Located in the stunning northeast region of Iowa, and with over 20 miles of trail to explore, Backbone State Park is an Iowa hiker’s dream come true. There are a lot of energizing hikes when it comes to Backbone State Park, and for the best bang for your buck, the West and East Lake Trails really delivers on it all. Stretching out for three and 2.42-miles respectively, the West and East Lake Trails follow the shore of Backbone Lake, navigating through a dense Iowa ecosystem and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Iowa State Park system. The East Lake Trail also connects to the state-famous Backbone Trail, which will get your heart pumping based on the view alone.
Located in the luscious Loess Hills of western Iowa, if you really want to get the full dose of this unbelievably beautiful Iowa environment, the Sylvan-Runkel State Preserve takes you far and along this magnificent landscape. If you want to complete this 12.4-mile out-and-back trail however, you can only spend so much time smelling the wildflowers. This scenic state preserve trail will have you convinced that Iowa might be the most beautiful state in the country.
While there are plenty of hiking options when it comes to the Mines of Spain Recreation Area, if you want to find the one that will get your quads burning most, the Calcite Trail is right for you. Coming in at just over two miles, the Calcite Trail exposes the native rock that defines much of the recreation area. The steepest section of the Calcite Trail comes right out of the parking lot, which then leads to great views of the nearby Mississippi River. To continue the adventure from the Calcite Trail, users can connect to the Mesquakie or Horseshoe Bluff Trail, which can lead to many full days of adventure.
There are a few trails in Iowa containing so much scenic beauty that it’s easy to forget what state you’re exploring in. A great example of that can be found with the Squire Point and Woodpecker Trail Systems near the Coralville Lake. While navigating around the rocky banks of the Coralville Lake, trail users experience slight elevation changes, scenic stopping points, and a full dose of the natural Iowa scene. Whether you run them, walk them, or search for some abundant geocaches surrounding them, the Squire Point and Woodpecker Trail Systems will get you ready to tackle the rest of the week.
Situated in one of Iowa’s most popular state parks, the Crow’s Nest Trail in Ledges State Park will get those legs moving and blood pumping. The entire state park gives glimpse towards the rocky bluffs and deep pockets of forest that define Ledges, and many of the trails lend towards steep steps and fantastic overlooks, including most notably, the Crow’s Nest Trail. Make it to the top of this short, steep trail however, and not only will you feel a sense of accomplishment, but you’ll get a great view alongside it. While you are there, be sure to take advantage of all the trails and views offered by Ledges, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and renewed.
]]>While all seven miles of trails found throughout Waubonsie State Park are worth visiting, the Sunset Ridge Interpretive Trail provides perhaps one of the best viewing opportunities in Iowa. Overlooking the Loess Hills of eastern Iowa, as you may have guessed, the best time to see this rolling landscape occurs as the sun smolders off into the horizon. Covering 2.1 miles, the Sunset Ridge Interpretive Trail is the longest trail in Waubonsie, and if it’s still not enough, this popular trail is a great launching point to explore the rest of what Waubonsie has to offer.
Open to cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter, the summer hiking trails at Wapsipinicon can really take you places. Featuring over six named trails, popular attractions to check out while hiking at Wapsipinicon include the Horse Thief and Ice Cave, as well as the many rocky bluffs that comprise the area. For a tamer adventure, sticking to the 2.2-mile prairie trails exposes wide landscapes that are easy to lose yourself in. For a little more excitement, the Pine Trail plunges into the woods where you can find the Wapsipinicon caves among many other things.
Stretching for 50 miles and connecting the Linn County Metro to Waterloo, the Cedar Valley Nature Trail is a paved, multi-purpose path that is popular with bikers, runners and even hikers. While not all paved trails can be classified as hiking routes, with the scenery exposed by the Cedar Valley Nature Trail and adjacent Cedar River, it serves as excellent outlet to get into nature. Weaving throughout the floodplain, the Cedar Valley Nature Trail darts in and out of thick forests, teeming wetlands, and plenty of rolling acreage devoted to farmland. A great kaleidoscope of Iowa’s natural spaces, the Cedar Valley Nature Trail is an excellent place to take a hike.
Representing the largest state forest in Iowa, Stephens State Forest provides many acres to explore and lose yourself in nature. Following along one of the few overnight trails in Iowa, the Stephens backpack trail cuts through the heart of the state forest, exposing intrepid hikers to dense woodland surroundings and rolling prairie landscapes. There are plenty of scenic backpacking sites to choose from when trekking along the Stephens State Forest backpack trail, making this one scenic hike that could last multiple days.
