Backbone State Park, dedicated in 1920, was Iowa’s first state park. It consists of 2,001 acres and 21 multi-use trails for biking, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking and more.
The park is one of the most geographically unique locations in Iowa. The steep and narrow ridge of bedrock from the Maquoketa River forms the highest point in northeast Iowa — The Devil’s Backbone — giving the park its legendary name.
Take a walk through history by checking out the Civilian Conservation Corps museum, explore the rugged 21-mile multi-use trail system or fish in some of Iowa’s best trout streams.
The park also offers two bedroom cabins and campgrounds to travelers hoping to stay overnight, but check ahead to make sure they are open during the pandemic.
It’s open year-round to visitors.