Discover Jackson: River, Nature and History

U.S. 52 follows the Mississippi along most of the eastern edge of Jackson County as the Great River Road. The road and river give the region a clear landscape framework. Other travel ideas range from trails through geological formations and forests to paddling, regional history, market products and live music. If you are considering Jackson for your stay, you can start by thinking about which of these aspects you want to shape your trip.

Nature Trails, River Views and Paddling

At Maquoketa Caves State Park, a six-mile trail network winds through geological formations and forests. At Bellevue State Park, overlooks frame views of the Mississippi. The park is also home to a butterfly garden that hosts nearly 60 butterfly species from spring through fall. These nature experiences offer distinct highlights: rock and forest along the trails, the river from the overlooks, and seasonal biodiversity in the garden.

The Maquoketa River Water Trail is a maintained river trail network for paddlers in Jackson County. The Maquoketa River can be accessed at numerous locations throughout the county. Sabula has boat launches at the North Boat Ramp and on River Street. So paddling includes both a river trail network and numerous access points throughout the county, as well as two specifically named boat launches in Sabula.

Industrial History and Collections

For about 50 years, the Hurstville settlement and industrial complex was a major supplier of lime for masonry and bridge construction in the Midwest. Bellevue State Park offers another specific connection to lime: the Quarry Trail leads to a simple lime kiln. You can therefore explore industrial history and a surviving structure as distinct ways of engaging with the past.

The county museum in Maquoketa spans two floors and features facts, photos and artifacts relating to Jackson County history. Its collection offers an overview of the county's history in several forms, from images to objects. Clinton Engines also has historical sites: the Clinton Engines administration building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Clinton Engines Museum is housed in the only surviving building at the former Clinton Machine Company site.

Market Products and Live Music

At the Maquoketa Farmers Market, one vendor offers honey and beeswax products. Another vendor's offerings include Jackson County maple syrup, vegetables, fruit, pumpkins, salsa and sauces. Vendor participation may vary by season. If you are planning to visit the market for specific products, check before your visit to see whether the vendor will be there.

Codfish Hollow Barnstormers offers live music in an old barn. The venue adds a distinctive experience alongside nature and history. Market products and music appeal to different travel interests than trails, overlooks or paddling and add to the range of possible trip highlights.

Plan Your Stay

Market products and live music offer more ways to plan your trip. You can tailor your hotel search to the experiences you want to shape your stay.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Baldwin, Madison County, Clinton County, Cedar, Marshall, Grundy County, Woodbury, O'Brien County.

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