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Iowa
52

Iowa State Parks

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USA Parks
Iowa
Southeast Region
Wapsipinicon State Park
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Wapsipinicon State Park The old bridge by the power plant. © Jerald Schutjer
The waterfalls near the entrance to the park.
Wapsipinicon State Park Ice Cave © Jerald Schutjer
Entrance to the smaller of the caves.
Wapsipinicon State Park The Hale Bridge © Jerald Schutjer
No longer in use but important in its day.
Wapsipinicon State Park Horse Thief Cave © Jerald Schutjer
Looking out toward the front of the cave.
Wapsipinicon State Park Jungle Jim © Jerald Schutjer
Play area for the kids.
Wapsipinicon State Park Horse Thief Cave © Jerald Schutjer
Horse thief cave.
Wapsipinicon State Park Horse Thief Cave © Doug Schutjer
Leading up to the caves entry way.
Wapsipinicon State Park Children Playground Area © Doug Schutjer
There is a nice playground area for the younger crowd.
Wapsipinicon State Park © Doug Schutjer
Wapsipinicon State Park © Doug Schutjer
Wapsipinicon State Park The Hale Bridge © Doug Schutjer
Iowas Bowstring arch bridge.
Wapsipinicon State Park Horse Thief Cave © Doug Schutjer
Looking out the entrance to the parks largest cave.
Wapsipinicon State Park Entry Sign © Doug Schutjer
Entry to the Wapsipinicon State Park near Anamosa, Iowa
Wapsipinicon State Park Ice Cave © Doug Schutjer
Looking out from the opening to the cave.
Wapsipinicon State Park The old bridge by the power plant. © Doug Schutjer
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WAPSIPINICON STATE PARK
WAPSIPINICON STATE PARK
21301 County Road E34
Anamosa, Iowa   52205

Phone: 319-462-2761
Reservations: 877-427-2757
Email: park email button icon
Camping
The shaded campground has 30 campsites (15 with electrical hookups), modern rest rooms and showers. Starting February 13, 2006 advance campsite reservations can be booked through the park reservation system. Half of the campsites are still available for self-registration on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Golf Course
Don't forget your golf clubs. There is a nine hole golf course within the park boundaries, maintained by the Wapsipinicon Country Club. For information, call 319/462-3930.

Wapsipinicon State Park, dedicated in 1923, was one of Iowa's first state parks. It lies just south of Anamosa on the Wapsipinicon River (locally referred to as the Wapsi). The sandstone and limestone bluffs in the 394-acre park are covered with moss and columbine. Hiking through a multitude of flowers, trees and wildlife leads one to splendid views from the bluffs.

The quiet walker along the Wapsi, or Dutch Creek, which runs through the park, may see a deer stop to drink, a beaver constructing a dam, or a wild turkey strutting through the forest. Mushrooms, nuts and berries may be harvested in the park.

There are unforgettable views from the road that winds between the river and bluffs. The white pine forest is one of the oldest plantings in Iowa and creates a feeling of being "way out west" or in Paul Bunyan's "far north" territory.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is an unsupervised boat ramp available, allowing individuals to bring their own watercrafts and enjoy the river at their leisure. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities due to the calm waters of Wapsipinicon River that flows through it. Motorized boats are also allowed but must adhere to certain speed limits set by the park authorities.
Fishing
Fishing:

The Wapsi River has long been famous for its channel and flathead catfish, spring crappies, bullheads and smallmouth bass, especially below the dam near the park entrance. Dutch Creek meanders through the park and empties into the Wapsi. At its mouth, fishing is good almost anytime. This is also a feeding area for walleye and northern, providing anglers with a great challenge.


Location
Wapsipinicon State Park is located near Cedar Rapids, Marion

Picnicking
Wapsipinicon is a great place for a family picnic. Several open picnic shelters are available and may be reserved for a fee through the park ranger.
Bicycling
While biking is allowed, there are no dedicated bike trails. Be mindful of hikers and wildlife on shared paths.

The park's terrain can be challenging for cyclists due to its steep hills and rugged landscape.

Bicyclists should stick to the paved roads as off-road cycling could damage delicate ecosystems within the area.

Riders must adhere strictly to trail rules; respect other users' space while enjoying your ride in this beautiful setting.

Cyclists need proper gear including helmets, bright clothing for visibility, water bottles and a basic repair kit just in case.

Remember that all riders under 18 years old are required by law to wear protective headgear when bicycling here.

Be aware that weather conditions may affect path surfaces making them slippery or difficult at times - proceed with caution!

Lastly, always check local regulations before embarking on any bicycle journey through these natural surroundings!
Trails
Multi-use trails take you down to Dutch Creek but the Ice Cave and Horse Thief Cave and out to the recreation area. The multi-use trails are open to hiking, cross country skiing and snowmobiling. A hiking trail and nature trail are located in the northern part of the park.

Bicycling:

The Northeast State Park Bike Route is a 130 mile route which connects Wapsipinicon State Park, Pikes Peak State Park and Backbone State Park utilizing county highways.

Carry your own gear and "rough it" in the campgrounds or take comfort in a local "bed and breakfast" or motel along the route, some of which offer a shuttle service for gear or luggage at a nominal fee. Reservations for this service must be made in advance. Detailed route brochures are available.
Birding
The park offers a diverse range of bird species, making it ideal for birdwatching. Species include warblers and woodpeckers. The varied terrain provides different habitats attracting various birds throughout the year.
Area Attractions
Anamosa is immediately north of the park. The State Men's Reformatory is here. Cedar Rapids, Iowa's second largest city and the home of Coe College, is 20 miles southwest on U.S. 151. Stone City, the birthplace of artist Grant Wood, Mount Vernon and Monticello are all close to the park.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
July 9 great for sleding
park review stars; one to five
September 14 Four! by Rich
park review stars; one to five This park boasts a beautiful, wooded, and uncrowded campground with adequate bathroom facilities including shower. It has wonderful caves to explore and is very near the great little town of Anamosa, IA. The only drawback is that the campground is situated next to a public golf course. You may not be an early riser but rest-assured, the golfers and grounds staff are.
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Area Campgrounds
Walnut Acres Campground
22128 Highway 38 N
Monticello, IA
319-465-4665
Blue Inn
250 North Main Street
Monticello, IA
319-462-0770
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
businesss listing main photo
Hotels/Motels
You will feel right at home when you reach Carroll County, our corner of beautiful Northwest Illinois. The magnificent Mississippi River and outdoor spaces will refresh your spirit and touch our soul.
57.6 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

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Iowa
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Iowa State Parks

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