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Backbone State Park, Dundee

4.4
#8 of 55 in Nature in Iowa
Must see · State Park · Nature / Park
Backbone State Park is Iowa's oldest state park, dedicated in 1919. Located in the valley of the Maquoketa River, it is approximately three miles (5 km) south of Strawberry Point in Delaware County. It is named for a narrow and steep ridge of bedrock carved by a loop of the Maquoketa River originally known as the Devil's Backbone. The initial 1,200 acres (490 ha) were donated by E.M. Carr of Lamont, Iowa. Backbone Lake Dam, a relatively low dam built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, created Backbone Lake. The CCC constructed a majority of trails and buildings which make up the park.

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Backbone State Park reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
91 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • By Chip144
    Beautiful grounds, trees and trails. This place has a lot to explore and has camping, a lake and great vistas.  more »
  • By 80patrickh
    Wife and I visited here early one morning after a 3 inch snow. It was magical. We did the east lake trail and Devil's backbone loop. Took about 3 hours at a leisurely pace, taking photos etc...  more »
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Google
  • By Jason
    This is the most beautiful view I've seen in a long time. Absolutely gorgeous. It is the perfect trail for a romantic walk, family walk or just a walk/jog. The lake at the end looks beautiful to swim in and the beach looked stunning. Park looks well maintained. Garbage weren't over flowing and there was no trash on the ground. It took me a bit to find the entrance to the trail I was looking for so I got to drive around and even the drive was beautiful. I saw deer, raccoon, squirrels and a very friendly skunk that wanted to say hi from the middle of the road. Would recommend the park to any one. You have got to see this park. This should be on everyone's bucket list.
  • By Austin Mason
    Love the sights. Love how the trails are kept up. The litter is policed very well. The park staff were very helpful and eager to teach. Peaceful place to get away and relax.
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