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Chippewa National Forest is actually located in the state of Minnesota, not Iowa. The forest covers over 1.6 million acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, wolves, and bald eagles. Visitors to the forest can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and boating on the various lakes and rivers within the boundaries of the forest. There are also several points of interest, such as the Lost Forty, a 144-acre stand of old-growth forest that was spared from logging in the early 20th century. The forest is also home to several historic sites, including the Norway Beach Recreation Area, which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The best time of year to visit Chippewa National Forest is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the lakes and rivers are ideal for swimming and boating. However, visitors can also enjoy the beauty of the forest during the fall, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.