Stone State Park protects a precious remnant of Iowa’s Loess Hills – an unusual geological formation found only in western Iowa, Missouri, and a region of China. This 1,069-acre urban wildlife sanctuary on the edge of Sioux City offers over 10 miles of multi-use trails through rolling prairie ridges and wooded valleys, with 6 miles specifically open for horseback riding.
The Loess Hills formed from wind-blown soil (loess) deposited after glaciers retreated thousands of years ago. Today, they support rare prairie ecosystems and offer expansive views across western Iowa and into Nebraska and South Dakota.
Park Highlights
Loess Hills
Found only in Iowa/Missouri and China, these wind-deposited hills support rare prairie ecosystems and unique topography.
Equestrian Trails
6 miles of trails open for horseback riding through prairie ridges and wooded valleys.
Urban Wildlife Sanctuary
A haven for wildlife on the edge of Sioux City. Deer, turkey, and diverse bird species thrive here.
Scenic Views
Ridge-top trails offer panoramic views across the Missouri River valley into Nebraska and South Dakota.
About the Loess Hills
Loess (pronounced “luss”) is fine, wind-blown soil deposited thousands of years ago as glaciers melted. The Loess Hills of western Iowa are among the most dramatic examples on Earth – rivaled only by similar formations in China.
- 📏 Formation: Wind deposited glacial silt 14,000-30,000 years ago
- 📐 Height: Hills rise up to 300 feet above the Missouri River bottomlands
- 🌿 Ecosystem: Dry ridge-top prairies support species more common to western plains
Trail System
| Trail Activity | Mileage | Terrain | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🥾 Hiking (all trails) | 10.4 mi | Varied | Wooded valleys to prairie ridges |
| 🐴 Equestrian | 6.0 mi | Multi-use | Horses welcome on designated trails |
| 🚴 Mountain Biking | ~6 mi | Multi-use | Shared with equestrian |
| ⛷️ Cross-Country Skiing | varies | Winter | Groomed when snow permits |
| 🛷 Snowmobiling | designated | Winter | Check conditions |
🌄 Best Views
The ridge-top prairie trails offer the best panoramic views. On clear days, you can see into Nebraska and South Dakota from the highest points.
Camping
| Site Type | Count | Hookups |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Sites | ~30 | Electric |
| Non-Electric | ~15 | None |
Amenities: Modern restrooms, showers. All sites reservable.
Wildlife
As an urban wildlife sanctuary, Stone State Park provides habitat for numerous species:
- 🦌 White-tailed deer (common)
- 🦃 Wild turkey (spring mornings)
- 🦅 Hawks and eagles (migration seasons)
- 🐦 Diverse songbirds (prairie and woodland species)
FAQ
Can I bring my horse?
Yes! 6 miles of trails are open for equestrian use. Trailer parking available. Call park office for current trail conditions.
What makes Loess Hills unique?
This wind-deposited landform is found only in western Iowa/Missouri and China. The steep hills support prairie ecosystems unusual for Iowa.
🏔️ Explore Iowa’s Rare Loess Hills
Stone State Park protects one of America’s rarest landforms – dramatic hills of wind-blown soil supporting prairie ecosystems found nowhere else.
📍 Address: 5001 Talbot Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103
📞 Phone: (712) 255-4698
🌐 Reservations: iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Diamond Head?
Yes, Diamond Head State Monument now requires mandatory advance reservations for all visitors. Reservations can be made online through the Hawaii DLNR website. Walk-ups are not permitted without a reservation.
Is reef-safe sunscreen required in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii law requires the use of reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs. Sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned. Look for sunscreens labeled “reef-safe” or “mineral-based.”
Are Hawaii state parks free?
Most Hawaii state parks are free to enter. Some popular sites like Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay require paid reservations. Camping permits must be obtained through the DLNR website in advance.
Can I camp at Hawaii state parks?
Yes, several Hawaii state parks offer camping including Polihale and Koke’e on Kauai, and Hapuna Beach and Kalopa on the Big Island. Permits must be obtained in advance through the Hawaii DLNR.
Explore More Hawaii State Parks
Stone State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Hawaii. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Hawaii guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Oak Grove State Park (within about an hour’s drive) or Preparation Canyon State Park (elsewhere in the state).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Stone State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in Iowa state parks and recreation areas, including trails and campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash of six feet or less or confined.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash or chain not to exceed 6 feet, led or carried by the owner, or confined
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Animals are prohibited within designated beach areas statewide
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Only dogs or assistive animals are allowed in designated dog-friendly cabins/yurts (limit two dogs); all other cabins are pet-free; dogs must be kenneled if left unattended inside
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Hunting dogs in designated hunting areas during season are exempt from the leash rule; pets may not be left unattended in campgrounds
Are dogs allowed at Stone State Park?
Pets are allowed in Iowa state parks and recreation areas, including trails and campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash of six feet or less or confined. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via iowadnr.gov. More: Iowa state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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