Not nearly as menacing as it sounds, although including a steep incline, the Devil’s Backbone isn’t just the quintessential hike in Backbone, it’s a must-do scenic hike in all of Iowa. Featuring rocky terrain and a well-worn path, Devil’s Backbone takes you to the top of the state park and exposes a view that spans for miles. Overlooking Backbone Lake, the view from the top of Devil’s Backbone also includes the rolling hillsides of northeast Iowa, which are particularly picture worthy during the fall.
]]>With over 90 years of providing Lake Okoboji excitement, the multi-generational Fillenwarth Beach Resort has long since perfected the Okoboji vacation. At this exciting beach resort, you can find everything you need to enjoy yourself, including spacious accommodations, perfect sunsets, and multiple docks and beaches to moor your jet ski. Lending access to all the waters of Lake Okoboji, the Fillenwarth Beach Resort is a perfect accompaniment to your jet ski outing. Once you are done making waves, this long-standing resort can provide supreme relaxation.
Serving as the premier gathering location on Saylorville Lake, the Saylorville Lake Marina provides plenty of places to moor your jet ski, a floating restaurant and even an opportunity to rent your own waverunner. Despite all these great amenities of the Saylorville Lake Marina, the lake is still the top attraction, and you’ll see why as you rev your jet ski across this beautiful, scenic lake.
While no overnight or all-day mooring is available at City Beach Park, it serves as the perfect place to either drop your jet ski into Clear Lake, or park it for a short while to grab lunch or stroll the shopping opportunities of the Clear Lake community. The waters of Clear Lake are perfect to explore and can fill the entire day with excitement. Whether it’s for a quick ride after work, or an entire day on the water, the water access from City Beach Park makes it an ideal place to bring your jet ski throughout the summer.
With over 15,000 acres of water, Lake Red Rock isn’t only Iowa’s biggest lake, it’s one of the top recreation destinations in the state. On any given weekend in the summer, you can find all sorts of activity happening inside and out of the water, including jet skis zipping, canoes paddling, and hikers exploring the trails. Suntex Watersports offers rentals at Red Rock Marina, in case you don’t have your own jet ski. If you want a lot of room to create some waves, Lake Red Rock is for you, and if you want to see some of the most stunning sunsets in the state of Iowa, you’ll be sure to find that there too.
State owned and operated, Honey Creek Resort State Park is situated alongside the shores of Rathbun Lake, providing the perfect opportunity to hop on your jet ski among the many other attractions of this first-class lake resort. Even if you don’t have your own, Honey Creek Resort has seasonal jet ski rentals, and even if you don’t want to ride, there is still plenty to check out on the lake and around. Water trampolines and paddle boats are all included with a stay at Honey Creek Resort, as is access to miles and miles of biking and hiking trails, making Honey Creek Resort the perfect spot for any recreationist in your family.
]]>This charming park is full of majestic hardwood trees, and wildlife, offering a rustic outdoor experience for you and your pup. With dramatic bluffs and deep ravines, you and your dog can explore the Cedar River’s banks and discover all the park has to offer.
With 594 acres of flatlands and rugged trails, you and your pup can traverse the park at your own pace, and take advantage of the breathtaking views. Challenge yourself and your four legged friends or leisurely make your way through this Lehigh gem.
Set in Black Hawk County, this urban wildlife sanctuary offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life. With various outdoor activities available in a natural setting, you and your pup can spend the day exploring the great outdoors together. You and your pet just found your paw-fect getaway.
Go forth, and discover over nine miles of singletrack, you and your pup can explore the lush woodlands of the trail and take breaks to cool off in the nearby creek. This dog friendly paradise awaits you!
This cross-country park provides a scenic view and a great place to get some exercise with your pup.Whether you’re after a game of fetch or challenging yourself, you and your pup can enjoy miles of trails and a variety of unique vegetation.
This is Iowa’s first state park, and is loved by local pet owners. Home to Iowa’s highest point in northeast Iowa, the Devil’s Backbone, you and your pup can explore the park and discover your favorite vista for admiring the state’s natural beauty.
This 486-acre forest has a canopy of oak and hickory trees, and with four miles of trails, you and your pup won’t be able to get enough of the rolling hills, small streams, and the hidden surprises this wildlife area has to offer.
This 748-acre park is home to a 165-acre lake, which is a great spot for fishing and picnicking. You and your pup can take advantage of the four-mile paved trail in the park, refresh lakeside or relax with a game of frisbee or fetch.
This park is considered one of the more geographically unique locations in Iowa. With rugged terrain and ravines, you and your pup can discover the hidden gems of the park, as well as its 21-mile multi-use trail system. Pick your pup’s next favorite trail.
Take your pup to explore the acres of forestry, streams and trails of this cozy little dog park. Nestled off the highway in a quiet neighborhood, this dog park is sure to provide your furry loved one with plenty of tail-wagging fun.
