Spirit of Okoboji

Spirit of Okoboji is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Okoboji region while creating opportunities for its future. Its work brings together seven initiatives focused on local history, arts, recreation, education, tourism, and community development. The Lakes Area Museum Alliance connects 13 museums to preserve regional history and strengthen tourism, while Friends of the Abbie Gardner Cabin supports the protection of an important Iowa historic site. OkoboTree commissions Iowa artists to turn expired trees into public sculptures, and Okoboji Music Masters presents live performances by local volunteer musicians.

The organization also supports Emerald Hills Golf Club, preserving its 18-hole course and improving its facilities, and Emerald Estates, which aims to expand regional housing and support workforce needs. Its flagship Okoboji Glacier initiative is developing a year-round destination campus that includes a sports complex, family entertainment center, hotel, and conference center, alongside a hospitality and tourism academy for students in grades 7–12. Through these efforts, Spirit of Okoboji invests in lasting community impact for residents and visitors.