Wapsipinicon State Park, Southeast Iowa Travel Guide
Explore Iowa's natural beauty and unique history at Wapsipinicon State Park, featuring caves, bluffs, and historic structures crafted by penitentiary inmates.
Wapsipinicon State Park, nestled along the Wapsipinicon River near Anamosa, Iowa, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Established in 1923, the 394-acre park features limestone bluffs, caves, and a historic district with structures built by inmates from the nearby Anamosa State Penitentiary, providing a unique glimpse into Iowa's past and present.
A brief summary to Wapsipinicon State Park
- 21301 Co Rd E34, Anamosa, Iowa, 52205, US
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- 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
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wapsipinicon State Park.
- Explore both Horse Thief Cave and Ice Cave, but bring a flashlight and be prepared for cool temperatures in Ice Cave.
- Hike the multi-use trails to experience the diverse scenery, from wooded canopies to open grass prairies.
- Visit the park in the spring or fall for ideal weather and to avoid the summer crowds.
- Bring your fishing gear and try your luck in the Wapsipinicon River, known for catfish, crappies, and bass.
- Check out the Anamosa State Penitentiary Museum and the National Motorcycle Museum in nearby Anamosa to learn more about the area's history and culture.
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Getting There
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Driving
Wapsipinicon State Park is located southwest of Anamosa, Iowa, accessible via County Road E34. From Highway 151, take either Exit 49 (northbound) or Exit 54 (southbound). From Exit 49, head north on County Road E34 for about three miles. The park entrance will be on your right. From Exit 54, turn right onto 3rd Street, which becomes Scott Street. Turn left at the stop sign onto Main Street (west), then follow the road as it curves south and becomes Elm Street. Continue on Elm Street, cross the bridge on E-34, and the park entrance will be on your left. Parking is available in multiple areas throughout the park. There are no fees for parking.
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Walking
From Anamosa, Wapsipinicon State Park is accessible by foot, though it's a considerable walk of approximately 3 miles. Head south on Elm Street, which turns into County Road E34 after crossing the Wapsipinicon River. Continue on E34; the park entrance will be on your left. Exercise caution as there may not be sidewalks along the road. No entry fee is required for park access.
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