The Ledges State Park is considered as one of Iowa?s first state parks in 1924. But due to frequent flooding the state park became unpopular to tourists, both local and foreign. Civilian Conservation Corps constructed numerous buildings together with bridges in 1930.

The park offers camping ground and picnic areas. Annual flooding in the park destroyed some of the stone shelters in the park. In spite of this, Ledges is still the great place to go to. The view on the canyon road is captivating. The effort, patience, hard work and perseverance of the Civilian Conservation Corps can be felt on the trails that bring the tourists up to picturesque vistas overlooking the canyon and Des Moines River Valley.

The countless burial mounds in the site, a fitting monument for the Sauk, Fox and Sioux tribes of the olden times are still eminent in the park. Forty different species of lichens that grow on rocks and trees are featured in one of the picnic areas. Group camping, hiking, trails, and cycling; among others are sports to be enjoyed in this area. Come and see the view!