Iowa isn’t all cornfields. It’s actually home to a variety of beautiful and diverse landscapes, from lush, rolling prairies to deep valleys carved by glaciers. These are the best state parks in Iowa.
There are many opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the state, but these parks stand out as some of the best places to explore nature and get close to Mother Earth.
It is important to visit the best state parks in Iowa because they are beautiful. There are many opportunities to explore nature and get close to Mother Earth.
One of these opportunities is at Koke’s Korner, where there are free fishing ponds and an accessible playground for kids who can’t hike. With its diverse landscapes, Iowa offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Some of its state parks are noteworthy, and this article provides an overview. This information can help inspire people to get out and explore the state’s natural beauty. Here’s why:
- Iowa state parks are home to a variety of landscapes, from prairies to deep valleys.
- These parks offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hiking, and camping.
- Exploring the best state parks in Iowa is a great way to connect with nature and get close to Mother Earth.
Best State Parks in Iowa to Visit
1. Maquoketa Caves State Park
Address: 9688 Caves Rd, Maquoketa, IA 52060, United States
Maquoketa Caves State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its unique geological features and abundance of recreational opportunities. The park’s caves, bluffs, and forests provide a variety of scenery and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Hiking, camping, fishing, and bird-watching are some of the most popular activities at the park. Maquoketa Caves State Park is also popular for rock climbers due to its unique geological features.
The park’s caves are the main attraction and are open to the public for tours. The caves are all located on the park’s east side and range in size from small passages to large rooms.
The caves are formed in limestone bedrock and are decorated with a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological features.
For those looking for some outdoor fun, Maquoketa Caves State Park is the perfect destination. With its caves, bluffs, and forests, the park has something for everyone to enjoy.
So if you’re looking for a great state park to visit in Iowa, be sure to add Maquoketa Caves State Park to your list.
2. Ledges State Park
Address: 1515 P Ave, Madrid, IA 50156, United States
Ledges State Park is one of Iowa’s most popular state parks for camping enthusiasts. The park contains a sandstone gorge carved by Pea’s Creek, a tributary of the Des Moines River. The gorge is 100 feet (30 m) deep in places, with concretions jutting from the cliffs.
These features, combined with the park’s location close to the Des Moines metro area, make Ledges a very popular destination for day hikers, backpackers, and climbers.
The park also offers various recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, boating (non-motorized), and picnicking. Dogs are allowed in the park but must always be on a leash.
Hiking trails in Ledges State Park offer visitors a variety of experiences, from short, easy walks to more challenging hikes that will take you deep into the gorge. A nature interpretive trail also offers information about the park’s history and ecology.
If you’re looking for a place to camp, Ledges State Park offers both primitive camping (tent camping) and modern camping (RV hookups).
Primitive camping is available in the park’s backcountry areas, and reservations are required. Modern camping is available at the Ledges Campground, with 110 sites with electrical hookups.
3. Pikes Peak State Park
Address: 32264 Pikes Peak Rd, McGregor, IA 52157, United States
Pikes Peak State Park is a state park in Iowa featuring a 500-foot (150 m) bluff overlooking the Upper Mississippi River opposite the confluence of the Wisconsin River. The park is operated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
It is nearly a thousand acres (4 km²) in extent. The nearest city is McGregor, Iowa. Iowa Highway 76 approximately defines its northern boundary.
Pikes Peak State Park gets its name from the Iowa incarnation of Pikes Peak, a particularly high point overlooking the gorge of the Upper Mississippi, and like Pikes Peak in Colorado, is named for Zebulon Pike.
There are hiking trails, campgrounds, and RV facilities at Pikes Peak State Park. Mountain bikes are permitted in certain portions of the park. Aside from recreational development, the land in the park was never cleared and largely remained as it was before the settlers.
Pikes Peak State Park is part of a larger complex of parks, reserves, and refuges which include Effigy Mounds National Monument.
The various components of the Yellow River State Forest, the enormous Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, and the much smaller, much less well-known Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge. The Northeast Iowa Legacy Trail System is undergoing development and will connect elements of these sites.
See Related: Best National Parks to Visit in November
4. Lake Macbride State Park
Address: 3525 Hwy 382 NE, Solon, IA 52333, United States
Lake Macbride State Park is a popular camping spot for fishers and nature enthusiasts.
The park offers many amenities for visitors, including a campground with electric and primitive sites, a day-use lodge, hiking and multi-use trails, and a boat rental facility. The park’s location near Solon, Iowa, makes it easy to access for visitors in the area.
