Just because you’re in Iowa doesn’t mean you can’t see some beautiful scenery. Iowa is known for its farmland, but the state is full of an abundance of wooded trails, lakes, and quiet campsites. Here are my favorite Iowa spots to indulge in the outdoors.
8- Pikes Peak State Park- McGregor
Not to be confused with the popular Pikes Peak in Colorado, this state park is still notably scenic. The park is home to 11 miles of trails surrounded by bluffs and valleys. A popular destination is Bridal Veil Falls (Yes, Iowa has a few waterfalls), which is about a mile. There are also wonderful overlooks views of the Mississippi River.
7- Jester State Park- Madrid
Jester Park is unique because the nature center contains animals, like bison and elk that you can see out in the specific area of the park! This is one of my favorite places in Iowa to camp. The park has some sites that are right next to Saylorville Lake, making it perfect for a late-night swim. My marshmallows always get stolen by raccoons here, so beware.
6- Palisades-Kepler State Park- Cedar Rapids
This park is on the bank of the Cedar River and consists of tall bluffs, 5 miles of hiking trails, and a campground. I think this is one of Iowa’s hidden gems. It’s not uncommon to see people crossing the river or having cookouts! Cedar Cliff Trail is the most iconic that is 2 miles and has cool views of the river.
5- Maquoketa Caves State Park- Maquoketa
Iowa is home to quite a few caves, but this state park has 13 caves alone. This is a fun place to explore the caves throughout a 6-mile hiking system. Make sure to bring a flashlight or headlight to go deeper into the cave, if you’re feeling adventurous. If you don’t like small spaces, don’t worry! There are also overlooks and a rich landscape surrounding the area. There is also one campground here!
4- Lake McBride State Park- Iowa City
This is one of my favorite places to hammock! Lake McBride is the largest state park in Iowa and is popular for biking, bird watching, boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming. There are 12 miles of trails, 2 campgrounds, and people often rent boats here. The spillway is my favorite place, which is a waterfall that connects Lake McBride with Coralville Lake.
3- Ledges State Park- Boone
This park has a special place in my heart. Ledges has 4 miles of hiking trails, some of which tower with sandstone bluffs. This is a great place to walk through the creeks with your Chacos and see amazing views of the Des Moines River Valley. Check out Table Rock Loop for some steep adventures. There is also one campsite located in the park.
2- Backbone State Park- Dundee
Iowa’s first state park is a popular place for biking, boating, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. There are 21 miles of hiking trails and 2 campgrounds. Popular hikes are the west and east lake trail loop, which consists of the rocky staircase that leads to one of the highest points in northeast Iowa- “the Devil’s Backbone.”
1- Yellow River State Forest- Harpers Ferry
Located in Northeast Iowa, this state park has 25 miles of trails and 8 campsites, along with scenic views, woodlands, and trout streams. Although you wouldn’t expect it in a state like Iowa, there are quite a few steep trails and cliffs because of glaciers during the last Ice Age. This forest is remote and quiet with few crowds, compared to other parks. Because of the abundant wildlife and streams, trout fishing and hunting are popular here. Be sure to check out Paint Creek Unit Loop, a 13.5-mile trail that’s popular for backpackers. Be warned that there are plenty of mosquitos, so make sure to bring some bug spray!
Happy exploring!
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