Backbone State Park

4.51

83 reviews

1347 129th St, Dundee, Iowa, 52038, United States

Romantic GetawaySummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Iowa#3 Forest Camping Iowa Fall Camping Iowa +8 more

Quick Facts

1,050 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Campground opens mid...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,050 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Campground opens mid...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Backbone State Park

$15.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $15 for non-electric sites to $35 for cabins. There are additional fees for boat rentals, firewood, bait, and other essentials sold...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.51

Top-Rated

Based on 83 reviews

1606 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanstafffriendlywell-maintained

"Reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, clean facilities, and variety of activities. However, issues such as strict quiet hours and occasional water quality problems are noted."

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Campground Map

1347 129th St, Dundee, Iowa, 52038, United States

Backbone State Park

1347 129th St, Dundee, Iowa, 52038, United States

Driving directionsTo the South Gate Entrance South Lake Campground, Cabins, Beach, Office 1.3 miles north out of Dundee on W69. To East Gate Entrance Backbone trail head and picnic areas 1.5 miles north on W69 from South Gate Entrance. To the West Gate Entrance Six Pines Campground, CCC Museum and picnic areas take 187 North from Hwy 20 to C57, Take C57 5 miles East to park entrance. North Gate Entrance Richmond Springs, Auditorium and picnic areas take Hwy 3 East from Strawberry Point. Go North on W68 to North Gate Approximately 2 miles.

The campground is accessible via paved county highways and state roads, with multiple entrances leading to different areas of the park. Seasonal road conditions such as closures or icy roads are not explicitly noted.

Nearby places

Dundee (1 mile), Lamont (5 miles), Strawberry Point (3 miles). Manchester (approximately 15 miles with Super Walmart).

Nearby supplies

Concessions within the park open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, offering essentials like firewood, bait, boat rentals, and snacks. Super Walmart is approximately 15 minutes away in Manchester.

Best Time to Camp at Backbone State Park

Each season transforms Backbone into a distinct adventure. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, while summer brings lush green canopies perfect for shaded hikes—though afternoon thunderstorms and mosquitoes remind you to come prepared. Autumn sets the oak and maple forests ablaze with spectacular colors, creating ideal conditions for photography and comfortable camping. Winter's quiet beauty offers solitude for hardy explorers, though icy trails and limited facilities require careful planning.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Lush summer greenery and beach use; some issues with bugs and lake algae in season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall praised for vibrant foliage and wildlife; strong seasonal draw in reviews.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring wildflowers, rushing streams and prime trout fishing make spring appealing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground services closed mid-October to mid-April; not rated as a campground season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Campground opens mid-April and closes mid-October for water and shower facilities.
Current Alerts: Water quality issues in Backbone Lake during summer due to E. Coli and blue algae.

About Backbone State Park

Step into Iowa's outdoor legacy at Backbone State Park, where towering limestone cliffs and winding trails have captivated adventurers since 1920. As the state's first park, this rugged wonderland showcases the enduring craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose stone structures and scenic overlooks still welcome visitors today. Navigate challenging trails that twist through ancient forests, discover hidden caves, and experience the raw beauty that has made Backbone a cherished escape for over a century.

Backbone State Park accommodates various camping preferences, including tent, RV, and group camping, as well as cabin rentals.

Historical SignificanceWalk through living history at Iowa's first state park, established in 1920 when conservationists recognized this landscape as too precious to lose. During the Great Depression, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed raw wilderness into an accessible paradise, hand-building stone shelters, bridges, and the iconic beach house that still stands today. Their legacy lives on in every carefully placed stone step and rustic pavilion, telling the story of American resilience and the birth of Iowa's conservation movement.

Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms Backbone into a distinct adventure. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, while summer brings lush green canopies perfect for shaded hikes—though afternoon thunderstorms and mosquitoes remind you to come prepared. Autumn sets the oak and maple forests ablaze with spectacular colors, creating ideal conditions for photography and comfortable camping. Winter's quiet beauty offers solitude for hardy explorers, though icy trails and limited facilities require careful planning.

ElevationAscend to northeast Iowa's crowning glory, where ancient geological forces have carved the region's highest ridgelines and most dramatic vistas. While specific elevation markers may not greet you at the trailhead, your legs will certainly feel the climb as you explore the park's varied terrain, from riverside valleys to clifftop overlooks that reward your effort with sweeping views of the Maquoketa River valley below.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where massive oak and maple trees tower above moss-covered limestone walls, and the Maquoketa River has carved its signature through millions of years of bedrock. Crystal-clear Backbone Lake mirrors the surrounding forest, while hidden springs feed babbling creeks that cascade over rocky ledges. The park's crown jewel remains the CCC's stonework—rustic bridges, sturdy shelters, and winding staircases that blend seamlessly with the natural rock formations, creating picture-perfect scenes at every turn.