]]>Located on the western edge of Iowa, the River Valley OHV Park features 23 miles of off-road track that explores over 190 acres of rolling terrain next to the Missouri River. You can expect some sandy track at River Valley, as well as a few hills and manicured berms along the way. Whether your transportation of choice is an off-road motorcycle or an ATV, it’s easy to spend all day exploring what this OHV park has to offer. River Valley is open year-round, but the trails are subject to close due to inclement weather or poor conditions, and it’s best to check on the status of the trails through the Iowa DNR before heading out.
Located between Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, near the small town of Solon and Lake Macbride State Park, Lakeview OHV Park is one of the top OHV destinations in the state of Iowa. Featuring multiple tracks to facilitate all levels of riders, the trails at Lakeview also feature a varying terrain including loose sand, hard-packed dirt and mud bogs to make your way out of. Lakeview is a popular place to play, but with over 160 acres to explore, there is plenty of room for everyone to explore. Camping is not allowed at the OHV trail system itself, but Lakeview is located within short distance to some of the best campgrounds in Iowa at the neighboring state park.
Located in the northwest section of Iowa, Nicholson-Ford OHV Park provides 20 miles of woodland trails that are free to explore year-round. In proximity to the Iowa River, the Nicholson-Ford trails tend to reflect the near-water environment it finds itself in, and can at times produce stagnant conditions and many dry and wet creek bed crossings to mix things up. Noted as a great place for beginners to ride, even expert OHV riders can find something they like in the large length of trails.
Located at what was once a working rock quarry, the Rathbun OHV Park features a unique set of trails that wind and loop through the land, crossing dirt, rock, and many different features. The 125 acres encompassing Rathbun OHV Park has something for every rider in your family to enjoy, including expert-only tracks to practice for competitions, a tot lot for the littler riders in your life, and roughly 20 miles of trail in total that covers everything in between. The entire facility is in proximity to Rathbun Lake, which provides plentiful views throughout your ride and a unique opportunity to cool off at the end of a hot summer day.
Noted around the state as one of the best places to find off-road trails, Gypsum City is located two miles southeast of Fort Dodge at what was once an active gypsum mine. Thanks to state and community support, Gypsum City has grown over the last two decades to include miles of trails designed specifically for off-road motorcycles and vehicles. Featuring rolling hills and perimeter trails, Gypsum City is welcoming for all levels and styles of riders. Despite this being a popular place during every weekend of warm weather, there is plenty and more to explore to let everyone enjoy the space.
Encompassing 300 acres and including a public camping area to stay the night, the Tama County OHV Park is one of the largest in Iowa, and provides some of the best hard-packed trails to really let the throttle out. The 15 miles of trails found at the Tama County OHV Park spend a lot of time exploring the woodlands surrounding the Iowa River, including a handful of scenic bridge crossings. Alongside the winding routes through the trees, the park also provides 15 miles of perimeter trails to explore, as well as a kid track and motocross specific trail. With a camping area connected to the trails and staging space, the Tama County OHV Park is the perfect place to stay the weekend and rev your engines from morning to night.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
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Featuring over 350 acres of available riding, what is now the Bluff Creek OHV Park in Mahaska County was once an active coal mine. The location has been long since abandoned and transformed into a great place to rev up your off-road motorcycle. The 20 miles of trail that make up the Bluff Creek OHV Park consists of rolling hills, deep pits, a beginner’s route, and a notoriously difficult run sometimes called the “gravity cavity.” Whether it’s your first time riding or it’s your 100th time, all skill levels and riders will surely find something to enjoy at the Bluff Creek OHV Park.
Serving as one of the few urban OHV parks in Iowa, the Riverview Recreation Area of Waterloo is a popular place to ride on the weekend, but with 180 acres to explore in the scenic surroundings, there is plenty of room to share. Besides a lot of trucks and trailers to be found in the large parking lot every weekend, patrons to the Riverview Recreation Area can also expect to find all ages, skill levels and types of off-road riders at Riverview. To really ride your way into this community, it’s recommended that you check out the Trailblazers Off Road Club’s website and take part in all the action.
The Timber Ridge Ranch, located on the Western side of the state, has had a long history of recreation and fun in Iowa. Once operating as a fully functioning winery, Timber Ridge is now labeled exclusively as a member-only ranch that provides many outlets for excitement. If you fancy yourself an off-road motorcycle rider, or ATV rider, then a membership with Timber Ridge Ranch is right for you. Featuring flat tracks, jumps, and enough scenery to want to stop every half-mile, members to the ranch can also enjoy fishing, camping, and swimming.
Open to off-road motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and off-road utility vehicles, the Gypsum City OHV Park provides some of the best dirt trails in the state. Not only does the area provide over 300 acres to explore, including 15 miles of trails that meanders up and down through a hilly forest, but with a designated 1.5-mile motocross track, you can really get your tires spinning at Gypsum City. With varying trail designations ranging from first-time rider routes to more technical climbs, there is enough to explore and achieve at Gypsum City to have you riding throughout the entire year.
