Stone State Park, located just minutes from downtown Sioux City, has over 15 miles of trails to explore. The trails in the northern half of the park meander through campgrounds and cross park roads. The Carolyn Benne Nature Trail details the natural history of the area on an interpretive walk through the park and features one of the best scenic views in the park. The popular  Tunnel Trail gets its name from a tunnel that runs underneath the park road. Buffalo Run Trail leads to Dakota Point Overlook, aptly named with views of South Dakota to the west. Another viewpoint, Elk Point, has excellent views of the southern half of the park.

The trails in the southern half are more rugged and wild as they do not cross park roads or enter campgrounds. Perhaps the best trail in the park, Mt. Lucia, leads to a viewpoint at the southern end of Stone State Park. You can connect with trails leading to Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center at the overlook. The trails in the southern half are your best bet for a slice of woodland wander that is easily accessible due to its proximity to Sioux City and Interstate 29.

Manager: Iowa DNR
Trails: 15-mile trail system
Trail hours: 4
Other users: Bikers and equestrians (6 total miles of multi-use trails)
Camping: Yes, modern and tent; camping cabins
Amenities: Nature center, interpretive trails, playground, day-use lodge, shelters, modern restrooms, showers
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No

Hike a trail and let prairie grasses tickle your chin. Explore bur oak forests with 150-year old giants. Climb the ridges and imagine what Lewis and Clark might have seen. The 2.5 miles of trails explore prairie ridges and woodlands. A section of Whitetail Ridge Trail is accessible for people with mobility difficulties.

Manager: Woodbury Conservation
Trails: 2.5-mile trail system
Trail hours: 4:00am - 10:30pm
Other users: Foot traffic only
Camping: No
Amenities: Nature center, water fountain, restrooms
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No
Notes: Hikers park in lower lot (below gate) after 4:00pm​

Sioux City Prairie is one of the nation’s largest native prairie tracts found in an urban setting. An area uniquely and delicately balanced between the city and the wild, it allows visitors an escape from city life by immersing themselves in a tallgrass prairie.

Sioux City Prairie is a TNC-owned 150-acre tallgrass prairie preserve. The prairie and wooded valleys of this well-drained, high-relief landscape support a variety of plants and animals typically found further west in the Great Plains. The preserve also supports a diverse population of birds and it provides critical habitat for many species of prairie butterflies.

Manager: Sioux City Parks & Recreation
Trails: 3 miles
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 42.494696, -96.338502
Camping: No
Amenities: Picnic area, shelters, restrooms, Off-leash area/dog park
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No​

Enjoy a 2-mile trail loop that extends through Cone Park and Sertoma Park. For more trails in Sioux City visit the Parks and Recreation Trail Page, or call Parks and Recreation at (712) 279-6126. Off shoot trails offer non-paved hiking trails.

Manager: Sioux City Parks & Recreation
Trails: 2-mile loop
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 42.442543, -96.362727
Camping: No
Amenities: Restrooms
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No​

Located one-half mile west of Smithland on Hwy 141 near the Southwood Conservation Area, this 160 acre area is a perfect spot for a picnic, or a walk through the woods.

Park facilities are open and pressurized water systems are available May 1 through October 31.

​Manager: Woodbury Conservation
Trails: 1 mile
Other users: None
GPS: 42.232340, -95.945248
Camping: No
Amenities: Picnic shelter, playground, restrooms
Dogs: Yes, on leash; contact Woodbury Conservation for specific regulations
Hunting: Not on the wildlife refuge where the trail is located

Encompassing more than 2,082 acres of public land in the hills adjacent to the Little Sioux River Valley, Oak Ridge is divided into four units with six public parking accesses between Oto and Smithland. This natural, undeveloped area is available for hiking and public hunting.

​Manager: Woodbury Conservation
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed throughout
Other users: Hunters
GPS: Six public parking accesses; refer to the maps on the area's website
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash; contact Woodbury Conservation for specific regulations
Hunting: Yes​

This 210-acre area is located four miles southeast of Anthon. It is an undeveloped public wildlife area for hiking and hunting. Wildlife and wildflowers are abundant.

​Manager: Woodbury Conservation
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed throughout
Other users: Hunters
GPS: 42.313114, -95.869766
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash; contact Woodbury Conservation for specific regulations
Hunting: Yes​

Shagbark Hills was acquired in 1976 for wildlife habitat. The area contains a native stand of shagbark hickory trees unique to the area. The undeveloped 379-acre area is located one-half mile south of Correctionville and is open for hiking and public hunting.

​Manager: Woodbury Conservation
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed throughout
Other users: Hunters
GPS: 42.455177, -95.786987
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash; contact Woodbury Conservation for specific regulations
Hunting: Yes

Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each Friday a blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).

Derald W. Dinesen Prairie is a 20-acre remnant of native tallgrass prairie. It is located six miles northeast of Harlan in northeastern Shelby County. Derald Dinesen purchased the area in 1943, realizing that the Iowa prairie was nearly a thing of the past. It was dedicated in 1977 as a biological state preserve. He told reporters at the dedication, “I guess the reason I set aside the land was based on instinct. The instinct to leave something behind for posterity of what you believe in. I just wanted to see and have others see the beauty of the land as it existed years ago when the Indians roamed [the land].”​

There are no maintained trails at Dinesen Prairie, however, hiking is allowed throughout the property.