Geological RegionMarvel at the Devil's Backbone, a razor-thin ridge of ancient dolomite that gives this park its unforgettable name and character. Carved by the persistent Maquoketa River over countless millennia, this narrow spine of bedrock rises dramatically above the valley floor, creating northeast Iowa's highest natural point. The surrounding landscape tells a 450-million-year-old story written in stone—from fossil-rich limestone cliffs to deep caves and crevices that beckon exploration. Dense forests of oak and maple cloak these geological wonders, their roots finding purchase in rocky soil that has resisted erosion while the softer earth washed away.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

9:30 AM (Concessionaire check-in hours for cabins and rentals).

Stay Limit

Campground operational guidelines suggest mid-April to mid-October for water availability, but no explicit stay limit mentioned.

Groups

Group sites are not explicitly detailed in the source material.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSouthern campgrounds have generous sites, while Six Pines is less modern.

Reservation PlatformsReservations for cabins and camping sites can be made online through the park's official website.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up sites, though camping without reservation was noted in user reviews.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not detailed, though reservations can be made in advance.

AccessibilityTrails and fishing areas have been designed to provide accessibility, including paved sections leading to the trout stream.

Site SizeTent camping sites range in size, with some being spacious and others having slopes. Specific site dimensions are not provided.

PrivacySite privacy varies; some are described as spacious and secluded, while others are closer together. South Lake Campground offers more secluded options.

Recommended SitesSouthern campground offers cleaner facilities and more shade, whereas Six Pines lacks showers and modern bathrooms.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Backbone State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, from hiking and fishing to exploring Civilian Conservation Corps historical structures. Seasonal activities like snowmobiling and skiing are also available.

HikingThe park features a 21-mile multi-use trail system that includes rugged paths like the Backbone Trail, which offers challenging terrain and scenic views of limestone cliffs. Some trails are designed for specific activities such as mountain biking or snowmobiling. Reviews often highlight the variety of trails, with one stating, 'The trails provided great scenery and enough of a challenge to have a good workout.'

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingTrout fishing is a highlight at Backbone State Park, especially in the cold, spring-fed Richmond Springs stream. Anglers have reported catching species including bluegill and brown trout. Only electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake.

SwimmingSwimming is permitted at the designated beach area near Backbone Lake. However, some visitors noted issues such as algae and E. Coli contamination during their visits.

BikingMountain biking is available on designated trails like Barred Owl, Bluebird, East Lake, and West Lake. These offer varying levels of difficulty and scenic routes through the park.

BoatingBoating enthusiasts can rent kayaks, paddle boats, and canoes from the park's boathouse. However, gasoline-powered motors are not permitted on the lake.

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include bald eagles, especially in the fall and spring. The park's diverse ecosystems provide opportunities for observing a range of animal species.

Beach activitiesVisitors can enjoy the sandy beach area for sunbathing and water activities. However, some reviews describe the beach as 'disgusting' due to algae and water quality issues.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe Civilian Conservation Corps Museum offers historical insights and is open Tuesday through Saturday. Visitors can explore the unique masonry work of the CCC throughout the park.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include slippery trails, tight paths, and cliffs. Water in Backbone Lake is polluted during summer with E. Coli and blue algae.

Active AlertsWater quality issues in Backbone Lake during summer due to E. Coli and blue algae.

Fire PolicyFirewood available at the park store, but exact usage rules are not detailed.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:30 PM.

Emergency ServicesGreater than 10 miles: Hospital and medical clinic.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the park, and some visitors noted the need to pack out garbage in the picnic areas.

Water FeaturesClose to Backbone Lake, Maquoketa River, and Richmond Springs trout stream. Water quality varies seasonally.

Camp Host"The DNR working this park is top notch," as noted in user reviews. Camp hosts are described as friendly and helpful.

Weather at Backbone State Park

Reviews

4.5

83 reviews

Top-Rated

Backbone State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, clean facilities, and variety of activities. However, issues such as strict quiet hours and occasional water quality problems are noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 83 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, well-maintained trails, friendly staff, and diverse recreational options.

Based on 83 reviews

Common Concerns

Strict quiet hours enforced at 10:30 PM, occasional poor water quality at the lake, and limited cell phone service.

Based on 83 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring water and familiarize yourself with trail maps beforehand. Use offline maps due to unreliable cell service.

Based on 83 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is particularly praised for vibrant foliage and wildlife sightings, while summer may pose challenges with bugs and algae issues in the lake.

Based on 83 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The trails provided great scenery and enough of a challenge to have a good workout.' 'The cleanest bath/shower rooms!' 'Strict quiet hours enforced at 10:30 PM.'

Based on 83 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

South Lake Campground is favored for modern amenities, while Six Pines Campground is noted for its more rustic experience. Specific site numbers are not provided.

Based on 83 reviews