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Effigy Mounds National Monument

Twenty Native American tribes consider the mounds at Effigy Mounds National Monument near Harpers Ferry, Iowa, sacred. They built many of the 206 mounds to resemble birds, bears, deer, bison, lynx, turtles, panthers and other things that were significant to their culture, but researchers are unsure why the Native Americans constructed them. When you visit this location along the Mississippi River, you will also see linear or long rectangular mounds and burial mounds. Take a guided tour during the summer to learn more about this beautiful location. 

Where to Stay

RV Parks & Campgrounds Near Effigy Mounds National Monument

Before and after exploring Effigy Mounds National Monument, you will want to see and do many things in the surrounding area, so bring your RV. If you do not have one, it is quick and easy to rent one on RVshare.com.

RV Rentals Near Effigy Mounds National Monument

Things to Do

Things To Do Near Effigy Mounds National Monument

Explore the visitor center's exhibits to learn more about the people who have lived in this area. Take the guided tour of Effigy Mounds National Monument. This tour led by a park ranger is a great way to learn more about the people who constructed this site that is still revered by many Native American groups. This location is a fabulous place to go hiking, but be sure to stay on the trails out of respect for the people who consider this land sacred. 

Hiking Trails

Sightseeing

Museums

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

map-marker-alt-regular How to Get There

How To Get To Effigy Mounds National Monument

Easily reach Effigy Mounds National Monument from Dubuque, Iowa. Head north on U.S. 52 North/Central Avenue for about 13 miles. Turn right on Clayton County X56/Haydn Street. This road will make some twists and turns before eventually becoming the Great River Road. Follow that road, which is also Iowa 76 North, to reach the national monument. 

Address

151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146 

Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person)

There is no entry fee.

Eastern Woodland Native Americans constructed the mounds found at Effigy Mounds National Monument between 850 and 1,400 years ago. Researchers still do not entirely understand why the Native Americans created these mounds, but many tribes still consider the area to be sacred. They made many of the mounds in the shape of animals or birds with fires built at their head, heart or flank and a small percentage of the mounds contain human remains. The views of the Mississippi River from this location and others nearby are stunning. Visit Effigy Mounds National Monument in your RV so that you're free to explore the whole region. If you do not have an RV, it is easy to find one on RVShare.com. Many different size choices are available, and 24/7 roadside assistance covers each of them. There are terrific campgrounds in the area, so put this national monument on your travel itinerary.