image

Mines Of Spain Recreation Area Iowa (IA) RV Rentals

RV Rentals Dates
Home / National & State Park Guides / Private Campgrounds /  Mines Of Spain Recreation Area

Looking for RV rentals, camper van rentals or travel trailer rentals near Mines Of Spain Recreation Area campground ?


Introduction

The Mines of Spain Recreation Area is a hidden gem for RV camping enthusiasts. With its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and a plethora of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why this park is a favorite among RV renters.

The park’s history dates back to the 1700s when lead mining was a thriving industry in the area. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the old mines and learn about the cultural significance of the park through interpretive programs and exhibits.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Mines Of Spain Recreation Area. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Mines Of Spain Recreation Area.

Camping Accommodations

37

37'

Max RV length

37

37'

Max trailer Length

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Generator use

Food storage

Sewer hookup

Dogs & cats

View more RV Rentals

Transportation

  • Driving/Transportation

When it comes to transportation visitors have several options for getting to the Mines of Spain Recreation Area. Private vehicles are the most common mode of transportation and there are several entrances to the park that can be accessed by car. RV renters should be aware that there are restrictions on rig sizes with a maximum length of 45 feet. Those planning to bring a larger rig should contact the park ahead of time to confirm availability and any additional requirements.

  • Parking area

The Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers limited parking options for RVs. There are no designated RV parking areas throughout the park and overnight parking is only permitted in designated campsites. Camping with an RV is possible but it’s recommended to explore the park using alternative transportation methods.

  • Public Transportation

The Mines of Spain Recreation Area provides public transportation options for visitors. A shuttle bus service operates during peak season and there are also several walking paths throughout the park.

Top Campsites in Mines Of Spain Recreation Area

  • Reservations camping

The most popular campgrounds near Mines of Spain Recreation Area that require reservations are

Bellevue State Park Campground

Located just a short drive from Mines of Spain this campground offers 46 sites with electric hookups modern restrooms and a dump station. Activities include hiking biking fishing and picnicking. The campground is open April through October and welcomes pets. RVs and trailers up to 45 feet are permitted.

Dubuque/Grant River KOA

This KOA is situated along the Grant River and features 82 sites with full hookups cable TV and Wi-Fi. Campers can enjoy a swimming pool mini golf and a playground. The campground is open May through October and allows pets. RVs and trailers up to 65 feet are welcome.

Mill Creek Park Campground

Located in nearby Bellevue this campground offers 45 sites with electric hookups a playground and a shelter house. Campers can enjoy fishing hiking and picnicking. The campground is open May through October and allows pets. RVs and trailers up to 45 feet are permitted.

Eagle Point Park Campground

This campground is situated in Dubuque and features 84 sites with electric hookups modern restrooms and a dump station. Activities include hiking biking and picnicking. The campground is open May through October and welcomes pets. RVs and trailers up to 40 feet are permitted.

  • First-come first-served

The following campgrounds near Mines of Spain Recreation Area are first-come-first-served

Julien Dubuque Monument Campground

This campground offers 14 sites with no hookups vault toilets and a picnic shelter. Campers can enjoy hiking fishing and picnicking. The campground is open year-round and allows pets. RVs and trailers up to 25 feet are permitted.

Massey Marina Campground

This campground is located along the Mississippi River and offers 50 sites with electric hookups modern restrooms and a dump station. Activities include boating fishing and picnicking. The campground is open May through October and welcomes pets. RVs and trailers up to 50 feet are permitted.

Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area

This area offers primitive camping with no hookups or facilities. Campers can enjoy hiking fishing and hunting. The area is open year-round and allows pets. RVs and trailers are not permitted.

  • Alternate camping

If the campsites inside Mines of Spain Recreation Area are full RV renters can consider the following alternative camping options

Private Campgrounds

There are several private campgrounds nearby including the Dubuque RV Resort and the Shady Rest Campground. These campgrounds offer full hookups modern restrooms and a variety of amenities such as swimming pools and playgrounds. RV renters should call ahead to check availability.

Backcountry Camping

The Backbone State Park located about an hour away from Mines of Spain offers backcountry camping. Campers must obtain a permit from the park office and hike to designated campsites. The park offers several hiking trails and opportunities for fishing and boating.

  • General activities

Hiking Trails at Mines of Spain Recreation Area

For those who love a good hike the Mines of Spain Recreation Area has a variety of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding forest. The most popular trail is the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Trail which is a 2-mile loop that takes hikers through a beautiful forest and past a limestone bluff. Along the way hikers can learn about the area’s history and geology from interpretive signs. Other popular trails include the Julien Dubuque Trail which leads to a scenic overlook of the Mississippi River and the Catfish Creek Trail which winds through a lush forest and past a babbling creek.

Mountain Biking at Mines of Spain Recreation Area

If you prefer two wheels to two feet the Mines of Spain Recreation Area has some great mountain biking trails that will get your heart pumping. The most popular trail is the Bellevue Loop which is a challenging 10-mile loop that takes riders through dense forest and over steep hills. For a shorter ride the South Preserve Trail is a 3-mile loop that offers a mix of easy and challenging terrain. Both trails offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding forest.

Fishing at Mines of Spain Recreation Area

The Mines of Spain Recreation Area is a great destination for anglers with several lakes and ponds that are teeming with fish. The most popular spots for fishing are the Stockton Lake and the Lake of the Four Seasons. Both lakes are stocked with a variety of fish including bass catfish and bluegill. The area around the lakes also offers great opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing.

Cycling at Mines of Spain Recreation Area

For those who prefer a leisurely ride on two wheels the Mines of Spain Recreation Area has several paved bike trails that offer scenic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding forest. The most popular trail is the Heritage Trail which is a 26-mile trail that runs from Dubuque to Dyersville. The trail is paved and relatively flat making it perfect for families and casual riders.

