October in Iowa is a spectacular season for nature lovers, and state parks are at their peak. These 7 parks offer some of the best fall color and scenery the state has to offer.
Each has its own charm and surprises waiting to be discovered. Pack a picnic and enjoy a crisp autumn day outdoors in Iowa.
1. Backbone State Park
Iowa’s oldest state park doesn’t disappoint when autumn arrives. The dramatic limestone ridge called ‘The Devil’s Backbone’ creates a stunning backdrop for fall colors reflecting in the Maquoketa River.
Hiking trails wind through maple-hickory forests that burst into fiery hues by mid-October. Richmond Springs and the 21-acre lake offer peaceful spots to enjoy the colorful canopy above.
2. Pikes Peak State Park
Perched 500 feet above the Mississippi River, this northeastern Iowa gem offers what many consider the state’s most spectacular autumn views. From the main overlook, watch eagles soar against a backdrop of multicolored bluffs.
The boardwalk trail to Bridal Veil Falls becomes magical when surrounded by golden foliage. On clear October days, you can see across three states while standing amid a sea of crimson and amber trees.
3. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park
Ancient oak and hickory trees create a cathedral-like canopy along the Des Moines River in this southeastern Iowa treasure. The 13-mile trail system winds through ravines where fallen leaves create a crunchy carpet underfoot.
The historic Ely Ford crossing becomes even more picturesque when framed by autumn colors. Look for white-tailed deer moving through the golden underbrush as you explore one of Iowa’s largest state parks.
4. Ledges State Park
Dramatic sandstone cliffs rise 100 feet above the Des Moines River, creating one of central Iowa’s most distinctive landscapes. In October, these ancient formations become framed by vibrant sugar maples and oaks.
Canyon Drive offers a scenic route with several pull-offs for admiring the colorful canyon walls. The oak savanna on the park’s upper levels transforms into a golden wonderland, perfect for photographers seeking that magic autumn light.
5. Maquoketa Caves State Park
Mysterious limestone caves become even more enchanting when surrounded by autumn’s palette. This eastern Iowa wonderland features more than a dozen caves connected by wooded trails that showcase spectacular fall colors.
Natural Bridge stands 50 feet above the valley floor, framed by golden oaks and russet maples. After exploring the caves, climb to Balanced Rock for panoramic views of the forest canopy in its October glory.
6. Yellow River State Forest
Though technically not a state park, this northeastern Iowa forest preserve offers some of the most remote and spectacular fall scenery in the state. Rugged hiking trails wind through hardwood forests that explode with color in October.
The Paint Creek Unit features challenging terrain with rewarding vistas of rolling hills covered in autumn hues. Iowa’s only designated wilderness area becomes a photographer’s dream when morning mist rises through valleys of gold and crimson.
7. Waubonsie State Park
Tucked in Iowa’s southwestern corner, this hidden gem offers panoramic views across the Missouri River Valley. The rare loess hills formation supports unique plant communities that turn spectacular shades of russet and gold.
Ridge-top trails provide breathtaking vistas across three states. On clear October days, the contrast between golden prairie grasses and woodland colors creates a uniquely beautiful autumn experience you won’t find elsewhere in Iowa.