Storm Damage, Flooding Impact Iowa State Parks for Holiday Weekend

Several Iowa state parks have been impacted by recent heavy rains and storms, causing closures in some areas. Visitors are urged to plan in advance heading into the holiday weekend in case a park activity or location is affected. 

Impacted parks in northeast Iowa include:

Backbone State Park (Delaware County) – The north gate entrance is currently closed. Mud and sand are on the road in the flats area. Debris and logs are along the trout stream road. Staff will reopen the north entrance once roadway cleanup is complete. 

George Wyth State Park (Black Hawk County) – The park is closed through Memorial Day weekend and possibly longer due to flooding and the potential for more rain. The park is closed to all traffic including driving, walking and biking. 

Additionally, several trails are closed to equestrian and bike use due to wet conditions including Volga River State Recreation Area near Fayette.

Visitors are encouraged to avoid driving through high water and take extra safety precautions for water recreation activities due to swift currents and debris in many lakes and rivers. Additionally, be aware of potential tree debris within parks in mowed areas and on trails; staff are cleaning as they are able.  

A link to a  full listing of alerts and closures can be found with this story on our station website.

 https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures