Maquoketa Caves State Park
RV Guide

Among the diverse wildlife at the Maquoketa Caves State Park are the many species of birds. Bird lovers who visit the park love walking the trails and counting how many different species that you can see. Some species of birds you may see include turkey vultures, golden-winged warblers, gray catbirds, and great horned owls. You also might be able to spot blue jays, crows, goldfinches, pigeons, woodpeckers, northern cardinals, and doves. If you're lucky you may even see some eagles soaring overhead. The specific species you see will depend on what season you go during, but you're guaranteed to see at least some of the local residents that call the park home.

During the off-season, you can still enjoy natural beauty of the park by going for a picnic. Few things compare to enjoying a meal with people you love in the middle of such a beautiful park. While this can be enjoyed any time of year, many people find the park especially beautiful during the late fall and early winter months, when the leaves are changing colors and when the entire park has been transformed into a winter wonderland.

The Interpretive Center is like a museum and theater all in one and should be your first stop once you have set up your campsite. History buffs will love the vast amount of information contained within the Interpretive Center that will inform you about the geologic formations around the park and the natives that inhabited the caves many, many years ago. The interpretive Center is a go-to for any families with very small kids who may not be able to handle all of the caves but still want to see some cool stuff. The center offers a virtual tour that lets you explore the entire park from within the safety of the Interpretive Center. This is a must-see, especially if you are visiting the state park in your RV during the off-season.

Are you hoping to learn more about the local area? If so, you must check out the Jackson County Historical Museum. Located only eight and a half miles from Maquoketa Caves State Park, Jackson County Historical Museum is a fantastic place to visit due to the many displays and friendly staff. The museum is mostly known for being the home of a few oddities, including a stuffed two-headed calf and a six-legged lamb, but there are also some great displays on Civil War artifacts, a one-room schoolhouse, and woodworking. Hot tip: If you purchase a ticket to the museum you can also visit the nearby Clinton Engines Museum free of charge.

The park is located just one mile from the Maquoketa River where canoe rentals are available. This tributary of the Mississippi River is a great place to chill out and relax at with many activities for you to do. You can take a boat ride down the tranquil Maquoketa River (which is a great activity for couples), or rent inner tubes for the entire family and float together. This is especially nice after a long day of getting dirty in the caves. As you float along you'll likely see wildlife among the lush vegetation along the edge of the river.

Maquoketa Caves State Park features over six miles of trails with varying terrains that are suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The trails put you smack dab in the middle of the gorgeous forest that is just teeming with wildlife. From towering trees and the many species of birds that inhabit them to the wildflowers that attract fluttering butterflies, you can enjoy it all while strolling through the shade. There is no rock climbing or repelling allowed because it's such a historic site, so as tempting as it may be, be sure to respect the rules and not damage any of this beautiful park.

The Maquoketa Caves State Park has more caves than any other Park in Iowa, making it the perfect vacation for spelunkers ( who are also known as cave explorers). The large spacious caves, such as the Dancehall Cave, are perfect for families or beginners. Some of the smaller caves are a little bit difficult but still provide lots of fun for those able to explore them. Just be sure to bring a flashlight, helmet, and some comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. With 13 caves to explore, you could spend all day at the park and still not see everything it has to offer.

If you are interested in fishing during your trip to Maquoketa Caves State Park than the Maquoketa River is the place for you. Located roughly two miles south of the park the Maquoketa River is a great fishery that is home to a wide variety of fishing spots that can be accessed by watercraft or off the banks of the river. Popular species caught in this area of the river include smallmouth bass, walleye, sauger, northern pike and various species of catfish. You will need an Iowa fishing license, so remember to get one before you cast out a line.