The natural beauty of Iowa is difficult to beat. From its blue waters, sandstone and limestone bluffs, and intricate cave systems, there is always something new to explore at Iowa’s state parks. Make healthy living a priority with the multitude of parks the Hawkeye State has to offer.
Not sure where to begin? NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the top 10 state parks in Iowa.
1. Blackburn State Park
Google rating: 5.0
Blackburn State Park earns the No. 1 spot on our list of best state parks in Iowa. The 72-acre state park is part of 1,000 acres of preserved land, including wildlife management areas. Stretch your legs and work up a sweat hiking across the wooded trails, or simply enjoy the fresh air by having a picnic at one of the pavilions. Visitors should note that there are no public water supplies in the park, so be sure to bring plenty of water with you.
2. Maquoketa Caves State Park
Google rating: 4.8
If you’re a spelunker at heart, be sure to check out Maquoketa Caves State Park. With the most caves in any Iowa state park, Maquoketa Caves State Park features a beautiful cave system that you can explore. The surrounding limestone cliffs further add to the park’s rugged and prehistoric look. Go hiking and see notable geological features such as the Natural Bridge and Balanced Rock. Campers can stay at one of 30 campsites throughout the park, seven of which have electrical hookups.
3. Ledges State Park
Google rating: 4.8
Ledges State Park is located along the Des Moines River, making it a perfect destination for those who enjoy canoeing and other water activities. The park features four miles of trails, many of which contain steep slopes, beautiful views of sandstone cliffs, and a natural stone bridge. Reserve a campground complete with modern amenities and a playground to make the most of your visit.
4. Pikes Peak State Park
Google rating: 4.8
Pikes Peak resides along the Mississippi River at the Iowa-Wisconsin state border. Venture across 11 miles of trails and get a sky-high view of the river as you go; take note of scenic spots such as Bridal Veil Falls and keep an eye out for fossils! Some trails are mountain bike friendly, so be sure to check those out if you’re an ardent biker. If you’re looking to host an event and want beautiful Iowa nature as a backdrop, reserve one of the stone gazebos and picnic benches.
5. Wildcat Den State Park
Google rating: 4.8
Wildcat Den State Park is another great place to visit if you want to see sandstone bluffs. Put on your hiking boots, hit the trails, and check out natural geological formations such as “Steamboat Rock” and “Devil’s Punch Bowl.” If you enjoy history, step back in time and visit the 19th-century Pine Creek Grist Mill, one of the oldest working grist mills in the region. Camping is available at Wildcat Den State Park, but while the grounds have water and toilets, they do not have electricity.
6. Yellow River State Forest
Google rating: 4.8
Yellow River State Forest is located in northeastern Iowa and is a sight to behold. Sprawling across 8,900 acres, the forest park allows for multiple activities such as camping, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and more. No matter the season, there will always be something to do! Camping options include staying in full-service cabins or one of the campgrounds. Yellow River State Forest is also home to the Yellow River State Sawmill and Iowa’s only fire tower.
7. Cedar Rock State Park
Google rating: 4.8
Cedar Rock is home to the Walter House, the estate belonging to Agnes and Lowell Walter. Folks can take tours of the historical house, which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and walk through the gardens around the estate. The estate was built on sandstone bluffs which give a scenic view of the Wapsipinicon River. Please note that the Walter House is only available for tours from May through October, so be sure to check it out before winter falls!
8. Backbone State Park
Google rating: 4.7
Backbone State Park, located along Backbone Lake, is Iowa’s first official state park. Visitors can make the most of the water by boating, kayaking, or fishing along the water. Dedicated hikers will love the 21 miles of hiking trails, which include rugged terrain and rock staircases. During winter, enjoy your favorite wintertime sports such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
9. Bellevue State Park
Google rating: 4.6
Bellevue State Park is located along the Mississippi River and is split into two different units: the Nelson Unit and the Dyas Unit. Each unit has its separate hiking trails and points of interest, but camping is only available at the Dyas Unit. Bellevue State Park features a nature center complete with an open butterfly sanctuary, which provides fun for the whole family.
10. Rice Lake State Park
Google rating: 4.4
If you’re looking for a small state park to visit, Rice Lake State Park is the one for you. The 15-acre state park lies at the base of Rice Lake and is a favorite spot for fishermen. Rice Lake spans 1,200 acres where visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, and water skiing across the blue water. Migratory birds often rest at the lake, so birdwatchers flock during peak migratory season to watch the birds. An on-site lodge is available by reservation.
All parks have been ranked based on the criteria of popularity, distance from the closest major cities, violent crime, property crime, Google ratings, and the number of Google reviews.
Sarah graduated from Trinity University in 2012 with a degree in International Relations and Political Science. She writes blogs on new homes, decor, communities, and more for NewHomeSource. When she’s not writing, you can find her spending time with her three cats.
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