Mines of Spain State Recreation Area

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About the Park

Rich in history and natural resources, the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area in Dubuque is a National Historic Landmark waiting to be explored. Village sites, rock shelters and trading post sites dot the landscape, and the area was once the location for lead mining until after the Civil War. 

The Julien Dubuque Monument, honoring the area’s first European settler, sits high above the Mississippi River and serves as a landmark for the Mines of Spain area. This state recreation area provides ample opportunity for visitors to explore a variety of trails and learn more about the history of the state.

Plan Your Visit

• Learn about the history and natural features of the park at the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. The Betty Hauptli Bird and Butterfly Garden is nearby, along with native prairies, woodland flower gardens, hiking trails and more. Programs are offered throughout the year and special arrangements can be made with park staff. The center’s auditorium and conference room can be rented by contacting the Friends Group of Mines of Spain.
• Hike or bike through 15.1 miles of trails at Mines of Spain, offering views of towering limestone bluffs and scenic vistas. The American State Park Woodland Walk at the interpretive center explores the history of different trees, and the Horseshoe Bluff trail and the John and Alice Butler trail are ADA accessible. Cross-country skiing is available in the winter through four miles of trails, which are maintained for classical and skate skiing.
• Hunt at Mines of Spain, which is a wildlife management area that allows trapping and archery hunting in all seasons. Limited firearm hunting for deer and spring turkey is allowed south of Catfish Creek. Call the park ranger for more details.
• Plan a picnic at the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center, the Julien Dubuque Monument, Horseshoe Bluff Area and various locations throughout the park.

Amenities at a Glance

• Interpretive center; ADA accessible
• Butterfly garden
• Hiking trails
• Hunting 

Explore the Park

• Mines of Spain State Recreation Area map and flyer
• Deer hunting
• 571-61.9 Hunting, Trapping and Firearms Use