Iowa’s 10 most Instagram-worthy state parks

Iowa’s state parks are a natural draw for residents and visitors alike, offering diverse landscapes and activities. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently highlighted the top ten most Instagrammed state parks in Iowa, encouraging people to share their experiences online. From geological wonders to serene lakesides, these parks provide compelling reasons to explore the outdoors.

Visitors are invited to tag @iowadnr and use #IowaStateParks for a chance to be featured on the DNR’s Instagram page!

1. Ledges State Park

Known for its iconic sandstone canyon, Ledges State Park in Madrid offers various activities, including hiking, camping, and picnicking. Visitors can explore Pea’s Creek and enjoy vistas from Crow’s Nest and Table Rock.

2. Maquoketa Caves State Park

Maquoketa Caves State Park in Maquoketa is famous for its numerous caves, ranging from walk-in caves to crawl-through caves. The park also features hiking trails, a restored prairie, and an oak savanna restoration area.

3. Backbone State Park

As Iowa’s first state park, Backbone State Park in Dundee offers 21 miles of trails and a prominent geological feature called The Backbone. The park also provides opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and cabin stays.

4. Lewis and Clark State Park

Lewis and Clark State Park in Onawa features a 250-acre lake ideal for sunset photos, boating, and beach activities. The park also showcases a full-size reproduction of Lewis and Clark’s keelboat, “Best Friend.”

5. George Wyth State Park

George Wyth State Park in Waterloo is popular for its lakes, offering activities such as windsurfing and power boating. The park also has 5.5 miles of multi-purpose trails that connect to over 100 miles of trails in Black Hawk County.

6. Black Hawk State Park

Black Hawk State Park in Lake View is known for its group activities, fishing, and picnic areas. It features Civilian Conservation Corps-era structures and a disc golf course, along with 128 camping units and a large playground.

7. Wildcat Den State Park

Wildcat Den State Park in Muscatine features stunning 75-foot cliffs and historical structures like the Pine Creek Grist Mill. The park’s trails and Pine Creek offer picturesque backgrounds for photography.

8. Clear Lake State Park

Clear Lake State Park focuses on water-based activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The park is located on the southeast shore of Clear Lake, offering various fishing opportunities.

9. Pikes Peak State Park

Pikes Peak State Park in McGregor offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River from a 500-foot bluff. The park has 11.5 miles of trails featuring waterfalls and geological wonders, named after explorer Zebulon Pike.

10. Lake Ahquabi State Park

Lake Ahquabi State Park in Indianola offers various water activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddle boating. The park features 6.5 miles of trails, including a four-mile trail along the shoreline.