35 State Parks to Explore in Iowa
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State Parks by destinations in Iowa
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State Parks to Explore in Iowa
Backbone State ParkBackbone State Park is Iowa's oldest state park, dedicated in 1919. Located in the valley of the Maquoketa River, it is approximately three miles (5 km) south of Strawberry Point in Delaware County. It is named for a narrow and steep ridge of bedrock carved by a loop of the Maquoketa River originally known as the Devil's Backbone.
Beeds Lake State ParkBeeds Lake State Park is located northwest of Hampton, Iowa, United States. It was listed has a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places as Beeds Lake State Park, Civilian Conservation Corps Area in 1990. At the time of its nomination it contained 21 resources, which included one contributing building, 15 contributing structures, and five non-contributing structures.
Bellevue State Park - Nelson UnitBellevue State Park is a state park of Iowa, USA, along the banks of the Mississippi River just south of Bellevue.The park lies in two separate tracts. The Nelson Unit is at the immediate south edge of Bellevue on U.S. Route 52 (The Great River Road), atop a 300-foot (91 m) limestone bluff. The Dyas Unit is 2 miles (3.2 km) farther south on U.S. 52.
Big Creek State ParkBig Creek State Park, located in Polk County, Iowa, is a popular outdoor recreation destination known for its scenic beauty and diverse array of activities. Situated around Big Creek Lake, the park offers opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife observation.The park covers over 3,500 acres of land, including woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, providing habitats for various plant and animal species.
Black Hawk State ParkBlack Hawk State Park, located in Sac County, Iowa, is a picturesque outdoor destination offering a variety of recreational activities and natural beauty. Situated near Lake View, the park is named after the Native American leader Black Hawk and covers approximately 170 acres of woodlands, prairies, and scenic vistas.
Cedar Rock State Park Cedar Rock State Park, located near Quasqueton in Buchanan County, Iowa, is renowned for its association with the famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The park is home to the Walter Residence, commonly known as Cedar Rock, which was designed by Wright and is considered one of his Usonian designs.
Clear Lake State ParkClear Lake is the name of a natural spring fed body of water located in Cerro Gordo County, Iowa near Clear Lake, Iowa. It is approximately 3,684 acres (15 km2) in size. It is a popular fishing destination, with walleye, yellow bass and channel catfish. People from Des Moines and Minneapolis–Saint Paul have had homes on the shores of the lake since the 1870s.
Cold Water Spring State PreserveCold Water Spring State Preserve, located in Winneshiek County, Iowa, is a serene and picturesque natural area that offers visitors a tranquil escape into the beauty of Iowa's countryside. Encompassing approximately 110 acres, the preserve is named after the cold-water spring that flows through the landscape, providing a refreshing oasis for both wildlife and visitors alike.
Dolliver Memorial State ParkDolliver Memorial State Park, nestled in Webster County, Iowa, is a tranquil retreat offering visitors a blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and historical significance. Spread across nearly 600 acres, the park is named in honor of Senator Jonathan P. Dolliver and serves as a testament to his contributions to the state and nation.
Elk Rock State ParkElk Rock State Park is a picturesque natural area located in central Iowa, United States. Situated along the shores of the 5,684-acre Lake Red Rock, it offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities amidst stunning landscapes.The park spans over 1,100 acres and is characterized by rugged terrain, dense woodlands, and scenic overlooks.
Fort Atkinson State ParkFort Atkinson State Preserve, located in Winneshiek County, Iowa, is a historic and scenic destination that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region's frontier past. The preserve encompasses the remnants of Fort Atkinson, a U.S. Army outpost established in the 1840s to protect the Winnebago Indians and facilitate trade with Native American tribes.
Geode State ParkNestled in the heart of Iowa's picturesque landscape, Geode State Park beckons nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike with its serene beauty and unique geological wonders. This captivating state park is a haven for outdoor recreation, offering visitors a blend of natural tranquility and exciting activities.
Green Valley State ParkGreen Valley State Park, situated in southwest Iowa, offers visitors a serene and picturesque escape into nature, characterized by its rolling hills, lush forests, and tranquil lake.
Gull Point State ParkGull Point State Park is a recreational area located in the Iowa Great Lakes region, known for its natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities.The park covers a specific acreage and features a diverse landscape that may include woodlands, prairies, and lakefront areas. The Iowa Great Lakes region is characterized by scenic views and natural habitats.
Lacey Keosauqua State ParkLacey-Keosauqua State Park, located in southeastern Iowa, is a picturesque and expansive natural area that offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities amidst stunning landscapes and historical sites.
Lake Ahquabi State ParkLake Ahquabi State Park, situated near Indianola, Iowa, is a scenic outdoor haven offering a wide array of recreational activities amidst picturesque natural surroundings. The park's focal point is Lake Ahquabi, a beautiful 115-acre lake surrounded by woodlands and rolling hills, providing visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation.
Lake Anita State ParkLake Anita State Park, located in Cass County, Iowa, is a popular recreational area known for its picturesque lake, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. The park is centered around Lake Anita, a man-made reservoir covering approximately 171 acres. The lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities.
Lake Darling State ParkLake Darling State Park, located in Washington County, Iowa, is a picturesque outdoor haven offering a wide range of recreational activities amidst scenic natural surroundings. Named after conservationist Jay N. "Ding" Darling, the park encompasses over 1,400 acres of woodlands, prairies, and waterways, centered around the beautiful Lake Darling.