The best camping near Maquoketa Caves State Park

Known for its caves, Maquoketa Caves State Park has been attracting picnickers and hikers since the Victorian Era. The 13 caves range in size from compact grottos best visited by experienced spelunkers to the massive, 1,100-square-foot Dancehall Cave. Other prominent features include a six-mile-long trail system that links the caves to other attractions, a natural bridge formation, a couple of picnic areas, and a seasonal interpretive center where visitors can check out educational exhibits. The small, seasonal campground offers showers, potable water, a playground, and a dump station.

1. Campsite reservations can be made up to three months in advance through the Iowa State Parks website or by calling the reservation call center.
2. Same-day sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early to increase your chances of securing a spot.
3. Be aware that while the park is open year-round, the campground is closed from December through February.
4. As the campground only has 29 available sites, reservations fill up fast. If you can't snag a spot but still want to explore, consider booking a spot at one of many private Hipcamps in the area.

The best time to visit Maquoketa Caves is in summer, when the interpretive center and caves are open, although this is also the busiest time. This is also when rangers operate special educational programs, including a white-nose syndrome awareness program that's required of all visitors entering the caves. The caves close during winter for bat hibernation, but other parts of the park stay open.

• The closest place to pick up groceries and supplies is the town of Maquoketa, about a 10-minute drive from the park. You'll find larger stores and more extensive facilities in Dubuque, about a 35-minute drive away.
• To reduce the spread of emerald ash borer, a parasitic beetle, campers are not allowed to transport firewood across county or state lines and are instead advised to purchase firewood locally.
• Sites 25-30 (the only ones without electric hookups) are walk-in sites requiring a hike anywhere between 25 to 90 yards.
• Site 16 is the campground’s only wheelchair-accessible site.