Explore the 1,100-foot “Dancehall Cave” and many others such as Hernado’s Hideaway, Shinbone Cave and Wye Cave. About 13 caves can be found in the park, some of which can be explored by walking, while others are better suited for serious spelunkers who are used to crawling in tight spaces.

Feb 1, 2025 · Maquoketa Caves State Park offers a glimpse into a world filled with hidden wonders. This park, located in eastern Iowa, boasts more caves than any other state park in the region. From the impressive Dancehall Cave to the smaller, more intimate crevices, each cave has its own story to tell.

Mar 26, 2025 · In Upper Dancehall Cave, you can still see red ochre paintings on the deep cave walls. The Sagers Museum near Maquoketa Caves displays a variety of Native American artifacts, providing history about the indigenous peoples. ... It’s one of Iowa’s longest cave systems. Some caves are suitable for walking, while others are better suited for ...

Mar 26, 2025 · Check out the inside of Dancehall Cave at Maquoketa Caves State Park.

The park's limestone caves, arches and chimneys including Dancehall Cave, Hernado's Hideaway, Shinbone Cave, Wye Cave, and an unmarked cave within the Dancehall Cavern locally known as Steelgate Cave.

Maquoketa Caves is probably Iowa's most unique state park. Its caves, limestone formations and rugged bluffs provide visitors a chance to "step back" into geological time thousands of years. Caves vary from the 1,100' Dancehall Cave with walkways and lighting system to Dugout Cave.

Dancehall is the largest cave within the park and allows a person to walk upright most of the way through it. The cave opens up into a very large room in the lower entrance where dances were once held, giving the cave its name.

The limestone caves, chimneys, and arches include Hernando’s Hideaway, Shinbone Cave, Dancehall Cave, and an unmarked cave known as Steelgate Cave. Maquoketa Caves is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including many species of birds.

Sep 23, 2024 · Maquoketa Caves State Park features a total of 13 caves, ranging from large, walkable caves like Dancehall Cave to smaller, more challenging ones for seasoned spelunkers. The diverse collection of caves makes this park a must …

Dec 23, 2024 · Only three of the caves — known as Upper, Middle and Lower Dancehall caves — are developed, featuring a walkway and lighting. And you can walk through Rainy Day, Ice and Twin Arches Caves. But for others, like Up-‘N'-Down, Steel …