Backbone State Park offers several cabin accommodations within Iowa's oldest state park. Located in the Maquoketa River Valley, these cabins near Dundee, Iowa sit at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in a region characterized by limestone bluffs and dense hardwood forests. Winter temperatures typically range from 10-30°F, while summer averages 65-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking trails: Backbone State Park features extensive trail systems including the famous Backbone Trail. "We loved waking up in the morning and going for a walk along the many trails, seeing deer on the trail, and the lake," notes one visitor at Pikes Peak State Park.
River activities: Multiple water recreation options exist near Dundee. "We stayed here for the easy access to the water for the Scouts to get out in canoes and fishing. My son and I like to get the canoes and Kayaks out and paddle around the lake," shares a camper at Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area.
Fishing opportunities: Trout streams and lakes provide fishing throughout the region. "Just my husband and I this time. We hadn't been to Dundee in about 9 years so we decided to head up and check out the trout streams," reports a visitor to Backbone State Park.
Fall foliage viewing: October brings spectacular colors to the wooded areas. "We went camping at Backbone for a friend's wedding that was taking place at the park's lodge. While most of the wedding guests stayed in town, we opted to camp, during October. It was gorgeous!"
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available," reports a visitor at South Lake Campground.
Swimming areas: The region offers various swimming options. "This was a great getaway after being locked down for COVID-19. We had some great spots and a lot of open area," notes a camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Monticello, which provides additional lodging options near Dundee.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spaces. "The tent sites are very nice and private. There are waist high prairie flowers between the sites to provide privacy and beauty. New picnic tables. Lots of shade," observes a Pleasant Creek visitor.
Family-friendly environments: "Very family friendly and affordable," mentions a reviewer about Skip-A-Way Resort, which offers cabin rentals within driving distance of Dundee.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin accommodations require advance booking. "FYI When we made reservations this site required a two-night minimum stay. Don't know if that is for all seasons," notes a visitor at Pikes Peak State Park.
Variable water conditions: Water quality can fluctuate seasonally. "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it," reports one Backbone State Park visitor.
Limited cell service: Some areas have spotty coverage. "We had 4 bar LTE with Verizon. Our hotspot was usable and performed very well," shares a camper from a nearby KOA, indicating service varies by location and carrier.
Seasonal popularity: "October is one of their busiest times of the year due to the fall colors, which peak around Oct 9-15th," notes a Pikes Peak visitor, suggesting booking well ahead for this period.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. "The playground is fantastic and keep the kids entertained all day. The water is great for fishing, swimming and boating," according to a visitor at Pinicon Ridge Park.
Educational opportunities: "I went with a group of entering sixth grade Girl Scouts on a weekend tent camping trip to this park. The campsites were simple to access and the grounds were easy to navigate. We hiked on the famous Backbone trail - a really fun hike that isn't too incredibly long," shares a Backbone State Park visitor.
Wildlife viewing: "Great scenery and views! Fun trails, great beach, lighthouse, boat docks, cabins, caves, and much more. Absolutely loved this place! Had a blast got lots of great pics and memories!"
Weather planning: "There is a hiking trail around the lake, about 8 miles complete loop. There is a bit of elevation change and not many opportunities to 'bail out' so take water and pace yourself," advises a Pleasant Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Pay attention to the terrain. "Level sites but not much shade. Surprised we did not get an escort to our site as is usual at KOA's," notes one traveler.
Hookup specifications: Check what's available at your location. "Sites are gravel for the RV, reasonably level, and very well maintained. Most sites are pull through. Hookups are in very good condition."
Dump station locations: "Campgrounds are clean and easy to navigate with our 31' TT. Camp host was very helpful. Shower/bathroom was super clean and smelled clean. Firewood available in 5 gallon buckets."
Space considerations: "Nice pull-through, large enough for our 36' 5th Wheel and pickup tow vehicle, needed more leveling than some. Some sites have power and water, ours only power. There's a water pipe and dump station on the way out."
