Have you ever searched for “waterfalls near me” in Iowa? What search results came up? While Iowa is not known for its mountains or rugged cliffs, there are quite a few waterfalls throughout the state that will take your breath away with their peaceful, natural beauty. If you’re looking for places to go hiking with waterfalls in Iowa, we’ve got you covered. Check out these 10 parks with waterfalls in Iowa to get totally zen.

1. Dubuque Arboretum Japanese Garden Waterfall
3800 Arboretum Dr, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA
Flickr/DMichael Burns
This immaculate garden of peace and beauty features a stunning waterfall that’s worth the trip. You will feel so relaxed after a visit here. Visit the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens website for more information.
2. Dunning’s Spring Falls, Decorah
Dunning's Spring Park, Ice Cave Road, Decorah, IA, USA
Jonathan Quinn/Google
This area in northeast Iowa is full of natural beauty. And one quick hike will get you to . It's one of the best hiking trails with waterfalls in Iowa. When you’re done enjoying the falls, you can stop in Decorah and eat at one of their amazing restaurants.

Enjoy these spectacular views of Dunning’s Springs Falls:

3. Siewer’s Spring Waterfall, Decorah
Siewers Spring Road, Siewers Spring Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
Flickr/J. D. Adelmund
A great spot for trout fishing on Iowa's second-largest spring. While you don't have to take a long hike to see the waterfall here, there are plenty of trails you can take if you feel like exploring. But if you come here for just the waterfall, it's one of the best waterfalls in Iowa.
4. Richmond Springs, Backbone State Park
Backbone State Park Beach, Iowa 52038, USA
Flickr/Al
This is just one of the lovely spots you can visit in Backbone State Park which is considered the best state park in Iowa.
5. Cedar Falls Dam, Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls, IA, USA
Flickr/Jenn
Stroll along the river and soak in the soothing sounds of these falls over the dam. Visit the Cedar Falls Tourism website to learn more about the city and all it has to offer.

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6. Wapsipinicon Park, Anamosa
Wapsipinicon State Park, 21301 Co Rd E34, Anamosa, IA 52205, USA
Flickr/jdurchen
Stand on the bridge and look directly over the water rushing over the dam. Then, explore the rest of this beautiful park, including the upside-down bridge. Wapsipinicon Park in Iowa is a wonderful place to explore, so set aside enough time to do just that.

Get an in-depth look at this state park:

7. Wapsipinicon Feed Mill and Dam, Independence
County Highway D22, County Hwy D22, Independence, IA, USA
Flickr/photolibrarian
Come for the water and stay for the Wapsipinicon Mill Museum. This historic attraction became operational in 1854 and was used at first as a flouring mill. It is now home to tours and events from mid-May to mid-September. You can learn more on the Independence IA website.
8. Boone River Waterfall, Webster City
Briggs Woods Park, 2450-2498 Briggs Woods Rd, Webster City, IA 50595, USA
Flickr/Sarah Cady
Boone River Waterfall in Iowa can be found within Briggs Woods Park. It is a place of natural beauty and aquatic biodiversity. Soak in one of the best waterfalls in Iowa and enjoy the plant and wildlife.
9. Willow Creek Waterfall, Mason City
Willow Creek Trail, Mason City, IA 50401, USA
Flickr/Keith Ewing
This spot is sure to fill you with peace and tranquility. While it is on private property, you can view it from a bridge on East State Street that overlooks the waterfall. You can learn more on the Visit Mason City website.
10. Malanaphy Falls, Decorah
Upper Iowa River Access Area, 2820 Bluffton Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
Paul Herold/Google
Malanaphy Spring Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Iowa. It is sure to inspire with its green, lush beauty and looks as though it belongs in a fairy tale.

Enjoy this footage of this lovely area:

We hope this list helps those of you who have been searching for “waterfalls near me” in Iowa. If you’ve been to any of these parks with waterfalls in Iowa, let us know about your experiences in the comments. For more Iowa waterfalls, check out these easy-access waterfalls in Iowa. Just be sure to be prepared and bring along some hiking essentials. Learn all about the trails to these waterfalls at AllTrails.

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More to Explore

The Best Waterfalls In Iowa

Melissa M. | July 10, 2022

What are some waterfall hikes in Iowa?

A waterfall hike in Iowa includes Malanaphy Falls at Pikes Peak State Park.

If you love chasing waterfalls, take a look at our ultimate bucket list for anyone who loves waterfall hikes. At Pikes Peak State Park, there’s a trail that will take you behind a waterfall which is an experience in and of itself. A short hike will lead you to Malanaphy Falls along the Upper Iowa River. You’re bound to find a waterfall hike to do near you!

What are some of the best kid-friendly hikes in Iowa?

The best kid-friendly hikes in Iowa include:

  • Wildcat Cave Wildlife Area
  • Greenbelt Lake Loop

One of the best ways for kids to expend some energy is to take them outside. Better yet, how about a hike where they can explore nature? Some of the best kid-friendly hikes in Iowa will allow families to explore caves like the one at Wildcat Cave Wildlife Area or enjoy water views like the ones found along the Greenbelt Lake Loop.

Are there any waterfall swimming holes in Iowa?

A waterfall swimming hole in Iowa can be found at Beeds Lake State Park.

Sure you can go for a swim at a lake, river, or swimming pool. However, there’s something quite magical about taking a dip at a pool that happens to be at the end of a waterfall. Beeds Lake State Park has one such waterfall swimming hole. This spillway is not only beautiful but refreshing to take a dip in on a hot summer’s day.

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