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Maquoketa Caves State Park

Explore Iowa's most unique state park with 13 caves, six miles of scenic trails, and natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Park Hours

4:00 AM – 10:30 PM Daily

Admission

Completely Free

Parking

Free • Limited spots (150) • Visit mid-week

Emergency

In an emergency, always call 911.

Parks Alert and Notices 

View Details

introduction to the park 

Tucked into the rolling hills of eastern Iowa, Maquoketa Caves State Park is one of the state's most remarkable natural treasures. With more than a dozen accessible caves, towering limestone formations, and miles of wooded trails, it offers an underground adventure unlike anything else in the Midwest — no experience required. 

Whether you're walking  through Dancehall Cave, spotting wildlife along the bluffs, or setting up, this park has something for every explorer. This is your go-to guide for planning the perfect trip — from what to pack and when to visit, to trail maps, camping details, and everything in between.”  

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Basic information 

Find everything you need to know before your visit, including parking, restrooms, available amenities, and helpful tips to make your cave experience enjoyable.

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Camping

Quick info on campsites, amenities, parking, and other camping essentials.

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Trails

Explore trail options with clear difficulty levels and key details to help you choose the right hike.”

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Caves

Find cave information including difficulty levels, highlights, and pics  to help you choose the right experience.”

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Explore Caves

Be Prepared

What to Wear

  • Sturdy hiking shoes or boots (surfaces can be slippery and wet)

  • Clothes you don't mind getting dirty (especially for crawling caves)

  • Layers for cooler cave temperatures

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What to Bring

  • Flashlight or Headlamp (Essential for cave exploration)

  • Water and snacks

  • Camera for scenic views

  • Park map

Camping

Experience the beauty of nature with our newly upgraded campground nestled among beautiful pine trees. Choose from standard electric campsites or primitive hike-in sites for a more adventurous experience.

  • 100% reservable campsites

  • Standard electric and primitive sites available

  • Open March – November

  • Youth group campsites available

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Hiking Trails

Explore our 6-mile trail system connecting caves, scenic overlooks, and natural wonders

Main Loop Trail

Connects major caves and scenic overlooks throughout the park. Perfect for experiencing the full park experience.

Moderate
Raccoon Creek Trail

Follows the scenic stream through the valley, offering beautiful water views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Easy
Overlook Trail

Scenic views of the limestone bluffs and forest canopy. Stunning photography opportunities at every turn.

Moderate

Visitor Center

Interpretive Center (Formerly Sager's Museum)

Learn about the geology of cave formations, park history, and the natural wonders of Maquoketa Caves.

Hours

Weekends during summer season

Location

Inside the park

Features

Video tour, geology displays, park history

Park Amenities

Planning ahead helps you make the most of your visit to Maquoketa. Here are a few helpful tips to get you started:

Restrooms & Showers

Available in campground area

Picnic Areas

CCC shelters (first-come, first-served)

Parking

Free parking (limited spots)

Wash-off Stations

Clean up after caving

Safety & Rules

Parking Information

  • Free parking available within the park

  • Designated parking areas near cave entrances

  • Follow posted signs and park guidelines

  • Do not block emergency or access routes

Pet Guidelines

  • Pets must be on a leash (max 6 feet)

  • Clean up after your pets at all times

  • Pets are not allowed inside cave areas

  • Ensure pets do not disturb wildlife

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Special Events & Activities

Join guided tours, nature programs, and seasonal events throughout the year. Browse the events calendar to discover what’s happening during your visit.

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