Ledges State Park

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Ledges State Park

Ledges State Park is one of Iowa’s most historic and unique nature destinations, especially for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. A four-mile trail system winds through steep slopes and scenic overviews, with sandstone ledges towering 100 feet above the Des Moines River. Numerous 1930s CCC structures can be viewed throughout the park including an iconic stone bridge spanning Peas Creek. An ideal destination for the seasoned hiker, daytime picnickers and campers, Ledges State Park takes visitors on a breathtaking excursion amongst Iowa’s natural beauty.


PLAN YOUR VISIT

Hike the four-mile trail system that leads to spectacular views of Pea’s Creek “canyon.” While most trails are steeper in nature, a fully accessible interpretive trail to Lost Lake is also available at the southern end of the park. An interpretive trail is also located near the Oak Woods shelter and features lichens—small plant-like organisms growing on trees and rocks—so bring your magnifying glass to identify these creatures up close.

Camp in one of the newly renovated campsites at Ledges. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of the primitive hike-in sites. Modern restrooms, showers, a trailer dump station and playground are also located in the campground. Some campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and advance reservations can be made online.

Streamwalk Peas Creek along the Canyon Road. The creek is typically ankle deep and offers a unique way for kids and families to experience the outdoors.

Visit the Hutton Memorial in honor of Murray Lee Hutton, a strong conservationist and first director of the Iowa State Conservation Commission in 1935. The Hutton Memorial is located on the north side of the canyon.

Reserve one of two shelters at Ledges. The Oak Woods picnic shelter and nearby restrooms are located in the eastern area of the park and are fully accessible. The shelter in lower Ledges is dedicated to the park’s first custodian, Carl Fritz Henning. Both shelters can be reserved through the online reservation system and provide an affordable, scenic setting for your next outdoor gathering.


Ledges State Park
Ledges State Park
1515 P Ave.
Madrid, IA 50156
Ph. 515-432-1852
Ledges@dnr.iowa.gov


Friend’s Group: friendsoftheledges@gmail.com

STATEWIDE FACILITY CLOSURES: All pit latrines and port-a-potties are closed until April 15, 2020. Due to lack of restroom facilities, all camping cabins and shelters are closed until April 15, 2020. Campgrounds are open but campers must provide their own self-contained bathroom until park restrooms are available. Self-contained includes bathrooms in RVs/travel trailers/5th wheels and portable camping toilets. All modern restroom and shower facilities are currently closed for the winter season. Many parks try to have modern campground facilities open in mid-April, weather permitting. Some parks open modern camping facilities mid to late April, weather permitting. All lodges are currently closed through April 30, 2020. Playgrounds are not cleaned and sanitized. DNR strongly recommends visitors avoid playgrounds to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 - user discretion is advised. (POSTED 3/30/2020)
CANYON DRIVE OPEN - The Canyon Drive us currently open to vehicle traffic.
CAMPGROUND OPEN - The campground is currently open for first come, first serve camping; however no restrooms are available. Water is on to all hydrants and electricty is on within the campground. The RV dump station is open, and individual dump stations at each full hook-up campsite are also open.
TRAILS & PICNIC AREAS OPEN - All trails and picnic areas are open for day use.
SHELTERS CLOSED - Both open shelters are currently closed until April 15th.
RESTROOMS CLOSED - There are no restrooms currently available at Ledges State Park. Restrooms may be available by April 15th.
AMENITIES AT A GLANCE
  • Amphitheater
  • Interpretive trails
  • Hiking trails
  • Playground
  • Shelters (2)
  • Modern restrooms
  • Showers
  • Electric campsites (53)
  • Walk-to/non electric campsites (25)
  • Full hook-up campsites (16)
  • Youth group only (1)
  • Firewood sales
  • Dump station