Manager: Shelby CCB
Trails: No maintained trails but hiking is allowed
Other users: None
GPS: 41.70884, -95.28142
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, just no dog training/interfering with nesting birds in May-June.
Hunting: No

The Elkhorn Creek Recreation Area is a multiple use area, and is the ideal setting for a family on an outing, or for a person looking for solitude. With it's groomed trails and unique wildlife, the adventures are never ending. The upper picnic area contains what is believed to be the original site of the pioneer village of Elk Horn. Many building foundation blocks remain to mark the site. Petersen Preserve is roughly 32 acres and also part of the park - it has many grass walking trails. 

Manager: Shelby CCB
Trails: Yes
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 41.56973, -95.08927
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Picnic facilities, ADA-accessible restrooms, water
Dogs: Yes, just no dog training/interfering with nesting birds in May-June.
Hunting: Archery only

Set in the hills of Grove township is Manteno Park, Shelby County Conservation Board's most popular area. Located northwest of Earling, it contains a 12-acre lake and includes hiking trails. Manteno is known for its shaded picnic areas and calm atmosphere. A 40-acre tract of timber adjacent to the park was purchased in 1994 and made into a nature area.

Manager: Shelby CCB
Trails: Yes
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 41.85683, -95.46155​
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Restrooms, water, picnic facilities
Dogs: Yes, just no dog training/interfering with nesting birds in May-June.
Hunting: No

The 80-acre Nishna Bend Recreation Area contains over 30 acres of wetland created from past gravel mining operations and is located southeast of Corley. Its acquisition was partially funded with grants from Duck Unlimited and Pheasants Forever. The ponds left from past mining operations contain bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill and bullhead to delight any angler. The other features include camping, a camping cabin, hiking trails, river access, an arboretum, a planting of tall grass, shortgrass prairie with many species of wildflowers, and a nature learning center.

Manager: Shelby CCB
Trails: Yes
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 41.56957, -95.33064
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Restrooms, shower house
Dogs: Yes, just no dog training/interfering with nesting birds in May-June.
Hunting: Yes

Oak Ridge Habitat Area is approx. 94 acres of timber and prairie.  This is a public hunting area that is managed for wildlife habitat.

Manager: Shelby CCB
Trails: Mowed trails
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 41.578361, -95.243513​
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, just no dog training/interfering with nesting birds in May-June.
Hunting: Yes

Prairie Rose State Park is a 422-acre park nestled in the scenic hills of southwest Iowa. The park is named after the small town, Village of Prairie Rose, which was once located near the park’s current location. The lake is the focal point of the park, and visitors enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities from hiking to boating, along with ice fishing in the winter.

Approximately 7 miles of trails weave throughout the park. All the trails are open for hiking, biking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. An interpretive trail starts in the northwest corner of the park and winds along the shoreline. The trails are great places to observe a variety of plants and wildlife. There are several areas of restored prairie along the trails.

Manager: Iowa DNR
Trails: 7 miles of multi-purpose trails and an interpretive trail
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 41.60532, -95.21860​
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Shelters, modern restrooms, water
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No

Rosenow Timber is owned by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and managed by the Shelby County Conservation Board. This 120 acres of virgin timber is a public hunting area that abounds with deer, turkey, squirrels, and many woodland plants.

Manager: Shelby CCB
Trails: No
Other users: None
GPS: 41.810704, -95.498675​
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, just no dog training/interfering with nesting birds in May-June.
Hunting: Yes

Six Bee Tree Timber is 40 acres of timber located directly across the road to the east of Manteno Park.  This is a public hunting area that is archery only allowed with a mowed trail loop going through it.

​Manager: Shelby CCB
Trails: Mowed trails
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 41.855796, -95.459858​
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, just no dog training/interfering with nesting birds in May-June.
Hunting: Yes

Upper Nish is approximately 3 miles of old railroad right of way that starts just 1/2 mile northeast of Irwin and is open to public hiking and hunting.

Manager: Shelby CCB
Trails: Mowed trails
Other users: Bikers
GPS: 41.801018, -95.189460
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, just no dog training/interfering with nesting birds in May-June.
Hunting: Yes

​Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each Friday a blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).

Last week we posted about camping on the three scenic byways that Golden Hills coordinates in western Iowa. With Memorial Day weekend approaching, and with it the summer outdoor recreation season, now is the time to make plans and reservations for campsites, as well as cabins.

There are numerous parks on the byways that have cabins available to rent, with options with modern showers, Wi-Fi, and smart TVs, t0 rustic cabins without running water or electricity. We have compiled a spreadsheet listing the cabins at parks managed by the Iowa DNR and county conservation boards on the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hill National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway.

To view the spreadsheet of cabins on the byways managed by the Iowa DNR and county conservation boards, click here. There are three tabs at the bottom for each separate byway. The information was collected from Iowa DNR and county conservation board websites. It is recommended that you contact the managing agency directly if you have questions or to confirm amenities and availability.

There are no camping cabins in Audubon County at parks managed by the Iowa DNR or Audubon County Conservation. For campsites and unique places to stay in Audubon County, check out our blog posts Camping on the Byways and Unique Places to Stay on Western Skies and Glacial Trail Scenic Byways.

The mountain bike trails along the Missouri River just south of Lake Manawa are also hiker-friendly. The area is right along the river, so whenever there is a flood the trails will likely be impassable and damaged. The trails are maintained by the THOR group.