The lake is beautiful for fishing, swimming, and enjoying the views. The park also offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year.
Whether you’re looking for a place to camp, fish, or just enjoy the outdoors, Lake Macbride State Park is a great option in Iowa. With plenty of amenities and activities available, the park will surely please visitors of all ages.
There are a few great places to stay near Lake Macbride State Park. If you’re looking for a campground, the park offers electric and “primitive” sites.
There are also a few hotels in the area if you’re looking for a more comfortable stay. The Inn at Solon Mills is a great option, as is the Best Western Coralville Lake Hotel. Both options are close to the park and offer a variety of amenities for guests.
5. Backbone State Park
Address: 1347 129th St, Dundee, IA 52038, United States
Backbone State Park is a great place to visit due to its natural beauty and its many activities. The park is located in the valley of the Maquoketa River and is named for a narrow and steep ridge of bedrock carved by a river loop.
The park was established in 1919 and is Iowa’s oldest state park. Hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming are just some activities available at Backbone State Park. Backbone State Park also has a campground with over 100 campsites.
Some of the best trails in Backbone State Park include the Devil’s Backbone Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop that offers great views of the park, and the Cedar Bluff Trail, which is a four-mile loop that winds through the forest and offers beautiful views of the river.
Be sure to check out Backbone State Park when you’re in Iowa! You won’t be disappointed.
6. Palisades-Kepler State Park
Address: 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, United States
One of the main reasons Palisades-Kepler State Park is one of the best state parks to visit due to its expansive hiking trails. Visitors can view local flora and fauna, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, black maple trees, and wildflowers in springtime.
The park also features a swimming beach, a boat ramp, and fishing sites on the river; fish living there include bass, channel catfish, and walleye. The park has 45 electric and non-electric campsites and four cabins along with a CCC-built lodge for day use.
For those looking for an Iowa state park that features ample opportunity to view wildlife, Palisades-Kepler State Park is a great option.
The park offers 5 miles of hiking trails and a variety of different habitats to explore. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, fishing, and camping while at the park.
See related: Best Weekend Getaways in Iowa: Top Vacations
7. George Wyth State Park
Address: 3659 Wyth Rd, Waterloo, IA 50703, United States
George Wyth Memorial State Park is near Waterloo and Cedar Falls, Iowa. The park was dedicated in 1940 as “Josh Higgins Parkway” after a popular radio character of the day. 1956 it was renamed George Wyth Memorial State Park after a well-known Cedar Falls businessman and conservationist.
The park has abundant wildlife, including more than 200 bird species and white-tailed deer. The park is also designated as a National Urban Wildlife Sanctuary.
The Iowa State Department of Natural Resources manages the state park, known for its high biodiversity, including white-tailed deer.
The park has also been designated as a National Urban Wildlife Sanctuary, which means it is home to many types of animals typically found in more urban areas.
If you’re looking for a park that will allow you to view a variety of wildlife, George Wyth Memorial State Park is the perfect place to visit.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Spirit Lake, Iowa
8. Clear Lake State Park
Address: 6490 S Shore Dr, Clear Lake, IA 50428, United States
Clear Lake State Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some peace. The park is located on Clear Lake’s shores, making it a great spot for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, and the park is home to a variety of animals and plants. If you’re looking for a place to stay near Clear Lake State Park, the Hampton Inn & Suites Clear Lake is a great option.
The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking, within walking distance of the park. Another great option is the AmericInn Lodge & Suites Clear Lake. This hotel also offers free Wi-Fi and breakfast, just a short drive from the state park.
9. Dolliver State Park
Address: 4265 Dolliver Memorial State Park Rd, Ottumwa, IA 52501, United States
Dolliver State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The park has a variety of trails for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders, and it’s home to a number of different animals and plants. There’s also a lake where you can go fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
If you’re looking for a place to stay near Dolliver State Park, the Best Western Plus Ottumwa Hotel & Suites is a great option. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking, and it’s located just a short drive from the state park.
Another great option is the Comfort Inn & Suites Ottumwa. This hotel also offers free Wi-Fi and breakfast, just a few minutes drive from the park.
See related: 11 Historical Landmarks in Iowa You’ll Want to Know
10. Gull Point State Park
Address: 1500 Harpen St, Milford, IA 51351, United States
Gull Point State Park is a state park in Iowa, United States, located on West Okoboji Lake in the city of Wahpeton. It is the primary state park unit in the Iowa Great Lakes region. Two park areas were listed as nationally recognized historic districts on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
Gull Point State Park is one of the best state parks to visit in Iowa because of its location on West Okoboji Lake. This park offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as camping, fishing, swimming, and boating.
