Backbone State Park
00 review1347 129th St, Dundee, Iowa, 52038, United States
Backbone State Park
$15.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $15 for non-electric sites to $35 for cabins. There are additional fees for boat rentals, firewood, bait, and other essentials sold at the park store.
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About this campground
Step into Iowa's outdoor legacy at Backbone State Park, where towering limestone cliffs and winding trails have captivated adventurers since 1920. As the state's first park, this rugged wonderland showcases the enduring craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose stone structures and scenic overlooks still welcome visitors today. Navigate challenging trails that twist through ancient forests, discover hidden caves, and experience the raw beauty that has made Backbone a cherished escape for over a century.
Backbone State Park accommodates various camping preferences, including tent, RV, and group camping, as well as cabin rentals.
Historical SignificanceWalk through living history at Iowa's first state park, established in 1920 when conservationists recognized this landscape as too precious to lose. During the Great Depression, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed raw wilderness into an accessible paradise, hand-building stone shelters, bridges, and the iconic beach house that still stands today. Their legacy lives on in every carefully placed stone step and rustic pavilion, telling the story of American resilience and the birth of Iowa's conservation movement.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms Backbone into a distinct adventure. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, while summer brings lush green canopies perfect for shaded hikes—though afternoon thunderstorms and mosquitoes remind you to come prepared. Autumn sets the oak and maple forests ablaze with spectacular colors, creating ideal conditions for photography and comfortable camping. Winter's quiet beauty offers solitude for hardy explorers, though icy trails and limited facilities require careful planning.
ElevationAscend to northeast Iowa's crowning glory, where ancient geological forces have carved the region's highest ridgelines and most dramatic vistas. While specific elevation markers may not greet you at the trailhead, your legs will certainly feel the climb as you explore the park's varied terrain, from riverside valleys to clifftop overlooks that reward your effort with sweeping views of the Maquoketa River valley below.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where massive oak and maple trees tower above moss-covered limestone walls, and the Maquoketa River has carved its signature through millions of years of bedrock. Crystal-clear Backbone Lake mirrors the surrounding forest, while hidden springs feed babbling creeks that cascade over rocky ledges. The park's crown jewel remains the CCC's stonework—rustic bridges, sturdy shelters, and winding staircases that blend seamlessly with the natural rock formations, creating picture-perfect scenes at every turn.
Geological RegionMarvel at the Devil's Backbone, a razor-thin ridge of ancient dolomite that gives this park its unforgettable name and character. Carved by the persistent Maquoketa River over countless millennia, this narrow spine of bedrock rises dramatically above the valley floor, creating northeast Iowa's highest natural point. The surrounding landscape tells a 450-million-year-old story written in stone—from fossil-rich limestone cliffs to deep caves and crevices that beckon exploration. Dense forests of oak and maple cloak these geological wonders, their roots finding purchase in rocky soil that has resisted erosion while the softer earth washed away.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTrails and fishing areas have been designed to provide accessibility, including paved sections leading to the trout stream.
Sites SizeTent camping sites range in size, with some being spacious and others having slopes. Specific site dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies; some are described as spacious and secluded, while others are closer together. South Lake Campground offers more secluded options.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSouthern campground offers cleaner facilities and more shade, whereas Six Pines lacks showers and modern bathrooms.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers for best campsites are not mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
9:30 AM (Concessionaire check-in hours for cabins and rentals).
Stay Limit
Campground operational guidelines suggest mid-April to mid-October for water availability, but no explicit stay limit mentioned.
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly detailed in the source material.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSouthern campgrounds have generous sites, while Six Pines is less modern.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground opens mid-April and closes mid-October for water and shower facilities.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for cabins and camping sites can be made online through the park's official website.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up sites, though camping without reservation was noted in user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not detailed, though reservations can be made in advance.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Backbone State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, from hiking and fishing to exploring Civilian Conservation Corps historical structures. Seasonal activities like snowmobiling and skiing are also available.