Are you ready to start making summer plans? With spring right around the corner, it's a good idea to start thinking about your summer recreation plans. There are a wide range of camping options along western Iowa's scenic byways, from primitive hike-in campsites to full hook-up RV sites. From state parks and recreation areas, county parks, and city parks, outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of places to pitch a tent or park their RV. Some of these sites can be reserved ahead of time, for example at Iowa's state parks where you can reserve a site up to three months in advance. The traditional camping season begins on Memorial Day weekend, so the first week of March is when reservable campsites at Iowa state parks can be reserved. We've compiled a spreadsheet below of campsites along the three scenic byways that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway.

The list is not comprehensive; if there is a campground missing from the list, please contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org) to get it added to the list. Additionally, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information listed below. All information was compiled from the websites of the campground's manager (Iowa DNR, county conservation boards, municipalities, etc.). To correct or add information, also please contact Seth Brooks at Golden Hills (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).

The absence of an amenity, for example showers does not mean there are not showers at the facility; rather, it means that Golden Hills was unable to confirm on the manager's website whether the campground featured that amenity. It's always best to contact the campground's manager to confirm amenities, prices, season dates, and more.

Explanation of spreadsheet columns:
Electric - campsites with electrical hook-up; may or may not have sewer hook-up
Non-electric - campsite without electrical hook-up; available for RV and/or tent camping
Tent - tent-only campsites; some may be backcountry hike-in sites
$ per night - if there is more than one type of campsite, the range of the lowest to highest price is listed
Reserve - if campsites are able to be reserved in advance
Cabins - number of cabins available
Showers - showers for campers to use
Restrooms - modern and/or pit toilets
Water - pumps and/or hydrants for drinking water
Dump site - dump site for RVs
Season - dates campground is open or campground amenities are available; cabins may be open year-round

Click here to open the spreadsheet in a new tab.

Red - Cemetery Loop - 1.0 mile
Pink - Trail Connection - 0.2 mile
Blue - Outer Loop - 1.2 mile
Yellow - River Loop - 0.5 mile
Purple - Waterman Wildlife North - 0.75 mile
Green - Waterman Wildlife South - 0.9 mile
White - Observation platform - 0.1 mile
White - Experience Trail - 0.75 mile

The wildlife area, west across the road from the Prairie Heritage Center, is the site of the first settler in O’Brien County in 1856. Trails circle through the property, passing the Hannibal Waterman family cemetery and a historic marker placed by the O’Brien County Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1857, Santee Sioux Chief Inkpaduta and his band stopped at Hannibal Waterman’s cabin, gathering food and supplies and then moving upriver.

Refer to the map above for the trail system.​

Extending north along Waterman Creek from the junction with the Little Sioux River, and south of Highway 10 along on the west side of the river, the Waterman Prairie Wildlife Area Complex preserves 1,800 acres of oak savannas and pristine prairies. The O’Brien County Conservation Board, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and The Nature Conservancy manage the area.

The section of Waterman Prairie south of Highway 10 offers an accessible prairie experience for byway visitors. A parking lot on Wilson Avenue, 1½ miles south of Highway 10, leads to a trail that meanders through prairie-covered ridges with spectacular vistas of the Little Sioux River valley. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is restoring the prairie to its original plant community.​

Dog Creek's breathtaking view of the lake and valley is something to see.  It’s located along the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway.

Dog Creek Park is located 2 miles SE of Sutherland, Iowa on Iowa Highway 10 and 1/2 mile south on Warbler Avenue (Cty Rd M12) and placed along the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway.

text source: O'Brien County Conservation

​Manager: O'Brien County Conservation
Size: 110 acres
GPS: 42.93668, -95.47269​
Camping: Yes, 
Amenities: Modern toilets, water
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No​

Mill Creek Park is one of the highlights of O'Brien County.  The park offers a variety of activities for the whole family throughout the year! There is something for every outdoor lover at Mill Creek State Park including camping, swimming, hiking, a playground, electric boating, picnicking, and even cabin rentals. Fishing is also a popular activity, giving anglers a chance to catch largemouth bass, sunfish, channel catfish, crappie and yellow perch.
Mill Creek Park is located just 1/2 mile east of Paullina on Iowa Highway 10.

text source: O'Brien County Conservation

​Manager: O'Brien County Conservation
Size: 139 acres
Trails: 5 miles
GPS: 42.98499, -95.66740​
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Modern toilets, water
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No​

This remote camp location will let you be one with nature. Tjossem Park is located 1 mile south and 1/2 mile east of Primghar.

text source: O'Brien County Conservation

​Manager: O'Brien County Conservation
Size: 19 acres
Trails: Hiking that connects to Primghar
GPS: 43.06889, -95.61729
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Outdoor shelter areas, pit toilets, water
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No​

21 acres of remnant prairie donated by Francis McCormack in 1987 for public benefit and pleasure. The rolling hills are covered with tall grasses, shrubs and some small trees. The prairie is home to several hundred native plant species and pollinators.

​Manager: O'Brien County Conservation
Size: 21 acres
Trails: No official hiking trails but open to foot traffic
GPS: 42.96143, -95.42734
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Contact O'Brien County Conservation for confirmation
Hunting: No

Preparation Canyon State Park, in the heart of the Loess Hills in western Iowa, encompasses 344 acres, including what used to be the town of Preparation. Today, Preparation Canyon is a quiet enclave offering backcountry hiking, picnicking, and beautiful views of the unique Loess Hills.

