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Spook Cave & Campground: An Iowa Underground Adventure

Explore Iowa's legendary Spook Cave: a unique underground boat tour and scenic campground nestled in the Driftless Area near McGregor.

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Venture into the depths of Spook Cave, a unique flooded cave in Iowa offering guided boat tours since 1955. Explore stunning geological formations, hear spooky tales, and enjoy the surrounding campground with its scenic beauty and family-friendly amenities. It's a chilling and thrilling experience for all ages!

A brief summary to Spook Cave & Campground

Local tips

  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the cave temperature is a constant 47°F (8°C).
  • Be prepared to duck and lean during the cave tour due to low ceilings and narrow passages.
  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid weekend crowds at the campground and cave tours.
  • Take advantage of the campground's amenities, such as the swimming lake, trout stream, and hiking trails.
  • Check the Spook Cave & Campground website or call ahead for current tour schedules and camping rates.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Spook Cave & Campground is located at 13299 Spook Cave Rd, McGregor, IA 52157. From McGregor, head west on Main St, which becomes IA-18 W/IA-52 W. Continue for approximately 6 miles, then turn left onto Spook Cave Rd. Follow Spook Cave Rd to the destination. Parking is available on-site. Limited parking may be available during peak season.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    From McGregor, taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. A taxi ride to Spook Cave, approximately 7 miles west of town, will cost around $20-$30. Confirm availability and pricing with the service beforehand. Note that ride-sharing availability may be limited in this rural area.

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Discover more about Spook Cave & Campground

Spook Cave & Campground, located near McGregor, Iowa, offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty and eerie adventure. Discovered in 1953 and opened to the public in 1955, the cave presents a unique experience: a guided boat tour through its flooded caverns. The journey begins as you board a small boat that glides into the cave's narrow entrance. Prepare to duck and lean as you navigate the low ceilings and winding passages. Inside, the cave reveals its geological wonders: stalactites, stalagmites, and mineral deposits adorn the limestone walls. The water within the cave maintains a constant temperature of 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius), so bringing a light jacket or sweater is recommended. Adding to the allure, guides share the cave's history, including the spooky tales that gave it its name. Legend has it that early settlers were spooked by strange noises emanating from the cave. While the source of the sounds was later discovered, the name "Spook Cave" stuck, adding an element of mystery to the experience. Beyond the cave, Spook Cave & Campground offers a variety of activities and amenities. The campground features full hook-up campsites, cabins, a swimming lake, and a trout stream. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, hiking, and relaxing by the campfire. The site also offers amenities such as playgrounds, a basketball court, a gift shop, and a game room. With its combination of natural wonders, spooky stories, and outdoor recreation, Spook Cave & Campground provides a memorable experience for families, friends, and adventure seekers.

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