List of National Parks in Iowa

List of National Parks in Iowa

Iowa has 2 National Parks:

1. Effigy Mounds National Monument
2. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

In this article I will write about these parks (infomation, things to do, weather). I also add Iowa National Parks map at the end of the article.

1. Effigy Mounds National Monument

The Effigy Mounds National Monument is located in northeastern Iowa, United States, along the banks of the Mississippi River. Specifically, it’s situated in Allamakee and Clayton counties in Iowa. The monument preserves prehistoric American Indian mounds, including numerous effigy mounds shaped like animals such as bears and birds. These mounds were built by Native American cultures over 1,000 years ago and are significant archaeological and cultural sites.

Information:

• Address: 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146, United States
• Established: October 25, 1949
• Size: 9.78 km²
• Official website: https://www.nps.gov/efmo/index.htm
• Phone: +1 563-873-3491

Things to do at Effigy Mounds National Monument:

1. Hiking: The monument offers several hiking trails that lead visitors through the scenic landscape and past the various mounds. The trails range in difficulty and length, allowing visitors of all ages and abilities to explore the area.
2. Visitor Center: The visitor center provides exhibits and information about the history and significance of the effigy mounds. Visitors can learn about the cultures that built the mounds and the archaeological research conducted at the site.
3. Scenic Overlooks: There are several scenic overlooks within the monument that provide stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. These overlooks are great spots for photography and birdwatching.
4. Cultural Programs: Effigy Mounds National Monument offers various cultural programs and events throughout the year, including guided hikes, lectures, and demonstrations. These programs provide visitors with opportunities to learn more about the history and culture of the area.

Weather

• Summers tend to be warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the 70s to the 90s Fahrenheit (20s to 30s Celsius).
• Winters can be cold, with average temperatures ranging from the 20s to the 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to -1 Celsius).

To update weather of Effigy Mounds National Monument, you visit here: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-91.1968231201172&lat=43.0853448830714

2. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is located in West Branch, Iowa, USA. It preserves the birthplace, childhood home, and final resting place of the 31st President of the United States, Herbert Hoover.

Information:

• Address: 110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358, United States
• Established: 1965
• Size: 27 ha
• Official website: https://www.nps.gov/heho/index.htm
• Phone: +1 319-643-2541

Things to do:

1. Visitor Center: The Visitor Center provides an introduction to Herbert Hoover’s life and accomplishments through exhibits, films, and ranger-led programs.
2. Historic Buildings: Visitors can tour several historic buildings, including Hoover’s birthplace cottage, his boyhood home, and the Quaker meetinghouse where his family worshipped.
3. Nature Trails: The site offers nature trails that wind through the Iowa countryside, providing opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. The tallgrass prairie and woodlands surrounding the historic buildings offer a peaceful and scenic environment.
4. Presidential Library and Museum: While not part of the National Historic Site itself, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is located nearby in West Branch. It features exhibits about Hoover’s life and presidency, as well as archival materials and research facilities.
5. Events and Programs: Throughout the year, the site hosts special events, interpretive programs, and educational activities for visitors of all ages.

Weather:

• Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the 70s to the 90s Fahrenheit (20s to 30s Celsius).
• Winters can be cold, with average temperatures ranging from the 20s to the 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to -1 Celsius).
• Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and are pleasant times to visit the historic site.

Iowa National Parks map

Tag: List of National Parks in Iowa