In 1853, Charles B. Thompson broke from the Utah-bound Mormon wagon trail and settled in this area. At one point, Preparation had sixty-seven houses, a school, newspaper, post office, skating rink and blacksmith shop. But by 1900, the town had all but faded away. The land was sold by descendants of the original settlers to the state of Iowa in parcels during the mid-20th century and became the state park.

Hike on one of the several trails that wind through the rugged Loess Hills. The backcountry trails follow hills and valleys, leading to a nature study area and the hike-in camping sites. Hikers should be prepared for rough terrain and loose soil with sturdy hiking shoes and appropriate gear.

Camp in one of ten hike-in camping sites, which are some of the only hike-in sites in the Iowa state park system. The trailhead to the hike-in sites is located in the southeast corner of the park. The sites each have a table and fire ring, but no bathroom facilities. Registration is on a first-come first-served basis with self-registration in the east parking lot.

text source: Iowa DNR

​Manager: Iowa DNR
Size: 344 acres​
Trails: 6 miles
GPS: 41.89921, -95.92094​ (main park entrance)
GPS: 41.88875, -95.89515​ (parking for backpacking campsites)
Camping: Yes, ten hike-in campsites
Amenities: Pit toilets, shelter, trails, hike-In campsites
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Not in the state park but hunting is allowed in the adjacent state forest

If you want to camp at Preparation Canyon State Park, this hike will take you past all ten of the campsites, allowing you to scout which sites are available and to your liking. Start at the parking lot in the southeast corner of the park, which is intended for backpackers who are camping overnight. This route does not visit the campsites in numerical order, rather it makes a  clockwise loop, with the exception of near the end where it makes another loop to visit the final three campsites. The benefit of this route is that you can leave all your gear in your car at the parking lot as you scout the campsites. After completing the loop, choose your campsite and pay at the self-pay station near the parking lot, then hike in to your campsite with your gear. Below is a brief description of each campsite. The GPX track linked below includes photos of each campsite.

Campsite #1 - Closest to the parking, thus the shortest hike of all the sites. Little privacy as it's right on the trail near the trailhead.
Campsite #2 - The second closest campsite to the parking lot but with a little more privacy, as it's below the trail and has some tree cover.
Campsite #3 - Located above the trail on a hillside. Exposed to the wind but perfect for stargazing on clear nights.
Campsite #4 - The best site for stargazing. It has a large, flat area for several tents.
Campsite #5 - One of the most secluded of the campsites and my personal favorite. While enjoying my morning coffee at this campsite, I saw a coyote hunting for rodents just fifty yards away.
Campsite #6 - Off the trail and with plenty of tree cover. A hot summer day can make this site uncomfortable.
Campsite #7 - The highest campsite in the park; not ideal if it's windy.
Campsite #8 - Perched above the canyon with good views amidst the timber, but with little privacy.
Campsite #9 - Along with #10, the most private of the sites but also the farthest hike. Set on the hillside deep in the canyon.
Campsite #10 - The most secluded but farthest from the parking lot. Set in a "bowl" with tall, steep canyon walls surrounding the campsite.

Distance: 5.52 miles
Elevation gain: 735 feet
Trail surface: Dirt and grass
Difficulty: Moderate 11 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 41.88875, -95.89515​ (parking for backpacking campsites)​
GPX Track: Preparation Canyon Campsite Loop (All Trails)

This hike is perfect for day hikers who do not plan to overnight at the park. The trailhead is near the park's main entrance in the northwest corner of the park; take a left at the fork after the entrance gate. The hike descends into the canyon and follows it until a pond. This section can be extremely muddy in spring and after precipitation. The hike out of the canyon is incredibly steep. There is a spur trail about halfway up the climb that is slightly less steep, but your lungs will be burning nonetheless. The hike continues along a ridge before descending as you approach the backpacking parking lot. The hike up the prairie ridge allows sweeping views of Soldier River Valley and the park itself. The final stretch meanders through beautiful hardwood forest before climbing back up to the trailhead.

Distance: 3.24 miles
Elevation gain: 614 feet
Trail surface: Dirt and grass
Difficulty: Moderate 11 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 41.89540, -95.91383 (picnic area in NW corner of the park)
GPX Track: Preparation Canyon Loop (All Trails)

Preparation Canyon Unit is 4,068 acres and located north of the town of Pisgah. The unit has a small fishing lake and numerous hiking trails. Visit the Scenic Overlook, showcasing spectacular views of the forest, prairies, Missouri River bottomlands, and across the Nebraska plains. Preparation Canyon State Park is located on the northeast corner of the Preparation Canyon Unit of the state forest. The park is also the historical site of the town of Preparation, a Mormon gathering place with an interesting history located in the southeast corner of the state park.

Manager: Iowa DNR
Size: 4,068 acres
Trails: More than 20 miles
Trailheads: Multiple trailheads with parking; refer to the map below 
Camping: Primitive camping is allowed throughout the state forest
Amenities: Shelter at Jones Creek Pond
Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Yes​

There are about two miles of trails that begin at the Loess Hills Scenic Overlook. Two maps are provided below, one from the Iowa DNR that shows a one-mile loop, and another that utilizes trails in the southern section of this part of the state forest unit contiguous with the scenic overlook to make a 2.5-mile hike. Both hikes require a tricky descent from the ridge where a footbridge once traversed the cut in the ridge. The longer hike climbs back up the ridge to continue south towards County Road E60. Both hikes return to the scenic overlook by following the path along the east ridge that heads north towards Oak Avenue.