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Featuring one of the most scenic backdrops for any off-road vehicle trail in Iowa, the Rathbun OHV Park takes riders close to the shore and always near the action with 125 acres to explore. Featuring a practice course, a tot lot for the young riders and wide enough tracks to fit most off-road vehicles of choice, Rathbun has a lot of the amenities that make riding even more enjoyable. While you are there, it’s worth checking out the surrounding Rathbun Lake and the corresponding Honey Creek State Resort complete with campsites, boat rentals, and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s pretty easy to spend the entire weekend exploring all that this scenic OHV park has to offer.
]]>A popular place for Iowa City, Coralville and North Liberty residents to rekindle with natural surroundings, the Woodpecker Trail system that explores the shores of the Coralville Lake is a scenic destination. At times, surrounded by jagged rocks of the shoreline, it’s easy to forget you’re exploring an Iowa landscape that is often associated with cornfields and agriculture, and with the 3.5 miles of the Woodpecker Trail to explore, plus other trail systems that connect and wind through the Coralville Reservoir area, you can spend many days seeing all that this scenic Iowa trail system has to offer.
Located in the southeastern corner of the state of Iowa, Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is situated along the Des Moines river and features not only a numerous amount of quality trails, but a plethora of flora and fauna found alongside them. For your first visit to Lacey-Keosauqua, the 2.1-mile Lake Trail is a good place to start exploring this celebrated state park. From there you can branch off to numerous other trails that explore the rich diversity of this usually quiet state park. With camping options available, it would be easy to spend a whole weekend getting lost in the woods at Lacey-Keosauqua.
Standing at 1,670 feet above sea level, Hawkeye Point is the highest piece of land in the entire state of Iowa. In proximity to the Minnesota border, Hawkeye Point is easy to access and the short trail leading up to this highpoint is easily manageable by every member of the family. While the hike up to the commemorative Hawkeye Point won’t test your physical strength too much, it’s worth your time at the top to appreciate that you are currently the tallest person in the state, and the views from that vantage point aren’t half-bad either!
The defining attraction of Rock Creek State Park in eastern Iowa is the massive Rock Creek Lake, of which can easily be explored via the multi-use, 7.8-mile Rock Creek Lake Trail. Circumnavigating the southern portion of the lake, the Rock Creek Lake Trail exposes users to the many ecosystems crafted by the surrounding water and forest. Because it’s a multi-use trail, hikers can expect to see mountain bikers and horse riders on the trail besides them, but with enough trail to explore, plus a few more branching from this main thoroughfare, there is plenty of explorable area to share.
Though most of the hiking trails featured in Iowa are comprised of dirt and many footsteps, the 11-mile, paved and looped Trout Run Trail in Decorah is worth putting on the list. Not only does it provide a great way to walk or ride throughout the stunning Decorah landscape, but as implied by the name, the Trout Run Trail also parallels the Decorah Trout Hatchery, Iowa’s second largest trout hatchery. The Trout Run Trail crosses the active trout stream numerous times, giving hikers and bikers the chance to check out all the trout action and scenic surroundings the entire way. Since the Trout Run Trail was constructed as a loop to return you back to your starting point, this celebrated Decorah pathway is the perfect spot in Iowa for a nice, long hike in some of Iowa’s most scenic surroundings.
]]>Located adjacent to the Coralville Lake in eastern Iowa, Lake Macbride State Park provides plenty of trails to explore and see the water. Trail runners at Lake Macbride can opt for beach to dam runs, jogs along the osprey trail or exploring the most-recommended route, the north shore trail which parallels the large lake for nearly five miles. Visitors to Lake Macbride can stay for the day, or utilize the two campgrounds located within the park boundaries to get a multi-day trail running adventure in.
The lush Loess Hills of western Iowa are one of the state’s most precious landscapes. Comprised of beautiful rolling hills and winding trails, the Loess Hills State Forest provides plenty of recreational activities throughout the bountiful environment. Trail runners and backpackers will want to head over to Preparation Canyon State Park within the Loess Hills State Forest, where miles of trails and backpack sites are theirs to explore.
Located just south of Des Moines, the city-owned Ewing Park provides many adventures to enjoy. Beyond the professional-level 18-hole disc golf course, and coinciding with the single track mountain biking trails, Ewing hosts some fun and challenging trail running circuits. There are a number of trails that runners can follow when visiting Ewing Park, and they all wind through the dense forest that comprises this municipal space. Truly ambitious runners can connect them all and figure out in no time that Ewing Park provides some trails worth coming back to.
