Dunning Springs & Ice Cave

This area encompasses about 3/4 of a mile, and features some beautifully rugged Iowa terrain. Dunning Spring sits up on the hillside about 200 years North of the Upper Iowa River, and is a 200 foot spring fed waterfall. There is a boardwalk trail that will take you all the way to the top. The waterfall cascades down the hill side and is a fun place to get wet during the hot summer months. There is also a cave right next to the waterfall that is fun to explore. If you follow the water all the way down from the spring to where it pours into the river you will find a second smaller waterfall. There are picnic tables set up throughout the park, and the rivers edge is a popular place for fisherman as well. Dunning Springs is located in beautiful Decorah Iowa, for more information, click here.

Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area

A hidden gem in every since of the word. The park has excellent trails and best of all you will likely have the entire place to yourself! Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area is located off Highway 151 and Curoe Road, approximately 5 miles northeast of Cascade Iowa. For more information, click here. This 562 acre area is open for public hunting during state designated hunting seasons. It is also a favorite with hikers, wildlife-watchers, and anglers dipping a line in Whitewater Creek. This unique location features 200-foot cliffs and scenic overlooks in a narrow valley along Whitewater Creek.  During periods of sufficient water, it is also floated by canoers and kayakers. Winter provides areas to snowshoe and cross-country ski.

Ledges State Park

This picture is owned by Ken Tsai.

It’s with good reason that Ledges State Park is one of Iowa’s most iconic spots it’s full of bridges, trails, waterways and more wildlife than you can imagine. The park is home to several short trails that will lead you on an adventure to remember. Ledges State Park is located at 1515 P Ave, Madrid, IA 50156. For more great hikes in Iowa, click here. While the park is mostly known as a great place for hiking, it’s also a fascinating place for history buffs, as the park is riddled with ancient ruins throughout.  Ledges offers several campsites, including electrical hookups, non-electric hookups, and some hike-in. Modern restrooms, showers, a trailer dump station and a playground are also located in the campground.

George Wyth State Park

George Wyth State Park is a relative unknown park in Iowa’s impressive parks system. While its a lesser known park, it still has an abundance of activities you can enjoy! George Wyth State Park is located at 3659 Wyth Road in Waterloo, Iowa. For more information, click here. Abundant in woodlands and wildlife, George Wyth State Park is an “urban sanctuary” offering diverse outdoor activities for visitors. The park has a beautiful campground with spacious and secluded sites, some of which sit right on George Wyth Lake.  One of the most impressive features of the park is its beautiful trail system. The park has hiking and biking trails both paved and dirt, winding throughout the park. My favorite feature at the park, is the impressive water-trails. This place is an absolute paradise for kayak enthusiasts. The Cedar Valley Paddlers Loop Trail connects the chain’o’ lakes and the Cedar River, for an epic 10 mile paddle. This was one of my favorite float trips so far this year, and I’m sure you’ll love it as well.

Wapsipinicon State  Park

Wapsipinicon State Park sits on the edge of the charming town of Anamosa, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of the park’s structures, including the stone arch bridge, lodge and shelters were handcrafted by prisoners from the nearby Anamosa State Penitentiary and remain historic icons to visit. Wapsipinicon is abundant in unique formations and geology, so make sure to take your time exploring the natural wonders of this state park. Wapsipinicon State  Park is located at 21301 County Road E34, in Anamosa, Iowa. For more information, click here. Hike more than three miles of multi-use trails, winding through wooded areas and open grass prairies. The trails to Horse Thief Cave and Ice Cave lead to the recreation area, and the other trail meanders to Dutch Creek. These multi-use trails are also open to cross country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.