Distance: 2.54 miles
Elevation gain: 381 feet
Trail surface: Dirt and grass
Difficulty: Moderate 9 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 41.90521, -95.94569
GPX Track: Loess Hills Scenic Overlook Trail, long loop (All Trails)​

Named after a young woman who tragically passed away after a horse riding accident, Sarah's Trail begins in Preparation Canyon State Park but shortly enters the state forest. The trail follows a ridge dense with eastern redcedar before descending to a corn field north of Jones Creek Pond. Head north along the edge of the field. The hike back up to the state park has two options: follow the GPX track below, which follows a footpath that is faint in places, or continue to the next valley to find another beaten footpath that ascends to the park entrance.

Distance: 3.30 miles
Elevation gain: 308 feet
Trail surface: Dirt and grass
Difficulty: Easy 7 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 41.89586, -95.91839​
GPX Track: Sarah's Trail (All Trails)​

This is one of my favorite hikes in the entire Loess Hills. The hike is strenuous and requires route-finding, but the rewards are ridgetop views and close encounters with wildlife. I wrote about this hike in detail in June 2021 for Golden Hills.

Distance: 6.6 miles
Elevation gain: 643 feet
Trail surface: Dirt, grass, and gravel roads
Difficulty: Moderate 11 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 41.87135, -95.92556​ (Jones Creek Pond)
GPX Track: Ridge Trail Loop (All Trails)​

This hike combines the Ridge Trail Loop and Sarah's Trail for a challenging 10-mile trek through the state forest and state park. You can begin in the state park with Sarah's Trail, or follow the GPX track below which begins at Jones Creek Pond.

Distance: 9.97 miles
Elevation gain: 971 feet
Trail surface: Dirt, grass, and gravel roads
Difficulty: Challenging 14 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 41.87135, -95.92556​ (Jones Creek Pond)
GPX Track: Ridge Trail Loop & Sarah's Trail (All Trails)

The trails around Jones Creek Pond are great to explore any time of year: spring for wildflowers, summer under the shady tree canopy, fall for changing leaves, and winter for animal tracks and snowshoeing or cross-country skiing (remember to wear blaze orange during hunting season). If you combine the trails in the DNR map below, you can make a nice 3-mile loop around the lake. Per reports on All Trails in September 2022, however, the walking bridge on the north end of the pond was closed. If that is the case, you'll have to continue north to the road, where you can cross and complete the loop by connecting with mowed trails through the grass on each side of the stream that empties into the pond.

Distance: 3.04 miles
Elevation gain: 348 feet
Trail surface: Dirt and grass; footbridge on north end of the pond is closed as of Sept. 2022
Difficulty: Moderate 8 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 41.87135, -95.92556​ (Jones Creek Pond)
GPX Track: Jones Creek Pond (All Trails)​

There are more than 20 miles of trails between the state park and state forest, which makes the area one of the best in Iowa for backpacking. The main issue, however, is the availability of water. Due to the nature of the soil in the Loess Hills, there are few natural lakes. Farm ponds are options, but the few in the area likely have runoff from agricultural activities. Jones Creek Pond, however, is a reliable and likely safe source of water, provided that you filter, boil, or treat the water before consumption. The GPX track below combines the Campsite Loop in the state park with a short hike to Jones Creek Pond, where there is a primitive campsite on the west side of the pond. The grove of pines at the site provides shade and a comfortable base to pitch your tent. From here, you can explore the state forest via several trails. This recommendation makes for a long final day by hiking the first half of the Ridge Trail Loop to the Scenic Overlook, then returning to the state park via the second half of Ridge Trail Loop, Sarah's Trail, and the trails in the state park.​

Sylvan Runkel State Preserve is a 330-acre preserve containing an outstanding example of Iowa’s Loess Hills landscape, with extensive native prairie covering steep hills. The tracts comprising the preserve were acquired by the Iowa Conservation Commission in 1973 and 1980 as part of the 3,000-acre Loess Hills Wildlife Area. In 1985, the Loess Hills Wildlife Area (including the preserve area) became part of a 10,420-acre National Natural Landmark. In 1996, the preserve was established for its biological and geological significance, and named in memory of Sylvan Runkel.

Manager: Iowa DNR
Size: 330 acres
Trails: No maintained trails but hiking permitted throughout​
GPS: 42.10281, -95.97124 (Oak Avenue)
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash, however, no dogs are allowed during the nesting season from March 15 to July 15.​​
Hunting: No​​

Distance: 3.12 miles
Elevation gain: 440 feet
Trail surface: Dirt and grass
Difficulty: Moderate 9 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 42.10292, -95.97129​
GPX Track: Sylvan Runkel State Preserve (All Trails)

T​he Loess Hills Wildlife Area is a 3.119-acre site of timber and prairie located just west of Castana. The area is a mixture of timber, primarily burr oak, red cedar and sumac, and native grass prairie. A number of Iowa threatened or endangered animals make their home here including the northern grasshopper mouse, plains pocket mouse and spadefoot toad. Wild turkeys and prairie chickens have been reintroduced. White-tail deer, fox squirrel, cottontail rabbit, coyote, raccoon and badger are common. Turkey vultures, bobwhite quail, ring-necked pheasant, whip-poor-will and many songbirds also exist in good populations. Controlled burns prevent brush and tree invasion and stimulate growth of prairie plants. The Loess Hills Prairie Seminar is held here every summer (intersection of Oak Avenue and 178th St).

Before visiting a public wildlife area, please check out Chapter 51 : Wildlife Management Areas.

