Wapsipinicon State Park, dedicated in 1923, was one of Iowa's first state parks. It lies just south of Anamosa on the Wapsipinicon River (locally referred to as the Wapsi). The sandstone and limestone bluffs in the 394-acre park are covered with moss and columbine. Hiking through a multitude of flowers, trees and wildlife leads one to splendid views from the bluffs.
The quiet walker along the Wapsi, or Dutch Creek, which runs through the park, may see a deer stop to drink, a beaver constructing a dam, or a wild turkey strutting through the forest. Mushrooms, nuts and berries may be harvested in the park.
There are unforgettable views from the road that winds between the river and bluffs. The white pine forest is one of the oldest plantings in Iowa and creates a feeling of being "way out west" or in Paul Bunyan's "far north" territory.
Facilities and Activities:
Picnicking/Shelters/Lodge
Wapsipinicon is a great place for a family picnic. Two open picnic sheltersare available and may be reserved online through the park reservation system.
There are two lodges which are ideal for group events such as wedding receptions and family reunions. The Boy Scout Lodge has a microwave, refrigerator, tables and running water. The Rotary lodge has a stove, refrigerator, tables and running water. It also has a modern restroom and is available year-round. The lodges may be reserved online through the park reservation system.
Camping
The shaded campground includes electrical hookups, modern rest rooms and showers. Advance campsite reservations can be made online through the park reservation system. One fourth of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Trails
Multi-use trails take you down to Dutch Creek but the Ice Cave and Horse Thief Cave and out to the recreation area. The multi-use trails are open to hiking, cross country skiing and snowmobiling.
Caves
Hiking along the bluffs reveals rocky staircases, crevices and caves. A trip to Wapsipinicon isn't complete without visiting bowl-shaped Horse Thief Cave. The excitement of years past exists in the legend of the two horse thieves who, legend says, used the cave for their camp. In the Ice Cave, visitors can crawl back into cool temperatures during the height of summer's heat.
River Activities (boating, fishing)
The Wapsi River has long been famous for its channel and flathead catfish, spring crappies, bullheads and smallmouth bass, especially below the dam near the park entrance. Dutch Creek meanders through the park and empties into the Wapsi. At its mouth, fishing is good almost anytime. This is also a feeding area for walleye and northern, providing anglers with a great challenge.
Recreation Area
Hunting is allowed in season on a 140-acre area adjacent to the park which was acquired in 1990. This area, bordered by the Wapsi River for a mile, features two ponds, grassy slopes, brushy valleys, scenic vistas, and offers hiking, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, fishing and hunting opportunities.
Golf
Don't forget your golf clubs. There is a nine hole golf course within the park boundaries, maintained by the Wapsipinicon Country Club. For information, call 319/462-3930.
Wapsipinicon State Park, dedicated in 1923, was one of Iowa's first state parks. It lies just south of Anamosa on the Wapsipinicon River (locally referred to as the Wapsi). The sandstone and limestone bluffs in the 394-acre park are covered with moss and columbine. Hiking through a multitude of flowers, trees and wildlife leads one to splendid views from the bluffs.
The quiet walker along the Wapsi, or Dutch Creek, which runs through the park, may see a deer stop to drink, a beaver constructing a dam, or a wild turkey strutting through the forest. Mushrooms, nuts and berries may be harvested in the park.
There are unforgettable views from the road that winds between the river and bluffs. The white pine forest is one of the oldest plantings in Iowa and creates a feeling of being "way out west" or in Paul Bunyan's "far north" territory.
Amenities
Within park
Bird Watching, Boat Launch Ramp, Boating, Camping - Electric, Camping - Nonelectric, Camping - Youth Group, Canoeing, Cross Country Skiing, Day-use Lodge, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Jogging/Running, Modern Campground, Picnic Area, Picnic Shelter, Restrooms, River, Showers, Snowmobiling, Stream/Creek, Trails, Cross County Skiing, Trails, Hiking, Trails, Snowmobile, Walking, Wildlife Viewing
