockford-rochester-village-lake-views-tasty-eats-outdoor-fun/l-intro-1785768560.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Omaha And Sioux Falls Is Iowa's City With River Views, Historic Charm, And Outdoor Fun]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2224466/hawarden-iowa-between-omaha-sioux-falls-city-with-river-views-historic-charm-outdoor-fun/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Sam Scott)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2224466/hawarden-iowa-between-omaha-sioux-falls-city-with-river-views-historic-charm-outdoor-fun/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[A quaint river town with a storied past is home to historical reconstructions, great hiking, beautiful campgrounds, water activities, and a vintage vibe.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[A quaint river town with a storied past is home to historical reconstructions, great hiking, beautiful campgrounds, water activities, and a vintage vibe.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/between-omaha-and-sioux-falls-is-iowas-city-with-river-views-historic-charm-and-outdoor-fun/intro-1785180799.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/between-omaha-and-sioux-falls-is-iowas-city-with-river-views-historic-charm-and-outdoor-fun/l-intro-1785180799.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Iowa's Underrated State Park An Hour From Omaha Has Rolling Hills, Rugged Trails, And Camping]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2224061/preparation-canyon-state-park-hour-from-omaha-iowa-underrated-rolling-hills-rugged-trails-camping/</link>
                    <pubDate>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 23:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Heather Cole)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Family Friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Budget Friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[National and State Parks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2224061/preparation-canyon-state-park-hour-from-omaha-iowa-underrated-rolling-hills-rugged-trails-camping/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Hikers can enjoy blissful solitude in this lesser-known state park, as well as views of an unusual wind-blown landscape rarely seen elsewhere in the world.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Hikers can enjoy blissful solitude in this lesser-known state park, as well as views of an unusual wind-blown landscape rarely seen elsewhere in the world.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/preparation-canyon-state-park-hour-from-omaha-iowa-underrated-rolling-hills-rugged-trails-camping/intro-1785356518.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/preparation-canyon-state-park-hour-from-omaha-iowa-underrated-rolling-hills-rugged-trails-camping/l-intro-1785356518.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Outside Cedar Rapids Is Iowa's Underrated Midwest City With Old-School German Charm And Antique Shops]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2220791/kalona-near-cedar-rapids-underrated-old-school-german-charm-antique-shopping/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 25 Jul 2026 23:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Family Friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Arts and Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dining]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2220791/kalona-near-cedar-rapids-underrated-old-school-german-charm-antique-shopping/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Visitors can discover an authentic 19th-century village in this lesser-known pocket in the Iowa prairies, also known for its thriving Amish community.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Visitors can discover an authentic 19th-century village in this lesser-known pocket in the Iowa prairies, also known for its thriving Amish community.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/outside-cedar-rapids-is-iowas-underrated-midwest-city-with-old-school-german-charm-and-antique-shops/intro-1784734696.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/outside-cedar-rapids-is-iowas-underrated-midwest-city-with-old-school-german-charm-and-antique-shops/l-intro-1784734696.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[14 Best Midwest Camping Destinations To Visit]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2218397/best-midwest-camping-destinations-visit/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 25 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Michigan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Idaho]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Minnesota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indiana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Illinois]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kansas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Missouri]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nebraska]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Dakota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Dakota]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2218397/best-midwest-camping-destinations-visit/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[While the Midwest may not seem as exciting as the coastal regions, there are plenty of attractions here, especially if you&#39;re a lover of the outdoors.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[While the Midwest may not seem as exciting as the coastal regions, there are plenty of attractions here, especially if you&#39;re a lover of the outdoors.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/14-best-midwest-camping-destinations-to-visit/intro-1784538925.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/14-best-midwest-camping-destinations-to-visit/l-intro-1784538925.jpg"/>
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                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA['The Entertainment Capital Of Iowa' Is A Bustling City With Shopping, A Casino, And Amusement Park Fun]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2221486/altoona-entertainment-capital-iowa-bustling-city-shopping-casino-amusement-park/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 25 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Kareem Gantt)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2221486/altoona-entertainment-capital-iowa-bustling-city-shopping-casino-amusement-park/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[An amusement park, water park, casino, and outlet mall make this unexpected destination a surprising choice for families, thrill-seekers and shoppers.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[An amusement park, water park, casino, and outlet mall make this unexpected destination a surprising choice for families, thrill-seekers and shoppers.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/altoona-entertainment-capital-iowa-bustling-city-shopping-casino-amusement-park/intro-1785161330.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/altoona-entertainment-capital-iowa-bustling-city-shopping-casino-amusement-park/l-intro-1785161330.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Halfway Between Omaha And Des Moines Is A Scenic Lake Park With Camping, A Swim Beach, And Trails]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2219509/lake-anita-state-park-halfway-between-omaha-des-moines-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/</link>