Just six miles south of Des Moines, Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park provides a tranquil setting to lose yourself not far from the city. Surrounding the lakes, trail runners can find over five miles of pathways to follow. While all provide a good track and better scenery, a recommended route to check out is the Coal Miner’s Daughter Trail. Whichever way you head at Banner Lakes, you’ll be pleasantly inspired by the Iowa landscape.
Named after Iowa’s state rock, Geode State Park is one of the most popular natural spaces in the southeastern part of the state. In the middle of all the action at Geode State Park, including finding an elusive geode or two, is the Geode Lake which features great beaches to swim at, plenty of fish to catch, and a scenic trail that encircles the entire thing. For those trail runners out there looking for a great spot to stretch the legs, the 6.5-mile lake trail at Geode State Park should be on the top of your list.
]]>Any good adventurous day needs to start off with the right fuel, and if you begin your off-road adventure in Solon at the Salt Fork Kitchen, you’ll be ready to tackle everything that comes your way. Not only are the omelets and other breakfast items enough to satisfy a king or queen, but every ingredient is raised locally among the Iowa agriculture. Top it all off with a cup of freshly-brewed coffee or three, and after you visit the Salt Fork Kitchen, you’ll be ready to go riding.
Located less than five miles from the Salt Fork Kitchen, the Lakeview OHV Park provides over 147 acres of off-road trails to explore. There is no fee to ride on the Lakeview OHV Park trails which is operated by the Iowa DNR, but registration stickers are needed on all motor vehicles. Open to ATVs, UTVs and motorcycles daily, the several miles of trails found at the Lakeview OHV Park wind through the forest environment with hill climbs, hard-pack trails, and plenty of opportunities to catch a little air.
If you want to let your engine’s rest for a moment during the day, the neighboring Sugar Bottom Recreation Area provides more than one way to sit back and enjoyably kill some time. While the sandy beach and access to the Iowa River is always appealing, as well as the non-motorized mountain bike trails that sprawl through the area, it’s the professional 18-hole disc golf course that is worth some of your play. Whether it’s your first time throwing a frisbee or you’re a seasoned pro, the Sugar Bottom Disc Golf Course is fun to explore.
After your full day, it’s worth rewarding yourself with some award-winning food and a well-deserved craft beverage (or two). If you want to treat your taste buds right, the Big Grove Brew Pub in Solon perfects the dining-out experience down to the last detail. Whether you go for the menu items like the bacon and butternut squash, or the seasonal craft beer selection, the one thing that keeps people in their seats at the Big Grove Brew Pub and coming back for more is the comfortable ambiance and atmosphere of this friendly, local neighborhood gastropub.
To finish your full-day off-roading adventure, it’s recommended to camp under the stars, and the nearby Lake Macbride State Park is the perfect place to do that. Featuring two different campgrounds and plenty of space to share, Lake Macbride is not only a great place to spend the night, but it’s the perfect home base for many more days of adventure. The campground in the northern unit of Lake Macbride features modern restroom facilities and full electrical hook-up. The southern unit campground is more primitive, with no electrical hook-ups and vault toilets, but provides perhaps some of the best campsite views in the state of Iowa.
]]>Featuring 152 acres of natural scenery, the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area and Sand Lake can be found just south of the University of Iowa campus, and among many other things, can provide the perfect spot to practice your kayaking skills. The water at Sand Lake is nearly always calm, making for a great place to practice your stroke amongst the hikers, fishers, and bike riders that also frequent this park. What makes it even more enticing for a beginner is the kayak rentals provided by the local outdoor retail store Fin & Feather, which can allow you to get a feel for the sport before making a large investment into it.
While for much of its history Iowa has not had whitewater available, when environmentalist and community activist started replacing traditional dams across the state with low head dams, they also intentionally created whitewater parks for patrons to enjoy. A great example of this conservation-inspired recreation can be found in Manchester, at the Manchester Whitewater Park on the Maquoketa River. Featuring six different 18-inch drops spanning over 800 feet, this is a great place for some outdoor fun. Whether you tackle it with a kayak, canoe, inner tube or boogie board, the Manchester Whitewater Park is an excellent place for all levels of athletes to enjoy the water.
Established in 2013, the Elkader Whitewater Park is a community constructed project that encourages education, engagement and most of all recreation on the Turkey River. Appealing to anglers, explorers, and all kinds of boaters, the Elkader Whitewater Park is touted as the best whitewater mecca in Iowa. Whether you are just hopping in a kayak for the first time, or you’re an experienced paddler looking to sharpen some skills, the Elkader Whitewater Park can provide a great time throughout the year in and out of the water.
Touted as Iowa’s first whitewater park, Charles City Whitewater has been in operation since 2011, and since then has seen hundreds of beginner and experienced kayakers go through its three distinct features. Alongside the many kayakers who explore the waters of the Cedar River via Charles City Whitewater, you can also expect to see canoeists, stand-up paddle boarders, tubers, and people fishing along the shore and celebrating the space. Rentals are available from various Charles City vendors if it’s truly your first time, and after you spend the day exploring the waves and water, it surely won’t be your last.
Operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Red Rock in Marion County is Iowa’s largest lake containing over 15,000 acres of water. With all the abundant space, including 35,000 acres of land to explore, Lake Red Rock is the perfect place for all levels of kayakers to go out and practice their paddle strokes. With everything else that comes with a visit to Lake Red Rock, including scenic hiking and camping, and with its proximity to the state capital of Des Moines, Lake Red Rock is a popular place to visit during the summer. With so much room to spread out and explore though, you’ll find plenty of space to enjoy kayaking at your own pace.
]]>Featuring bait and tackle, plus rods, reel and line, Tournament Tackle is the number one store in the Des Moines metro to outfit your Iowa fishing adventure. With a big selection of bait and tackle, including rigs, weed guards and buzz bait, there is little to nothing you can’t land after visiting Tournament Tackle of Des Moines.
Serving the avid anglers of Waterloo for nearly 80 years, Hank’s Live Bait & Tackle has learned a thing or two about fishing in Iowa and abroad. Alongside the helpful staff and monthly fishing seminars, Hank’s provides patrons with one of the densest selections of bait, tackle, and other fishing equipment. If you happen to miss Hank’s during opening hours and still want to fish, thanks to a 24/7 Live Bait Vending Machine outside the front door, Hank’s has you covered every hour of the day.
Serving as the great outdoors store of Iowa City, Fin & Feather has a wide selection of camping and hiking gear, technical and performance clothing, and all the sporting goods you could ever need. For the fishing selection, Fin & Feather carries live and manufactured bait, lures, rods, reels and all the accessories, plus some local information on the best places to land a big one.
Featuring a drive-thru window and bragging board, plus nearly 50 years of serving the Council Bluffs area, Woods Sporting Good has become a staple in the Iowa fishing community. Featuring an extensive selection of bait and tackle for every month of the year, Woods also provides rods, reels and a friendly sales service that can clue you into what’s biting this season.
Stacked with all the major brands and hard-to-find accessories, Lucky’s Bait and Tackle of Central City gives you that little extra luck to land a big one in Iowa. Featuring a long list of bait and tackle to choose from, Lucky’s Bait and Tackle also provides camping and some hunting supplies, plus a lot of local knowledge of the area and the best spots to fish.
Built by fisherman for fisherman, Clear Lake Bait & Tackle is owned and operated by two Clear Lake tournament anglers, and provides exactly the right gear for a great day on the water. With an inventory that is densely packed into the large retail space, Clear Lake Bait & Tackle specializes in bait, tackle, rods, reels and a friendly service that will have you coming back for more.
Hook, line and sinker, if you want the most dependable service and biggest selection when it comes to fishing gear, C.R. Bait & Tackle has you covered. Specializing in all-weather fishing, C.R. Bait & Tackle provides the live bait, rods, reels, lines and tackles, and all you have to do is go catch a fish.
The good folks over at No Limits Outdoors literally have no limit when it comes to the outdoor gear and services they provide. Whether you are a hunter, angler, or hiker, No Limits Outdoors can keep you outside longer and more comfortably. For bait and tackle, No Limits has a long selection, as well all the fishing accessories you need to enjoy your time out on the water.
Featuring minnows, chubs, and worms, the live bait isn’t the only thing you’ll find over at Cook’s Outdoors in Cedar Falls. Also featuring some general outdoor sport supplies like two-burner stoves, gloves, and tools, Cook’s Outdoor also specializes in the boats you need to get out on the water. Whether it’s an angler boat, pontoon, or kayak, alongside the live bait at Cook’s, you can really have some fun on top of the water.
Featuring everything and more you need to fish throughout the year, alongside the live bait and extensive selection of tackle, Kabele’s Trading Post also supplies the accessories, gear and fishing report to really make the most out of your day. Locally owned and operated, Kabele’s is a true angler’s destination filled with a ton of great gear and friendly people.
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For perhaps the most famous Iowa backpacking trail, the Yellow River State Forest in Allamakee County boasts an impressive 8,000 acres of wilderness to explore. For the best backpacking and trailside camping within the Yellow River State Forest, visitors are encouraged to check out the Paint Creek unit, which has an impressive 25 miles of marked trails to follow along. While Yellow River State Forest is not the only place to find backpacking campsites in Iowa, it is well regarded as the best.
Located in the luscious Loess Hills of western Iowa, the Loess Hills State Forest encompasses everything that is remarkable in this landscape—rolling hills, swaying prairie, and a variety of woodland landscapes. To get the most out of your Loess Hills State Forest experience, it’s recommended to check out Preparation Canyon State Park. There, you can explore the unique trail systems that wind their way across the horizon and lead to a small number of backpack campsites where you can sleep amongst the open sky and stars.
