Yellow River State Forest - Yellow River Unit
Discover scenic hiking, trout fishing, and natural beauty in the rugged Driftless Area at Yellow River State Forest's Yellow River Unit.
Explore the Yellow River Unit of Yellow River State Forest, a scenic area in northeast Iowa offering hiking, fishing, and natural beauty. Part of a larger forest established in 1935, this unit provides a rugged outdoor experience with diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities.
A brief summary to Yellow River State Forest - Yellow River Unit
- 1955-1999 Old Mission Dr, Harpers Ferry, Iowa, 52146, US
Local tips
- Bring appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be uneven and steep in places.
- Check the Iowa DNR website for any alerts, closures, or important information before your visit.
- Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage.
- Bring your own drinking water, as it is not always available within the forest.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Harpers Ferry, Iowa, head west on Old Mission Drive. Follow Old Mission Drive until it dead ends at the Yellow River Unit. There is no fee for access or parking.
Discover more about Yellow River State Forest - Yellow River Unit
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Military Road Historical Marker
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Brisbois House
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Prairie du Chien - Historical Marker #116
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Andy Mountain Cabins
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Little Switzerland Inn
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Prairie Fun Land
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Windsor Place Inn
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Sny Magill Creek
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Red Barn Campground & Restaurant
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Black Hawk Bridge
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Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge
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Elkader City Park
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Turkey River
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Unmissable attractions to see
Third Scenic View
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Hanging Rock
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Twin Views
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Effigy Mounds National Monument
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Effigy Mounds National Monument Visitor Center
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Fire Point
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Effigy Mounds South Unit
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Scenic View Campground
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Yellow River State Forest
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Big Paint Campground
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Driftless Area Wetlands Centre
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Gilly's Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
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Marquette Depot Museum & Information Center
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Eagles Landing Winery
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Scenic Overlook
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Essential places to dine
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The Barn Restaurant
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The Depot
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Fort Mulligan's Grillpub
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Simply Cafe
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Pete's Hamburger Stand
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The Old Man River Restaurant & Brewery
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Portside Bar and Supper Club
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Huckleberry's Restaurant
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Bill's Boat Landing
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Great River Roadhouse
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Toppling Goliath Brewing Co
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Lynch BBQ Co
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Don Jose Family Mexican Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Antiques
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Cabela's
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Sunglass Outfitters by Sunglass Hut
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STARK'S SPORT SHOP
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The Broken Ladder
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The Sweet Tooth
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The Market on Blackhawk
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Cannery
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Driftless Bargains
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Couleecap Food Pantry and Bargain Boutique
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Le Casino View
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Rowdy's
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Backwater Bar & Grill
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The Blackhawk
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City Sounds Dance Club
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The Tavern
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Sawmill Saloon
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Frazier's Old Faithful Inn
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Jim's Bar
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Bob's Bar
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Pocket City Pub
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