Iowa's 'Most Underrated' State Park is Worth a Long Visit

One of the many things that makes our country great is our access to local, state, and national parks.

In the Hawkeye State, there are a ton of great parks to choose from, but one made Outside Online's recent list of 'most underrated' state parks.

Whether you're looking for a good hike or the opportunity to witness natural wonders in the wild, the state parks can provide you with whatever you're looking for.

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Here's what the magazine had to say about one park that has long been known to be one of Iowa's best:

Palisades-Kepler State Park

The park boasts year-round hiking on five miles of trails through old-growth hardwood forest, wildflower meadows, and river and bluff views; and opportunities to cast a line for bass, walleye, and catfish.

It sure sells itself. Fishing, hiking, exploring, and much needed outdoors time isn't hard to envision for your next visit to Palisades-Kepler State Park in Mount Vernon.

There's even the opportunity to camp overnight, with a few amenities included:

One cabin is ADA accessible, and all cabins contain a shower, restroom, stovetop and refrigerator. Visitors must provide their own bedding, towels and cooking supplies.

There are a total of four family cabins at the park.

Source: Outside Online and Iowa DNR - Palisades-Kepler State Park

LOOK: 10 Reasons to Visit the South Dakota Badlands

Returning from a weekend trip to Rapid City, South Dakota for state basketball tournaments we decided to visit the Badlands National Park.

A quick turn-off I-90 will take you into some of the most awe-inspiring scenery.

It's also fun to note that several big-screen movies were filmed in the Badlands. Dances With Wolves, Starship Troopers, Armageddon, and most recently, Academy Award winner, Nomadland.

It's a spectacular park with tons to do. If you're setting out on a hike, bring lots of water and sign the hikers' logs at the trailheads. It could save your life. It's a tough place to survive.

Here are 10 facts about the Badlands:

Source: Iowa’s ‘Most Underrated’ State Park is Worth a Long Visit