Hiking Parks Near Iowa City

Discover 4 parks for hiking within driving distance of Iowa City

Palisades-Kepler State Park

Mt. Vernon, Iowa
24 miles away

"Iowa City visitors come for a nearby wooded park with camping and scenic bluffs along the Cedar River. It is a convenient weekend outing for students, families, and outdoor enthusiasts."

A wooded Cedar River bluff park with dramatic limestone scenery and peaceful outdoor recreation.

HikingCampingFishingPicnickingWildlife Viewing
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Wapsipinicon State Park

Anamosa, Iowa
34 miles away

"Iowa City visitors come for a scenic day trip, fishing, and camping in a wooded river setting. It is a convenient getaway from campus and city life."

A wooded river park with bluffs, fishing, camping, and a historic lodge.

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Wildcat Den State Park

Muscatine, Iowa
39 miles away

"Iowa City is close enough for a half-day or full-day trip to the park. Visitors from Iowa City are often drawn to the park’s hiking opportunities and distinctive natural features."

A scenic eastern Iowa park with sandstone bluffs, ravines, and historic features.

HikingPicnickingPhotographyBirdwatchingNature Study
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Backbone State Park

Dundee, Iowa
60 miles away

"Iowa City visitors may choose Backbone for a longer day trip or overnight stay in northeast Iowa. Its distinctive geology and peaceful setting make it a worthwhile escape from the university area."

Iowa’s oldest state park, featuring a dramatic limestone ridge, trout stream, and scenic outdoor recreation.

HikingCampingFishingPicnickingBirdwatching
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