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Livability

Grow in Calhoun County

Calhoun County’s rural setting provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere, while its proximity to larger cities like Fort Dodge and Des Moines ensures easy access to amenities and opportunities. The county boasts a strong sense of community, with a focus on supporting local businesses and fostering a friendly atmosphere. In terms of connectivity, Calhoun County offers reliable internet services and convenient transportation options. For recreation, residents can enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking in the county's parks and natural areas. The county also has a robust education system, with quality schools serving students of all ages. Additionally, Calhoun County provides various childcare options to support working families, making it a great place to raise children.
 

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Childcare

Find a diverse set of childcare options to meet every family's needs.

Childcare in Calhoun County

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Connectivity

Stay connected with high-speed internet options.

Connectivity in Calhoun County

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Education

Start your kids off on the right path with a high-quality education.

Education in Calhoun County

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Recreation

Explore the beauty of northwest central Iowa.

Recreation in Calhoun County

Blog & News

Browse news and blogs highlighting living in Calhoun County.

7 Reasons to Live in Calhoun County

From the great outdoors to a variety of education and health care options to affordability, here are seven key reasons our residents call Calhoun County home.

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Gorilla on the Golf Course!

Gorilla on the Golf Course! Calhoun County Artwork Finds a New Home at Twin Lakes Golf Club

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Double D's Ice Cream Co. comes to Manson

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ICE CREAM!

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10 Free/Low-Cost Things to Do in Calhoun County

As the weather warms up, this is prime time to explore more of Calhoun County. If you’d like to enjoy some hidden gems without breaking the bank, here are some fun experiences you can enjoy around Calhoun County, all at low or no cost.

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Saddle Up for a Short History of Western Days in Lake City

Sometimes it’s easy to take things for granted, especially if they’ve been around a long time. Consider the Western Days celebration and annual rodeo in Lake City.

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Visit Veterans' Memorials Throughout Calhoun County

The willingness of America’s veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude, especially in Calhoun County.

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Local Ownership Helps Lake City Hardware Thrive

There are some structures that have stood the test of time in Lake City’s downtown business district, including Lake City Hardware. The Lake City Graphic described the structure as a “magnificent building” when it was completed in 1898.

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Welcome Home: Lohrville Showcases Homes for Iowa

       Many rural communities across Iowa are struggling with housing shortages, but Lohrville is embracing a creative approach to this challenge. From the outside, their solution looks like a modern, ranch-style home on the north side of Highway 175. There’s so much more to this remarkable story, though.

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Jolley Good: Biscuits & Gravy Breakfast Serves Up Community Pride

    Plenty of Iowa’s rural communities support pancake days or soup suppers, but there’s nothing quite like Jolley’s Famous Biscuits & Gravy Breakfast. Comfort-food aficionados willing to brave Iowa’s icy winter mornings swell the population of this tiny Calhoun County town (approximate population 28) by at least five to six times when breakfast is served. 

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Beat the Winter Blues with TWINterfest

    Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean we can’t play outside here in Calhoun County. If you think there’s nothing exciting to do here in the winter, you haven’t been to TWINterfest at Twin Lakes, which offers everything from thrilling ice oval races (with motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs) to relaxing snow yoga (“snowga”) to the polar plunge, where you can literally jump in the lake!

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Shining Bright: J&J Candles Offers Array of Popular Products

Walking into the J&J Candles shop south of Manson is a total sensory experience, from the vibrant rows of colorful candles on the display shelves to the enticing aromas near the work area where new candles take shape. Overseeing it all is Janis Miller, the self-proclaimed “Crazy Candle Lady.” 

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Pomeroy Park Honors Veterans in a Big Way

While it might seem like a simple memorial, there are powerful stories in the stones in the Pomeroy Veteran’s Park. This remarkable tribute proves how a small Calhoun County town can achieve big things.

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Traditions Offers Food, Fun at Twin Lakes

When you’re near Twin Lakes, be sure to cruise over to Traditions by car, truck, motorcycle, bike or boat for an ice cream treat, a beverage or a meal with modern flair and a side of nostalgia. (Yes, there’s a dock for your convenience!)

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Cruisin’ Calhoun County by Classic Car

Everything looks and feels different than it would in a new car, especially when you’re cruising Calhoun County.

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5 Reasons to “Cruise” Calhoun County by Trail

Whether you prefer walking, jogging or bicycling, either by yourself or with friends and family, it’s time to explore the trails in Calhoun County.

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