Wildcat Den State Park

Open — The campground is currently operating on a first-come, first-served basis through December 31, 2025, then closes for the winter season. All campsites require reservations and the campground is 100% reservable when open.

About

Wildcat Den State Park is one of Iowa's most photographed state parks, offering both natural beauty and historical treasures. The campground features 28 primitive, non-electric campsites and one youth group site, all requiring advance reservations through the Iowa State Parks system. Situated within a scenic pine forest, the campground provides vault toilets and potable water but no electrical hookups or shower facilities. The park's extensive trail system winds through varied terrain, leading visitors past striking geological formations along sandstone bluffs. Notable features include Steamboat Rock, the Devil's Punch Bowl, and Fat Man's Squeeze. Trails are particularly stunning during summer and fall when seasonal colors illuminate the landscape. History enthusiasts can explore the Pine Creek Grist Mill, built by Benjamin Nye in 1848 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The mill operates as a living history site, offering tours Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from noon to 5:00 PM, May through early October. The park also preserves the turn-of-the-century Melpine one-room schoolhouse. Two reservable picnic shelters, including the ADA-accessible Mill Shelter, provide additional gathering spaces for visitors.

Directions

From Muscatine, Iowa, travel east on Highway 22 for approximately 12 miles. Turn north onto Wildcat Den Avenue and continue for about 1 mile to reach the park entrance.

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