List of Iowa state forests facts for kids
Iowa is home to several beautiful state forests, which are special areas of land managed by the state government. These forests are important for many reasons: they help keep our air clean, provide homes for wildlife, and offer amazing places for people to explore and enjoy nature.
State forests are different from national forests because they are managed by the state, not the federal government. They are often used for things like growing trees for wood, protecting water sources, and giving people places to hike, camp, and observe nature.
Iowa's State Forests
Iowa has a number of state forests, each with its own unique features. Some are very large, covering thousands of acres, while others are smaller. They are all important for preserving Iowa's natural beauty and providing outdoor fun.
Here is a list of Iowa's state forests:
| Name | Location (County) | Is it a Major Forest? | Size (acres) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backbone State Forest | Delaware County | No | 186 | 75 |
| Barkley State Forest | Boone County | No | 40 | 16 |
| Gifford State Forest | Pottawattamie County | No | – | |
| Holst State Forest | Boone County | No | 314 | 127 |
| Loess Hills State Forest | Harrison County, Monona County | Yes | 10,600 | 4,300 |
| Pilot Mound State Forest | Boone County | No | 34 | 14 |
| Shimek State Forest | Lee County, Van Buren County | Yes | 9,148 | 3,702 |
| Stephens State Forest | Lucas County | Yes | 14,112 | 5,711 |
| White Pine Hollow State Forest | Dubuque County | No | 712 | 288 |
| Yellow River State Forest | Allamakee County | Yes | 8,503 | 3,441 |
What to Do in Iowa's State Forests
Iowa's state forests offer many opportunities for outdoor adventures. You can go hiking on trails, watch for different kinds of birds and other wildlife, or even go camping in some areas. These forests are also important for protecting the environment, as they help keep the air and water clean and provide homes for many plants and animals.
Some of the larger forests, like Stephens State Forest and Loess Hills State Forest, are especially popular for their vast areas and diverse landscapes. They are great places to spend a day or a weekend exploring the natural world.
See also
