Backbone State Park
For a furrific outdoor excursion with your pooch in northeast Iowa, look no further than Backbone State Park! Iowa's first state park and still one of the most significant, this 2,000-acre site is named for a steep and narrow ridge of bedrock carved by a loop of the Maquoketa River, dubbed the Devil's Backbone. This puptastic park features a large lake, 21 miles of trails, a rock climbing area, and many other amenities, making it pawfectly suited for various recreational activities.
Leash up your pup and hit Backbone's multi-use trails! With trails ranging from easy to difficult, there's something for doggos of all skill levels. The easiest route is the 2-mile Bluebird Trail, which meanders through timber and prairie and offers several opportunities to see various wildlife. For a moderate hike, follow the 1-mile Backbone Trail along the Devil's Backbone, one of the highest points in northeast Iowa. This well-traveled path serves up pawmazing views and passes some of the most pawpular climbing spots in the area. Whichever trails you and your pooch take on, you'll find yourselves hiking through lush woodland that different birds and animals call home.
Other activities that you and Fido can enjoy together at Backbone are picnicking, boating, and camping. Wherever you go in the park, always keep your furry pal on a 6-foot leash and clean up after them. Bring all essentials for a puptastic day, including clean-up bags and water to share. And while dogs are welcome in most areas, the swimming beach is off-limits to canine guests.
If you wish to extend your adventure at Backbone, the park has two campgrounds offering a total of 125 campsites. Make yourselves at home in the primitive Six Pines Campground or the modern South Lake Campground. For pampered pooches, modern dog-friendly cabins equipped with heating and air conditioning are available as well. Note that these cabins are some of the most pawpular in the state, so be sure to book early!
No bones about it, a pawsome experience awaits you and your canine BFF at Backbone State Park!
