Maquoketa Caves State Park
Parking available
A state park in eastern Iowa known for its extensive cave system, scenic bluffs, and six miles of hiking trails.

šŸ“œ State park with more caves than any other in Iowa, established in 1921.
šŸ” Features 13 distinct caves, including the 1,100-foot Dancehall Cave.

Why Go

šŸžļø Explore a wonderland of caves and unique geologic formations.
🚶 Hike six miles of trails through dense woodlands and bluffs.
šŸ’° Free to enter and enjoy nature's beauty.
šŸ¦‡ Observe a bat hibernaculum (from a distance).

Why Avoid

āš ļø Cave access routes are steep, uneven, rocky, and can be slippery.
šŸ§— Some caves require crawling in tight spaces for serious spelunkers.
šŸš— Limited parking, especially busy on summer weekends (11 a.m.

  • 4 p.m.).

Tips

šŸ”¦ Bring hiking shoes and a flashlight for cave exploration.
šŸ—“ļø Caves are closed annually from November 15th until April 1st for bat hibernation.
Visit mid-week or off-peak hours to avoid crowds and parking issues.

šŸ…æļø Parking

Limited spots (less than 150).
Only allowed in designated areas.

🚻 Toilets

Accessible, modern restrooms at Visitor Center, Lower Shelter/Park Store, and Picnic Shelter Area.

šŸ•ļø Camping

Newly upgraded campground with standard electric and primitive hike-in sites.
Reservations required March - November.
Closed December - February.

Last updated 1 day ago

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