Iowa’s Most Underrated State Forest You Need to Visit

Hidden away in northwest Dubuque County, Iowa, is a magical place that doesn't get the love it oh-so-rightfully deserves. White Pine Hollow State Forest is an incredible little slice of paradise unlike any other place you've seen in this incredible state. It's not enormous, coming in at just 944 acres in size, but it's mighty, and it seems like something ripped from the pages of a fairytale instead of somewhere that you can tangibly visit.

But, no - it's real. It's here. And it's all ours. Personally, I am obsessed.

If you've ever read or seen the Lord of the Rings trilogy, you're familiar with the idea of Middle Earth, and if you ever find yourself wanting to visit Middle Earth, you can't - it's a fictional place, of course. But you can immerse yourself in something like it. This Iowa forest is the next best thing if you ask me. It makes it easy to pretend that you're within one of J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpieces.

It's more than just a sight for sore eyes: This incredible forest is home to hundreds of species of plants, animals, flora, and fauna, offering some truly incredible wildlife and nature-watching opportunities that you're sure to adore. Specifically, there are more than 500 species of plants here and over 90 species of birds. It's an incredible place where critters of all sorts thrive, and I think you'll fall madly in love with the woods just like I have.

The terrain is fairly rugged, and hiking here is a blast. It's nicely shaded throughout, but don't let that lull you into a false sense of security - it's incredibly important to bring plenty of water along for your adventure. Wear good, sturdy hiking shoe,s and always practice trail safety - you can never go wrong with being "too safe!"

There's more than just hiking to do 'round these parts, too, of course; it's a popular destination for trout fishing and camping, and if you're anything like me, I bet you'll never want to leave. I don't either, so no judgment here. I kind of wish I could live here. A girl can dream, right?

Other than the wildlife, it sometimes seems like the only thing living here could possibly be faeries. The entire landscape is so fantastical that it feels like something straight out of a book or movie, not a forest preserve in Iowa, of all places.

For more information about this otherworldly place right here in our own backyards, be sure to visit the official Iowa DNR website for the park. Craving more Iowa wonders? Check out all the best state parks in Iowa that you're sure to be obsessed with as much as I am.

Planning to visit and need a place to hang your hat? Check out all the awesome options from our friends at VRBO - you'll be amazed at how unique these stays can be. And once you've found a place to rest your head, find nearby Iowa adventures using our new Travel Planner!