8 Iowa Airbnbs Near Waterfall Trails You’ll Want To Explore

If you've ever spent a day wandering the Driftless Area or exploring the Hawkeye State's river valleys, you know the state's reputation as nothing but flat prairie land is a bit of a myth. Iowa's landscape is actually dotted with rugged limestone bluffs, hidden ravines, and yes, even waterfalls. You can even pair seeing some of these falls with a decent hike. However, nobody wants to spend hours staring at a dashboard when they could be relaxing by the water—that's why I prefer to book Airbnbs near waterfall trails in Iowa when I go looking for adventure.

Staying close to the action means you aren't wasting your weekend commuting, and you get to enjoy the quiet of the woods after the day-trippers have cleared out. To help you plan your next outing, I’ve rounded up eight of the best waterfalls in Iowa and paired them with highly-rated Airbnbs that are just a few minutes away. That way, you can hit some of our favorite waterfall hikes in Iowa while enjoying a comfortable place to crash when you’re done.

1. Dunning's Spring - Decorah

Growing up in Decorah, I spent countless afternoons exploring the limestone bluffs around Dunning's Spring, which features a roughly 40-foot drop right near the edge of town. The short walk from the parking area brings you to this striking cascade that tumbles out of a cave and down a steep hillside before joining the Upper Iowa River. After exploring the surrounding trails, you retreat to the Modern Comfort Riverview Stay. This extensively renovated, centrally located rental apartment sits right across the street from the river and is just a short walk from both the waterfall and downtown Decorah.

2. Bridal Veil Falls - McGregor

Tucked inside Pikes Peak State Park, Bridal Veil Falls is an accessible cascade that drops 20 feet off a steep limestone shelf. You reach the site via a very manageable, one-mile boardwalk trail that also provides sweeping views of the Mississippi River valley below. Once you finish walking the bluffs, The Bluffside Retreat makes for a perfect home base. This cozy, three-bedroom, two-bath property is located less than 10 minutes from the park on a partially wooded lot. You get a comfortable living space with a full kitchen and an outdoor patio, allowing you to easily transition from a morning on the trails to a relaxing evening by the river.

3. Malanaphy Springs - Bluffton

I think Malanaphy Springs is one of the more striking natural features in Winneshiek County. The 1.9-mile out-and-back trail can be a bit challenging due to exposed roots and occasional mud, but it rewards you with a clear view of a spring-fed waterfall dropping directly into the Upper Iowa River. To stay within easy driving distance of this secluded spot, check out the Hill Top House outside of Decorah. This highly-rated property features three bedrooms and two bathrooms on a scenic lot overlooking the river valley. With a relaxing loft and a dreamy porch, it's a perfectly peaceful spot to kick back. The home is about a 5-minute drive from the Malanaphy Springs trailhead

4. Lake Macbride Falls - Solon

Lake Macbride State Park features a gentle, multi-tiered waterfall rushing over a rock spillway between Lake Macbride and the Coralville Reservoir. The hike to the falls is an easy, scenic 1.1-mile loop perfect for a relaxed afternoon outdoors. When you're ready to kick off your boots, the Lake Macbride Getaway is a fantastic property located right by the water. This split-ranch home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a year-round hot tub, and a screened-in patio with partial lake views. The trailhead starts right across from the driveway, putting you just a 3-minute walk from the water and a 5-minute drive from the main park area. It's an ideal spot to spend a weekend enjoying the lake and avoiding the highway.

5. Woodman Hollow Falls - Webster County

Woodman Hollow State Preserve hides what is arguably the most surprising waterfall in the state. The one-mile loop trail is frequently overgrown and requires a bit of bushwhacking, but the payoff is a quiet fall that pours into a pool deep within a wooded ravine. Since this hike takes some effort, staying at Key Lime Place in nearby Fort Dodge is a smart move. This beautifully renovated property provides two bedrooms and one bathroom, offering a highly comfortable space to recover after navigating the dense brush. It is just a 15-minute drive from the preserve's rugged terrain. With a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy basement theater area, and a large bay window overlooking the park, it's a perfect spot to set up shop.

6. Union Grove State Park - Gladbrook

The spillway at Union Grove State Park creates a picturesque waterfall that serves as the centerpiece of this popular recreation area. You can reach the falls via a quick out-and-back walk, or you can stretch your legs on the 2.3-mile loop trail to see more of the lake. To make a weekend out of it, book a stay at a unique estate on a family-owned golf course just outside of nearby Marshalltown. This retreat features five bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with a screened-in porch and a seasonal heated pool. Located about 15 minutes from the state park, it's a peaceful space where you can relax or play a complimentary round of golf after a day spent hiking.

7. Briggs Woods Falls - Webster City

Located just an hour north of Des Moines, Briggs Woods County Park features a lovely series of cascades along the Boone River. The falls are accessible via a moderate, 2.6-mile loop trail that winds through a dense, quiet forest. After a few hours on the trail, Ranchview Inn in Webster City provides an excellent spot to unwind. This sprawling retreat sits on two wooded acres and features six bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a fully fenced private pool and hot tub. Even better, it's just a short, 4-minute drive from the park.

8. Ledges State Park - Boone

Ledges State Park is famous for its towering sandstone cliffs and the shallow, splashy riverbed that hikers love to wade through during the warmer months. While the cascades here are smaller, the hike through the canyon is a completely unique geological experience for the state. To stay close to the action, the Main Street Station is a fantastic option. This large home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fun, railroad-themed interior with plenty of space to relax. It's a convenient and comfortable home base located just a 12-minute drive from the park entrance.

Making the choice to stay near the trail completely changes the energy of a waterfall-chasing trip. Instead of rushing through your hike to beat the sunset and the long drive home, you can actually take your time and soak in the scenery. Grab your gear and get ready for a weekend of exploring the scenic side of Iowa. When you're ready to start mapping things out, check out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for inspiration.