Discover the Natural Splendor of Backbone State Park
Explore Backbone State Park: Iowa's oldest state park, offering stunning trails, fishing, and breathtaking views in a natural paradise.
Backbone State Park is Iowa's oldest state park, renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and abundant recreational opportunities. Whether you're hiking along scenic trails, fishing in tranquil waters, or simply enjoying a picnic surrounded by nature, this park offers a perfect escape for every nature lover and adventurer.
A brief summary to Backbone State Park
- 1347 129th St, Dundee, Iowa, 52038, US
- +1563-924-2527
- Visit website
- Monday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Thursday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Friday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 4 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 4 am-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good parking spot, especially on weekends.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, as there are many scenic spots available.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park is home to many unique species.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as some trails can be steep and rocky.
- Check the park's website for any seasonal events or guided tours happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Backbone State Park by car from any location within the Historic Hills Scenic Byway, follow these steps: Head towards Highway 13. If you're on a scenic route, look for signs pointing towards Highway 13 or Dundee. Once you reach Highway 13, head north. Continue driving for approximately 13 miles until you reach the town of Dundee. In Dundee, turn left onto 129th St and follow it for about 1 mile. The park entrance will be on your left at 1347 129th St, Dundee, IA 52038. There is no entrance fee, but be sure to check for any parking fees if applicable.
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Public Transportation
To reach Backbone State Park using public transportation, you will first need to get to the nearest bus station that connects to the regional transit system. If you're in a nearby town along the Historic Hills Scenic Byway, search for local bus services that connect to the nearest major city with transit options. From there, take a bus towards Manchester, IA, and ask the driver for a stop closest to Highway 13. Once you disembark, you will need to arrange a taxi or rideshare service to complete the journey to Backbone State Park, which is approximately 10 miles away. Be sure to check the local transit schedules for times and connections.
Discover more about Backbone State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Turkey River
29.1 km
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Carter House Museum
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Wapsipinicon Mill
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Pinicon Ridge Campground Playground
42.5 km
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Wisconsin State Historical Marker 171: Old Denniston House
46.0 km
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Sny Magill Creek
48.0 km
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Historic Galena Food Tour
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Little Switzerland Inn
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Wyalusing Hardwood Forest
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Jones County Freedom Rock
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Driftless Area Wetlands Centre
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Eagles Landing Winery
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Prairie Fun Land
57.4 km
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Windsor Place Inn
58.0 km
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Old Rock School
58.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Backbone State Park Beach
0.1 km
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FOREST VILLA RESORT
0.4 km
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Maquoketa River Trail Access #130
0.4 km
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South Lake Campground
0.7 km
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Dundee Wildlife Area
2.6 km
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Maquoketa River Scenic Overlook
2.7 km
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Morris Wildlife Area
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Wehner Woods
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World's Largest Strawberry
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Inger Park
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Wilder Memorial Museum
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Joy Springs County Park
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Gaffney Wildlife Area
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Upper Maquoketa River Water Trail Access #119
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Quaker Mill Dam Area
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Essential places to dine
Bill's Boat Landing
46.2 km
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Breitbach's Country Dining
54.5 km
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The Old Man River Restaurant & Brewery
55.4 km
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Jones' Black Angus
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Huckleberry's Restaurant
58.0 km
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The Depot
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Fort Mulligan's Grillpub
59.1 km
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Simply Cafe
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Pete's Hamburger Stand
59.1 km
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Kingston's Steakhouse
62.2 km
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The Barn Restaurant
63.3 km
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Winneshiek Bar & Grill
63.3 km
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The Edison Pub and Eatery
63.6 km
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Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano
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Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Revivals Furniture Co. LLC
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embers
9.2 km
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JAKE & Company
9.2 km
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Bossen Implement
9.3 km
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Copper Strawberry
9.4 km
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Lil' Bit of Country Stoves & Fireplaces
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Blooms
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Karl's Grocery
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The MARKKET
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Bushel & A Peck
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The Quiltmaker's Shoppe
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Repeats Consignment
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Stay Wild Gifts
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Real Deals Manchester, IA
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Kuntry Lane Groceries
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Backbone Cabins
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The Backbone
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Dundee Bar and Grill
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Baumgartner’s Backbone Lodge
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Alibi
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Rod & Cal's Pub & Grub
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Aunt Necee's Pizza
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Brady's Bar & Grill
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R Place of Masonville
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Blue Collar Sports Bar, L.L.C.
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Riverbend Pub & Grill
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Barn
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Onie's Wooden Nickel
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LeRoys
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