Consisting of over 15,000 acres of forest spread across seven units and five counties, Stephens State Forest, just south of Des Moines, is the largest state forest in Iowa. If you want to find some pack-in backpack campsites, you need to head over to the Woodburn Unit. Utilizing six miles of trails, the Woodburn Unit within Stephens State Forest is home to five different campsites, all of which will leave you with a feeling of solitude amongst the nature.
To escape away from some of the other tourists, it’s recommended to pack your boat and head over to the Hickory Ridge Wilderness Camp on the south side of the lake. Functioning as a paddle-in, hike-in primitive camp, Hickory Ridge has eight campsites available, each on a first-come/first-serve basis, and each delivering on a solitary Lake Red Rock experience.
For those that don’t mind the idea of “roughing it” a bit more in their camping experience, the backcountry campsites found at the Hitchcock Nature Center are right for you. While it’s true that these campsites are lacking in amenities compared to your traditional campground, what they bring extra to the table is a closer experience with nature, ensuring for an outdoor experience worth remembering. The Hitchcock Nature Center only offers three backcountry camping spots, so be sure to arrive at the trailhead with an early start to the day.
]]>From art museums to historic homesteads, here’s how to make the most of your time in and around Stone State Park.
Situated in the magnificent bluffs and ravines near the Big Sioux River, Stone State Park spans 1,069 acres and boasts lush forested spaces. With many miles of hiking trails, camping areas (including cabins), and prime wildlife viewing opportunities, Stone State Park is a sight to see.
Lined with a long row of late-19th-century buildings, all with a distinct Romanesque Revival flare, the Historic Fourth Street of downtown Sioux City could be a great accompaniment for your Stone State Park adventure. Filled with restaurants, nightlife and a handful of boutiques, half of the fun of visiting Historic Fourth Street is just catching the vibe of this preserved and pretty part of town.
Celebrating the time spent in Sioux City by the Corps of Discovery, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center adds a little contextual history to enhance your visit to Stone State Park. See for yourself the trials and tribulations faced by the team led by Lewis and Clark, and specifically the time in 1804 when Sergeant Charles Floyd, the first U.S. soldier to die west of the Mississippi, perished near this side of town. Full of interesting and hands-on exhibits, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center can add a little education to your visit.
Because you are inevitably going to build up an appetite while exploring Stone State Park, a great place to top of your adventure with a delicious meal is Main + Abbey in Sioux City. Situated at the Hard Rock Casino, Main + Abbey is a gastropub with a London flair, and offers plenty of food and libations to find your fill. With a plethora of first-class American inspired entrees, and over 30 craft beers on tap, if you end your adventure at Stone State Park with dinner at Main + Abbey, you’ll be ending your day on a high note.
To find some extra educational value with your time spent at Stone State Park, it’s worth checking out the Sioux City Public Museum in downtown Sioux City. Featuring a rotating selection of local and regional artworks, spanning all sorts of forms and traditions, with every visit you can find something new at the Sioux City Public Museum. Also featuring hands-on and interactive displays, the Sioux City Public Museum is a great way to round out the day for all members of the family.
Operated by the National Park Service and located on the National Register of Historic Places, the Sergeant Floyd Monument in Sioux City commemorates the passing of the first U.S. soldier to die west of the Mississippi in 1804, and the only soldier in the Corps of Discovery who died along the journey. Upon your visit to this towering obelisk, you can learn more about the conditions of Sergeant Floyd’s passing, and further understand your knowledge of the Lewis and Clark expedition and the role the surrounding Sioux City environment played in it.
Nothing pairs better with the nature you’ll find at Stone State Park than the art you’ll find at the Sioux City Art Center. Featuring a rotating collection of regional, local, national and international art, ranging from water colors to immense lawn sculptures, there is something to catch everyone’s eye at the Sioux City Art Center. Best yet, much like Stone State Park, admission is free to enjoy the Sioux City Art Center, making for an affordable day full of adventure.
If you are looking for some overnight accommodations that aren’t the campgrounds at Stone State Park, one of the most luxurious options you can opt for in Sioux City is the Stoney Creek Hotel. Standing proudly as one of the nicest overnight stays in Sioux City, Stoney Creek Hotel offers comfortable rooms, a friendly staff and a beautiful courtyard that lends easy access to the sights and things to do in downtown Sioux City.
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Consisting of over 5,000 acres to explore, Dewey’s Pasture Complex of northwest Iowa is a Bird Conservation Area recognized by the National Park Service as a Registered Natural Landmark. Highly representative of the avian wildlife found in this prairie pothole region of the state, Dewey’s Pasture Complex contains a dense collection of bird species ranging from green herons to swamp sparrows and kingfisher swans. With a few different trails to explore, and campsites nearby, Dewey’s Pasture is the perfect place for new and experienced birdwatchers.
