Camping at Backbone Cabins

Location and General Information

Backbone State Park is Iowa's oldest state park, established in 1920. It's located in the northeastern part of the state in Delaware County. Backbone Cabins are situated within this park and provide an excellent base for enjoying the park's natural beauty, trails, and recreational activities.

Address: Backbone State Park 1347 129th St Dundee, IA 52038 United States

Cabin Types and Amenities

Cabin Types:

• Modern Cabins: These are equipped with updated amenities, including air conditioning, heating, full kitchens, and private bathrooms.
• Rustic Cabins: These offer a more traditional camping experience and may have basic facilities like beds and electricity but with shared restrooms and showers nearby.

Amenities:

• Beds and bedding for a specified number of guests
• Basic kitchen facilities, including a stove, refrigerator, and microwave in modern cabins
• Restroom facilities, either private or shared depending on the cabin type
• Outdoor grills and picnic areas
• A living area with furniture

Booking Information

Bookings can typically be made online through the Iowa State Parks reservation system, over the phone, or in person. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as cabins can fill up quickly. It is important to check for the latest information on rental periods and minimum stay requirements which can vary.

Park Activities

Recreational Activities:

• Hiking: Backbone State Park has several miles of hiking trails, including paths along the "Devil's Backbone."
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the stocked trout streams or the park’s lake.
• Boating: There is a launch for non-motorized boats, and rowboat, paddle boat, and kayak rentals are available.
• Climbing: The park is famous for its rock climbing opportunities on the dolomite limestone cliffs.
• Swimming: There is a beach area for swimming, although it does not have a lifeguard on duty.
• Picnicking: Facilities are available throughout the park.

Seasonal Activities:

• Winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are popular during the colder months.
• Hunting is allowed in certain areas of the park during designated seasons.

Park Regulations and Tips

• Pets may be allowed in certain cabins, but it's vital to check the park's pet policy before booking.
• Observe fire safety regulations, particularly if you are using outdoor grills or fire rings.
• Follow all posted regulations regarding wildlife, and do not feed or disturb the animals.
• Leave-no-trace principles should be practiced to maintain the park's natural state.

Accessibility

Backbone State Park aims to accommodate visitors with disabilities. When booking a cabin, inquire about the availability of accessible cabins and the specific amenities they offer.

Contact Information and Resources

For the most current and detailed information, it's best to contact the park directly or visit the official website:

Phone: +1 (563) 924-2527 Website: Iowa DNR - Backbone State Park

By visiting the website or contacting the park, you can find out the most updated information regarding cabin availability, reservations, park programs, and any advisories or alerts that may impact your visit.