                    <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Jonathan Houston)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Travel Guides]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[National and State Parks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Water Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2219509/lake-anita-state-park-halfway-between-omaha-des-moines-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Head to the marvelous Midwest and relax by this gorgeous lake that has everything from a swimming beach to hiking trails with plenty of fishing to be done.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Head to the marvelous Midwest and relax by this gorgeous lake that has everything from a swimming beach to hiking trails with plenty of fishing to be done.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/lake-anita-state-park-halfway-between-omaha-des-moines-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/intro-1784905095.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/lake-anita-state-park-halfway-between-omaha-des-moines-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/l-intro-1784905095.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/lake-anita-state-park-halfway-between-omaha-des-moines-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/l-intro-1784905095.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="668094"/>
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                    <title><![CDATA[The Best Fried Fish Spots Worth Visiting In Every State]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2218814/best-fried-fish-joints-worth-visiting-every-state/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Rosheda Stephenson)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Hawaii]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Michigan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Carolina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Colorado]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[California]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Florida]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Massachusetts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Texas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Alaska]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Oregon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Utah]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Georgia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Idaho]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Delaware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pennsylvania]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Minnesota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Arkansas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Montana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Jersey]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indiana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Alabama]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rhode Island]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mississippi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Hampshire]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Virginia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Louisiana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[West Virginia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Connecticut]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Illinois]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wisconsin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Mexico]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vermont]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tennessee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maryland]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kansas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kentucky]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Missouri]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nebraska]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Dakota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Dakota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Oklahoma]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wyoming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas, Nevada]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New York City, New York]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Phoenix, Arizona]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2218814/best-fried-fish-joints-worth-visiting-every-state/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Seafood lovers can rejoice that every restaurant on our list ranks highly on Google and offers crispy, golden-brown treats from the sea (and lots of sides).]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Seafood lovers can rejoice that every restaurant on our list ranks highly on Google and offers crispy, golden-brown treats from the sea (and lots of sides).<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-best-fried-fish-spots-worth-visiting-in-every-state/intro-1784564763.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-best-fried-fish-spots-worth-visiting-in-every-state/l-intro-1784564763.jpg"/>
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                    <title><![CDATA[Iowa's Charming Gem Near Cedar Rapids Is A Classic Midwest City With Idyllic Lake Views And Local Eats]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2213909/north-liberty-suburb-iowa-cedar-rapids-charming-midwest-city-lake-views-local-eats/</link>
