Wildcat Den State Park is one of Iowa's most beautiful treasures, yet so many people have never hiked here. If you haven't checked this stunning park off your bucket list, make a plan to head out to Muscatine on the next nice day and see why this hike is one of the best in the Hawkeye State.
This beautiful park is home to a four-mile trail that will take you on the adventure of a lifetime.
The most significant, stunning bluffs and outcroppings are even named. See if you can find the Devil's Punch Bowl, Steamboat Rock, or Fat Man's Squeeze.
The Iowa Great Lakes are an amazing vacation area, filled with some of the best spots in the Hawkeye State for recreation on the water and touristy fun. But for those who want to get away from those busy-season crowds, the area is also home to some amazing hidden-gem parks in Iowa. Many of these hidden gems are located right on the shores of Spirit Lake. One of our favorites is Elinor Bedell State Park, which at only 80 acres, is one of the smallest in the state (but definitely not the smallest). This tiny park has a great trail to explore, and odds are, even during the summer, you'll be able to find some peace and quiet here.
Spirit Lake is a great spot in the northern part of Iowa. It's set slightly apart from the hustle and bustle of Arnolds Park but still offers all the features and natural beauty you'd want from a outdoor adventure in the Iowa Great Lakes.
While you're in the area, make sure you take the time to explore Elinor Bedell State Park. This small but peaceful state park is located on the shores of Spirit Lake and is rarely very crowded, so it's a great place to go for a quick hike.
There is only one trail in this park, but the 1.1-mile loop is an easy sunny-day adventure that should be suitable for any skill level. The trail is mostly paved and is welcoming to dogs, although your furry friend must be on a leash.
This is a particularly great spot to visit during the spring, when wildflowers are in full bloom, and during the fall when the entire area is covered with fall foliage.
The park was dedicated by former Congressman Berkley Bedell and his wife and, today, stands as a peaceful little refuge amid the bustling Spirit Lake area. A shelter ideal for events and a small campground are available, although the campground will be closed for renovations during the 2025 season.
Have you visited Elinor Bedell State Park on the shores of Spirit Lake? Let us know about your visit to this hidden-gem park in Iowa in the comments section! You can read more about the amenities at this park on the Iowa DNR website. For those planning on more hiking adventures, we highly recommend AllTrails Plus - it's a great app that offers point-by-point hiking directions through downloadable trail guides, so you'll always be connected even when the reception is spotty. And if you're looking for a great, family-friendly place to stay in the area, check out this luxurious cabin rental.
A summer trip to Arnolds Park is a rite of passage for many Iowans, but as wonderful as the lakeside resort is, it can be a lot! Sometimes after a full day of amusement parks, waterparks, and beachside fun, you need a little peaceful rest and recreation. A perfect haven for cooling off and catching your breath is located right around the corner - Pillsbury Point State Park. Where are they hiding a full state park in Arnolds Park, you ask? This is the smallest state park in Iowa and it's only six and a half acres, but it's so charming that we named it as one of our picks for the best state parks in Iowa. It's also a significant site in Iowa history, so why not take a bit out of your busy day and explore this hidden gem?
advertisement
Welcome to Pillsbury Point State Park, a tiny haven in the middle of bustling Arnolds Park, located not far from a row of summer homes.
Have you been to Pillsbury Point State Park and explored its grounds and history? Let us know your thoughts about Iowa's smallest state park in the comments. If you want to know more about Arnolds Park's vacation offerings, make sure to check the website of Arnolds Park for more details on the town and its surrounding attractions. If you're looking to learn more about a much more high-energy outing in Arnolds Park, read up on Bridges Bay Resort, a massive resort and dining destination. It's an amazing home base for adventures on the Iowa Great Lakes, so book your getaway - you can choose between resort rooms or spacious and private cabins.
