When we are curious, we have rich adventures.
Bellevue State Park Nelson Unit
High bluffs with scenic views of the Mississippi River, the Bellevue State Park Nelson Unit spans 770 acres of fun.
Located just south of charming Bellevue, Iowa, it’s a place to visit for the day or a planned extended stay along the Mississippi River’s beautiful views.
Picnicking
Open picnic shelters are available for a fee-based reservation. There’s a lot of room here to play, eat and explore. Great for wedding receptions, family reunions and birthday parties.
Camping
Although camping isn’t allowed at the Nelson Unit, a few short miles is the Dyas Unit, where many campsites are available. You’ll find sites that include electrical hookups, convenient restrooms with showers and a dumping station. Be sure to get a spot by booking in advance.
Trails
Three trails provide a variety of hiking experiences in the Nelson Unit, each offering a different experience. One brings scenic views of the Mississippi, or a hike through a restored prairie onto my favorite place – the butterfly garden!
It contains over one hundred separate parcels, each emphasizing plants that provide food and habitat for butterflies. Wander on a network of pathways through the garden to see a wide variety of butterflies as well as the beautiful array of flowers surrounding a pond at the center.
Continue hiking on four more miles of foot trails at the Dyas Unit and another 1.5 miles of a single-track trail too. This area provides hikers with even more scenic overlooks and a stream where wildlife gathers.
South Bluff Nature Center
Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Saturday, Sunday and holidays, the South Bluff Nature Center in the Nelson Unit offers a variety of engaging exhibits on the many plant species, wild animals and geology of the park.
Visit Year Round
Bellevue State Park is a very accessible park to explore, make memories and be one with nature. Be sure to come back during the winter to cross-country ski, snowshoe and hike. It’s a perfect place to watch Bald eagles feed near the open waters below Lock and Dam 12 at Bellevue.
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