                    <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 11:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Family Friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2213909/north-liberty-suburb-iowa-cedar-rapids-charming-midwest-city-lake-views-local-eats/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Voted among the best places for families in the Cedar Rapids area, this tiny town combines cozy vibes with tasty eats, outdoor adventure, and scenic lakes.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Voted among the best places for families in the Cedar Rapids area, this tiny town combines cozy vibes with tasty eats, outdoor adventure, and scenic lakes.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/iowas-charming-gem-near-cedar-rapids-is-a-classic-midwest-city-with-idyllic-lake-views-and-local-eats/intro-1783963883.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/iowas-charming-gem-near-cedar-rapids-is-a-classic-midwest-city-with-idyllic-lake-views-and-local-eats/l-intro-1783963883.jpg"/>
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                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Sandwiched Between Des Moines And Omaha Is A Midwest City With State Park Beauty, Tasty Eats, And Lake Fun]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2211946/anita-iowa-sandwiched-between-des-moines-omaha-midwest-city-state-park-beauty-tasty-eats-lake-fun/</link>
                    <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Makayla Maxwell)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2211946/anita-iowa-sandwiched-between-des-moines-omaha-midwest-city-state-park-beauty-tasty-eats-lake-fun/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This small town in the rolling hills of southwest Iowa offers its visitors a rounded experience with great restaurants and a state park with a beautiful lake.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This small town in the rolling hills of southwest Iowa offers its visitors a rounded experience with great restaurants and a state park with a beautiful lake.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/sandwiched-between-des-moines-and-omaha-is-a-midwest-city-with-state-park-beauty-tasty-eats-and-lake-fun/intro-1783634232.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/sandwiched-between-des-moines-and-omaha-is-a-midwest-city-with-state-park-beauty-tasty-eats-and-lake-fun/l-intro-1783634232.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Omaha And Des Moines Is A Charming Midwest City With A Historic Downtown, Shops, And Outdoor Fun]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2210272/stuart-iowa-between-omaha-des-moines-charming-midwest-city-historic-downtown-shops-outdoor-fun/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 11 Jul 2026 22:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2210272/stuart-iowa-between-omaha-des-moines-charming-midwest-city-historic-downtown-shops-outdoor-fun/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This charming Midwest City between Omaha and Des Moines is home to a historic downtown with shops and good food, as well as hiking, parks, and river fun.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This charming Midwest City between Omaha and Des Moines is home to a historic downtown with shops and good food, as well as hiking, parks, and river fun.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/stuart-iowa-between-omaha-des-moines-charming-midwest-city-historic-downtown-shops-outdoor-fun/intro-1783955794.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
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                    <title><![CDATA[A Half-Hour From Des Moines Is Iowa's Tallgrass Haven With Native Plants And Roaming Bison]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2208227/neal-smith-national-wildlife-refuge-half-hour-des-moines-iowa-tallgrass-haven-native-plants-roaming-bison/</link>
                    <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2208227/neal-smith-national-wildlife-refuge-half-hour-des-moines-iowa-tallgrass-haven-native-plants-roaming-bison/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Spanning 4,000 acres of prairieland, this Iowa refuge is home to bison, elk, and over 200 native plant species, which can be explored via its trails.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Spanning 4,000 acres of prairieland, this Iowa refuge is home to bison, elk, and over 200 native plant species, which can be explored via its trails.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/a-half-hour-from-des-moines-is-iowas-tallgrass-haven-with-native-plants-and-roaming-bison/intro-1783331113.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/a-half-hour-from-des-moines-is-iowas-tallgrass-haven-with-native-plants-and-roaming-bison/l-intro-1783331113.jpg"/>
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                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[This Scenic Riverside State Park In Iowa Has Quiet Camping, Fishing, And Boating]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2201503/frank-a-gotch-state-park-iowa-scenic-riverside-quiet-camping-fishing-boating/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 2026 10:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Will Suphan)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Water Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2201503/frank-a-gotch-state-park-iowa-scenic-riverside-quiet-camping-fishing-boating/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[If you&#39;re visiting Iowa and want to check out a relaxing state park, you can head to this one that offers fishing on a river and a lake, as well as camping.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you&#39;re visiting Iowa and want to check out a relaxing state park, you can head to this one that offers fishing on a river and a lake, as well as camping.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/frank-a-gotch-state-park-iowa-scenic-riverside-quiet-camping-fishing-boating/intro-1782397985.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/frank-a-gotch-state-park-iowa-scenic-riverside-quiet-camping-fishing-boating/l-intro-1782397985.jpg"/>
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                                    </item>
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                    <title><![CDATA[Between Cedar Rapids And Des Moines Is Iowa's Nostalgic City With A Historic Downtown On The Old Lincoln Highway]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2199612/belle-plaine-between-cedar-rapids-des-moines-iowa-nostalgic-downtown-lincoln-highway/</link>
