Stone State Park: Sioux City's Natural Escape
Explore scenic trails, camp under the stars, and discover the unique beauty of Iowa's Loess Hills at Stone State Park in Sioux City.
Stone State Park, nestled in the Loess Hills near Sioux City, Iowa, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. With over 1,000 acres of rugged terrain, lush forests, and prairie remnants, the park provides a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Stone State Park
- 5001 Talbot Rd, Sioux City, Iowa, 51103, US
- +1712-255-4698
- Visit website
Local tips
- Hike the Broken Toe Trail to Mt. Lucia Trail for panoramic views and a glimpse of prairie remnants.
- Visit the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center to learn about the unique geology and ecology of the Loess Hills.
- Bring sturdy hiking boots, as the trails can be steep and challenging.
- Reserve camping cabins or campsites in advance, especially during peak season.
- Check the park's website or contact the park office for the latest trail conditions and any alerts or closures.
Getting There
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Driving
From Interstate 29, take exit 151, heading north on Highway 12 for approximately 4 miles to the park's west entrance. Alternatively, access the park from Sioux City via Stone Park Boulevard or Talbot Road to the east entrance. Parking is available throughout the park. Note that park gates close at 10:30 PM, with access available via Memorial Drive or the east entrance for campers. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Sioux City's public transit, Sioux City Transit, provides bus service to areas near Stone State Park. Route 3 has stops within walking distance. From the nearest bus stop, such as Plaza Bowl Bowling Alley, it's approximately a 6-minute walk to Stone Park Access. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Discover more about Stone State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sioux City's First White Settler Historical Marker
6.5 km
Explore Sioux City's First White Settler Historical Marker and uncover the rich history that shaped this vibrant Iowa community.
John Peirce Mansion
6.6 km
Step back in time at the John Peirce Mansion, a beautifully restored Victorian-era landmark in Sioux City, Iowa, showcasing stunning architecture and rich history.
Missouri River Trail Marker
6.8 km
Explore the Missouri River Trail Marker, a captivating historical landmark in Sioux City, Iowa, showcasing the region's rich heritage and scenic beauty.
Chief War Eagle's Grave Historical Marker
6.9 km
Visit the monument honoring Chief War Eagle in Sioux City, offering scenic views and a tribute to a peacemaking Native American leader.
South Dakota-Iowa-Nebraska Point
7.4 km
Experience the unique charm of South Dakota-Iowa-Nebraska Point, where three states meet and history comes alive amidst beautiful landscapes.
United 232
8.4 km
A tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, honoring the lives touched by the United 232 crash in Sioux City, Iowa.
Visit Sioux City
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Explore Siouxland
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Dutch American Heritage Museum
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Dakota Territorial Capitol Replica Building
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Experience the rich history of South Dakota at the Dakota Territorial Capitol Replica, a captivating landmark reflecting the state's early governance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Elk Point Overlook
0.0 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views at Elk Point Overlook in Sioux City's Stone State Park, a scenic gem in the Loess Hills.
Stone State Park Cabins #1 & #2
0.3 km
Escape to cozy cabins nestled in Sioux City's Stone State Park, offering scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful retreat in the Loess Hills.
Stone State Park Campground and Lodge
0.4 km
Experience nature and history in Iowa's Loess Hills at Stone State Park Campground and Lodge near Sioux City.
Pammel Valley Shelter
0.5 km
A peaceful picnic spot in Sioux City's Stone State Park, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor gatherings.
Wahkaw Shelter
1.0 km
Enjoy a scenic picnic at Wahkaw Shelter in Sioux City's Stone State Park, surrounded by the beauty of the Loess Hills and CCC-era history.
Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center
1.3 km
Explore interactive exhibits, encounter native wildlife, and hike scenic trails at this unique nature center in the Loess Hills.
Sioux City Railroad Museum
3.0 km
Explore vintage locomotives and immerse yourself in the rich railroad history of Sioux City at this unique museum complex.
Sioux City Prairie
4.5 km
Explore a rare tallgrass prairie within city limits, showcasing Iowa's unique Loess Hills and native biodiversity.
Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve
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Discover nature and history at Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve in North Sioux City, South Dakota. Trails, wildlife, and historical buildings await!
Adams Homestead and State Nature Preserve
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Riverside Park
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Explore Sioux City's historic Riverside Park: recreation, history, and natural beauty along the Missouri River.
Grandview Park Bandshell
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Grandview Park
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Dinosaur Park
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Cook Park
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A vibrant Sioux City park with a skate park, playgrounds, and picnic spots, perfect for family fun and community events.
Essential places to dine
One-Eyed Jack's
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Minervas Food & Cocktails
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Tikka Indian Grill
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El Fredo Pizza
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Koi Sushi & Steakhouse
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1000 Degrees Pizza - Sioux City, IA
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Da-Kao Restaurant
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Archie's Diner
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Leybi's Food Truck
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Elilly Restaurant And Coffee House Ethiopian Food
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Diamond Thai Cuisine
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Four Seasons Restaurant
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Pho Dinh City Restaurant
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La Juanita
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Horizon Family Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dick's Bait & Tackle
3.5 km
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Five Below
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Plato's Closet Sioux City
5.5 km
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Heart & Hand Dry Goods Company
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Evie's Hallmark Shop
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Book People
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Marketplace Shopping Center
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Outlet Center
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Empty Nest
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DEWOLF'S
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The Boulevard Bar
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Princes Tavern
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Bent Prop
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Bill's Bar
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Court Street Tavern
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Marty's Tap
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Old Brass Rail
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Earl's Infusion Bar
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Pearls Wine and Booze
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Bergie's Bar
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Blue Ribbon tap
8.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Blue Ribbon Tap, Sioux City’s favorite bar offering a welcoming atmosphere, great drinks, and local charm.
