Ledges State Park, located in Iowa, is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse outdoor activities. The park features a unique landscape with deep canyons, high bluffs, and a variety of flora and fauna. It offers a range of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, bird watching, fishing, and geocaching. The park has a well-equipped campground with RV and tent camping facilities. Its picturesque trails and views and rich natural and cultural history make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and families.
Does Ledges State Park offer RV Camping?
Yes, Ledges State Park does offer RV camping. The park includes a campground that accommodates RVs. It offers 69 RV campsites, with 16 of these sites providing full water, electric, and sewer hookups. The remaining 53 sites have electric hookups only. The campground includes back-in sites with 20-30-50 amp service. Additionally, there are 12 hike-in campsites for tent camping.
It’s important to note that starting in 2024, all campsites at Ledges State Park will be 100% reservable with the option for same-day reservations. Campsites can be reserved online, by phone, or at the park office, and reservations can be made up to the time of your visit.
Ledges State Park Contact Details
- Address: 1515 P Ave, Madrid, IA 50156, United States
- Phone: 515-432-1852
- Website: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/Ledges-State-Park
Ledges State Park RV Camping Rates
The rates for RV camping at Ledges State Park vary depending on the type of site and amenities provided. Here are the general rate guidelines.
- Full Hookup Sites: These sites, which include water, electric, and sewer hookups, typically cost around $26 per night.
- Electric Hookup Sites: Most sites with only electric hookups are priced at about $20 per night.
- Hike-in Tent Sites: The hike-in campsites are generally available for $14 per night for those interested in tent camping.
Please note that these rates are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the latest pricing and availability directly through the park’s reservation system or contact them for the most current information.
Ledges State Park Campground Map
Ledges State Park Amenities for RV Camping
- Electric Hookups: Many RV sites are equipped with electrical hookups to power RVs.
- Full Hookup Sites: A number of sites offer full hookups, which include water, electric, and sewer services.
- Pull-through Sites: The campground includes pull-through sites, making it easier for larger RVs to set up.
- Dump Station: There is a dump station available for RV use.
- Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in the RV camping area, provided they are kept on a leash and supervised.
- Reservable Sites: Campsites can be reserved in advance, providing convenience and certainty for travelers.
Things To Do At Ledges State Park
Hiking
The park is renowned for its extensive trail system, spanning about 4 miles. These trails meander through the park’s distinctive landscape, including deep canyons and high bluffs. Hiking at Ledges State Park offers a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty, with trails suitable for a range of skill levels, from easy walks to more challenging hikes with steep inclines.
Bird Watching
The park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with its diverse habitats attracting a wide range of bird species. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual observer, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to spot local and migratory birds, including species like the pileated woodpecker and bald eagle. The park’s varied landscapes provide an excellent backdrop for bird watching.
Fishing
Anglers will find opportunities to fish in the Des Moines River, which borders the park. The river hosts a variety of fish species, including white bass, catfish, walleye, striped bass, and flathead. Fishing can be enjoyed from the shore or by using a canoe or kayak to access deeper waters.
Geocaching
For those interested in a modern treasure hunt, the park offers geocaching. This activity involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden caches within the park. It’s a fun and interactive way to explore the park while engaging in a global game of hide and seek.
Nature Watching
Ledges State Park’s vast area of over 1,000 acres is home to diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy watching a variety of mammals, including white-tailed deer, raccoons, beavers, and woodchucks. The park’s rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes, such as the 100-foot-deep gorge, provide ample opportunities for nature watching.
Stargazing
The park’s location away from city lights makes it an ideal spot for stargazing. On clear nights, visitors can observe the stars, moon, and possibly other planets. Stargazing enthusiasts can use telescopes or apps to enhance their experience.
Exploring Flora and Fauna
The park is home to nearly 500 plant species, offering a chance to explore various habitats, from shaded woodlands to meadows. It’s a great place to learn about and appreciate the region’s natural biodiversity.
Nearby Attractions at Ledges State Park
Hiking Trails
The park offers a variety of hiking trails like the Canyon Road and Table Rock Loop, Ledges Table Rock Trail, Inspiration Point, Crow’s Nest Loop, Oak Woods, Prairie, Hog’s Back Loop, and the Lost Lake Nature Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and offer diverse experiences, from forest walks to scenic overlooks with water features like creeks and swamps.
Canyon Drive
This scenic drive through a canyon is a unique feature of the park. The road crosses the stream multiple times through low water crossings, offering a fun experience of driving through water. This is particularly popular in the summer, with families enjoying the stream.
Boating and Water Activities
Though primarily set up for boaters, the Des Moines River near the park provides opportunities for water activities. The boat launch allows access to the river, and visitors can enjoy the natural scenery from the water.
Nature Enjoyment
The park’s varied landscape, including forest areas and river valleys, offers ample opportunities for nature enjoyment. It’s a great spot for families and nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate Iowa’s natural beauty.
Picnic Areas
The park features nice picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a leisurely day in nature.
Viewpoints
The park has several cool viewpoints, especially of the Des Moines River. These spots are great for taking in the area’s scenic beauty and for photography enthusiasts.
Ledges State Park Brief History
Ledges State Park, located near Boone, Iowa, has a rich and varied history. Archaeological evidence indicates that humans have appreciated and utilized this unique area for at least 4,000 years. Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk, Fox (Meskwakie), and Sioux. The park’s unique geological features, including its sandstone ledges, were formed approximately 13,000 years ago by glaciers.
The idea of designating the Ledges area as a state park was proposed as early as 1914, driven by the local community’s appreciation of its natural beauty. Carl Fritz Henning, a naturalist and key advocate for the park, was appointed as the Park Custodian in 1921. In 1924, Ledges officially became one of Iowa’s first state parks, and quickly became a major attraction, drawing visitors not only from across the United States but also from other countries.
During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed several structures in the park using native timber and field stone, including an iconic stone bridge, shelters, and stone trail steps. These structures still stand today, adding historical depth to the park’s natural beauty. Ledges State Park has also experienced significant flooding from the nearby Des Moines River over the years, with major flood levels recorded on a “flood pole” within the park.
The park’s history is deeply interwoven with both its natural environment and human interaction, making it a site of significant historical and natural importance in Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog to Ledges State Park?
Yes, dogs are allowed at Ledges State Park. They must be kept on a leash and supervised at all times to ensure the safety of all park visitors and wildlife.
How can I make reservations at Ledges State Park?
Reservations for camping at Ledges State Park can be made online, by phone, or at the park office. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Does Ledges State Park have caves?
Ledges State Park is not known for caves. Its main features include sandstone ledges, deep canyons, and high bluffs.
Does Ledges State Park have cabins?
Ledges State Park does not offer cabin rentals. The park mainly provides camping facilities for both tents and RVs.
Does Ledges State Park have trails?
Yes, Ledges State Park boasts an extensive trail system suitable for various skill levels, offering scenic views and opportunities for nature exploration.