Split between the states of Iowa and Nebraska, the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge not only protects native and migratory bird species, but it sets out to preserve an entire ecosystem that is fun to explore. Throughout the year, the different seasons of DeSoto paint a unique natural picture, and for those interested in the birds, the spring and fall attracts mallards, blue and green winged teal, American wigeon and wood ducks.
Located just north of Des Moines in Polk City, Big Creek State Park is a popular place for many outdoor lovers to visit. At the center of all the attention is the Big Creek State Lake, which besides water activities, provides a great backdrop for hiking and biking trails, as well as a prime habitat for local bird populations. Whether you spot them incidentally from the shore, or you travel the 26-mile trail around the lake looking for one certain species, any trip to Big Creek State Park will be good for birdwatching.
Formerly known as Walnut Creek, the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge of south central Iowa aims to protect the tallgrass prairies of the area that once defined nearly the entire state. Alongside its protection of the tallgrass prairie habitat, as well as a reintroduced bison population, the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is home to a healthy avian community. What type of birds you’ll encounter at Neal Smith depends on the season, and no matter the time of year, this national wildlife refuge always has something amazing to see.
Dedicated to preserving the unique landscape of the Loess Hills of western Iowa, the Hitchcock Nature Center displays over 1,000 acres of preserved beauty and plenty of wildlife. For the birdwatchers out there, the supple habitat of the wind-strewn prairie remnants at the Hitchcock Nature Center lend to plenty of bird species to spot. From late September to December, the Hitchcock Nature Center hosts a HawkWatch, where you can help count the number of migratory visitors the park receives in a season.
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Pinicon Ridge Park in Linn County is a popular place for many types of outdoor adventures including hiking and camping, but for those anglers out there, the one reason to check out this county park is the fishing. Featuring smallmouth bass, bigmouth buffalo, and northern pike, among many other fish species, fishermen and fisherwomen can cast out their bait into this river anytime of the year with a good chance to catch something. The Iowa DNR recognizes the Wapsipinicon River and the Pinicon Ridge Park access as some of the most premier fishing in the state of Iowa, so it’s no secret spot, but with plenty of fish to catch and plenty of room to cast out a line, you can see for yourself what makes this a great fishing location in Iowa.
Perhaps the only home to the prized Kentucky spotted bass in Iowa, Lake Macbride is an angler’s dream come true when it comes to high-quality fishing. Besides the Kentucky spotted bass, Lake Macbride also is home to walleye, catfish, and musky, and with seven boat ramps available, plus rentals on shore, the possibilities are endless for your next big catch. Lake Macbride is a popular spot not just for the anglers also, and within your fishing visit you can expect to see many other Iowa denizens playing on the shore, hiking the trails or staying at the campgrounds. Whatever activities you decide to add onto your fishing adventure at Lake Macbride State Park, you’ll be sure to catch a great time exploring the waters of this man-made reservoir.
Recognized as the first county conservation man-made lake in the state of Iowa, Hannen Lake within Hannen Park is a stocked-full fishing adventure waiting to happen. Featuring 45 acres of water to fish in and boat upon, there is good chance you’ll catch black crappie, bluegills or largemouth bass, making for an exciting moment every time you reel something in. The Iowa DNR also stocks this man-made lake with catfish throughout the year, giving every angler even more variety of what they can catch at Hannen Lake, and with an RV campground not far from the shore, this is one fishing hole in Iowa that can be easily explored for multiple days at a time.
The Iowa DNR operates eight different trout hatcheries throughout the state, and while all offer excellent places to cast a line, the Big Spring location in Elkader seems to stand out the most. Perhaps it’s the flow of the Turkey River of which Big Spring flows into, or maybe all the amenities including a trout pond, a kid’s fishing spot and primitive campgrounds, whatever it is, this Elkader fishing spot is one of the best in the state. Anglers need both a fishing permit and trout stamp to catch this magnificent fish, plus some patience and a good eye, but land yourself the big one and you’ll be permanently hooked on the trout fishing found at the Big Spring.
Comprising the main attraction for Lake Darling State Park, Lake Darling itself is a premier Iowa fishing destination featuring black crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass. Located four miles west of Brighton, Lake Darling draws many visitors throughout the year, and while you can expect to find a lot of fishing poles on the shore and in the water, with over 300 acres of lake to explore, including a 1.5-mile paved fishing trail, there is plenty of space to play. The Iowa DNR does stock the lake periodically throughout the year, but the lake provides enough habitat for many fish to flourish on their own. While it’s never a guarantee to catch anything on any fishing trip, with the scenic surroundings of Lake Darling, it is a guarantee to have a good time at this great fishing spot in Iowa.
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