Nine Eagles State Park is a public state park in Iowa near Davis City in Decatur County County. Spanning 1,100 acres and established in 1100, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Iowa |
| Nearest City | Davis City |
| County | Decatur County |
| Park Size | 1,100 acres |
| Established | 1100 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.4/5 (350 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Nine Eagles State Park is located near Davis City, Iowa. The park’s coordinates are 40.5983, -93.7694.
Things to Do
Iowa state parks offer a surprising diversity of landscapes beyond the classic rolling farm fields, featuring deep river valleys, natural lakes, loess hills, and ancient limestone bluffs. Activities revolve around the water, with excellent fishing for crappie, bluegill, and bass, boating on natural and man-made lakes, and pleasant beach swimming. Land activities include camping in shaded hardwood forests, hiking expanding trail networks, exploring unique geological formations like the Maquoketa Caves, and cycling on extensive paved rail-trails that frequently connect park units across the state.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is peak season, ideal for lake activities and family camping, though July and August can bring high heat and humidity. Fall (September–October) is arguably the best time to visit, offering cooler, comfortable temperatures, beautiful hardwood foliage, and excellent conditions for hiking and fishing without the summer crowds. Spring (April–May) provides great mushroom hunting (morels) and spring wildflower blooms. Winter is quiet, but several parks offer cross-country skiing and ice fishing when conditions allow.
Visitor Tips
Iowa stands out by offering free admission to all state parks for day use — no vehicle permits or entrance fees are required. Camping fees apply, and reservations can be made through the Iowa State Parks reservation system. Half of all campsites are reservable, while the other half remain first-come, first-served. When visiting cave parks like Maquoketa Caves, check for any temporary closures related to bat protection (White-Nose Syndrome) and wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Iowa state parks free?
Yes, Iowa state parks are completely free to enter. There are no entrance fees or vehicle permits required. Camping fees apply and reservations can be made through the Iowa DNR.
Can I explore caves at Iowa state parks?
Yes, Maquoketa Caves State Park features over a dozen caves that visitors can explore, including Dancehall Cave with electric lighting. It is one of the most unique state parks in the Midwest.
What are the best state parks in Iowa?
Top parks include Maquoketa Caves (cave exploration), Pikes Peak (bluffs overlooking the Mississippi), Backbone (Iowa’s oldest state park), Ledges (sandstone formations), and Lacey-Keosauqua (scenic river bluffs).
What is the best time to visit Iowa state parks?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions. Fall foliage peaks in mid-October along the Mississippi River bluffs. Summer is hot but great for camping and water activities. Winter is cold but peaceful.
Explore More Iowa State Parks
Nine Eagles State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Iowa. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Iowa guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Nine Eagles SP — 1,119 acres — one of Iowa’s most remote and wild parks. The park’s lake, oak-hickory forest, and prairie support bald eagles, wild turkeys, and white-tailed deer. The Nine Eagles name refers to an encounter with nine bald eagles by early settlers.
Nearby Attractions
Decatur County — surrounding. Davis City — nearby.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Bobwhite State Park is within about an hour’s drive, and Red Haw State Park is within about an hour’s drive.
Park Location
Plan your gear for Nine Eagles State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