Hiking
The park features a 21-mile multi-use trail system that includes rugged paths like the Backbone Trail, which offers challenging terrain and scenic views of limestone cliffs. Some trails are designed for specific activities such as mountain biking or snowmobiling. Reviews often highlight the variety of trails, with one stating, 'The trails provided great scenery and enough of a challenge to have a good workout.'Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Trout fishing is a highlight at Backbone State Park, especially in the cold, spring-fed Richmond Springs stream. Anglers have reported catching species including bluegill and brown trout. Only electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake.Swimming
Swimming is permitted at the designated beach area near Backbone Lake. However, some visitors noted issues such as algae and E. Coli contamination during their visits.Biking
Mountain biking is available on designated trails like Barred Owl, Bluebird, East Lake, and West Lake. These offer varying levels of difficulty and scenic routes through the park.Boating
Boating enthusiasts can rent kayaks, paddle boats, and canoes from the park's boathouse. However, gasoline-powered motors are not permitted on the lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include bald eagles, especially in the fall and spring. The park's diverse ecosystems provide opportunities for observing a range of animal species.Beach activities
Visitors can enjoy the sandy beach area for sunbathing and water activities. However, some reviews describe the beach as 'disgusting' due to algae and water quality issues.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Civilian Conservation Corps Museum offers historical insights and is open Tuesday through Saturday. Visitors can explore the unique masonry work of the CCC throughout the park.Winter Activities
Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular during the winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are available with rentals from the park's boathouse.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood available at the park store, but exact usage rules are not detailed.
- Quiet hours are 10:30 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include slippery trails, tight paths, and cliffs. Water in Backbone Lake is polluted during summer with E. Coli and blue algae.
Active alertsWater quality issues in Backbone Lake during summer due to E. Coli and blue algae.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Greater than 10 miles: Hospital and medical clinic.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the park, and some visitors noted the need to pack out garbage in the picnic areas.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Backbone Lake, Maquoketa River, and Richmond Springs trout stream. Water quality varies seasonally.
Common complaintsStrict quiet hours, poor trail maps, and water pollution during summer. Some sites have slopes or lack privacy.
Host"The DNR working this park is top notch," as noted in user reviews. Camp hosts are described as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
1347 129th St, Dundee, Iowa, 52038, United States
Driving directionsTo the South Gate Entrance South Lake Campground, Cabins, Beach, Office 1.3 miles north out of Dundee on W69. To East Gate Entrance Backbone trail head and picnic areas 1.5 miles north on W69 from South Gate Entrance. To the West Gate Entrance Six Pines Campground, CCC Museum and picnic areas take 187 North from Hwy 20 to C57, Take C57 5 miles East to park entrance. North Gate Entrance Richmond Springs, Auditorium and picnic areas take Hwy 3 East from Strawberry Point. Go North on W68 to North Gate Approximately 2 miles.
The campground is accessible via paved county highways and state roads, with multiple entrances leading to different areas of the park. Seasonal road conditions such as closures or icy roads are not explicitly noted.Nearby places
Dundee (1 mile), Lamont (5 miles), Strawberry Point (3 miles). Manchester (approximately 15 miles with Super Walmart).
Nearby supplies
Concessions within the park open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, offering essentials like firewood, bait, boat rentals, and snacks. Super Walmart is approximately 15 minutes away in Manchester.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Backbone State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, clean facilities, and variety of activities. However, issues such as strict quiet hours and occasional water quality problems are noted.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, well-maintained trails, friendly staff, and diverse recreational options.
Common Concerns
Strict quiet hours enforced at 10:30 PM, occasional poor water quality at the lake, and limited cell phone service.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water and familiarize yourself with trail maps beforehand. Use offline maps due to unreliable cell service.
Seasonal Insights
Fall is particularly praised for vibrant foliage and wildlife sightings, while summer may pose challenges with bugs and algae issues in the lake.
Camper Quotes
'The trails provided great scenery and enough of a challenge to have a good workout.' 'The cleanest bath/shower rooms!' 'Strict quiet hours enforced at 10:30 PM.'
Site-Specific Reviews
South Lake Campground is favored for modern amenities, while Six Pines Campground is noted for its more rustic experience. Specific site numbers are not provided.
Accessibility Features
Fishing areas and some trails are accessible, but detailed user feedback on overall accessibility is limited.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed, but some trails may not be ideal for poorly behaved pets due to their narrowness.
Last updated August 10, 2025