State Recreation Area · Iowa

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and E. B. Lyons Nature Center

Location: Dubuque County, Iowa
Nearest town: 2.6 miles south of Dubuque
Type: State Recreation Area

About Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and E. B. Lyons Nature Center

Walking trails stretch 16.5 miles through the property, joined by 3.5 miles of ski trails, picnic areas, and the Betty Hauptli Bird and Butterfly Garden. The 1,439-acre grounds hold archaeological sites tied to an early lead mining and smelting operation run by French explorer Julien Dubuque, along with his gravesite. These combined sites carry National Historic Landmark District status as Julien Dubuque's Mines.

Hours, fees, camping, reservations and closures are set by the park and change often. Check the official park site before you go.

Getting there

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and E. B. Lyons Nature Center is in Dubuque County, Iowa, 2.6 miles south of Dubuque. The Directions button takes you to the park's mapped location; the entrance may be elsewhere, so check the official site for the address to use.

State parks near Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and E. B. Lyons Nature Center

Within 60 miles, closest first, straight-line. All 50 in Iowa →

Towns near Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and E. B. Lyons Nature Center

State parks near Dubuque, State parks near Platteville, State parks near Clinton

Facts from Wikidata, checked September 25, 2026. Distances are straight-line.