Manager: Iowa DNR
Size: 3,119 acres
Trails: No maintained trails but hiking permitted throughout​
GPS: Multiple parking areas; refer to the map below.
Camping: Primitive
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash, however, no dogs are allowed during the nesting season from March 15 to July 15.​​
Hunting: Yes (Deer, Turkey, Squirrel, Rabbit, Quail​)​​​

Turin Preserve Wildlife Area is a 220-acre area featuring a rugged Loess Hills landscape with an abrupt west-facing ridge. It is located in the southern unit of the 3,000-acre Loess Hills Wildlife Area, 2 miles north of Turin and 7.5 miles east of Onawa in Monona County. The Iowa Conservation Commission purchased the area in 1974. In 1978, the area was dedicated as a biological and geological state preserve and became part of a National Natural Landmark in 1986.​

​Before visiting a public wildlife area, please check out Chapter 51 : Wildlife Management Areas.

Manager: Iowa DNR
Size: 1,107 acres
Trails: No maintained trails but hiking permitted throughout​
GPS: Multiple parking areas; refer to the map below.
Camping: Primitive
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash, however, no dogs are allowed during the nesting season from March 15 to July 15.​​
Hunting: Yes (Deer, Turkey, Squirrel, Pheasant, Rabbit, Quail​)​​​

This 80-acre tract of dense native timber is located 4 miles southwest of Mapleton and just east of the Loess Hills Scenic Byway on Peach Avenue.  Approximately 10 acres have been developed for camping, picnicking, hiking, and nature studies. A 1.6 mile trail takes you around the whole timber, with four benches for stopping and relaxing along the way.  An open shelter house, 3 camping pads with 30 amp hook-ups, drinking water, and vault type toilet facilities are available.  Upright/ground grills and picnic tables are also available. Whiting Woods is an excellent place to view wildlife and provides great hunting opportunities. Electric campsites are $20.00 per night, non-electric are $15.00 per night.  A 10:30 curfew is enforced for all visitors. We currently do not take reservations for camping at this park as it is first come, first serve. 

text source: Monona County Conservation

Manager: Monona County Conservation
Size: 80 acres
Trails: 1.6 miles
GPS: 42.13892, -95.88534​
Camping: Yes, electric and non-electric
Amenities: Camping, shelter, picnic area, vault toilet
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Yes​​​

Distance:1.24 miles
Elevation gain: 174 feet
Trail surface: Dirt and grass
Difficulty: Easy 7 according to NW Hiker's Hike Difficulty Calculator
Trailhead: 42.13892, -95.88534
GPX Track: Hitchman Nature Trail at Whiting Woods (All Trails)

The following areas, managed by Monona County Conservation, also allow hiking. Check the linked websites for more information.

Beaver Run Wildlife Area

Davis Wetland

Gramm Wetland
Gramm Wetland has a popular 2-mile walking trail.

Masters Prairie Trail
​This linear park is an abandoned railroad right of way, which consisting of 24 acres that have been smoothed and planted to native short grasses and wildflowers. The two-mile trail begins on the west side of the Maple River and follows Hwy. 141 to the west. It was purchased from the Rail Road in 1990, with money from NIPCO in return for a permanent easement for their power lines. Hunting is not allowed. 

Monday was National Muffin Day and yesterday was Pancake Day, so what better way to celebrate than trying a muffin or flapjacks at one of the many breakfast joints on the three scenic byways that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates in western Iowa. Even if muffins and pancakes aren't your jam,  swing by one of the places below for a hot cup of coffee that will give you the fuel you need to explore western Iowa's scenic byways.

​The SPOT Espresso Bar & Cafe is more than just a coffee shop.  At the SPOT, we pride ourselves in providing a clean, community friendly, art centric atmosphere where we will always greet you with a smile.  You can stop-in for your morning Joe while preparing for the day ahead or you may choose to ‘drive-thru’ while on the go - we are here for you.  In addition to coffee drinks of all kinds, The SPOT offers smoothies, baked goods, breakfast burritos and flatbreads.  At lunchtime, our soups and gourmet paninis are the buzz.  Our menu is prepared with only the best fresh ingredients daily.

​Hardline Coffee Company began as the brainchild of Nisa Salmen in March 2018. Combining an interest in experimenting with new brewing methods and a knack for creating delicious new recipes, Hardline serves up some seriously unique brews and treats.

Hardline owner Nisa got her start in the coffee industry in 2010. Since then she has refined her skills as a barista, pastry chef, and restaurant manager at shops across the Midwest. She is passionate about providing ethically-sourced and environmentally conscious products to a growing community with dietary restrictions. She specializes in the shop's vegan and vegetarian menu options. When she's not baking up a storm, Nisa can be found cuddling with her cats, riding her motorcycle, or building things.

The Stone Bru Cafe located at 5822 Sunnybrook Dr. is the culmination of years of experience in the coffee business. From the beautiful design to the award winning coffee, this location is a must see. Perfect for meeting up with friends and family, or a cozy place to work and study.

There are six places in Harrison County on the Western Skies Scenic Byway that offer hiking opportunities. DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge is a birder's dream with trails through prairie and woodlands. Harrison County Conservation manages several areas with fully developed trail systems and areas with only off-trail hiking. The trails at Old Town Conservation area, for example, offer a quiet hiking experience only half an hour from Council Bluffs and Omaha.

