Palisades-Kepler State Park - map and other informations
Table of Contents
Description
Palisades-Kepler State Park is a stunning natural gem located in eastern Iowa, just a short drive from the city of Cedar Rapids. Established in 1922, this state park offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery to explore.
Activities
Whether you're an avid hiker, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Palisades-Kepler State Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy:
Hiking and Nature Trails
The park boasts several miles of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through lush forests, along scenic riverbanks, and up to stunning overlooks. The popular Cedar Cliff Trail offers panoramic views of the Cedar River and its surrounding bluffs.
Camping
Palisades-Kepler State Park features both modern and non-modern camping areas, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying modern amenities. The campground offers electrical hookups, showers, restrooms, and picnic areas.
Fishing
The Cedar River that runs through the park is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can try their luck at catching smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, and more. Don't forget to bring your fishing gear!
Picnicking
If you're looking for a relaxing day out with family or friends, Palisades-Kepler State Park has numerous picnic areas equipped with tables and grills. Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Natural Beauty
One of the main attractions of Palisades-Kepler State Park is its stunning natural beauty. The park is characterized by its towering limestone cliffs, dense forests, and the meandering Cedar River. It's a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Visitor Information
Here are some important details to keep in mind when planning your visit to Palisades-Kepler State Park:
Location
The park is located at 700 Kepler Drive, Mount Vernon, Iowa. It's easily accessible by car and is approximately 20 miles northeast of Cedar Rapids.
Park Hours
The park is open year-round from 6:00 am to 10:30 pm. However, certain facilities may have different operating hours, so it's always a good idea to check the official website or contact the park office for the most up-to-date information.
Entrance Fees
There is a small entrance fee per vehicle for day use visitors. Annual passes are also available for frequent visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Palisades-Kepler State Park
Are pets allowed in the park?
Yes, pets are allowed in Palisades-Kepler State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times and are not permitted in certain areas such as swimming beaches.
Are there any accommodations available within the park?
Yes, Palisades-Kepler State Park offers camping facilities for both tents and RVs. There are also picnic areas available for day use visitors.
Can I go swimming in the Cedar River?
Swimming is allowed in the Cedar River at Palisades-Kepler State Park. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so it's important to exercise caution and swim at your own risk.
Average weather in Palisades-Kepler State Park
Temp max | Temp min | Rain | Snow | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Jan | -1 °C 30 °F | -10 °C 14 °F | 17 mm 0.7 in | 17 mm 0.7 in |
Feb | 0 °C 32 °F | -10 °C 14 °F | 22 mm 0.9 in | 18 mm 0.7 in |
Mar | 9 °C 48 °F | -1 °C 30 °F | 51 mm 2.0 in | 9 mm 0.4 in |
Apr | 16 °C 61 °F | 4 °C 39 °F | 106 mm 4.2 in | 3 mm 0.1 in |
May | 22 °C 72 °F | 12 °C 54 °F | 131 mm 5.2 in | 0 mm 0.0 in |
Jun | 27 °C 81 °F | 17 °C 63 °F | 134 mm 5.3 in | 0 mm 0.0 in |
Jul | 29 °C 84 °F | 19 °C 66 °F | 71 mm 2.8 in | 0 mm 0.0 in |
Aug | 28 °C 82 °F | 18 °C 64 °F | 77 mm 3.0 in | 0 mm 0.0 in |
Sep | 25 °C 77 °F | 15 °C 59 °F | 103 mm 4.1 in | 0 mm 0.0 in |
Oct | 17 °C 63 °F | 8 °C 46 °F | 100 mm 3.9 in | 1 mm 0.0 in |
Nov | 9 °C 48 °F | 0 °C 32 °F | 54 mm 2.1 in | 5 mm 0.2 in |
Dec | 3 °C 37 °F | -5 °C 23 °F | 33 mm 1.3 in | 13 mm 0.5 in |
Other parks nearby
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Lake Macbride State Park8.4 mi (13.6 km)|state park
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Wapsipinicon State Park17.2 mi (27.7 km)|state park
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Herbert Hoover National Historic Site18.4 mi (29.6 km)|national historic site
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Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area21.2 mi (34.1 km)|state park
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Cedar Rock State Park37.0 mi (59.5 km)|state park
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