Backbone State Park
The campgrounds are open for the season through November 30. Both campgrounds close December 1 through March 31 annually. All sites require reservations through the Iowa State Parks system at iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com. Peak season rates apply May 1 through October 15.
Extreme Heat Warning issued July 1 at 9:06PM CDT until July 1 at 10:00PM CDT by NWS Quad Cities IA IL
* WHAT...Dangerously hot and humid conditions with continued heat index values of 100 to 110 expected today, along with nighttime lows not falling below the mid to upper 70s. * WHERE...In Illinois, Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson Counties. In Iowa, Benton, Jackson, Jones, Linn, Buchanan, Delaware, and Dubuque Counties. * WHEN...Until 10 PM CDT this evening. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The extreme heat may persist through late week, but thunderstorms and associated clouds may interrupt the heat at times Thursday and Friday.
About
Backbone State Park holds the distinction of being Iowa's first state park, dedicated in 1919 and largely developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s. The park takes its name from a striking geological feature: a narrow ridge of dolomite bedrock, sometimes only a few feet wide, that rises dramatically above the Maquoketa River. This "Devil's Backbone" creates some of the most rugged terrain in Iowa and offers rock climbing opportunities rare in the state. The park provides two camping options. South Lake Campground sits along the lake and offers electric and non-electric sites with modern amenities including two shower buildings, a playground, and a dump station. Six Pines Campground near the west entrance provides a more rustic experience with non-electric sites and pit latrines. Two full-hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer are also available. The park features 21 miles of multi-use trails, excellent trout fishing in Richmond Springs Creek, a swimming beach, and boat rentals on the lake.
Directions
From Highway 3 in Dundee, turn south on 129th Street and follow signs to the park. The park is approximately 3 miles south of Dundee.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | Yes |
| Sewer Hookups | Yes |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $21 - $275 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 120ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | Yes |
Contact
| Backbone@dnr.iowa.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (563) 924-2527 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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