                    <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 20:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Family Friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Arts and Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Festivals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2199612/belle-plaine-between-cedar-rapids-des-moines-iowa-nostalgic-downtown-lincoln-highway/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Though this Iowa city is small, it&#39;s bursting with nostalgic energy, from its old Lincoln Highway gas station to its retro festivals and restored buildings.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Though this Iowa city is small, it&#39;s bursting with nostalgic energy, from its old Lincoln Highway gas station to its retro festivals and restored buildings.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/belle-plaine-between-cedar-rapids-des-moines-iowa-nostalgic-downtown-lincoln-highway/intro-1782335340.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/belle-plaine-between-cedar-rapids-des-moines-iowa-nostalgic-downtown-lincoln-highway/l-intro-1782335340.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/belle-plaine-between-cedar-rapids-des-moines-iowa-nostalgic-downtown-lincoln-highway/l-intro-1782335340.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="253508"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Iowa's Friendly City An Hour From Omaha Offers Downtown Shops, Museum Fun, And A Lakeside State Park]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2196841/harlan-iowa-friendly-city-hour-outside-omaha-downtown-shops-museum-fun-lakeside-state-park/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Megi Canco)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2196841/harlan-iowa-friendly-city-hour-outside-omaha-downtown-shops-museum-fun-lakeside-state-park/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This tiny Iowa city is home to a handful of unique local shops, a free museum, and a state park with a cozy campground, hiking trails, and serene lake.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This tiny Iowa city is home to a handful of unique local shops, a free museum, and a state park with a cozy campground, hiking trails, and serene lake.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/harlan-iowa-friendly-city-hour-outside-omaha-downtown-shops-museum-fun-lakeside-state-park/intro-1782137403.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/harlan-iowa-friendly-city-hour-outside-omaha-downtown-shops-museum-fun-lakeside-state-park/l-intro-1782137403.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/harlan-iowa-friendly-city-hour-outside-omaha-downtown-shops-museum-fun-lakeside-state-park/l-intro-1782137403.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="372334"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Omaha And Des Moines Is A Midwest City With Fun Shops, Quiet Trails, And Family-Friendly Outings]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2194921/atlantic-iowa-between-omaha-des-moines-midwest-city-fun-shops-trails-family-friendly-outings/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Makayla Maxwell)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2194921/atlantic-iowa-between-omaha-des-moines-midwest-city-fun-shops-trails-family-friendly-outings/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This Midwest city in Iowa, located between Omaha and Des Moines, is home to fun shops, quiet trails, and family friendly events and outings.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This Midwest city in Iowa, located between Omaha and Des Moines, is home to fun shops, quiet trails, and family friendly events and outings.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/atlantic-iowa-between-omaha-des-moines-midwest-city-fun-shops-trails-family-friendly-outings/intro-1781639379.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/atlantic-iowa-between-omaha-des-moines-midwest-city-fun-shops-trails-family-friendly-outings/l-intro-1781639379.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/atlantic-iowa-between-omaha-des-moines-midwest-city-fun-shops-trails-family-friendly-outings/l-intro-1781639379.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="737336"/>
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                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Iowa's Dazzling Lake State Park Is A Sunny Getaway With Swimming, Fishing, And Camping]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2194658/gull-point-state-park-iowa-lake-getaway-swimming-fishing-camping/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 13:25:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2194658/gull-point-state-park-iowa-lake-getaway-swimming-fishing-camping/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Whether you&#39;re looking to escape the summer heat by dipping your toes in the water or cast a line in search of fish, this Iowa state park has you covered.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Whether you&#39;re looking to escape the summer heat by dipping your toes in the water or cast a line in search of fish, this Iowa state park has you covered.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/iowas-dazzling-lake-state-park-is-a-sunny-getaway-with-swimming-fishing-and-camping/intro-1781549373.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/iowas-dazzling-lake-state-park-is-a-sunny-getaway-with-swimming-fishing-and-camping/l-intro-1781549373.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/iowas-dazzling-lake-state-park-is-a-sunny-getaway-with-swimming-fishing-and-camping/l-intro-1781549373.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="699652"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Sioux Falls And Omaha Is Iowa's Largest Remaining Prairie With Roaming Bison, Hiking, And Scenic Views]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2185857/broken-kettle-grasslands-preserve-iowa-between-sioux-falls-omaha-largest-remaining-prairie-roaming-bison-hiking-scenic-views/</link>
                    <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 20:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2185857/broken-kettle-grasslands-preserve-iowa-between-sioux-falls-omaha-largest-remaining-prairie-roaming-bison-hiking-scenic-views/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Not only is this Iowa prairie home to a bunch of bison, but it&#39;s also a wonderful spot for some rugged hiking and a great place to enjoy a scenic view.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Not only is this Iowa prairie home to a bunch of bison, but it&#39;s also a wonderful spot for some rugged hiking and a great place to enjoy a scenic view.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/broken-kettle-grasslands-preserve-iowa-between-sioux-falls-omaha-largest-remaining-prairie-roaming-bison-hiking-scenic-views/intro-1783533959.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/broken-kettle-grasslands-preserve-iowa-between-sioux-falls-omaha-largest-remaining-prairie-roaming-bison-hiking-scenic-views/l-intro-1783533959.jpg"/>
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