Clayton

Motor Mill Historic Site


Camping at Motor Mill Historic Site Primitive camping is available for $15.00 per night. There are 5 campsites. Self check-in at the kiosk.
Canoeing & Kayaking at Motor Mill Historic Site A popular boat ramp is located at Motor Mill near the campground. The Turkey River offers a great paddling experience with Motor Mill located about 5.5 miles downstream from Elkader. From Motor Mill one can continue paddling to the town of Garber, which is another 11.5 miles. You will have opportunities for viewing wildlife and good fishing as you travel along the Turkey River. Turkey River Water Trail Guide
Equestrian Activities at Motor Mill Historic Site The south trail at Motor Mill allows equestrian use.
FALL COLORS at Motor Mill Historic Site Come visit Clayton County Conservation's beautiful Motor Mill Historic Site along the Turkey River. The steep Driftless area topography makes this park a must see during fall while the leaves are vibrant orange. Be sure to pack your hiking boots and take a hike up the Grau Memorial Trail, you'll want to be sure to have your camera handy!
Fishing at Motor Mill Historic Site Fish along the riverbank of the Turkey River.
Geocaching at Motor Mill Historic Site Geocachers have discovered Motor Mill as one stop in a series of caches. A container with a sign-in notebook and simple trinkets inside was hidden at Motor. The coordinates of the container are posted on a geocache website and searchers bearing GPS (Global Positioning System) units often come to test their skill.
Historic Visits at Motor Mill Historic Site Guided tours will be offered each Saturday and Sunday afternoon from noon-5pm, May 26th-October 14th. Tour includes the historic 1860’s mill, related buildings, and town site. Group tours available by appointment. Feel free to do self guided tours throughout the park with the new interpretive signs placed near each building and the bridge. You can find more information by visiting the mill website.
Hunting at Motor Mill Historic Site Bow hunting for deer and turkey is available at the south side of Motor Mill. Spring turkey bow hunters must register at the Osborne Office before their first hunt. Also in the fall, deer and turkey bow hunters must register at the Osborne Office before their first hunt. You will need to show your hunting license, driver's license, and Clayton County or statewide bow tag to register.
Picnicking at Motor Mill Historic Site Picnic tables are available at every campsite.
Trails & Hiking at Motor Mill Historic Site Motor Mill Historic Site has over 4 miles of trails throughout this 155 acre park. With trails on both the north and south sides of the river, one can hike through forests, prairies, and savanna to find breathtaking views from the blufftops and abundant wildlife. The south trail system also provides equestrian use and limited hunting by permit during the hunting season.

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