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Props, Paws & Poker Run

Props, Paws & Poker Run

The Props, Paws & Poker Run is scheduled for Saturday, June 27, 2026, in the Iowa Great Lakes region, bringing boaters together for a full day of poker hands, lake cruising, waterfront stops, and charity fundraising benefiting the Humane Society of Northwest Iowa. Hosted by Parks Marina, the annual boating event combines summer fun on the water with support for local animal rescue and adoption programs throughout Northwest Iowa.

Set across the scenic waters of West Lake Okoboji and the surrounding Iowa Great Lakes chain, the 2026 poker run is expected to attract pontoons, wake boats, fishing boats, deck boats, cruisers, center consoles, and recreational lake boaters from across Iowa and neighboring Midwest states.

According to organizers, registration and check-in activities will begin Saturday morning between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. at Parks Marina. Participants will also be able to enjoy continental breakfast, mimosas, and appearances from adoptable animals brought by the Humane Society of Northwest Iowa before the official poker run launches onto the lake later in the morning.

The Props, Paws & Poker Run officially runs from approximately 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Participants will travel between designated waterfront checkpoints collecting poker cards throughout the day before returning for final scoring and prize announcements later that afternoon.

Unlike large offshore poker runs centered around speed and competition, organizers describe the Okoboji event as a relaxed and family-friendly boating experience focused on lake culture, community involvement, and charitable giving. Participants are encouraged to spend the day enjoying the lake while supporting local animal welfare efforts.

Entry pricing for the 2026 event is listed at:

  • $30 per poker hand
  • $20 per poker hand for Parks Marina boat customers

Poker hand payouts will be awarded to the top three final hands. Organizers stated that proceeds from the event will be divided evenly, with 50 percent allocated toward prize payouts and the remaining 50 percent donated directly to the Humane Society of Northwest Iowa.

The Humane Society of Northwest Iowa continues providing rescue, adoption, and care services for animals throughout the region, and organizers say the annual poker run has become an important summer fundraiser supporting those efforts.

Located on West Lake Okoboji, Parks Marina remains one of the most active boating hubs in the Iowa Great Lakes region, offering marina services, boat sales, rentals, events, and waterfront entertainment throughout the summer season.