Jones

Pictured Rocks is cooperatively managed by the Jones County Conservation Board and the Iowa DNR.  Jones County manages about 70 acres, which includes the area open to rappeling and rock climbing on the map.  The Iowa DNR manages in excess of 1,000 acres as a wildlife management area, open to hunting, fishing, paddling and hiking.

ROCK CLIMBING

Getting to know Pictured Rocks: Collin’s Wall is right at the parking lot. Gumby Wall is left of Collin’s Wall, it is the wall and detatched pillar which can be seen right before you take your left into the parking lot on the left side. Chicago Wall can be reached by going to the right instead of left. The rest of the walls are accessed from the main trail as you walk farther into the park. Due to the steep narrow road leading down into Pictured Rocks a gate is closed and locked at the beginning of the winter season.  Contact the Jones County Ranger at (563)487-5038 for more specific information on gate closure dates.  Pictured Rocks Climbing Map

 

 

 

Hiking trails transverse the undeveloped hardwood forest at Pictured Rocks and the adjacent state preserve, Indian Bluffs.  Several small caves along the bluff face attract spelunkers from across Iowa.  This 1,138 acre wildlife management area can be found along the banks of the Maquoketa River. It is named for the steep limestone bluffs that enclose the narrow river valley.