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge is located along the Missouri River and borders both Iowa and Nebraska. Within its 8,365 acres lies DeSoto Lake, an oxbow lake that used to be a bend in the Missouri River. The refuge contains bottomland forests, tallgrass prairie, and wetland habitats that are managed to mimic the natural Missouri River floodplain habitat to benefit a diversity of migratory birds that flock to the refuge each year in the spring and fall. The refuge also contains a piece of history within its borders, the Bertrand Steamboat. The Bertrand sunk on the bend of river that is now DeSoto Lake, leaving behind the cargo and historic time pieces amounting to almost 250,000 different artifacts housed within the walls of the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge is truly a place where wildlife meets history!

The refuge provides hiking opportunities through a diversity of refuge habitat. The Bertrand Excavation Site Trail and the Cottonwood and Grassland Nature Trails are open year round on the Nebraska side of DeSoto Lake. The Green Heron Trail and the Missouri Meander Trail are seasonal trails open April 15 - October 14. For detailed information about each trail, check the refuge's trails website.

text source: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Manager: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Size: 8,365 acres
Trails: 3 miles
GPS: 41.52649, -96.02794 (Cottonwood and Grasslands Nature Trail)
GPS: 41.54044, -96.03132 (Green Heron Trail and Missouri Meander Trail)
Camping: No
Amenities: Visitor center, restrooms, water, parking
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Yes; check the refuge website for hunting seasons and regulations.
Other activities: Auto tour, biking, birding, boating (motorized and non-motorized), fishing, and more. Check the refuge website for a full list of permitted activities.​

Owned and operated by the Harrison Conservation Board, the Harrison County Historical Village and Iowa Welcome Center is located 3 miles northeast of Missouri Valley on Highway 30 (five miles east of Interstate 29, Exit 75).  This museum complex is straight out of the 1800s, with an original log cabin, general store, and school.  The official Iowa Welcome Center provides tourism information and assistance to travelers.  The Iowa Products Store offers food, beverage, clothing, crafts, and a wide variety of souvenirs.

Stretch your legs on the 1-mile trail and learn about the Loess Hills. 

​Manager: Harrison County Conservation
Size: 18 acres
Trails: 1 mile
GPS: 41.58357, -95.84747
Camping: No
Amenities: Restrooms, tourism information, gift shop, shelter
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No
Other activities: Picnicking

The Old Town Conservation Area features a restored native prairie and bur oak savannah on 341 acres. A network of hiking trails of about 8 miles, scenic vistas, and abundant populations of deer and turkey provide a variety of public recreation opportunities. It is also an excellent location for bird watching for migrant species such as dickcissels and warblers.

The Old Town Conservation Area is located about 3 miles southeast of Missouri Valley off Lima Trail and Mesa Place, where there are trailheads. The Lima Trail trailhead provides access to Foster's Pass (1.55 miles), Stagecoach Loop (2.24 miles), and Buffalo Run Loop (2.40 miles). The Mesa Place trailhead gives access to Blazing Star Trail Loop (1.25 miles), Bendy Oak Trail (0.98 miles), and Birddog Trail (1.01 miles). Either trailhead can be used to hike a loop incorporating all the aforementioned trails.

Manager: Harrison County Conservation
Size:  341 acres
Trails: 8 miles
GPS: 41.52028, -95.86715 (Lima Trail parking)
GPS: 41.51747, -95.85988 (Mesa Place parking)
Camping: No
Amenities: Parking lots at 3370 Lima Trail and 2317 Mesa Place
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Yes
​Other activities: Biking, birdwatching, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

Located in the Loess Hills, Sawmill Hollow Wildlife Area has 155 acres of woodland and ridge top prairie habitat. There are no official trails at Sawmill Hollow, however, hiking is permitted throughout the wildlife area. Hunting for deer, turkey, pheasants, rabbits and squirrels is allowed, so if you hike during hunting season, remember to wear appropriately colored clothing. There is also a six acre lake for fishing, with bass, bluegill, and catfish (electric motor only). Overnight camping is not allowed at the Sawmill Hollow Wildlife Area. It is an excellent location for bird watching. It is also part of the Loess Hills Bird Conservation Area designated by the Iowa DNR.

Located 7 miles north of Missouri Valley off Loess Hills Trail (L20). Access to Sawmill Hollow Wildlife Area is on a Level B dirt road.

text source: Harrison County Conservation

Manager: Harrison County Conservation
Size: 155 acres
Trails: No official trails but hiking is allowed throughout
GPS: 41.64762, -95.90927
Camping: Not permitted
Amenities: Parking lot and boat ramp
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Yes (hunters are reminded it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 200 yards of an occupied building or feedlot-watch for signs)
Other activities: Canoeing and kayaking, fishing, ice fishing, birdwatching​

Nestled in the hills, Schaben Park is a quiet park that features a campground with electricity and water hydrants, a shower house with restrooms (open April 1st through October 31st-weather dependent), a tent only camping area, picnic shelter, playground, a six-acre fishing lake for electric motors only, boat ramp, fishing jetty and pier, and dump station. A tornado shelter is located at the west end of the campground; sirens will sound in the event of severe weather. There are 2 miles of hiking trails with Smart Trail interpretive signs using QR (quick response) codes allow users to learn about the Loess Hills and Iowa's natural resources. With both native prairie and woodland habitat, public hunting is allowed on most of the area for pheasant, quail, turkey, squirrel, rabbit and deer. Hunters are reminded it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 200 yards of an occupied building or feedlot-watch for signs. Schaben Park is also an excellent location for bird watching, especially migrating warblers.

