Do you ever want to get away from it all? Iowa is full of natural beauty in its state parks, and touring them can feel like stepping into different ecosystems. This weekend road trip takes you to three of the state’s best – each completely different from the last – with only a few hours of driving time. So pack up the car, get on your hiking boots, and get ready for a one-of-a-kind Iowa adventure.
Hit the road on this tour of some of Iowa’s best state parks. It only takes around three hours of driving, leaving plenty of time for recreation.
Self-Generated/Google Maps
- Backbone State Park
SouthIA/TripAdvisor This quiet state park in Dundee is known for its unique architecture, as well as being a particularly peaceful getaway.
The craggy paths make for ideal hiking grounds, with plenty of secrets.
ErikaMud/TripAdvisor
You’ll find some amazing hidden glens with crystal-clear springs - perfect for reflection.
Management/TripAdvisor
- Palisades-Kepler State Park
Management/TripAdvisor Located in Mt. Vernon, this park has a little bit of everything - including a beach that’s amazing during the summer.
The shady forest looks incredible during the fall and is ideal for hiking.
ShirleyA78/TripAdvisor
Go a little off the beaten path and you’ll find quiet hiking paths and small caves for exploring
Hannah/TripAdvisor
- Maquoketa Caves State Park
Management/TripAdvisor Of all of Iowa’s state parks, this one feels like another world. On the surface level, it’s one of the most beautiful spots in the state.
As soon as you head into the caves, it becomes one of the most unforgettable trips in Iowa.
KennethRMitchell/TripAdvisor
As you explore the underground, it’s easy to forget about the world above and spend the day exploring the ancient network of tunnels.
Jjmg4423/TripAdvisor
Have you been to any of Iowa’s top-tier state parks? Let us know your personal road-trip itinerary in the comments section. If you’re looking to visit any of these parks, make sure to visit the websites for Backbone State Park, Palisades-Kepler State Park, and Maquoketa Caves State Park before you go to learn more about what they have to offer.
Self-Generated/Google Maps
SouthIA/TripAdvisor
This quiet state park in Dundee is known for its unique architecture, as well as being a particularly peaceful getaway.
ErikaMud/TripAdvisor
Management/TripAdvisor
Located in Mt. Vernon, this park has a little bit of everything - including a beach that’s amazing during the summer.
ShirleyA78/TripAdvisor
Hannah/TripAdvisor
Of all of Iowa’s state parks, this one feels like another world. On the surface level, it’s one of the most beautiful spots in the state.
KennethRMitchell/TripAdvisor
Jjmg4423/TripAdvisor
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Address: Backbone State Park Beach, Iowa 52038, USAAddress: Palisades-Kepler State Park, 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USAAddress: Caves Road, Caves Rd, Maquoketa, IA 52060, USA