Camping at Mines of Spain Recreation Area

The Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers several camping options for those who want to spend the night under the stars. The most popular camping spot is the EB Lyons Campground which offers 54 campsites including some with electrical hookups. The campground also has modern restrooms showers and a playground. Other camping options include backpack camping and group camping.

  • Alternative activities

Alternative Recreational Activities at Mines of Spain Recreation Area

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace the Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers several alternative recreational activities. One of the most popular activities is sightseeing with several beautiful landmarks to explore. The Julien Dubuque Monument for example offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding forest. Another popular landmark is the historic Matthias Ham House which offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

Nature Watching at Mines of Spain Recreation Area

The Mines of Spain Recreation Area is home to a diverse array of wildlife making it a great destination for nature watching. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of bird species that call the area home including eagles hawks and owls. Other wildlife that can be spotted in the area include deer foxes and raccoons.

Instagram-Worthy Photo Opportunities at Mines of Spain Recreation Area

For those who love to take photos the Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers several Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. One of the most popular spots is the Julien Dubuque Monument which offers a stunning backdrop for photos. Other popular spots include the historic Matthias Ham House and the beautiful lakes and ponds throughout the park.

Season-specific experiences in Mines Of Spain Recreation Area

  • Spring activities

Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Mines of Spain Recreation Area especially for RV campers. One popular activity is hiking the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Trail which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. This 2.5-mile trail is perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike as it passes by several historical sites including the remains of a lead mine.

Another must-see attraction is the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center which features exhibits on the area’s natural history as well as its cultural and industrial past. RV campers can also take advantage of the center’s picnic areas and restrooms.

For those who enjoy fishing the Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers several opportunities to cast a line. The Catfish Creek and the Mississippi River are both popular spots and anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish including catfish bass and bluegill.

Birdwatching is another popular activity in the spring as the area is home to a wide variety of bird species. RV campers can take a leisurely stroll along the Julien Dubuque Trail which winds through the forest and offers prime birdwatching opportunities.

Finally the Mines of Spain Recreation Area is also home to several historical landmarks including the Julien Dubuque Monument which honors the area’s first European settler and the Mines of Spain Archaeological and Historic District which includes several historic sites related to the area’s mining past.

  • Summer activities

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy all that the Mines of Spain Recreation Area has to offer. One popular activity is kayaking or canoeing on the Mississippi River. The area offers several access points and paddlers can enjoy stunning views of the river and the surrounding bluffs.

Another must-do activity is hiking the Julien Dubuque Trail which offers several scenic overlooks of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. This 10-mile trail is perfect for experienced hikers and offers a challenging workout.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace the area also offers several shorter trails including the Prairie Ridge Trail which winds through a beautiful prairie landscape and the Cedar Ridge Trail which passes through a mature cedar forest.

RV campers can also take advantage of the area’s picnic areas which offer plenty of shade and scenic views. The area also offers several playgrounds perfect for families with young children.

Finally history buffs will want to check out the historic sites related to the area’s mining past including the Matthias Ham House and the Old Mine Site. These sites offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history and cultural heritage.

  • Fall activities

Fall is a beautiful time to visit the Mines of Spain Recreation Area especially for RV campers looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. One popular activity during this season is hiking along the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Trail which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. The trail is also home to a variety of plant and animal species making it a great spot for wildlife watching.

Another must-see landmark in the area is the Julien Dubuque Monument which honors the founder of the city of Dubuque. The monument is located atop a bluff and offers breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also learn about the history of the area and the role that Dubuque played in its development.

For those looking for a more adventurous activity the Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers several options for rock climbing and rappelling. The area is home to a variety of cliffs and bluffs that offer challenges for climbers of all skill levels. The park also offers guided tours and climbing classes for those who are new to the sport.

The E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center is another popular destination for RV campers during the fall. The center offers a variety of exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the area as well as a gift shop and a nature library. Visitors can also participate in a variety of programs and activities including guided hikes and birdwatching tours.

Finally no visit to the Mines of Spain Recreation Area would be complete without a stop at the historic lead mine. The mine which dates back to the early 1800s offers a glimpse into the area’s rich mining history. Visitors can tour the mine and learn about the tools and techniques used by the miners. The mine is also home to a variety of bat species making it a great spot for wildlife watching.

  • Winter activities

Winter is a magical time to visit the Mines of Spain Recreation Area especially for RV campers looking to enjoy the snowy landscape. One popular activity during this season is cross-country skiing along the many trails that crisscross the park. The trails offer challenges for skiers of all skill levels and provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Another must-see landmark in the area during the winter is the Frozen Creek Waterfall. The waterfall which is located along the Catfish Creek Trail freezes solid during the winter months creating a breathtaking natural sculpture. Visitors can hike to the waterfall and take in its beauty from a variety of angles.

For those looking for a more adventurous activity the Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers several options for ice climbing. The area is home to a variety of cliffs and bluffs that offer challenges for climbers of all skill levels. The park also offers guided tours and climbing classes for those who are new to the sport.

The E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center is another popular destination for RV campers during the winter. The center offers a variety of exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the area as well as a gift shop and a nature library. Visitors can also participate in a variety of programs and activities including guided snowshoe hikes and winter birdwatching tours.

Finally no visit to the Mines of Spain Recreation Area would be complete without a stop at the historic lead mine. During the winter months the mine is transformed into a winter wonderland with snow-covered buildings and trails. Visitors can tour the mine and learn about the tools and techniques used by the miners or simply enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

View more RV Rentals
(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*
(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*