Backbone State Park

Backbone State Park was dedicated in 1920. It was Iowa's first state park and remains one of the most geologically unique. Backbone consists of 2,001 acres and is heavily wooded with a variety of tree species, predominantly oak and maple. Backbone is named for the steep and narrow ridge of bedrock cut by a loop of the Maquoketa River and forming the highest point in northeast Iowa - the Devil's Backbone. If you enjoy bicycling, boating, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, picnicking or if you want to take a walk back in time to the days of the Civilian Conservation Corps, this is the place for you.

Take some time to investigate the unique masonry work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), including dams on the Maquoketa River forming Backbone Lake, a cluster of rustic family cabins, beach building and boat house, an auditorium, bridges, roads, picnic shelters, restrooms and trails. In addition, take a nostalgic walk back in time by visiting the CCC Museum located just within the park's west gate. The museum is open from mid-May to mid October, Fri, Sat, Sun from noon to 4pm or by special arrangement by contacting the park office.

Trails
While visiting, take advantage of the rugged and winding 21-mile multi-use trail system. During warmer weather, hike along twisted and windblown cedars and up rough, rocky staircases. In the winter, take advantage of the exclusive snowmobiling and /or cross-country skiing opportunities the trails offer.
If mountain biking is your pleasure, the designated trails of Barred Owl, Bluebird, East Lake and West Lake offer a robust trek through picturesque natural beauty.

Rock Climbing
Climbers and rappellers will find many challenges at Backbone with its cliffs of rugged dolomite limestone throughout the park. The most popular climbing spots are located near the popular Backbone Trail. Climbers must register at the park office.

Bicycling
The Northeast State Park Bike Route is a 130 mile route which connects Backbone State Park, Wapsipinicon State Park, and Pikes Peak State Park utilizing county highways.

Fishing
If trout fishing is your passion, you're in the right place. Backbone is well known for its exceptional trout fishing. Backbone's cold, clear, quick-flowing stream is fed by Richmond Springs, which pumps more than 2,000 gallons per minute and is located near the north end of the park. A variety of shady and universally accessible trails (portions paved) are available for enthusiastic anglers looking for their "secret spot." Only electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake.

Backbone is a great vacation destination with several overnight accommodation options, including several campsites, within two campgrounds, and many different modern cabins to reserve. A boathouse for renting boats and a swimming beach as well as a concession stand are all located near the southeast end of the lake.

Cabins
Modern two-bedroom and one-bedroom cabins are available and are equipped with heating and air conditioning.

Camping
There are two campgrounds. The South Lake Campground, which contains both electric and non-electric sites as well as two shower buildings, a playground and a dump station and the Six Pine Campground, near the west entrance of the park, contains non-electric sites and pit latrines.

Picknicking/Shelters/Lodge
Backbone is a beautiful place for a family picnic. Several open shelters and the auditorium may be reserved. Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Stone Lodge, overlooking the lake, may be rented for a number of events including family reunions, weddings and other large gatherings.