The park gate is closed to vehicles from January 31st to April 1st (walk in only).​

text source: Harrison County Conservation 

Manager: Harrison County Conservation
Size: 220 acres
Trails: 2 miles
GPS: 41.80351, -95.67020
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Trash dumpster, restrooms, water hydrants, picnic shelter
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Yes
Other activities: Biking, canoeing & kayaking, fishing, picnicking, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing​

Willow Lake Recreation Area is the headquarters for Harrison County Conservation Board with administrative offices and a maintenance shop located on the hill above the park. It has 220 acres for multiple outdoor recreation opportunities. There is a 27-acre fishing lake with boat ramp access, fishing jetties, handicap fishing pier, swimming beach, playground and playscape, picnic shelters, campground with electricity and water as well as shower houses with restrooms (open April 1st through October 31st, weather dependent). Campsites are for both RV or tent with maximum 1 RV and 1 tent or 2 tents. There is no dump station, however, one is located at the city park in the towns of Woodbine and Pisgah. Firewood can be purchased from either the camp host or at the office. 

There are also six rental cabins available-click on the facilities link on the left for more information or to make a reservation. There are 6 miles of hiking trails with Smart Trail interpretive signs using QR (quick response) codes allow users to learn about the Loess Hills and Iowa's natural resources.

The Nature Encounter Center has natural history displays and live animals like turtles and snakes. With both prairie and woodland habitat, public hunting is allowed on a portion of the area for pheasant, quail, turkey, squirrel, rabbit and deer. The Willow Lake Recreation Area is also an excellent location for bird watching, especially migrating songbirds and waterfowl.

Willow Lake offers 6 miles of hiking trails through prairie and woodlands. Smart Trail interpretive signs using QR (quick response) codes allow users to learn about the Loess Hills and Iowa's natural resources.

text source: Harrison County Conservation

Manager: Harrison County Conservation
Size: 220 acres
Trails: 6 miles
GPS: 41.77540, -95.78524 (north trailhead)
GPS: 41.76955, -95.78735 (south trailhead)
Camping: Yes, RV and tent
Amenities: Restrooms, swimming beach, boat ramp, picnic shelters, playground, nature center
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Yes, a large portion of Willow Lake Recreation Area is open to hunting​

O'Brien County

Prairie Heritage Center
Prairie Heritage Center is located in  the southeastern corner of O’Brien County, near the corners of Buena Vista, Cherokee, and Clay counties. It is the primary contact point for visitors to the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, providing interpretation of the area’s natural, cultural, and archaeological history. The center, operated by O’Brien County Conservation, opened in 2006 to interpret the prairie landscape of northwestern Iowa. The visitor center is open Wednesdays through Sundays and features exhibits about prairie ecology, the Mill Creek Indian Culture, and O’Brien County’s settlers. Staff naturalists offer environmental education programs for youth and the public. The center’s icon is the bison, and a small herd is fenced on the property. A replica pioneer wagon pulled by oxen statues invites visitors to climb inside and learn about the first settlers in the area. The center overlooks the Little Sioux River Valley and a patchwork of grassland and forested hills and valleys. An access point offers water-based recreation on the Little Sioux River. Walking trails loop through restored grassland and oak savanna.
​
Pear Tree House
This historic home in Sutherland is a community museum and houses historical documents and other memorabilia. It is open for special events during the summer.

General N.B. Baker Library
William Houston Woods and his wife, Roma Wheeler Woods, of Old O’Brien founded the General N.B. Baker Library Association in 1874 in their log cabin. Residents came from miles around to borrow books and magazines to help them pass the long winters. Gen. N.B. Baker, formerly governor of New Hampshire, moved to Iowa in 1856. He was instrumental in the early growth of the library, which is now located in a former school.

Heritage Park
This historic village in Primghar features a log cabin, historic home, hotel, bank, Philby Church, and Center Township No. 3 School. The buildings feature artifacts, exhibits, and research materials. The O’Brien County Historical Society manages the park.

Hannibal Waterman Wildlife Area
The wildlife area, across the road from the visitor center, is the site of the first settler in O’Brien County in 1856. Trails circle through the property, passing the Hannibal Waterman family cemetery and a historic marker placed by the O’Brien County Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1857, Santee Sioux Chief Inkpaduta and his band stopped at Hannibal Waterman’s cabin, gathering food and supplies and then moving upriver.
​
Hanging Valley and Dutch Fred's Grave
The section of Waterman Prairie south of Highway 10 offers an accessible prairie experience for byway visitors. A parking lot on Wilson Avenue, 1½ miles south of Highway 10, leads to a trail that meanders through prairie-covered ridges with spectacular vistas of the Little Sioux River valley. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is restoring the prairie to its original plant community.​

​Wittrock Indian Village State Preserve
Wittrock Indian Village on Waterman Creek, just northeast of Sutherland, is a model depiction of late prehistoric Mill Creek culture. This 6-acre site features the buried remains of a fortified village occupied by Indians of the Mill Creek Culture between the years 1200 and 1300. Located on a low terrace of Waterman Creek, the site included 20 rectangular earth lodges that archaeologists have identified. A wide ditch and solid stockade wall protected the village from attack. The village has never been affected by construction or cultivation. The Mill Creek people hunted bison and grew corn and other produce in the rich creek bottoms. The site is a National Historic Landmark and an Archaeological State Preserve.