Ledges State Park

Ledges State Park is a state park in Boone County that follows the Des Moines River and features sandstone cliffs rising about 100 feet with dense woodland surrounding the area. The grounds include hiking trails that wind through the forest and along the riverbanks, providing access to the geological formations and water features.

The park was established in 1924 and expanded during the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corps built stone bridges and timber structures throughout the grounds. This work created much of the infrastructure that enables visitors to explore the natural features today.

The Hutton Memorial on the north side of the canyon commemorates Murray Lee Hutton, the first director of the Iowa State Conservation Commission.

The park offers overnight camping accommodations with picnic areas that operate from spring through autumn months. Restroom and shower facilities are available throughout the grounds, and trails are marked to help visitors navigate the terrain safely.

Peas Creek flows through a narrow gorge with towering sandstone walls, offering hikers an up-close experience with dramatic geology compressed into a small area. The shallow water makes it easy to explore the formations on foot.

Location: Boone County

Inception: 1924

Elevation above the sea: 319 m

Website: https://iowadnr.gov/places-go/state-parks/all-parks/ledges-state-park

GPS coordinates: 41.99080,-93.88330

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:03