Wildcat Den State Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Wildcat Den State Park
Pine Creek Grist Mill
Wildcat Den State Park Location in Iowa
Location	Muscatine, Iowa, United States
Area	423 acres (171 ha)
Elevation	627 ft (191 m)
Governing body	Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Website	Wildcat Den State Park

Wildcat Den State Park is a cool place in Muscatine County, Iowa, United States. It's a state park, which means it's a special area protected by the state government for people to enjoy nature and history. This park is famous for its tall cliffs, interesting rock shapes, and old buildings.

Discovering Wildcat Den State Park

Wildcat Den State Park covers about 423 acres of land. It's a great spot for exploring the outdoors and learning about history. The park is managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, which helps keep it beautiful and safe for everyone.

Amazing Rock Formations

One of the most exciting things about Wildcat Den State Park is its unique geology. You can see cliffs that are about 75-foot (23 m) tall! These cliffs and other rock formations were shaped over many, many years by natural forces like wind and water. Exploring these rocky areas feels like stepping into another world.

Historic Buildings and Structures

Wildcat Den State Park is also home to some very old and important structures. These buildings tell stories about the past.

Pine Creek Grist Mill

The Pine Creek Gristmill was built way back in 1848. A grist mill is a place where grain, like corn or wheat, was ground into flour. This mill is a great example of how people used to make food a long time ago. It's so important that it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized nationally for its historical value.

Pine Mill Bridge

Near the grist mill, you'll find the Pine Mill Bridge. This old bridge is also on the National Register of Historic Places. It's a beautiful example of old-fashioned bridge building and adds to the park's historic charm.

Camping and Outdoor Fun

If you love camping, Wildcat Den State Park has a campground with 28 campsites. It's a great place to set up a tent and spend a night under the stars.

Campground Facilities

The campground is a bit rustic, meaning it doesn't have all the modern comforts. For example, it lacks modern restroom facilities. However, it's perfect for those who enjoy a more natural camping experience. You can reserve a campsite ahead of time using the park's reservation system.

Shelters for Gatherings

The park also has two open shelters. These shelters are perfect if you want to have a picnic or a small gathering with friends and family. You can reserve them for a fee through the park manager.

Nearby Recreation Options

If you're looking for more camping spots or other fun activities, the Fairport State Recreation Area is only about 6 miles (9.7 km) away. This area is right on the Mississippi River, offering different kinds of outdoor adventures.