yellow river state forest
spec work
2017
project
photography
location
harpers ferry, iowa
format
digital full frame
PLAN YOUR VISIT
729 State Forest Road, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146
Yellow River State Forest in northeast Iowa is home to stunning views, beautiful woodlands and meandering trout streams. Nestled in Iowa's driftless area in Allamakee County, Yellow River offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities including camping, equestrian riding, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, and more. Yellow River State Forest was first established in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corp, and is home to lowa's only fire tower, built in 1963. Today, the forest is managed for numerous natural resource benefits and recreational opportunities.
Hike
50+ Miles for hiking and equestrian.
Camp
Reservations and first come first serve.
Recreation
Mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing.
History
The first lands acquired for Yellow River State Forest were purchased in 1935 with funds that were appropriated to support the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Climate
The average annual temperature is 45.6 degrees. The average precipitation is 33.71 inches.
Geology
Much of Yellow River Forest is marked by rugged terrain with numerous rock outcrops, bluffs and steep slopes.
Fauna
Yellow River Forest provides habitat for deer, squirrels, raccoons and various species birds, beavers, mink, and fish.
Flora
The major Yellow River Forest plant communities are maple-basswood, oak-hickory, and bottomland hardwoods.
Forest Management
The Yellow River Forest is managed in accordance with the IDNR Forest Ecosystem Management Guide.