Backbone State Park

Backbone State Park, located in the valley of the Maquoketa River, is Iowa's oldest state park. It was dedicated in 1919 and is situated approximately three miles south of Strawberry Point in Delaware County. The park is named after a narrow and steep ridge of bedrock carved by a loop of the Maquoketa River, originally known as the Devil's Backbone.

Creation of Backbone Lake and Park Infrastructure

The Backbone Lake Dam, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, led to the creation of Backbone Lake. The CCC was responsible for the construction of a majority of the trails and buildings that constitute the park. This work was part of a public work relief program during the Great Depression.

Recreational Activities at Backbone State Park

Backbone State Park offers a variety of recreational activities. The park features cliffs measuring over 80 feet in some places, making climbing and rappelling popular activities, although both require a permit. The park also boasts twenty-one miles of multi-use trails that support a range of year-round recreational activities, including hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Backbone Lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Accommodations at Backbone State Park

Backbone State Park offers a variety of accommodations for visitors. There are 49 electrical and 49 non-electrical campsites available for rental, with reservations recommended. The park also provides cabins for rent. Additional amenities include two shower buildings and a playground.