The Meskwaki were the earliest known inhabitants of the Mines of Spain Area. Their village was located at the mouth of the Catfish Creek. Mounds, village sites, rock shelters, trading post sites and campsites dot the landscape. Julien Dubuque is believed to be the first European to settle on what is now Iowa soil in 1788. The park is designated as the Julien Dubuque Mines National Historic Landmark, as a Silos and Smokestacks Heritage Area Partner Site, State Preserve, National Recreational Trails, Important Birding Area, and Watchable Iowa Wildlife Area. Learn more about the cultural history and natural resources at the E. B. Lyons Interpretive Center.
Canoe or kayak Catfish Creek which runs through the park, paddle the Mississippi along 3 miles of park shoreline or picnic along the shores of the Mississippi River. Enjoy the foot trails and breathtaking bluff top views, hike through forest and prairies that provide you with chances to see native wildlife and plant life or think about life in the past. Go back into time at the Horseshoe Bluff Area and learn about the geology of the area. Visit the E.B. Lyons Center and learn more about the park before venturing out into nature.
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