11. Union Grove State Park
Address: 1215 220th St, Gladbrook, IA 50635, United States
If you’re looking for a beautiful park to visit in Iowa, Union Grove State Park is a great option. This park is located in Gladbrook and offers stunning views of the countryside.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Union Grove State Park, including fishing, hiking, and camping. And, if you’re looking for a place to stay, the park offers cabins and camping sites.
12. McIntosh Woods State Park
Address: 1200 E Lake St, Ventura, IA 50482
McIntosh Woods State Park is a beautiful park that is perfect for camping. The park has stunning woods and offers plenty of outdoor activities, including camp. Modern bathrooms, showers, and electric outlets are available in the park, and tents can also be rented.
Visitors can enjoy the grassy shaded park benches, a nature trail, boating ramps, swimming beaches, and designated fish farms with a fish washing facility. The park is also close to Clear Lake, making it the perfect spot for a camping trip.
To get here from Des Moines, take I-35 North to exit 117. Head west on Highway 18 for 9 miles until you reach the park.
13. Waubonsie State Park
Address: 2585 Waubonsie Park Rd, Hamburg, IA 51640
If you’re looking for a breathtaking state park to visit in Iowa, Waubonsie State Park is definitely worth checking out. Situated on the scenic Loess Hills, this park offers amazing views that are unparalleled in western Iowa.
It’s also part of Lewis and Clark’s historical trail so you can enjoy some interesting history there. And if you’re a fan of horses, be sure to check out the horse park – it features 32 camping sites as well as a horseback riding trail.
See Related: How to Pack for a Camping Trip
14. Wildcat Den State Park
If you’re looking for a great state park to visit in Iowa, Wildcat Den State Park is definitely worth checking out. This park is situated in the northwest corner of Muscatine County and is home to beautiful scenery and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing hike through the woods, a chance to splash around in a creek, or just a great place to sit and enjoy the scenery, Wildcat Den State Park is definitely worth checking out.
When visiting, there are a few great places to stay nearby. If you’re looking for a campsite, the park offers both primitive and electric campsites, as well as a campground shelter.
There are also several hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area, including the Best Western Pearl City Inn, The Current Iowa, and the Muscatine Inn.
15. Lewis and Clark State Park
Address: 21914 Park Loop, Onawa, IA 51040
Lewis and Clark State Park was named after American explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who passed through this area in 1804.
Meriwether Lewis and William Clark were two of the most famous American explorers. They went on an expedition to explore the western part of America.
This expedition happened from 1804 to 1806. The journey was very successful. They were able to map out the area for future settlers and traders. During their trip, Lewis and Clark also discovered new animal species and plant life.
Today, a 176-hectare park in Iowa is named after these two explorers. Lewis and Clark State Park is located in Onawa, Iowa, and is administered by the state’s Natural Resources Department.
The park contains 125 hectares of blue lake, offering numerous land and sea activities for visitors. These activities include trekking, picnicking, camping, swimming, boat riding, and fishing.
Overnight visitors can also stay in one of the park’s new electric camping sites and view replicas of the Keelboats that Lewis and Clark used during their expedition.
See related: Best Things to Do in Iowa & Places to Visit
Final Thoughts
Iowa state parks are the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. The parks offer a variety of activities, such as trekking, picnicking, camping, swimming, and fishing, that people of all skill levels can enjoy.
In addition to these wonderful recreational opportunities available at these top Iowa state parks, there are also stunning views to enjoy while exploring the park. So, if you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure in Iowa, check out one of the state’s many fantastic parks.
Looking for a great outdoor adventure in Iowa? Make sure to check out one of the state’s many fantastic parks! Our free travel newsletter provides information on the best parks nationwide in Iowa and other states. Sign up today to get started!
FAQ
What are the best states parks in Iowa to visit?
The best Iowa state parks to visit include Backbone State Park, Beeds Lake State Park, Briggs Woods Park, Ledges State Park, Maquoketa Caves State Park, and Lewis and Clark State Park.
What is the most popular state park in Iowa?
Lake Manawa is the most popular state park in Iowa. It is in Pottawattamie County and features a beach, trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas.
What is the biggest state park in Iowa?
Union Grove State Park is the biggest state park in Iowa, with over 5,500 acres of land to explore. Given the vast land, the park offers various activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and more.
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